What Is Barkitecture?

"A new show called Barkitecture takes dog and design lovers behind the scenes with Bachelorette alum and general contractor Tyler Cameron and Brooklyn designer Delia Kenza as they create dazzling dog houses for celebrity clients like Kyle Richards, Lisa Vanderpump, Wilmer Valderrama, Teyana Taylor, Rumer Willis, Joel McHale, Lilly Singh, and Norbert the dog."

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Occasionally, I have advised students to help them create a proper dog house. I remember one in Scottsdale, AZ. He was a sculptor and owned a Doberman. His dog was too young to be left alone in his home. His home based business was too dangerous for the dog to hang around with him during the day (you don't want a dog around a hot kiln). And he didn't want to use a daycare every day.

The dog wasn't supposed to live in the dog house 24/7, it was just for working hours. Thus, it was humane.

First, we set aside enough area for the dog house, potty area, and an outdoor rest/ play area. We also incorporated the right fencing to keep out wild predators, like bobcats and coyotes, we also didn't want a rattlesnake in there.

Next, I sent him some plans I had from research I had done years ago for just such a situation. It was large for a large dog, insulated for the heat and cold, a house quality slanted metal roof. We elevated it in case of heavy rains, with a ramp leading up to the doorway and flap door. A proper heating and air conditioning system was installed. Arizona can get below freezing in the winter, and 120 degrees in the summer. A typical dog house wouldn't be safe. Special consideration was taken regarding the materials used to ensure they wouldn't splinter or be susceptible to being chewed.

Then electricity was installed in such a way to keep it away from his dog so she couldn't chew on any wires. And lastly, he installed a horse automatic self waterer so fresh water was always available, and so there would be no bowls to tip over.

There are a few other features we installed to provide behavioral enrichment.

It all worked out quite well, his dog was happy, and so was the owner.

If budget and space allow, a good dog house is worth considering for some dogs.

As a gift, he made a small bowl for me. I still fondly remember working with him and his dog.