Kennel: meaning, definitions and examples

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kennel

[ˈkɛnəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

dog shelter

A kennel is a shelter for dogs. It is a place where dogs are housed, cared for, and sometimes bred. Kennels can vary in size from small ones in a backyard to large commercial facilities.

Synonyms

dog shelter, doghouse, pound.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
kennel	A place where dogs are bred, raised, and housed, typically a commercial establishment. It is also used to refer to a boarding establishment for dogs. We left our dog at the kennel while we were on vacation The new kennel in town offers grooming services as well
dog shelter	A facility that houses stray, lost, abandoned, or surrendered dogs with the aim of finding them new homes. Emphasizes the humanitarian and rescue aspect. We adopted our dog from the local dog shelter The dog shelter is organizing a charity event to raise funds
doghouse	A small outdoor shelter with a roof, designed specifically for a dog to rest and shelter from the weather. Usually for individual pets rather than groups of dogs. Our dog sleeps in the doghouse in the backyard The doghouse provides a cozy space for him to relax
pound	A government-run animal shelter, often viewed negatively as a place where stray and unwanted pets are held, sometimes with limited resources and high euthanasia rates. The dog was picked up by the pound after being found wandering the streets Several lost pets were reunited with their owners at the pound

Examples of usage

The kennel owner takes great care of the dogs.
The kennel provides a safe and comfortable environment for the dogs.
The puppies were born in the kennel.
The kennel has separate areas for different dog breeds.
Many kennels offer grooming services for the dogs.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

small structure

A kennel can also refer to a small, usually wooden structure where a dog can be kept. It is often used outdoors and provides shelter and security for the dog.

Synonyms

cage, doghouse, shelter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
kennel	A place specifically designed for housing or boarding dogs, usually for a temporary period. Often used by dog owners when they are away or by breeders. We left Max at the kennel while we went on vacation. The dog breeder keeps the puppies in a clean kennel until they are adopted.
doghouse	A small, usually outdoor, shelter designed specifically for a dog to rest or take refuge in. Commonly used by pet owners who leave their dogs outside. During the storm, Buddy preferred to stay in his doghouse. They built a new doghouse for their puppy in the backyard.
shelter	A facility that offers temporary refuge and care for homeless or stray animals. Conceptually similar to a human homeless shelter, providing basic needs and safety. The stray dog was taken to the animal shelter. Volunteers at the shelter work hard to find homes for all the animals.
cage	A structure made of bars or wire in which animals or birds are confined. This term frequently carries a negative connotation as it implies restriction and lack of freedom. The bird was kept in a small cage. The rabbit didn't seem happy in its cage.

Examples of usage

The dog sleeps in its kennel at night.
She built a kennel for her pet dog in the backyard.
The kennel is equipped with a dog bed and water bowl.
I need to clean the kennel before bringing the dog back.
The kennel has a door that can be locked.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'kennel' comes from Old French 'kenel', meaning a small house or a shed for dogs.
In its earliest use, the term was linked to any small container or place of residence.
It has been in use in the English language since the 14th century, evolving in meaning over time.

Literature

Kennels have appeared in various stories, often representing safety and companionship for dogs.
In Shakespeare's works, references to dogs and their living spaces often shed light on social conditions of the time.
In modern children’s books, kennels are often depicted as fun places full of adventure for pups.

Cultural Views

In many cultures, kennels are viewed as essential for pet care, reflecting the bond between humans and dogs.
Kennels can also be seen as a statement on responsible pet ownership, highlighting the importance of a safe space.
In popular media, kennels are often portrayed either as joyful places with lots of play or as places of neglect.

Animal Welfare

Well-maintained kennels ensure dogs receive appropriate care, socialization, and exercise.
There is a growing movement advocating for more spacious and enriched environments in kennels, improving overall well-being.
Regulations on kennel standards vary greatly by region, focusing on hygiene, size, and dog-to-human ratios.

Psychology

Dogs are known to experience stress when left in unfamiliar environments, like many kennels, highlighting the need for proper acclimatization.
The association between dogs and their living environments affects their behavior; a positive kennel experience can lead to a well-adjusted pet.
Research indicates that dogs can exhibit attachment behaviors towards their human caregivers even while in a kennel, emphasizing the importance of connection.

Translations

Translations of the word "kennel" in other languages:

🇵🇹 canil

🇮🇳 कुत्ता घर

🇩🇪 Zwinger

🇮🇩 kandang anjing

🇺🇦 будка

🇵🇱 kennel

🇯🇵 犬小屋 (いぬごや)

🇫🇷 chenil

🇪🇸 perrera

🇹🇷 köpek kulübesi

🇰🇷 개집

🇸🇦 بيت الكلب

🇨🇿 kotec

🇸🇰 koterec

🇨🇳 狗窝 (gǒu wō)

🇸🇮 psja uta

🇮🇸 hundabúr

🇰🇿 ит үйі

🇬🇪 ძაღლის სახლი

🇦🇿 it evi

🇲🇽 perrera

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,758, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21755 remedying
21756 magnum
21757 excels
21758 kennel
21759 arguable
21760 celluloid
21761 extirpation
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