Build the Base

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Assemble the base frame from the pressure-treated 2x4 parts. The base elevates the floor of the doghouse a few inches above the ground. This creates a dead-air space underneath the floor of the house that helps insulate the floor, and also helps keeps the floor dry. Cut the pieces for the base according to the cut list, using a power miter saw or circular saw. Always wear a dust mask when cutting pressure-treated lumber.

The 23” side pieces of the base run inside the 22-1/2” front and back pieces in order to hide the end grain from the front of the doghouse. The base is assembled with the pieces on-edge. Use a countersink bit to pre-drill pilot holes, and fasten the base pieces together using 3” galvanized wood screws--two screws in each end.

Place the bottom panel on the base and make sure all edges are flush and that the base is square. Fasten the bottom to the base using 1-1/4” galvanized wood screws, making sure the to sink the screw heads just below the surface.

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Assemble the Top Pieces

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Cut the framing members from the 2x2s. Assemble the sides by fastening one 15” vertical corner framing member to each edge of the side panels, making sure the framing pieces are flush to the edge of the plywood and even with the top of the panel. This leaves a 1” gap between the bottom of the corner framing and the bottom edge of the side. Secure each piece of framing with three 1-1/4” galvanized wood screws driven through the plywood into the framing. Set the side panels on the base, making sure the front and back edges of the side panels are flush with the front and back of the base. Secure the sides to the base with galvanized wood screws driven every 4-5 inches around the perimeter.

With the side panels attached to the base, place the assembly on one end. Put the back panel onto the assembly, making sure the bottom edges of the panels are flush. Secure the back panel to the vertical frame supports using 1-1/4” galvanized wood screws driven every four inches. Along the bottom edge, drive screws through the panel into the floor, making sure that the screw tips do not poke through the floor. Flip the doghouse over and repeat the procedure for the front panel.

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