The 5 DIY Whelping Box Plans

Build the perfect whelping box for your expecting dog! Explore 5 DIY plans, from easy plywood builds to creative designs. Find your ideal whelping box DIY project today!

As your furry friend prepares for motherhood, creating a safe and comfortable whelping box becomes an essential part of the preparation process. Building your own whelping box allows you to customize it to your dog’s needs and offers a sense of accomplishment.

This guide delves into 5 DIY whelping box plans, ranging from simple plywood constructions to more elaborate designs, empowering you to choose the perfect option for your expecting canine companion.

Table of Contents

1. Sturdy Collapsible Whelping Box

Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Build a Sturdy Collapsible Whelping Box

Welcome expecting dog owners! Creating a safe and comfortable environment for your furry friend to whelp her puppies is crucial. This step-by-step DIY guide will equip you with the knowledge and instructions to build a sturdy collapsible whelping box, saving you money and providing a personalized haven for your soon-to-be-born canine companions.

Materials:

(4) 48″ x 24″ pre-finished bullnose shelving boards
(4) 4″ x ¾” corner braces
(8) 4” x 7/8” corner braces
4′ x ½” plywood
(3) 2′ x 4′ x 8′ stud boards
(4) 2” 90° DWV Sanitary Elbow
(4) 2” PVC Sanitary Tee
(2) 2” x 10’ DWV/40 PVC pipe
Screws
Blankets

Tools:

Tape measure
Jigsaw
Drill

Before you begin:

Ensure you have ample space for the assembled whelping box. Consider the size of your dog and the expected number of puppies when determining the appropriate dimensions. Remember, this design is collapsible, making it easier to store when not in use.

Cutting the components:

Plywood base: Using the jigsaw, cut the plywood sheet to create a 48″ x 24″ base for the whelping box.
Walls: Cut the four pre-finished shelving boards to 24″ in height. These will form the walls of the box.
Support panels: Cut two 2′ x 4′ stud boards into 24″ sections. These will act as support panels for the collapsible walls.
Door frame: Cut the remaining stud board into two 12″ and two 24″ sections. These pieces will form the frame for the whelping box door.

Assembling the base and walls:

Attach the support panels: Secure the 24″ support panels to the longer edges of the plywood base using screws and corner braces.
Connect the walls: Attach the pre-cut wall panels to the support panels using screws and corner braces. Ensure a snug fit to create a sturdy structure.

Building the collapsible frame:

Drill holes: Drill matching holes through the center of each wall panel and the corresponding support panel, approximately 3 inches from the top.
Insert PVC pipes: Cut the PVC pipes into four 24″ sections. Insert each pipe section through the drilled holes, connecting the walls to allow for collapsing and expanding the box.
Secure the PVC frame: Secure the PVC pipes in place using screws and corner braces on both sides of the walls and support panels.

Creating the door:

Assemble the frame: Screw the 12″ and 24″ stud board pieces together to create a rectangular door frame.
Attach hardware: Install hinges on one side of the door frame and a latch on the other side to allow for easy access to the whelping box.
Attach the door: Secure the completed door frame to the front of the whelping box using screws and corner braces.

Finishing touches:

Sanding: Smooth any rough edges on the wood components using sandpaper for a polished look and added safety.
Lining the box: Line the interior of the whelping box with soft blankets or towels, providing comfort and warmth for the mother and her puppies.
Placement: Choose a quiet and draft-free location for the whelping box, allowing your dog to feel safe and secure during whelping and caring for her newborn pups.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully built a sturdy collapsible whelping box for your expecting canine companion. Remember to monitor your dog closely during whelping and seek professional veterinary advice if needed.

2. Simple Plywood Whelping Box

Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Build a Simple Plywood Whelping Box

Creating a safe and comfortable birthing space for your expecting canine companion is an essential part of preparing for her new arrival. Building a simple plywood whelping box is a cost-effective and rewarding way to provide the perfect environment for your dog to whelp and care for her newborn puppies. This step-by-step guide will equip you with the knowledge and instructions to construct a functional and practical whelping box using readily available materials.

