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Choosing the right kennel accessories can turn a cold, bare crate into a cozy den your dog actually enjoys. The right gear keeps your pet safe, warm, and mentally stimulated — and that means fewer chewed cushions and more peaceful nights for everyone. Whether you’re outfitting an outdoor run or an indoor kennel, the right mix of bedding, weatherproofing, and enrichment makes a real difference in your dog’s wellbeing and behaviour.
Start with the essentials: a sturdy bed, reliable water and food solutions, shelter from the elements, and secure fencing. These basics form the backbone of a comfortable kennel and are the first place to invest if you want your pup to feel safe and content.
Choose heavy-duty, tip-resistant bowls or mounted feeders that attach to kennel walls to prevent spills. For a run, consider gravity-fed or tethered waterers that hold at least 1 gallon so your dog never runs dry during the day. If you pick stainless steel, the bowls will be rust-proof and easy to disinfect.
Soft, raised beds that keep your dog off cold surfaces are ideal. For outdoor kennels, use insulated pads and weatherproof covers — think of a bed that lifts your dog 2 to 4 inches off the ground to help block damp and drafts. Choose fillings that are washable and resist flattening when your dog naps a lot.
An outdoor kennel needs a proper house or lean-to to shield your dog from rain and wind. A kennel roof that overhangs by at least 6 inches helps keep the entrance drier. For sunny days, add a breathable shade cloth or canopy so midday heat doesn’t bake the run.
Strong panels, locks, and ground anchors are must-haves if your dog is a jumper or digger. Look for panels that stand at least 4 feet tall for most medium breeds, and consider welded mesh or heavy-duty chain link for extra strength. Ground stakes or concrete footings prevent curious diggers from slipping out underneath.
There’s a wide range of retailers across the UK offering kennel and run accessories, from large pet chains to general retailers. I’ll walk through trusted options so you know where to compare prices, read reviews, and pick the best gear for your budget and doggy needs.
Pets at Home is one of the most recognisable pet retailers in the UK, offering a broad selection of beds, runs, crates, and grooming bits. They often stock well-known pet brands and body-warm bedding for winter. Look for seasonal promotions and in-store specialists who can advise on sizing and compatibility.
Argos is handy for finding practical kennel accessories at competitive prices, including plastic kennels, metal runs, and weatherproof covers. Their click-and-collect service is useful if you want to inspect an item quickly before bringing it home, and they carry budget-friendly options for essential upgrades.
Zooplus specialises in pet products and often carries a large range of higher-end accessories, chew-proof toys, and comfort beds. Their product descriptions and customer reviews can be particularly helpful when deciding between different types of insulation or washable materials.
Amazon UK offers enormous variety and fast delivery on everything from heavy-duty crate latches to elevated beds and automatic waterers. Check the seller rating, read Q&A sections, and compare customer photos — these help avoid surprises on fit and finish when equipping a kennel run.
Wilko is a go-to for practical, no-nonsense accessories at low prices — think fleece blankets, basic bowls, and simple shade cloths. Their stock is great for DIYers trying to upgrade an existing kennel without splurging, and materials are often available in handy roll sizes.
For more design-led beds and durable materials, John Lewis stocks stylish options with great build quality and reliable warranties. If you want a dog bed that complements your living room while still being practical, John Lewis is worth a look.
The Range sells a broad mix of home and garden items that work very well for kennel setups, including heavy-duty outdoor fabrics, small sheds, and kennel roofing materials. It’s a good place to source materials for larger outdoor runs and weatherproofing projects.
Wayfair lists kennel furniture, elevated beds, and run accessories with lots of customer photos and dimensions. If you’re furnishing an indoor kennel area and want something that looks like furniture yet is pet-rated, Wayfair has plenty of stylish choices.
Pets Corner focuses on pet wellbeing and tends to offer higher welfare products, natural bedding options, and enrichment toys. Their staff are usually knowledgeable about breed-specific needs and can help you choose chew-resistant options for boisterous dogs.
Every dog is different, so the accessories that work for a 10 lb terrier won’t suit a 70 lb mastiff. Measure your dog from nose to tail and shoulder to floor before buying, and always add a safety margin so they have space to stand and turn comfortably.
