DIY: How to Build a Doghouse Gazebo

We know you love your pets and love to shower them with gifts. From playtime to snack time and nap time, the opportunities are endless. So what could be better than a custom-built doghouse? Just look at how proud Jen Woodhouse’s dog Watson is, relaxing in his new doghouse! Check out the House of Wood for free build plans for a DIY doghouse that we worked on with Jen Woodhouse just for you.

Jen Woodhouse
January 30, 2017

Before you get started on your DIY doghouse build, make sure you have all the tools you need nearby. Here is a helpful list:

Exterior-Grade Wood

Since this is a sizable doghouse, it’s intended for outdoor use. Make sure you use an exterior-grade wood like redwood or cedar. You can also use untreated pinewood — but if you do, make sure to add an exterior-grade finish to the wood so it can withstand the wear and tear of the elements.

Simpson Strong-Tie Hardware

For this build, you will need Simpson Strong-Tie^®RTA2Z connectors, 2½”and 1¼”Simpson Strong-Tie Deck-Drive™ DSV exterior-grade wood screws. All of this hardware has Quik Guard^®or ZMAX^®coating for corrosion resistance, so you don’t have to worry about rust.

Power Tools

A DIY doghouse of this size means that you need the right power tools. Since there are angled cuts, we recommend using a compound miter saw.

You’ll also need a jig saw to make some notches for the center truss pieces.

DIY Essentials

No DIYer should be without a power drill, tape measure, speed square, pencil and eye protection. We recommend that you have these on hand for all your builds. What are your top DIY must-haves?

This post originally appeared on January 30, 2017.