CoopChecklistWhen we bought our farmhouse earlier this year, we inherited more than just creaky wood floors, wide-open fields,
and a to-do list that never seems to end — we also inherited a sturdy dog kennel sitting just off the back pasture.
At first glance, it was nothing fancy — chain-link sides, a sloped roof, and a concrete floor. But to me, it wasn’t just an old kennel. It was potential. I could already see happy hens scratching around, fresh eggs in the nesting boxes, and a little farm charm in a space that had been purely practical before.
Why a Dog Kennel Made the Perfect Base for a Chicken Coop
The bones of the kennel were solid — tall fencing, a secure gate, and a roof that kept most of the weather out. That meant we didn’t have to start from scratch. Plus, the size was ideal for a small backyard flock, with room to roost, nest, and stretch their legs.
The best part? Repurposing what was already there saved us money and kept us from sending perfectly good materials to the landfill.
This is a work in progress, but we were able to get it repurposed, and our girls moved in.
How We Remodeled It for Chickens
We approached the remodel with two goals in mind: function for the chickens and farmhouse charm for us.
Framing & Enclosure
We replaced the chain-link walls on part of the structure with wooden framing and hardware cloth — much safer for keeping predators out. The concrete floor stayed (easy to clean!), but we added a thick layer of pine shavings for comfort. Later, we hope to extend the run. Luckily, the kennel was equipped with its own water source. A water faucet is located just outside the coop for easy access.
Nesting Boxes & Roost
We covered the floor of the coop with vinyl flooring for easy cleanup. Along one wall, we built a bank of nesting boxes from reclaimed wood, complete with a hinged lid so collecting eggs is quick and easy. For roosting, we built a ladder-like roost to attach to the wall.
Ventilation & Light
Chickens need good airflow, so we utilized the existing window and covered them with hardware cloth. This not only keeps the coop smelling fresh but also lets in beautiful morning light. We also purchased two automatic doors that will open and close with the sun.
The Run
The kennel’s fenced section became the chicken run. We reinforced the base with buried hardware cloth to prevent digging predators and added a dust bath area for the hens to enjoy.
Farmhouse Touches
Because I can’t resist a little style, we plan to replace the siding with white vinyl. I added a tin sign that says “Fresh Eggs.” An old galvanized feeder and waterer completed the look. These will eventually be replaced with automatic feeders and waterers.
What We Learned Along the Way
- Predator-proofing is non-negotiable — raccoons, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs can be determined.
- Easy access saves time — wide doors and hinged lids make daily chores less of a hassle.
- Style matters too — a pretty coop makes chicken keeping even more fun.
Now, instead of a forgotten kennel, we have a thriving little chicken coop that blends perfectly into our farmhouse life. The girls are happy, the eggs are plentiful, and I get to enjoy the view every time I walk past.
If you’ve got an unused structure on your property, don’t overlook it — with a little creativity and elbow grease, it might just become your next favorite feature.
Get your free Coop Remodel Checklist here.
