As a dog owner, you want your pets to feel happy, comfortable, and safe in their outdoor kennel. You care about your dog’s well-being and want their living space to be clean, inviting, and healthy.

Regular cleaning is essential to minimise odours, prevent mould, and reduce the risk of harmful pathogens and diseases such as parvovirus or staph.

Your dog’s kennel should be a pleasant and safe place they enjoy. In this guide, we’ll show you practical steps to keep it clean, hygienic and odour-free.

Key Takeaways

Clean your dog’s kennel by regularly washing bedding, sweeping out dirt and debris, wiping down surfaces with a damp cloth, then drying thoroughly.
Clean the kennel regularly, maintain airflow to prevent odours, and keep spare bedding on hand so you can swap it out when needed.

Table of Contents

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Keep a Dog Kennel Clean
Tips for Cleaning Your Dog’s Kennel
FAQ
Toni’s Wrap

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Keep a Dog Kennel Clean

An important part of responsible pet ownership is keeping your pup’s kennel clean and tidy. Cleaning regularly with minimal equipment helps prevent odours, extend the life of the kennel and ensure your dog feels comfortable.

1. Empty the Dog Kennel and Wash All Bedding and Toys

Start by removing everything from the kennel. Wash all bedding thoroughly, following the manufacturer’s care instructions, as some items may need to be hand-washed.

Disinfect your dog’s toys to remove bacteria and odours. Soft toys can often go through the wash, while harder toys may need a soak in pet-safe disinfectant.

Finally, clean food and water bowls either in hot soapy water or in the dishwasher, making sure they are rinsed well and completely dry before being returned.

2. Sweep and Dispose of All Waste

Begin by using a dry broom to sweep out any loose dust, fur and waste from the floor of the kennel. Next, take a small brush to clear away cobwebs and dust from the corners and along the roofline. If your kennel has an opening roof, this step should be much easier and allow you to reach every area thoroughly.

3. Thoroughly Scrub All Kennel Surfaces

For any stubborn marks such as mud, spilled food or feces, dog owners should do a deep cleaning of all kennel surfaces.

If your kennel has a removable floor, take it out to give yourself more space to reach every corner. Using a damp cloth, wipe away any dirt and stains. For tougher marks, gently clean with a soft-bristle scrub brush and mild dish soap. Be careful with timber kennels, as scrubbing too hard can damage the wood or strip away the finish. Ensure you rinse away cleaners well as soap residue can irritate your dog’s paws.

You can also hose the kennel but keep in mind that it may take longer to dry. Remember to avoid harsh chemical cleaners, as they can damage surfaces and irritate your dog’s nose.

4. Air Dry Thoroughly

If the kennel is plastic, you can easily dry away any moisture with a towel. However, if the kennel is timber, dry it as best you can with a towel then sit in the sun to fully air dry. It’s best to clean the kennel on a warm morning, giving it plenty of time to dry before your pet’s bedtime. If your kennel has an opening roof, keep it open to speed up drying.

It is essential to ensure the kennel is completely dry before use, as timber left damp for extended periods can rot. Additionally, most and wet areas can also harbour bacteria and promote the spread of germs, which could potentially make your dog sick.

5. Replace Bedding

Once the kennel is completely clean and fully dry, it’s time to return all items to make the space welcoming for your dog. Lay the bedding back in the kennel, ensuring it is fluffed and arranged comfortably so your dog has a cosy area to rest. Replace food and water bowls, making sure they are stable and filled as needed.

Step-by-Step Guide Cleaning a Dog Kennel

Tips for Cleaning Your Dog’s Outdoor Kennel

Maintain a Regular Cleaning Schedule

It’s important to regularly clean your dog’s kennel. Waiting too long between cleanings allows dirt and odours to build up, making the job harder and creating an unpleasant environment for your dog.

We recommend spending 10 minutes a few times each week to check the kennel, sweep away debris and spot-clean any messes as soon as you notice them. This simple routine prevents stains and keeps the kennel smelling fresh.

About once a month, perform a more thorough clean using a damp cloth to remove animal waste, bacteria and any accumulated organic matter.

Ensure Good Ventilation and Airflow

Proper ventilation is essential for keeping a dog house fresh and reducing unpleasant odours. Good airflow also helps dry out spills or moisture that may go unnoticed, limiting the growth of harmful bacteria and keeping the kennel hygienic.

A kennel with an opening roof provides excellent ventilation and allows air to circulate freely. If you leave the roof open for a short period, make sure any locking mechanisms are secure and avoid doing so on windy days to prevent damage. If your kennel does not have an opening roof, ensure it includes a window, ventilation slots, or a large door to maintain sufficient airflow.

Rotate Bedding for Easy Maintenance

Having only one bed in your dog’s kennel can make cleaning inconvenient, as your dog will be left without a comfortable resting space while it dries. This is especially challenging in winter, when fabrics can take over 24 hours to dry.

A simple solution is to own two or three dog beds that fit the kennel. That way, when one is in the wash, you can pop in a clean one straight away. It also comes in handy for unexpected messes, like if your dog has an accident, allowing you to maintain a clean and hygienic kennel without leaving your pet without bedding.

FAQ

How often should I clean my dog kennel?

A quick tidy-up every two or three days can make a big difference. Spend around 10 minutes dusting, sweeping and spot-cleaning any messes. Once a month, give the kennel a deep clean by wiping all surfaces and washing all bedding. You may need to clean more often if you have multiple dogs.

Is bleach safe to use for cleaning a kennel?

No, bleach is not safe for cleaning a dog house and is not recommended. Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia cleaners can damage the kennel materials. In addition, the smell of ammonia is similar to urine to dogs, so using these cleaners can actually encourage your dog to go to the toilet in their sleeping area, creating an unwanted habit.

How do I clean a wooden dog kennel?

Start by removing all bedding and accessories from the kennel. Use a dry brush to sweep away dust, fur and spiderwebs from all surfaces. For any messes or stains, wipe the area with a damp cloth and a small amount of mild soap. Make sure to rinse away any soap residue, and allow the kennel to dry completely before letting your pet use it again.

Toni’s Wrap

Keeping your dog’s outdoor kennel clean and odour-free is about more than appearance. It’s about giving them a safe, comfortable space they’ll actually enjoy. With a simple routine of regular cleaning, good airflow and rotating bedding, you can stop smells, reduce bacteria and extend the life of the kennel.

It doesn’t take much time, but it makes a big difference. A fresh, well-kept kennel means fewer health risks, less odour in your yard, and most importantly, a happier, more comfortable dog.