Question:
We have two mixed-breed dogs that we adopted from the local animal shelters. The second dog was adopted after we read one of your columns about the benefits of a companion dog. What a difference! They love to play together and really enjoy the outdoors.We have a large, fenced-in area so they can run and exercise and chase the ball that I throw, etc. Right now the area is grass, which they like to dig holes in every now and then. With all of the running back and forth it gets ruts, and when it rains it all turns to mud. My question is this: What is the best material to build a dog run out of? I don't want their paws to get hurt, yet I'd like to keep it from getting all muddy. I've thought of several materials (mulch, pea gravel, coarse sand, etc.), but I was hoping you would have some suggestions. Please advise.
D.C., Royal Oak, MI Jan 11, 2004
Answer:
Thanks for confirming the benefits of my advice that single-pet owners get a companion animal. Since I have three dogs, I can attest to the advantages -- in terms of both social enrichment and "pack" dynamics -- of having more than two!As for a dog-run surface, compacted dirt or clay with a 4-inch layer of sand covered by a 3- to 4-inch layer of pea gravel held in place with a low wall of bricks or railroad ties makes for a suitable ground cover that drains and dries easily. Alternatively, smooth cement or patio-style wood slats, set no more than 1/3-inch apart over a layer of sand and rock chips, would be a good, albeit more permanent, alternative. Part of the run should ideally be covered to give shade and shelter, or you should provide a box-type kennel.
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