Whether you’re launching a new animal shelter, expanding your doggy daycare, or upgrading your current kennel setup, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to house your animals indoors, outdoors, or a combination of both.
At Direct Animal, we specialize in building durable, easy-to-clean animal shelter kennels trusted by veterinary clinics, grooming salons, luxury boarding facilities, and shelters across North America. One thing we’ve learned after working with thousands of clients? There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but there are clear pros and cons to each kennel type.
Climate and Location
The first and most obvious factor in the indoor vs. outdoor debate is your region’s weather.
- Outdoor kennels may work year-round in areas with mild or temperate climates.
- In regions with extreme heat, cold, snow, or heavy rain, indoor kennels are more practical and humane.
- Some facilities use a hybrid approach, offering indoor sleeping quarters with access to outdoor runs for exercise and enrichment.
According to VetHelpDirect, “prolonged exposure to cold or heat can be dangerous,” making indoor options more appropriate in many situations, especially for senior pets, puppies, or those recovering from medical procedures.
Sanitation and Cleanability
From a staff efficiency standpoint, indoor kennels are easier to clean and disinfect consistently, especially when paired with trench drains and washable wall panels. They offer better protection from pests, allergens, and environmental contaminants that are harder to control outdoors.
Outdoor kennels require:
- Frequent hose-downs to manage odors and waste
- More frequent inspections for ticks, fleas, and wildlife
- Special drainage considerations to avoid pooling water or mud
No matter which route you choose, features like sloped flooring, removable pans, and dog room dividers can improve sanitation and reduce staff strain.
Zoning and Regulations
Before committing to outdoor kennels, check your local municipal codes and zoning laws. Some communities limit:
- Outdoor noise levels (especially barking)
- The number of dogs housed outside
- Minimum fencing heights
- Proximity to residential or commercial neighbors
Violating these rules can lead to costly citations or forced renovations down the road.
Safety and Security
While modern outdoor kennel designs are rugged and secure, they still leave animals exposed to certain risks:
- Theft or escape if fencing isn’t tall or strong enough
- Exposure to wildlife, including predators, rodents, or disease-carrying pests
- Weather-related hazards, such as falling branches, floods, or high winds
Indoor kennels offer more controlled, 24/7 protection, especially in facilities that house aggressive, reactive, or vulnerable animals.
Comfort and Enrichment
Many pet care businesses find that combining indoor and outdoor options gives animals the best of both worlds. For example:
- Indoor spaces for quiet rest, feeding, and medical care
- Outdoor runs for physical exercise, social interaction, and mental stimulation
As The Dog Kennel Collection points out in this article, dogs are happier and healthier when they get access to both indoor comfort and fresh air.
Just make sure outdoor spaces are shaded, well-drained, and enriched with toys, sensory elements, and interaction opportunities.
Operating Costs and Maintenance
It might seem like outdoor kennels would be less expensive to build — but there are hidden costs:
- Weather-resistant materials (UV-stable coatings, rust-proof metals)
- Drainage systems or gravel pads
- Winter insulation or summer cooling features
- Pest control services
Meanwhile, indoor kennels may cost more upfront (due to HVAC, lighting, and plumbing needs) but can lower long-term maintenance costs and improve staff productivity through better workflow.
Brand Image and Client Expectations
Last but not least, consider your clientele. If you’re running a high-end boarding facility or boutique dog daycare, your customers may expect indoor luxury suites with temperature control and webcams — not basic concrete runs outside.
But for shelters or rescues prioritizing space and safety over aesthetics, outdoor kennels with the right setup can be a practical and cost-effective solution.
Whatever you choose, make sure your equipment reflects the quality and professionalism of your brand.
Direct Animal Has the Kennel Products You Need
Choosing between indoor and outdoor kennels isn’t just about construction — it’s about your climate, your clients, your animals, and your mission. Whether you need fully enclosed suites or heavy-duty outdoor runs, Direct Animal offers customizable kennel systems to fit your space, your budget, and your daily needs.
From handcrafted stainless steel frames to smart ergonomic design features, our solutions are built for the demands of animal care facilities — and for the well-being of the animals who depend on you.
Looking for kennel equipment you can count on? At Direct Animal, our pet care experts design and manufacture durable and easy-to-clean dog kennels, dog room dividers, cat condos, and other state-of-the-art equipment made to last the life of your business.
Whether you’re a vet, luxury boarding facility, animal shelter, or doggy daycare, rely on us for animal care equipment that is ergonomic, hygienic, and affordable.
