How to Clean Outdoor Dog Kennel?

When dirt, old food, and waste build up, they create the perfect home for bacteria, parasites, and bad smells. Over time, that mess can cause skin issues, infections, or just plain stress for your dog.

Not really the vibe you want for their space.

The good news? Keeping a kennel clean doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need expensive gear or a full afternoon to get it done.

With a simple system, you can keep things fresh, safe, and healthy.

Why Regular Kennel Cleaning Isn't Just "Being Extra"

If your dog kennel smells like it hasn’t seen a hose in months, it’s probably overdue for a clean. And not just for looks.

A dirty pet kennel isn’t harmless. Over time, it can attract parasites. Cause skin issues. Even mess with your dog’s digestion. It’s not a scare tactic—it’s just what happens when bacteria hang around too long.

Dogs may love rolling in the mud, but they like clean spaces. It helps them relax. Keeps them healthy. And makes your backyard a better place for everyone.

There’s also the human side of this. Kennel bacteria can spread. Most of the time, it’s harmless. But some germs don’t play nice. That’s why a quick rinse now and then isn’t enough.

Cleaning the dog kennel regularly isn’t being over the top. It’s basic care. And if you do it right, it’s not that hard.

Get Your Supplies Ready

Before you start scrubbing, it’s smart to gather everything you’ll need. Trust me, nothing slows you down faster than realizing you forgot the hose halfway through.

Here’s your basic checklist:

• Gloves (your hands will thank you)
• Hose or pressure washer
• Pet-safe disinfectant
• Scrub brushes (get one long-handled and one handheld)
• Buckets
• Trash bags for anything gross you don’t want to think about later

If you prefer a more natural route, a simple mix of vinegar and water can handle light messes. Just know it won’t tackle serious grime on its own.

One quick warning: not all cleaners are pet-friendly. Always double-check the label before you spray anything down. Some chemicals are too harsh for paws, noses, and everything in between.

Step-By-Step: How to Clean the Kennel Like a Pro

Cleaning a dog kennel sounds simple. But doing it right—and not missing the gross stuff—takes a little method.

Here’s the quick breakdown.

Step 1: Rinse Everything Down First

Start by rinsing the entire puppy kennel with a hose or pressure washer. Hit every corner, wall, and tiny crevice you can find. You’re not just moving dirt around—you’re loosening it up to make scrubbing easier later. Think of it as setting the stage for the real cleaning to come.

Step 2: Scrub Away the Grime

Grab your pet-safe cleaner and get to work.

Use your scrub brushes to attack the walls, floors, and anywhere your dog loves to hang out. Start high and work your way down. Gravity is your friend here.

Don’t forget the door, hinges, and latch. They collect grime too. Take your time. A quick wipe won’t cut it if you want to get rid of the buildup that causes bad smells and germs.

Step 3: Disinfect (Without Overdoing It)

Now that the surface dirt is gone, it’s time to disinfect.

Use a diluted pet-safe disinfectant. Follow the label instructions carefully. Let it sit for the full recommended time. (Cutting corners here just wastes your effort.)

Avoid using bleach unless it’s heavily watered down—and never, ever mix different cleaners together. Not only is that dangerous, but it can leave nasty residues that your dog shouldn’t walk or lie on.

Step 4: Rinse Again Like You Mean It

Once disinfected, rinse everything thoroughly.

Leftover cleaner can irritate your dog’s paws, nose, and skin. Double-check corners and seams where the cleaner tends to hang out.

When in doubt, rinse a little more. It’s safer that way.

Step 5: Dry It Out Before Reassembly

If you can, let the kennel air dry completely.

Moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and bacteria to move back in. Give it time to fully dry before adding bedding, toys, or bowls.

A dry Lucky Dog Stay Series™ Heavy Duty Wear-Resistant Dog Kennel is a cleaner, healthier space—and way more comfortable for your beloved dog.

Tips for Keeping It Cleaner Between Deep Cleans

Deep cleans are great. But if you’re only scrubbing once in a blue moon, you’re making life harder than it needs to be.

A few easy habits can stretch the time between full cleanouts and keep the kennel from turning into a mess.

Start with daily poop patrol. It’s not glamorous, but it’s the fastest way to stop smells before they spread.

Next, wipe up spills as they happen. Water bowl knocked over? Quick wipe. Muddy paw prints? Another quick wipe. It takes two minutes and saves you hours later. Having Kennel Deck Dog Kennel Flooring in your puppy kennel can also make clean-up easier.

Rotate bedding, too. Replace your Paw PupRug Portable Orthopedic Dog Bed and wash it. Having a second set ready makes it easy to swap out dirty ones without skipping a beat.

If you want to get really organized, make a simple “mini clean” checklist. A few lines taped to the fridge or kennel door can remind you what needs a quick once-over each day or week.

The more you stay on top of it, the less you’ll dread the next big clean.

A Cleaner Kennel Means a Happier Dog

At the end of the day, a clean dog kennel isn’t just about appearances. It’s about giving your dog a healthier, more comfortable place to rest.

A dirty space can stress dogs out more than you might think. Bacteria, bad smells, and grime chip away at their well-being little by little.

But once you get a simple system in place, cleaning feels less like a project—and more like part of the routine.

A few smart habits here and there can make a big difference. For you and your dog.