Fido in need of new digs but your budget doesn’t exactly have a lot of wiggle room for a decent prefab dog house? If you’re even remotely crafty, you can save a fortune by trying out one of these stylish pallet dog house designs!
Pallets are usually free and easy to find, making them perfect for everything from DIY dog feeding stations to dog beds, and of course, these easy dog houses!
Plus, in this updated guide you’ll also discover:
- How to choose the right size doghouse based on your pup’s breed or weight (no more guessing!),
- Where to safely source free or cheap pallets, and
- A handy FAQ section answering common questions like “Is pallet wood safe for dogs?” and “Can you build a dog house without power tools?”
Let’s check them out! Oh, and if you have pallets left over, you may also want to check out our DIY Waterproof Pallet Bed project.
RELATED: Best doghouse bedding for summer
DIY Stylish Pallet Doghouse Designs
From basic yet cute structures to elaborate designs complete with a sundeck, here are some amazing ways to give Fido the perfect outdoor retreat without breaking the bank.
1. Cottage Style Pallet Doghouse
Let’s start with something fairly simple: a traditional cottage-style doghouse that’s easy enough to make in one weekend.
2. Doghouse Pallet Beach House
If you’re dreaming of a beachy retreat for your pup, this 18-minute video from Craft Klatch is a must-watch. It walks you through how to build a Key West-inspired dog house that looks like it belongs right on the coast! There’s even a Part 2 (about 15 minutes long) that dives into making a sandy front yard and adding some seriously cute interior and exterior decor. Want to follow along with written instructions? No problem—they’ve got those, too.
3. How to Build a Dog House with Recycled Pallets
This 20-minute video from Silverline Tools TV shows you how to turn old pallets into a super stylish dog house. It’s a great step-by-step tutorial that’s easy to follow, even if you’re not a DIY pro. Silverline Tools—yep, the same folks who make all kinds of handy tools and building gear—do a great job walking you through the process. Check it out here.
4. How to build a Dog Kennel from Pallet Wood
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and beginner-friendly dog kennel build, this 38-minute video from the DIY section of the Totally Awesome Fishing Show is a gem. Graeme Pullen walks you through how to build a kennel using pallet wood—and he does it with a good dose of humor, too. You don’t need fancy tools or a tricked-out workshop (Graeme’s setup is full of “just-in-case” junk like the rest of us). It’s packed with helpful tips, and yes—there’s a funny ending you won’t want to miss. Watch it here.
5. DIY Pallet Dog House: A One-of-a-Kind Design
If you’ve ever wanted to build your pup an A-frame doghouse with its own deck (yes, really), check out this creative DIY video. Using more than seven reclaimed pallets, the builder takes you through the whole process—from breaking down the pallets to adding those final finishing touches. It’s a bit more advanced than some of the simpler pallet builds, but totally worth it if you’re up for a rewarding weekend project. Bonus: it’s budget-friendly and super cute. Watch the full build here.
6. Cool “Cabin in the Woods” Style Doghouse
Okay, so this next one is technically a full-blown off-the-grid cabin—but hear me out. It’s built entirely from pallet wood and could totally be downsized into the ultimate doghouse. In the video, Misha walks you through the whole process, from laying the foundation to putting on the roof and adding all the final touches that make it feel like a real home. His craftsmanship is seriously impressive, and the focus on sustainability makes it even cooler. If you want some major inspiration for a next-level DIY doghouse, definitely give this one a watch.
7. Painted Pallet Dog Playhouse
This quick 8-minute video from Recyclart shows you how to build a spacious (and super cute) pallet dog playhouse that’s perfect for pups who like a little extra room to stretch out. It’s painted, cozy, and could even double as a playhouse for kids with a few tweaks! The video walks you through the whole process, and if you prefer step-by-step written instructions, you can find those here. Watch the video here.
8. Fun House Design Ideas for Your Pets – How To Build A Warm Dog House
This build is a total charmer. If you’ve ever dreamed of giving your pup a cozy A‑frame retreat—with a cute little porch for lounging—this video is everything. In about nine minutes, it walks you through a winter-ready design, complete with sturdy slanted walls for snow and rain, plus that inviting porch perfect for morning sun naps.
9. Sturdy Cement and Pallets Doghouse
If you’re after something more solid than just wood, this build is for you! It blends cement and pallet wood together to create a super sturdy doghouse that feels like a mini fortress. It’s basically an upgraded DIY doghouse: stronger, longer lasting, but still eco-conscious thanks to the pallet accents. Perfect if you want longevity without losing that crafty feel.
