Best Dog Runs: For Large Dogs, Outdoor, Backyard & DIY Ideas
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Are you looking for the best dog runs in the market? Need dog run ideas? Want to learn how to build a dog run? Sit tight as we explain how outside dog runs will keep even the largest breeds securely confined while providing the freedom they need to stretch, run around, potty, chase their tails, and play daily. Our dogs love spending time outside, but owners need a dog run to keep Fido safe and secure when there’s no fenced-in yard. After sorting through dozens of dog run models and designs and building some ourselves, we show you how to pick the best dog run, when to use one, benefits, DIY dog run ideas, types, and materials to build one, and recommend our top picks. Let’s get started!
Best Dog Runs — At A Glance
The Research
Jump to: Full Reviews | Additional Info
What Is A Dog Run?
A dog run is an enclosure, either private or public, that is fenced off and provides a space for one or multiple dogs to be confined, receive exercise, and enjoy playtime. Private dog runs are typically built on one side of a house, in apartments, indoors, or in backyards. Most dog runs are fenced in with a chain-link fence, but wood fencing may be another viable option if it doesn’t get torn. Dog runs provide our pups with a safe, spacious, and pleasant environment.
A dog run serves as a temporary play area or kennel where your dog can spend part of the day. They are usually portable, allowing you to reposition them wherever needed. Some dog-run systems have a modular design that will enable you to increase or decrease their size according to your needs by simply adding or subtracting panels from the structure. Dog runs may also include a doghouse, food and water, a potty area, and a shaded area for hot days. Dong runs are also referred to as pet areas or backyard dog kennels.
How to Use A Dog Run
A dog run should be a space where your dog can enjoy some downtime. If not used correctly, your dog may feel trapped and frustrated. Dogs should not spend most of their time enclosed in an outdoor dog run.
| # | Guideline |
|---|---|
| 1 | Never use a dog run as a punishment. Your dog will associate it with a bad place and eventually refuse to enter. |
| 2 | Consider including a dog house, toys, or other objects in your run. This may also require a larger structure. |
| 3 | Don’t leave your dog for days on end. Adult dogs can hold their pee for more than six hours, but it shouldn’t be forced. Limit time in the run to 2–4 hours per day when possible. |
| 4 | Dogs left in a run all day can become anxious or depressed due to lack of exercise and social contact. Always provide water and regular interaction. |
| 5 | Ensure the run has plenty of space for your dog to move around and play comfortably. |
| 6 | You can feed your dog in the run, but be sure no food is left on the ground—this can attract pests like rodents. |
Benefits of Building A Dog Run
- Peace of mind: Provides a secure space for play and exercise.
- Enclosed safety: Reduces the risk of wandering, property damage, or accidents.
- Prevents escapes: Ideal for fence-jumpers, diggers, or escape artists.
- Creates boundaries: Helps limit access to specific backyard or garden areas.
- No fenced yard? A dog run offers a practical alternative.
- Separates dogs from guests and kids: Useful during gatherings, errands, or household chores.
- Crate alternative: More spacious and comfortable than keeping your dog crated for hours.
- Daycare support: A must-have if you run a dog shelter or offer dog-sitting services.
How to Pick The Best Dog Run
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Choose a run size based on your dog’s size and whether it will house multiple dogs. |
| Modular Design | Some runs allow you to expand or reduce their size with modular components. Most heavy-duty runs don’t. |
| Material | Steel or metal designs are durable, sanitary, and more resistant to wear and tear. |
| Locking System | Ensure the lock is secure and cannot be opened by a clever or persistent dog. |
| Strong Build | Look for bars that can withstand chewing and don’t bend easily under pressure. |
| Doors | Double safety doors help with feeding and prevent dogs from darting out when opened. |
| Weather Resistance | Choose a run that holds up to rain, sun, wind, and other outdoor elements. |
| Enclosed Top | Protects from sun, snow, and predators—especially important for small dogs. |
| Digging Prevention | Look for designs with digging bars or base panels that discourage escape under the fence. |
When buying a dog run, if you feel it might be too small and your dog may feel cramped, purchasing an additional set or more is the easiest solution. Thanks to the modular design of dog runs, you can easily add panels from your second set to the first one to make the run as large as you need.
