A dog kennel or a dog run is an enclosed outdoor area, usually secured by a chain-link fence and gate, in which a dog is kept. The use of a kennel has become standard practise, especially among owners of working dogs and other large dogs. However, while the use of a dog kennel certainly isn’t terrible, it may not be the best solution for your canine.

When making your decision on whether or not to kennel your protection dog, you must take into consideration the natural behavior of a dog. Many people make the mistake of assuming that what feels natural to them as a human will be true of their dog. Unlike many humans, dogs are not claustrophobic. In fact, small enclosed environments that simulate natural dens make them feel protected and comfortable. However, while this applies to the dog house or crate where your canine will be spending his nights, it does not apply to the kennel or dog run where your dog may have to spend his days.

The ideal environment to keep your dog would be a large, fenced-off yard. Some kind of fence or enclosure is preferred, especially in rural environments, as it helps prevent other wild animals from wandering in. If your yard is not an option, a kennel may be the only other solution, but remember that bigger is always better. The more space you can give your canine, the happier and healthier it will be.

We at CCK9 don’t believe in housing our Guard Dogs and Protection Dogs in the traditional method, which is to have dog kennels or dog runs. We feel that this creates erratic behavior in the dogs; they end up pacing back and fourth, and it creates a spinning effect. We at CCK9 prefer a more natural environment. That is why we give all of our Guard Dogs and Protection Dogs free range on our 105 acre state-of-the-art facility. This creates a much more balanced dog, and a much happier dog.