Materials:

(4) 4′ x 8′ sheets of ½” plywood
(8) 2” x 4” x 8′ lumber boards
(2) sets of heavy-duty hinges
Screws
Drill
Jigsaw
Sandpaper
Soft blankets or towels

Before you begin:

Consider the size: Determine the appropriate size for your whelping box based on your dog’s breed and the expected litter size. A general rule of thumb is to make the box at least twice the length and width of your dog when she is lying down.
Choose a location: Select a quiet and draft-free location in your home for the whelping box. This will provide a sense of security and comfort for your dog during whelping and caring for her puppies.

Building the whelping box:

Cutting the plywood panels:
- Use the jigsaw to cut the plywood sheets into the following pieces:
  - Four side panels: Cut each sheet into four pieces, measuring according to your desired box height (typically 18-24 inches).
  - One base panel: Cut one sheet to the desired length and width of the whelping box.
Constructing the walls:
- Lay the side panels flat on a work surface and secure them together using the 2″ x 4″ lumber boards and screws. Create a rectangular frame using the lumber boards along the top, bottom, and sides of the panels.
- Repeat this process for the remaining three walls.
Assembling the base:
- Attach the four wall frames to the plywood base panel using screws and corner braces. Ensure a secure and stable connection.
Creating the door:
- Cut one of the remaining plywood sheets into a piece suitable for the door (approximately half the width of the box and the same height as the walls).
- Attach hinges to one side of the door frame and a latch to the opposite side for easy access.
- Secure the door frame to the front of the whelping box using screws and corner braces.
Finishing touches:
- Sand down any rough edges on the wood components for a smooth and safe finish.
- Line the interior of the whelping box with soft blankets or towels, providing warmth and comfort for the mother and her puppies.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully built a simple plywood whelping box for your pregnant dog. Remember to monitor your dog closely during whelping and seek professional veterinary advice if needed.

Additional tips:

Removable pig rails: Consider adding removable pig rails made from PVC pipes to the interior of the box. These rails prevent the mother from accidentally rolling onto her puppies and provide them with a safe space to move around.
Heat lamp: A low-wattage heat lamp can be used to provide additional warmth for the newborn puppies, especially during colder months. However, ensure proper placement and monitoring to avoid overheating.
Regular cleaning: Maintain a clean and hygienic environment for the mother and her puppies by regularly changing the bedding and disinfecting the whelping box.

By following these steps and incorporating the additional tips, you can create a safe and comfortable whelping box for your dog, ensuring a smooth and successful birthing experience.

3. Plywood and PVC Whelping Box

Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Build a Plywood and PVC Whelping Box

Providing a safe and comfortable birthing environment for your expecting canine companion is crucial. Building a plywood and PVC whelping box offers a sturdy, easy-to-clean, and cost-effective option. This step-by-step guide equips you with the knowledge and instructions to construct a functional and practical whelping box using readily available materials.

Materials:

(4) 4′ x 8′ sheets of ½” plywood
(8) 2” x 4” x 8′ lumber boards
(2) sets of heavy-duty hinges
Screws
Drill
Jigsaw
Sandpaper
Soft blankets or towels
(4) 2” 90° DWV Sanitary Elbow
(4) 2” PVC Sanitary Tee
(2) 2” x 10′ DWV/40 PVC pipe

Before you begin:

Consider the size: Determine the appropriate size for your whelping box based on your dog’s breed and the expected litter size. A general rule of thumb is to make the box at least twice the length and width of your dog when she is lying down.
Choose a location: Select a quiet and draft-free location in your home for the whelping box. This will provide a sense of security and comfort for your dog during whelping and caring for her puppies.

Building the whelping box:

Cutting the plywood panels:
- Use the jigsaw to cut the plywood sheets into the following pieces:
  - Four side panels: Cut each sheet into four pieces, measuring according to your desired box height (typically 18-24 inches).
  - One base panel: Cut one sheet to the desired length and width of the whelping box.
Constructing the walls:
- Lay the side panels flat on a work surface and secure them together using the 2″ x 4″ lumber boards and screws. Create a rectangular frame using the lumber boards along the top, bottom, and sides of the panels.
- Repeat this process for the remaining three walls.
Assembling the base:
- Attach the four wall frames to the plywood base panel using screws and corner braces. Ensure a secure and stable connection.
Creating the door:
- Cut one of the remaining plywood sheets into a piece suitable for the door (approximately half the width of the box and the same height as the walls).
- Attach hinges to one side of the door frame and a latch to the opposite side for easy access.
- Secure the door frame to the front of the whelping box using screws and corner braces.