The Reviews
Jump to: The Research | Additional Info
Best Dog Runs Reviews
We reviewed dozens of outdoor dog runs and fenced enclosures to help you pick the best one for your dog.
Giantex
Who It’s For: This pet dog run is sturdy, stylish, and durable for long-term use. It’s our best overall option for any dog.
Why we recommended it: Giantex Dog Playpen takes the spot for best overall dog run. With panels measuring 48 inches in height, this dog run is ideal for small and medium dogs. It’s designed to serve as a dog run for yards or to create an indoor dog run in your home. Once assembled, it’s quite steady and sturdy so that it won’t get knocked around.
What sets it apart from competitors: Whatever dog run idea you have, its modular design allows you to create, expand, or shape the run to your desired setup. It also features a double-lock door, ensuring your pet stays secure.
While the manufacturer claims it can work for large dogs as well (and it can), we have identified a better option for large and giant dog breeds in the section below.
Key Features
Lucky Dog
Who It’s For: This dog runs for large dogs for indoor and outdoor use. It has the perfect dimensions and sturdiness to comfortably support large breeds.
Why we recommended it: The best dog runs for large dogs medal goes to Lucky Dog Outdoor Dog Kennel Playpen. This large dog run is ideal for large dog breeds due to its height and materials. It measures 6 feet tall and five feet without a cover installed. To put this into perspective, an adult Great Dane is 4 feet 4 inches tall. This dog run offers ample space for large dogs. You can get a second or third set to cover a larger area if you want more space. It features a modular system, allowing you to scale it up as needed.
What sets it apart from competitors: It comes with a covered steel waterproof roof that provides your pet with complete protection from UV rays, rain, snow, and debris. Its wire mesh and steel bars are welded before coating to prevent sharp edges from hurting your pet and offer greater corrosion and rust protection, delivering years of durable service.
Key Features
Yaheetech
Who It’s For: Its foldable and portable design makes it easy to transfer from home to your vehicle. It’s the perfect addition for those planning to go RV camping or traveling with their pets.
Why we recommended it: If portability and expandability are your top concerns, the Yaheetech Heavy Duty Foldable Metal Playpen is your best choice. We didn’t choose this brand as our top dog run because its panels have a maximum height of 40 inches, not 48 inches (our top pick). While this difference may not seem significant, having a taller panel is a better alternative when housing medium to large dogs. Having said that, it is ideal for puppies and small to medium-sized adult dogs. This outdoor dog run provides a safe, enclosed area for your dog to relax or play outside.
What sets it apart from competitors: Its portability makes this run unique. It can be disassembled into a flat and compact size for easy storage when not in use. The flat packing size is also convenient for transportation. Yaheetech playpens undergo rigorous sturdiness testing to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety.
Key Features
Iconic Pet
Who It’s For: Best dog run for dog parents on a budget.
Why we recommended it: If you are looking for the most affordable dog run that doesn’t break the bank or sacrifice quality, Iconic Pet Heavy Duty Metal Tube Pen Pet is your top choice. This durable pet pen provides a safe area for your dog, offering the perfect balance of freedom and security. It’s ideal for the yard or your favorite room. It’s a great alternative to small kennels or crates.
What sets it apart from competitors: Eight interlocking metal panels offer maximum security and easy access. Available in other shapes as well as an 85” wide octagon. You can buy as many sets of 8 panels as you need to make this dog run as big as you want.
ALEKO
Who It’s For: If you have a small dog breed, this dog run is made especially for small canines.
Why we recommended it: The ALEKO Heavy Duty Dog Kennel and Playpen Kit provides a perfect space for small dog breeds. From puppies and toy breeds to small dog breeds, it’s designed to keep your pet safe and secure without making them feel confined. Panels feature 12-gauge mesh welded to a 1-inch frame. Rust-resistant and powder-coated galvanized steel construction allows this kennel to be used indoors or outdoors for an extended period.
