In planning your Shih Tzu kennel the primary consideration should be your pets security and comfort. However, before looking up the price of a chain-link fence, be sure your kennel will not violate any local building codes, ordinances or zoning regulations.

A water source is another important design consideration. Is your proposed kennel location close to a water source? If not, you will have to carry water daily to the kennel, or extend a water line to the kennel. One of the best solutions here is to have running water inside your kennel and outside water spouts as well. This will save you a lot of time and energy when cleaning and providing your Shih Tzu with fresh water daily.

Consider the location of your kennel relative to existing electric sources and sewer lines. Be sure you are able to tap into existing sewer lines legally.

Another reason for locating your Shih Tzu kennel near existing electric sources is the possibility that you may have to leave your Shih Tzu more than you thought you would. Nearby power makes it easier to keep your Shih Tzu comfortable in the heat (using air conditioning) and in the cold (using heating systems).

You might ponder about combining projects. If you have an outside work-shop or storage shed, perhaps you could make the Shih Tzu kennel part of one of those buildings.

Consider your neighbors. If one of two equal locations would make for quieter housing, choose that site. A well-located kennel can raise the value of your property. However, be aware that a poorly situated kennel can have the opposite effect.

If you will be building runs, consider that most Shih Tzu kennel owners increase the number of their Shih Tzu. You may only need two runs to start out with, but may need four eventually.

For a home Shih Tzu kennel to be useful and comfortable for the Shih Tzu, it must provide room for exercise. The run surface can be concrete, or gravel and dirt. The easiest surface to clean and disinfect is concrete. Concrete is also the most expensive choice. Prolonged confinement on concrete should also be avoided. You will also need to provide some grassy areas for your Shih Tzu to exercises.

If you decide to go with gravel it is certainly easier to install than concrete. Fewer tools are needed and the job does not necessitate contracting skilled labor. Other than the occasional weed that comes up through the stones. Gravel offers home Shih Tzu kennel builders a sound, practical alternative to concrete.

Never opt solely for dirt-surfaced runs. Although a dirt-surfaced run may be more comfortable for your Shih Tzu, it is a nightmare to you at bath time when the weather is wet and your Shih Tzu have romped and rolled in the mud.