whelpingbox

My husband Jim has built me a couple of these whelping

boxes and I have had numerous people ask me how we do it. I

thought I would share the instructions for those who are

interested.

This box is made from 3/8 inch plywood, and 1"x1" strapping

or nailer strips, it is fairly lightweight, but strong. The size

is 30" x30" x 12'' tall.

You will need to purchase a 4'x8' piece of 3/8 inch plywood,

good one side from your local lumber store. Lowe's, Home

Depot or Rona are usually very good about cutting it to your

specific dimension for a minimal charge.

This drawing is the one that I take with me and they

cut it while I wait. Save and print to take with you.

You will also need about 15 feet of 1x1 strapping or

nailer strips, a 24" piano hinge, some 3/4" wood screws,

a bottle of wood glue and 2 hooks & eyes.

Jim starts with the bottom,

and puts the nailer strips as

illustrated (right), securing it

with wood screws and wood

glue. We turn it bottom side up to reinforce it with the wood

screws. The nailer strips also go up the 4 corners for strength.

Glued on the inside and screwed from the outside (see below)

.

For the front we use a piano hinge, so that mom can easily step over, and she can see where her babies are.

As the puppies grow, and learn to climb out of the

box, we put the front up. It can be secured with

eye hooks on either side. We paint it well in

advance of use (at least 30 days) with a latex paint.

The front of the box can be put up, so puppies can't

climb out, but mom is still able to hop in and out as

she chooses

.

Click on any photos to enlarge

.