What sets it apart from competitors: ALEKO is one of the premier online retailers of home and outdoor goods in the US and Canada, so expect excellent quality. You can connect multiple kennels to give your pet an even larger space to play.
PawHut
Who It’s For: Ideal for dog parents seeking maximum protection from external elements, including adverse weather conditions and predators.
Why we recommended it: PawHut is the best dog run with a top. Dog run covers are important because they help keep your pets protected from the weather and outside elements. Adding a roof or top panel to your dog’s run is a good idea if your dog tends to jump or climb. A roof also deters threats from wild animals (coyotes, raccoons, foxes) that may roam around your neighborhood. This is especially ideal if you have small dogs and docile dogs.
What sets it apart from competitors: A pitched roof allows water, debris, and light snow to easily run off instead of accumulating.
Snagle Paw
Who It’s For: Great for parents who want to provide more freedom than traditional dog runs.
Why we recommended it: If you don’t like confining your dog in a box but still want to let your pup run free, an aerial dog run is a solution. An aerial dog run works like a zip line, but it is supported by two poles or trees, which hold an overhead cable with a lead or tie-out cable. This keeps Fido home without being overly restrained.
What sets it apart from competitors: A great solution for properties where a complete fence isn’t feasible or for situations where you want to give a dog some mobility without letting them roam entirely free.
Key Features
Zippity Outdoor Products
Who It’s For: Our picks for those who prefer a stylish look.
Why we recommended it: While a picket fence may not provide all the attributes and benefits of a real dog run, it can work well for small dog breeds and young puppies. Installation is relatively easy, with no digging required. Simply insert pointed stakes into the ground. It’s reasonably sturdy.
What sets it apart from competitors: It looks more stylish than your typical dog run.
Other Dog Run Recommendations
Additional Information
Jump to: The Research | Full Reviews
Dog Run Ground Cover
Here are the six most common dog run ground cover options to consider. We evaluate each and recommend our top pick.
Best Dog Run Ground Covers
We’ve distilled our choices to the top two based on their merits relative to the options provided. The first standout is the Petgrow Synthetic Grass Turf. This product has established itself as the premier artificial grass for dog runs. It’s crafted from high-quality polypropylene fibers with a PE material on the surface. Added to this are drainage holes that effectively manage dog urine and water. One of its many strengths is its resistance to microbial growth and the onset of odors. Additionally, it is user-friendly when it comes to cleaning. This product doesn’t restrict itself to just one setting; it is equally at home both indoors and outdoors. It fits seamlessly into gardens, lawns, patios, landscapes, backyards, decks, balconies, porches, and other outdoor locales.
Coming in as our second favorite are the Bare Decor EZ-Floor Interlocking Flooring Tiles, which we refer to as Wood Floor Tiles. These tiles boast a design advantage with their elevated platforms, which ensure adequate drainage. They are impeccably constructed from solid teak wood and finished with an oiled treatment. Beyond their aesthetic appeal and functionality, they excel in terms of installation ease. Putting them together is as simple as piecing together the interlocking tiles.
Incorporate some padded or soft areas into the run if you opt for solid flooring, such as concrete. You can mix two flooring options in one run.
How to Build a Dog Run: Step By Step
Here is how to make a dog run on the side of the house or wherever you choose.
Step 1: Select an Ideal Location: Choose a safe and comfortable space for your pet. For indoor runs, avoid high-traffic areas. For outdoor activities, avoid areas with toxic plants and be cautious around utility lines. Ensure there’s some shade for your dog to cool down in summer. Whichever you choose, make sure you can easily check on your dog.
Step 2: Determine the Right Size: Base the size of your dog run on your dog’s size. Refer to our reviews for recommended sizes by dog type. The run should offer ample space for freedom of movement. Larger breeds require bigger runs.
Step 3: Selecting a dog run (Pre-Fabricated vs. DIY Ideas)
- Option 1: Pre-Fabricated: This is the quickest option, allowing easy assembly and customization. See our reviews to find the best fit for you. If you go this route, skip to step five.