5. Adding the PVC frame: * Drill matching holes through the center of each wall panel and the corresponding support panel, approximately 3 inches from the top. * Cut the PVC pipes into four 24″ sections. Insert each pipe section through the drilled holes, connecting the walls to allow for collapsing and expanding the box for easy storage. * Secure the PVC pipes in place using screws and corner braces on both sides of the walls and support panels.

6. Finishing touches: * Sand down any rough edges on the wood components for a smooth and safe finish. * Line the interior of the whelping box with soft blankets or towels, providing warmth and comfort for the mother and her puppies.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully built a plywood and PVC whelping box for your pregnant dog. Remember to monitor your dog closely during whelping and seek professional veterinary advice if needed.

Additional tips:

Removable pig rails: Consider adding removable pig rails made from PVC pipes to the interior of the box. These rails prevent the mother from accidentally rolling onto her puppies and provide them with a safe space to move around.
Heat lamp: A low-wattage heat lamp can be used to provide additional warmth for the newborn puppies, especially during colder months. However, ensure proper placement and monitoring to avoid overheating.
Regular cleaning: Maintain a clean and hygienic environment for the mother and her puppies by regularly changing the bedding and disinfecting the whelping box.

With this plywood and PVC whelping box, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your dog to whelp and care for her newborn puppies.

4. Whelping Box for Large Dogs

Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Build a Whelping Box for Large Dogs

Expecting a litter of adorable puppies from your large breed dog? Creating a whelping box specifically designed for their size is essential for a smooth and successful birthing process. This step-by-step DIY guide provides you with the knowledge and instructions to construct a large and comfortable whelping box, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for your expecting canine companion and her soon-to-be-born pups.

Materials:

(4) 4′ x 8′ sheets of ¾” plywood
(8) 2” x 6” x 8′ lumber boards
(2) sets of heavy-duty hinges
Screws
Drill
Jigsaw
Sandpaper
Soft blankets or towels

Before you begin:

Size considerations: Due to the larger size of the dog, whelping boxes for large dogs require specific dimensions. A general recommendation is to make the box at least 3 times the length and width of your dog when she is lying down. Additionally, factor in the expected litter size to ensure adequate space for the mother and her puppies.
Location selection: Choose a quiet and draft-free location in your home for the whelping box. This will provide a sense of security and comfort for your dog during whelping and caring for her puppies.

Building the whelping box:

Cutting the plywood panels:
- Use the jigsaw to cut the plywood sheets into the following pieces:
  - Four side panels: Cut each sheet into four pieces, measuring according to your desired box height (typically 24-30 inches for large dogs).
  - One base panel: Cut one sheet to the desired length and width of the whelping box.
Constructing the walls:
- Lay the side panels flat on a work surface and secure them together using the 2″ x 6″ lumber boards and screws. Create a rectangular frame using the lumber boards along the top, bottom, and sides of the panels.
- Repeat this process for the remaining three walls.
Assembling the base:
- Attach the four wall frames to the plywood base panel using screws and corner braces. Ensure a secure and stable connection, considering the weight of the mother and her puppies.
Creating the door:
- Cut one of the remaining plywood sheets into a piece suitable for the door (approximately half the width of the box and the same height as the walls).
- Attach hinges to one side of the door frame and a latch to the opposite side for easy access.
- Secure the door frame to the front of the whelping box using screws and corner braces.

5. Finishing touches: * Sand down any rough edges on the wood components for a smooth and safe finish. * Line the interior of the whelping box with soft blankets or towels, providing warmth and comfort for the mother and her puppies.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully built a whelping box for large dogs. Remember to monitor your dog closely during whelping and seek professional veterinary advice if needed.

