Best Ground Cover for Dog Kennel & How to Choose Right (2026 Guide)

Artificial turf grass is not only perfect for them to play on but also ideal for long hours of sleep. One thing we absolutely love about synthetic grass is that it comes with a porous base allowing your dog’s urine to seep through and eventually drain away. You’ll, however, still need to scoop their poop just as you’d do with your lawn.

Another plus with this type of ground cover for dog kennels is that artificial grass is a poor breeding ground for ticks and fleas. All you need to do is keep the surface clean, and rinse it regularly (an enzyme cleaner helps) so urine odors don’t build up. In full sun, synthetic grass can get very hot, so make sure part of the kennel is shaded.

What’s more, artificial grass can last really long – longer than 20 years in some cases. And you can bet that it will look vibrant and full of life even after long years of being exposed to all kinds of elements.

To top it all up, using artificial turf grass as ground cover for your dog kennel provides you with a non-toxic space where your doggie can relax and play to their heart’s contentment.

Kennel decks are a sure-fire way to provide your dog with a raised, sanitary, and comfortable surface. And on top of that, they are ridiculously easy to maintain as they are made of heavy-duty plastic.

Look for a variety that is designed to allow for optimal air circulation and easy drainage. Also, look for a chew proof variety so your dog doesn’t ruin it when bored.

A good kennel deck will provide you with a long-term ground cover solution for your kennel – one that is non-skid and also relatively easy to maintain.

And given that most decks are made from plastic, you don’t have to worry too much about fleas and ticks thriving as would be the case with hay.

On the flip side, though, the fact that decks are made from plastic means they’ll end up in a landfill somewhere once you’re done with them. Besides that, plastic decks are not absorbent – they will not absorb your pooch’s odors so regular cleaning is recommended.

Soft foam tiles are not only perfect for gyms and kids’ play rooms but dog kennels as well. They are super easy to install and are easy to move around. Above all, they are affordable.

Interlocking foam tiles come in different shapes, styles, and colors. So, whether you want something with a bit of wood grain or conservative black color you’ll be spoilt for choice if you opt for this type of ground cover.

The best part is that these types of tiles are soft and comfortable. Like any other type of foam, they are bouncy and can make for the perfect playing surface even for dogs with joint pain issues. And thanks to their shock-absorbing nature, they also lessen fatigue for long periods of sleeping or playing.

To top it all up, these cushiony tiles are made with durability in mind. They are typically developed from high-density Ethylene-vinyl acetate EVA foam. Ethylene-vinyl acetate is non-toxic and yet capable of delivering major benefits thanks to its resistance to UV radiation and waterproof properties.

Perforated PVC tiles tick almost all the right boxes when considered as an alternative ground cover for dog kennels. First off, they are perforated meaning that they allow for urine to seep through and air to flow freely within the dog’s little space.

Other than that, these types of tiles are made from highly durable, weather-resistant materials. As such, they are perfect for long-term use and also low maintenance.

Perforated PVC tiles are quite easy to install too. You can easily customize them to suit the dimensions of your kennel.

And the best part? They come in different colors and sizes. That’s beside the fact that they are thick and generally shock absorbent – something that makes them ideal for long hours of sleep.

Last but not least, perforated tiles address concerns of slipperiness by default. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about your pooch getting some nasty accidents while they play especially after doing a number one or number two inside the kennel.

Wood shavings are not just great for chicken coops, they can work fine too for your dog’s kennel. They are comfortable to sleep on, absorbent, and above all have a pleasant fragrance that can make your doggie’s little space even more comfortable.

Pine and cedar are the most common types of shavings, and both have a natural insect-repelling scent. However, the aromatic oils that give them that smell can irritate some dogs’ skin and airways, which is why many vets advise against cedar. Kiln-dried pine shavings are the safer pick, because the drying process removes much of those oils.

Go for large-flake, low-dust shavings, as these are easier on your dog’s lungs and make it easier to scoop up waste. Skip shavings altogether if your dog tends to eat bedding or has allergies.