- Option 2: DIY Dog Run: This requires more effort and time. Gather all necessary materials and tools for your DIY project. Refer to our DIY guide for a step-by-step start.
DIY Dog Run Guide
Watch this video for the full instructions on how to build a dog run from scratch.
Step 4: Prepare the Area: Whatever option you selected in step three, preparing the surface where the run will be positioned is crucial. If you plan to set your dog run on your existing ground, there isn’t much prep work required. Ensure the area is safe for your pet and facilitates proper drainage. However, if you aim to install artificial grass, pour concrete, or lay gravel or paving stones, you may need to excavate the site to a depth of anywhere from 3 to 6 inches, depending on your chosen surface. While some surfaces may not necessitate digging, they may require other specific installation procedures. Now is also a good time to conceptualize your floor plan, which will help you decide on the layout.
Step 5: Lay Down the Floor: Begin by covering the prepared area with your chosen flooring material. You might consider combinations like concrete and artificial grass, wood with concrete, or any other suitable structure for your pet.
Step 6: Install Fencing: Always follow the instructions provided to assemble the fencing correctly. Test its robustness by checking that your dog cannot open the gate by pushing against it. Ensure all the panels are firmly secured and that the structure is sturdy.
Step 7: Add Other Accessories: Refer to our list of dog run accessories to equip the space with various items, enhancing the overall experience for your pet.
Dog Run Ideas
Looking for inspirational ideas for dog runs? Below, we captured the best dog-run ideas to inspire you to build your own. They range from simple and small to large and elaborate.
Types of Dog Run Ideas
Remember, your dog’s run should be proportionate to your dog’s size and exercise needs.
Dog Runs Accessories
If you want to personalize your pup’s run, add a host of accessories for a more stylish, mentally stimulating, and fun design. Here is a list of add-ons to bring your dog-run ideas to life.
Dog Runs Concepts (Video)
Even though this is a promotional video for artificial grass, it gives you a great preview of how a dog run should look.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bottom Line
Building a dog run on the side of the house or in your backyard may seem daunting, but we hope our guide has made it easier to understand the process by providing you with the best pre-made dog runs on the market and outlining every step you need to know. Dogs are den animals by nature, and they seek out their favorite spot for comfort in times of stress. A dog run approached correctly will provide that sense of security in times of stress; your dog can rely on it if he ever needs to. Dog runs can effectively provide this den-like structure that gives your pup a safe place to sleep, retreat, and maybe even eat. You can also consider a wireless dog fence as an alternative to dog runs. Wireless dog fencing is a reliable way to keep your determined dog safe in his yard without having to bury any wires or build a traditional fence.
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Madison grew up in Miami, Arizona, where her father worked as an American Kennel Club breeder, training Labrador Retrievers for fire, police, and narcotics agencies throughout the Southwest. She assisted her father in training the dogs in Eastern Arizona, and she loved every minute of it, whether it was teaching them simple commands, retrieving objects, or training them for disabled owners. Madison's upbringing was unique. Instead of being woken up by an alarm clock, her dad would bring in a puppy every morning to lick her awake.
While in college, Clark worked for three years at a Wall Street dog daycare, managing the company’s finances, scheduling clients, and handling various other responsibilities. Madison Clark took her trainer and dog daycare skills from Wall Street to Main Street – or more specifically, South Stapley Drive. Last November, Clark opened Desert Pups Dog Daycare and Boarding at 1455 S. Stapley Drive, Mesa, where the 2,800-square-foot facility is built to offer the best features from her past dog daycare jobs in New York City, North Carolina, and Las Vegas. All this from someone who grew up around dogs but never considered this kind of business. Madison is also an avid dog blogger and uses her professional experience to provide useful content for dog parents like you.
Madison Tanner Clark is a proud alumnus of The King’s College in New York City, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Media, Culture, and the Arts, complemented by a concentration and minor in Business Economics. Her extensive educational background is further enriched by her board certification as an American Kennel Club Certified Trainer, a testament to her comprehensive understanding and expertise in dog training and behavior management.
