A kennel provides an outdoor space for your dog to play and exercise while being protected from the elements. The area needs to be appropriately constructed to keep its paws safe, so it's important to choose the right flooring material. Aggregates and concrete are two popular options, and here’s a closer look at each.

What Are Their Differences?

Aggregates

Aggregates are flooring made of natural materials like stone, rock, or gravel. Flooring made up of aggregates won’t injure your dog, especially if you choose washed rock or smaller-sized pea gravel. The round, smooth edges of gravel will not break your dog’s nails or scrape their footpads, even with frequent running. When filling the kennel floor up to a two-inch depth, pick the three-eighths or three-quarter-inch sizes as it is more comfortable for their paws.

Because of the spaces in between aggregates, water drains easily when hosing debris off the floor. However, spacing is the reason why maintenance can be a bit troublesome, too. Debris tends to wedge itself among it and become more difficult to remove. You also have to rake over the aggregate periodically to cover up paths and put back displaced material. If your dog tends to dig, the aggregate can be loosened, damaged, or lost in grassy areas.

Concrete

Concrete flooring is a little more difficult and expensive to install, but worth it for many dog owners. Have a concrete contractor install it to ensure that it’s done right—the mix has to be poured at a slight slope for proper drainage, and needs to be compacted to minimize cracking. Its smooth surface makes for easier maintenance since you can use a hose to clean it.

Aside from being hygienic and highly durable, concrete flooring is comfortable for your dogs. It can trim their nails over time, much like aggregate. However, it is harder for dogs to dig up or destroy.

How to Make the Right Choice

Since kennels are considered temporary shelters for your canines, it’s also essential to consider their comfort in choosing a flooring material. Concrete and aggregate floors tend to be affected fast by extreme temperatures, which can burn or freeze your dog’s footpads. Place a wooden or composite deck platform where they can rest. Also consider installing the kennel somewhere with ample shade, as this will combat both the heat and the cooler temperatures. Both concrete and aggregate flooring have their advantages and disadvantages, so reach out to a professional for their opinion.

When you need help in choosing between aggregates and concrete for a dog run or kennel, ask the experts at Best Transit Mix in Soldotna, AK. In business since 1983, they are the go-to supplier of ready-mix concrete and a variety of aggregates like sand and gravel throughout the borough. Call (907) 262-6273 to order aggregates and concrete supplies, or request a free estimate online.