Small dogs benefit from raised bolsters and memory-foam pads that cradle joints. Look for beds roughly 18 to 24 inches long for many toy breeds, and choose chew-resistant fabrics if your little one likes to nibble at corners.
Medium breeds often need beds around 30 to 36 inches long with robust frames. For runs, aim for a kennel area that gives them at least 4 to 6 feet of room to move around so they don’t feel cramped during daytime breaks.
Large dogs require heavy-duty kennels and thick bedding that won’t collapse under 60 to 100 pounds of resting weight. For outdoor runs, target at least 8 feet of length for comfortable movement, and reinforce fencing to handle enthusiastic jumpers.
The biggest difference between indoor and outdoor accessories is weather resistance. Indoor gear focuses on aesthetics and comfort; outdoor gear prioritises waterproofing, insulation, and durability against mud and rain.
Inside the house, a stylish, washable bed and a quiet crate are your priorities. Soft-sided dens, memory foam mattresses, and mats that match your décor keep the kennel area inviting while still being easy to clean.
For outside, pick elevated beds, insulated dog houses, and heavy-duty metal runs. Weatherproof covers, anti-chew mesh, and sunshade canopies reduce exposure to the elements and keep your dog healthier year-round.
If you like hands-on projects, a few inexpensive upgrades can make a huge difference. A wooden pallet platform raised 6 inches off the ground creates a dry base, while weatherproof foam and a fitted cover can make a cheap bed feel like luxury.
Line a wooden dog house with reflective space blanket material, then add foam and a washable cover for a low-cost thermal boost. The space blanket reflects body heat back to your dog, similar to a cosy emergency blanket but far more durable.
Stretch a breathable tarpaulin or sunshade over a run using bungee cords and poles to make an instant shady spot. Ensure the material hangs high enough so air circulates — about 6 to 7 feet above the run keeps things cooler on sunny days.
Routine checks and cleaning keep accessories safe and hygienic. Inspect bolts and latches for rust, wash bedding weekly, and sweep the run daily if your dog spends long periods outside. Replace chewed items before they become a choking hazard.
Avoid bedding with loose beads or little parts that can be swallowed, and steer clear of treated woods with toxic finishes for DIY builds. Opt for non-toxic, robust plastics or untreated, sealed wood for structural pieces.
Wash soft bedding in hot water and use pet-safe disinfectants on hard surfaces. For outdoor kennels, pressure-wash floors and fencing periodically to remove grime and parasites — but allow surfaces to dry fully before reintroducing bedding.
Different seasons bring different needs. In summer, focus on shade, ventilation, and cool water. In winter, concentrate on insulation, raised bedding, and windproofing to protect against damp and chill.
Use elevated beds to let air flow under your dog, and provide constant access to shaded areas. Consider a cooling mat or a shallow kiddie pool for breeds that enjoy a splash; always monitor them to keep play safe and calm.
Insulate the kennel with weatherproof panels and heated pads rated for outdoor use if needed. Raised bedding helps avoid damp; add a flap over the entrance to block wind while still allowing easy entry and exit.
Enrichment toys, lick mats, and puzzle feeders keep your dog mentally active while spending time in a kennel. Rotating toys and introducing scent trails or treat puzzles once a day reduces boredom and destructive behaviours.
Hide high-value treats in folded towels for scent games, or attach a durable tug toy to a secure ring for supervised play. Lick mats smeared with safe peanut butter last longer than a plain chew toy and offer mental stimulation.
Before purchasing, check dimensions, materials, and customer reviews. Confirm that ranch-style gates will fit your space, that the bed supports your dog’s weight, and that cleaning is manageable. A quick checklist saves returns and disappointment later.
Will this bed fit my dog when fully stretched? Is the fencing rated for outdoor use? Can this fabric be machine-washed? Do the installation steps match your DIY comfort level? If you can answer these confidently, you’re ready to buy.
Outfitting a kennel is about more than aesthetics: it’s about safety, comfort, and mental wellbeing. Whether you buy premade accessories from a pet specialist or tweak things with a few DIY hacks, the goal is the same — a secure, comfy space your dog loves calling home.
Invest in quality where it counts — secure fencing, waterproof shelter, and supportive bedding — and you’ll be rewarded with a calmer, happier companion. Shop around, measure carefully, and choose materials that withstand your dog’s habits and the British weather.
