Concrete IS obviously more expensive, maybe easier to care for....but I used rock dust....easy on hounds feet....when packed...easy to clean. I bleach mine at least every other week, but usually once each week. Not had any problems, been there for goin on 8 years.
Had a flea problem once...but Talstar....cedar in barrels....55 gal plastic barrels took care of that problem. Just my experience!
Don't think there is a right or wrong way to go....whatever you will be satisfied with is what's important!!
Happy New Year!

ALLAN BISHOP
(JABBER JAW)

I've tried rockdust but didn't really like it. Switched to non-treated wood sawdust I get for free from a local mill. Really soaks up moisture and is easy to rake the poo up off of, plus it's free.
My whelping pen has trex decking with 1/2" gap spacing, and for a smaller pen or raised pen I would never go back to anything else. Easy to clean, maintenance free, and will last for years to come.
Goodluck

Go concrete with a full top with a 5 ft over hang and you will be well sastified call me I can show you some nice pens !!! just got done building another set for my male dogs only .Pp

I would go w/ concrete fully covered as well, the extra area for a walk/feed/load area is a must in foul weather