Tips for Building a Pallet Dog House
Building a pallet dog house starts with finding the right materials—and making sure your pup stays safe and comfortable once it’s done.
Where to Look for Pallets
Local businesses like grocery stores, furniture stores, and garden centers often give away pallets from large shipments.
Hardware and home improvement stores may have extras behind the building—just ask.
Construction sites can be a good source of scrap pallets (always get permission first).
Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Buy Nothing groups often have free pallet listings.
Appliance stores are another reliable option for large, sturdy pallets.
Safety Tips for Using Pallets
Choose pallets stamped with “HT” (heat-treated), which are safe for pets.
Avoid pallets marked “MB”—they’ve been treated with a toxic pesticide called methyl bromide.
Skip stained, oily, moldy, or cracked pallets, which may contain harmful residues or be structurally weak.
Sand down the pallet wood to remove rough edges and splinters.
- Tip: Always inspect pallets carefully and wear gloves when handling them.
Where to Place Your Pallet Dog House
Choose a shady but dry area of your yard—cool enough in summer, but not too exposed in winter.
Avoid placing the dog house too far from your home—your dog could feel isolated or reluctant to use it.
Ensure there’s some elevation or drainage underneath the house to keep moisture out.
What Size Dog House Does Your Dog Need?
Size also matters. As tempting as it is to build Fido a mansion, cozy is better, especially on chilly days. He’ll need enough room to stand up and turn around, but not so much room that he feels like he has a whole separate space to do his business. Opt for a slanted roof, especially if you live in a particularly rainy or snowy area. While I love the natural wood look of pallets, if you do decide to paint your dog’s house, make sure you buy a good non-toxic paint that’s designed to withstand the elements. The same goes for your nails, screws, and other hardware. You want galvanized or waterproof options.
Easy Size Guidelines
Here’s a simple formula to help you size it right:
- Length = Dog’s body length (tip of nose to base of tail) + 6–12 inches
- Width = Dog’s shoulder width × 1.25
- Height = Dog’s height (from ground to top of head) + 3–6 inches
Tip: Bigger isn’t always better! Oversized spaces can make it harder for your dog to stay warm, especially in the winter.
FAQ: Pallet Dog House Building
Is pallet wood safe for dogs?
Yes—as long as it’s the right kind. Look for pallets marked with the stamp “HT,” which stands for heat-treated. These are processed without chemicals and are generally safe for pet use. Avoid anything labeled “MB” (methyl bromide) or pallets that appear stained, oily, or moldy, as they could contain harmful substances.
Can I build a pallet dog house without power tools?
Absolutely. While power tools can save time, you can build a dog house with just hand tools like a hammer, handsaw, and pry bar. Just expect it to take a bit longer and require a little more elbow grease—especially when dismantling the pallets.
How do I clean a pallet dog house?
Sweep out loose dirt and hair regularly, and wipe the surfaces down with a mild soap and water solution. If the house is painted or sealed properly, you can also hose it out for a deeper clean. Avoid harsh cleaners or bleach-based products unless they’re specifically pet-safe.
Do I need to insulate a pallet dog house?
That depends on your climate and how much time your dog will spend outside. For colder regions, consider adding foam board insulation between the pallet slats or lining the interior with straw or blankets during winter. Always ensure there’s proper airflow to prevent moisture buildup.
What type of paint or sealer should I use?
Choose a non-toxic, pet-safe exterior paint or wood sealant. Many products are labeled as “low VOC” or “zero VOC” (volatile organic compounds), which are safer for pets and people alike. Sealing the wood helps protect against rot, pests, and water damage—especially important if the house sits on grass or dirt.
Final Thoughts
When you’re done building your pallet dog house, give it a once-over from your dog’s perspective. I’m not saying you have to get down on your hands and knees and crawl around in it (although that would help!), but just go over it and make sure you didn’t leave any sharp corners or exposed hardware.
Building a pallet dog house is a budget-friendly project that lets you create a cozy, custom space your dog will love—and you don’t need to be a master carpenter to pull it off. With a little planning, some safe materials, and a bit of creativity, you’ll have a stylish setup that both looks great in your yard and keeps your pup happy and protected.
Ready to get started? Pick your favorite design, gather your pallets, and let your DIY adventure begin!
