Dear John:
Everyone needs a place of their own, and dogs are no exception. If you're handy with a hammer and saw, you can build a shelter to your dog's exacting specifications. We fetched both free tips and plans you need to pay for by searching on "dog house plans."
For an excellent overview of homemade hound huts, Mike Strong's Dog House Construction can't be beat. He's not a carpenter -- he's just a regular guy who wanted some shelter for his two furry friends. Even though his plans are a little, well, sketchy, he lists all the materials and tools you'll need, and his description and photos of the construction should be helpful to first-time dog house builders.
For actual plans, visit WoodZone.com. Their dog house project is geared towards beginners and requires only one sheet of plywood, two 2"x4"s, and one 2"x2". Georgia-Pacific provides a detailed plan in PDF format (the PDF also includes plans for a garden shed). Heinz's Reward Dog also offers detailed instructions and diagrams for a doggy domicile. If your dog needs to brave a long harsh winter, check out these tips and diagrams for an insulated shelter.
Most of the free plans are for fairly simple dog houses. If your pooch needs something fancier, check out some of the plans for sale online. Plans PDQ sells plans in several sizes and styles, including one (the "Real Dog House") that has a large porch. For a dog who's a little bit country, a barn house with a gambrel roof could be just the thing -- both TJ Designs and Barn Plans carry this style. If your four-legged pal prefers life upstairs, you might consider the two-story house from The Plan Depot. Canine cops (and dogs who just like to chase police cars) may appreciate the law enforcement K-9 house from Ash Custom Wood Products.