Sustainable Doghouse Challenge

Innovating for Furry Friends

Student teams participating in the CAEE Sustainable Doghouse Competition must work together to design a sustainable shelter for dogs.

What to Expect

Competing teams are evaluated based on their incorporation of competition themes into dog house designs for their furry friends.

Eligibility

• All students from the CAEE Department are allowed to enter the competition. Students from other majors may join a team, but the team must be made up of a simple majority of CAEE students.

Competition Themes

Successful student designs will incorporate aspects from each of the following categories:

Sustainability
For the physical competition, students are given no budget for materials, so using expensive, treated, or “rare” materials should be avoided. Instead, opt for materials that can be easily salvaged, such as commonly recycled materials or typical soft/hardwoods used in construction, furniture, and other applications. Adding “green” features, such as a green roof or rainwater collector, will also help improve your score.

Structure
Teams must produce sturdy structures capable of withstanding heavy winds and falling debris, as well as exhibiting resistance to water intrusion. Ensure that the doghouse you design can actually be created within a semester’s time.

Comfort
The dog should be comfortable inside your design – think of the doghouse as more of a home and less of a shelter. While it is sufficient to have a floor, four walls and a roof, you can earn extra points by considering the dog’s comfort more thoroughly.

Creativity
Teams should aim to be creative with their doghouse, from the design they choose to the materials and features they use to construct it.

Healthy
The doghouse you design should be made so there is no threat to the dog’s health through exposure to the materials and paints/varnishes.