Additional tips:

Removable pig rails: Consider adding removable pig rails made from PVC pipes to the interior of the box. These rails prevent the mother from accidentally rolling onto her puppies and provide them with a safe space to move around.
Heating pad: A low-wattage heating pad placed under a layer of bedding can provide additional warmth for the newborn puppies, especially during colder months. Ensure proper placement and monitoring to avoid overheating.
Regular cleaning: Maintain a clean and hygienic environment for the mother and her puppies by regularly changing the bedding and disinfecting the whelping box.

By following these steps and incorporating the additional tips, you can create a spacious and comfortable whelping box for your large dog, ensuring a safe and stress-free birthing experience for her and her precious puppies.

5. High-End DIY Whelping Box

Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Build a High-End Whelping Box

Looking to provide your expecting canine companion with the ultimate birthing experience? Consider building a high-end DIY whelping box. This step-by-step guide will equip you with the knowledge and instructions to construct a luxurious and functional whelping box, offering exceptional comfort and safety for your dog and her newborn puppies.

Materials:

High-quality, pre-finished plywood or MDF boards (¾” thickness)
(8) 2” x 4” x 8′ lumber boards (treated or pressure-treated)
(2) sets of heavy-duty, soft-close hinges
Screws
Drill
Jigsaw
Sandpaper
Soft blankets or towels
Optional:
- Vinyl flooring (easy to clean and disinfect)
- Heating pad (low-wattage)
- Security camera system

Before you begin:

Plan and design: While size recommendations are similar to standard whelping boxes, consider creating a more spacious design for a high-end whelping box. Factor in your dog’s breed, expected litter size, and desired features like an attached whelping pool or heating pad compartment.
Location selection: Choose a quiet and draft-free location in your home for the whelping box. Ensure the chosen space is large enough to accommodate the finished box and provide ample room for you to care for the mother and her puppies.

Building the whelping box:

Cutting the panels:
- Use the jigsaw to cut the plywood or MDF boards according to your planned design. This may include side panels, base panel, door frame, and additional components like a whelping pool or ramp.
Constructing the walls:
- Assemble the side panels using the 2″ x 4″ lumber boards and screws, creating a sturdy frame. Ensure all joints are secure and level.
Assembling the base:
- Attach the framed walls to the plywood or MDF base panel using screws and corner braces. Consider adding additional support beams underneath the base for larger breeds.
Creating the door:
- Cut a door panel and attach hinges to one side of the door frame. Install a soft-close mechanism and a secure latch on the opposite side for easy access.
Adding features (optional):
- Whelping pool: If incorporating a whelping pool, create a separate compartment within the box lined with vinyl flooring for easy cleaning. Ensure proper drainage and maintain a shallow water level.
- Heating pad compartment: Designate a specific area within the box for a low-wattage heating pad, placing it under a layer of bedding for additional warmth.
- Security camera system: Consider installing a camera system to remotely monitor the mother and her puppies, providing peace of mind and allowing you to check on them without disturbing them.

6. Finishing touches:

Sand down any rough edges on the wood components for a smooth and safe finish.
Line the interior of the whelping box with soft blankets or towels, providing warmth and comfort for the mother and her puppies.
Test all features like the door, whelping pool (if applicable), and heating pad (if applicable) to ensure they function properly.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully built a high-end DIY whelping box for your expecting dog. Remember to monitor your dog closely during whelping and seek professional veterinary advice if needed.

Additional tips:

Removable pig rails: Consider adding removable pig rails made from PVC pipes to the interior of the box. These rails prevent the mother from accidentally rolling onto her puppies and provide them with a safe space to move around.
Regular cleaning: Maintain a clean and hygienic environment for the mother and her puppies by regularly changing the bedding and disinfecting the whelping box.

By following these steps and incorporating the additional tips, you can create a luxurious and functional whelping box for your dog, offering a comfortable and safe birthing environment for her and her newborn puppies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, building a DIY whelping box allows you to personalize the birthing environment for your expecting canine companion, fostering a sense of security and comfort during this crucial time. Whether you choose a simple and functional design or opt for a more high-end approach with additional features, the key is to prioritize safety, hygiene, and comfort for both the mother and her newborn puppies. Remember to consult your veterinarian for guidance and ensure you have the necessary supplies readily available before your dog’s whelping date arrives. With careful planning and these helpful guides, you can create a suitable whelping box for your furry friend, welcoming her precious pups into the world in a loving and nurturing environment.