Got The Dog Run!

[3GSDMom]

Finally got the dog run that I ordered two weeks ago (5-7 days my butt)

I feel like such a nerd being so excited about the arrival of a dog run. But I am!

I got a fairly large one. It's 7' x 12' x 6'
Travis (and the new GSD pup) will be kept in it while I'm at school. He was being kept in his crate but I didn't like that idea so I decided to fork out the money and get him a nice big run.

He can't be left out in the backyard because he always manages to find something to destroy when left unsupervised.

My dad wants to put the run on the concrete but I'm trying to convince him that its a bad idea. I think we agreed to put it in the back of the yard on the wood chip/dirt part.

Next I have to buy a tarp to put over the top for when it rains.
And we still have to put it together and put all his stuff in it (dogloo, dishes, etc). Wish me luck on that The website says its easy to put together but we'll see.

Anyway! Just had to share my excitement on that! LoL
Us dog moms.

[areias]

Sounds good! I would honestly put it on the concrete, or you might get him digging out under the dirt. And you can keep the poop contained and just rinse off the concrete every few days.

[borzoimom]

Well- I am not a fan of outdoor kennels, but if its necessary- then thats fine. I want to point something out. Having some concrete is a good idea- easier to keep clean and gives them a surface they could lay on. The problem with all dirt is that even if you keep it clean of fecal matter, this with the urine makes a prime breeding ground for cocicdeo and or gouradia which is intestinal. The symptons are loose darker stools, with mucus in it. The run really should be moved monthly to prevent this from happening.This is compounded in a smaller area than just a large yard.
Also remember- shepherds can easily clear 6 foot if they really want to. A tarp is a good idea. Not only keeping the rain and snow off, but also keeping them in. Make sure they do not wear collars in a run. If they try to go over and get their collar caught- well you know what can happen.

[3GSDMom]

Being in an outdoor kennel is A LOT better than being in his crate.

When we are home he is inside with us. The only time he HAS to be outside is when we are not home.

Thank you for the advice. Im still not going to put it on the concrete. I personally (from personal experience/observation) do not feel it is very wise to keep it all on the concrete. There is no way we can have it partly on the concrete and dirt so its going to be on the dirt/wood chips. There will also be a dogloo and a crate in there. It will be just fine for him, I'll make sure of it

I'd like to add (without coming accross as rude) that I'm not looking for lectures/ or comments about my choice in keeping my dog in a run while I am not home. Im perfectly capable of properly caring for my dogs. I only wish the best for them.

[borzoimom]

I uh never said you did not care for your dogs. I was concerned about dirt that gets fecal matter in it that breeds coccidea. Contrary to popular belief, you can get it with or without poultry.. Get a kennel spray you can do the yard like twice a month in warm weather.

[3GSDMom]

I uh never said you did not care for your dogs. I was concerned about dirt that gets fecal matter in it that breeds coccidea. Contrary to popular belief, you can get it with or without poultry.. Get a kennel spray you can do the yard like twice a month in warm weather.

That remark wasn't towards you. I know that you didn't say I couldn't care for my dogs I was just making a general statement as I've had people question me before and I wanted to avoid that this time around.

Forgot to add, I really do appreciate the advice regarding bacteria. I'll make sure to look into sprays. Thank you.