When summer temperatures rise, kennels can heat up fast. The good news is that a few simple changes can make a big difference in how comfortable your dogs stay throughout the day.
1. Start with a Raised Floor
One of the easiest ways to keep a kennel cooler is to get dogs up off hot concrete. Concrete holds heat and can stay warm long after the sun moves away. A raised floor creates space for air to circulate underneath the dog, which helps reduce trapped heat and keeps the surface more comfortable.
Kennel Deck is designed to do exactly that. Its raised design promotes airflow below the dog while also helping moisture drain away, so the kennel stays drier and fresher in summer weather.
2. Add Plenty of Shade
Direct sun can turn any kennel into a heat trap. Shade cloths, roof panels, tarps, or natural tree cover can all help block harsh sunlight and lower the overall temperature inside the run. Even partial shade can make a noticeable difference during the hottest part of the afternoon.
3. Keep Air Moving
Good airflow matters just as much as shade. Open-sided kennel areas, fans, and thoughtful placement can all help prevent hot, stagnant air from building up. When air is able to move freely through the space and under raised flooring, dogs are more likely to stay comfortable.
4. Use Water the Smart Way
Fresh, cool water should always be available, but cooling the kennel itself can help too. Light misting around the area, cooling buckets, or splash-safe water stations can take the edge off on especially hot days. Just be careful not to create standing water, which can lead to odor and cleanup problems.
5. Choose Easy-to-Clean Flooring
Summer heat can make odors worse, especially when moisture gets trapped on the floor. A flooring system that drains well and cleans easily helps maintain a cleaner, cooler kennel environment. Raised plastic flooring is a practical option because it allows airflow, supports drainage, and keeps dogs high and dry.
Keep It Cool and Comfortable
If you want a cooler kennel this summer, the floor matters more than most people think. Raised flooring helps separate dogs from hot ground, allows air to circulate underneath them, and creates a more comfortable place to rest. Combined with shade, airflow, and fresh water, it can make summer kennel care a whole lot easier.
