We all like to sleep on a bed of comfortable blankets and cushions. The same goes for our beloved pets too.
When building or setting up a kennel for your dog, choosing the right ground cover can make all the difference in terms of comfort and protection.
Ground covers for dog kennels come in many varieties, from artificial turf to gravel, to biodegradable options like wood chips or bark.
In this post will compare the advantages and disadvantages of some of the most popular ground covers so you can decide which is best suited for your dog’s needs.
Table of contents
Try These Awesome Ground Covers for your Dog Kennel
So, what are some of the best flooring materials that you can use to turn your pet’s kennel from a bare prison cell into a comfy little bedroom for them? Let’s explore.
Artificial Turf Grass
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 rarely ever a perfect breeding ground for ticks and fleas. All you need to do is keep the artificial grass surface clean to reduce the chances of parasites thriving.
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.
- Artificial turf is highly durable
- Relatively easy to install
- Almost maintenance-free
- Reasonably priced
- Can withstand abuse
- Not biodegradable
- Can absorb heat in summer
Kennel Deck Ground Cover
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.
- Easy to maintain
- Allow for urine to seep through
- Not prone to mold growth
- Non-skid, comfortable surface
- Proper support even for senior dogs
- Slightly heavier than the competition
Interlocking Foam Tiles
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.
- Cushioning effect
- Easy to install
- Easy to maintain
- UV resistant (highly durable)
- Not absorbent
- May not allow urine to seep through
- Non-biodegradable
Perforated PVC Tiles
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.
- Built to last
- Allow urine to seep through
- Relatively easy to install
- Non-skid by default
- Not prone to mold growth
- Not absorbent
- Non-biodegradable
Wood Shavings Ground Cover
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 doggies little space even more comfortable.
When it comes to choosing wood shavings for your dog’s kennel, you want to go with either cedar or pine. Those two trees boast insecticidal properties and also smell nice making them a fantastic bedding material for your pet.
If you are going to go for pine shavings, it is recommended to settle for large flaked ones as these tend to create a lot less dust. Plus, they make it easier to scoop up waste.
Cedar shavings are also awesome but you might want to avoid them if you have a dog that easily gets irritated by smells.
- cheap way to cover the floor
- Easy to maintain
- Biodegradable
- Absorbent
- To be replaced regularly
- Not recommended for pregnant/lactating dogs
- May not be safe for puppies
How to Choose the Best Ground Cover for your Dog’s Kennel
The following are the most important factors to consider when choosing a ground cover for your pooch’s kennel.
Affordability: You want to go for something that’s affordable, long-lasting, and still comfortable.
Easy to Maintain: Good flooring covers are ones that are easy to tidy up at all times.
Pathogens: Avoid coverings that are prone to pathogens. If you happen to use wood shavings or straws, be sure to make regular replacements.
Durability: It’s always a good idea to go with something that can last for many years.
Slipperiness: Avoid kennel floor covers that seem slippery. Non-skid surfaces should be prioritized always.
Final Thoughts – A cozy ground cover
When looking for the best ground cover for a dog kennel, quality and comfort should always be your first priorities. Other than that, you want to go for something that’s safe for your pet – one that is easy to maintain and also affordably priced.
