Dog House Buying Guide

If your dog spends a lot of time outside, regardless of the climate, a dog house can be a great addition to your pup's life. Dog houses provide refuge from the elements or a place for quiet time and naps.

Size of Dog House

The most important aspect of buying a dog house is getting the size right. The size of the dog house will be determined by the size of your dog. Bigger is not always better—dogs enjoy the safe feeling of smaller spaces. The right house should be big enough for your pooch to comfortably stand up and turn all the way around, but not much bigger. Your dog should also be able to stretch out when lying down.

Material

Most dog houses are made of plastic or wood and both can be good choices. Your decision should be based on what you want the dog house to look like and the climate in your area. Here is what you need to know about both materials:

Wood dog houses

• Typically more expensive* Generally more attractive and realistic looking* May need refinishing to preserve based on weather conditions* Offer more protection and better insulation

Plastic dog houses

• Typically less expensive 
• Generally less realistic looking
• Lighter, easier to move around
• Do not rot or require refinishing to protect from the elements

Tip!

If you travel with your pup a lot and want a portable dog house that is easy to pack and set up, consider nylon pop-up dog tents. They offer great temporary protection and convenience.

Design

There are a number of design elements to consider before buying:

Door
Consider whether you want a dog house with a door or without. This decision could be based on your dog's preferences, the climate in your area, and the planned use of the dog house. Also consider the positioning of the door on the dog house. Doors at the side of a house, as opposed to the center, can be useful for keeping the elements out and body heat in.

Floor
The best dog houses have raised, insulated floors. This keeps moisture and insects out and helps preserve wooden bases.

Roof
Most dog houses come with either pitched or flat roofs. Some flat roofs give your dog an extra place to relax on top of the house. Consider the climate in your area and what material the roof should be made out of to withstand the elements.

Ventilation
Ventilation is important in both hot and cold climates. If it is hot in your area, good ventilation is needed to keep your dog cool. In cold weather areas, ventilation is necessary to avoid excess moisture inside the house from your pup's breathing. Look for slotted openings or a small window near the top of the dog house and consider installing vinyl flaps over the doorway that afford protection but provide airflow. 

Tip!

If the dog house you want does not have a raised floor, you can always raise it yourself by resting the dog house on 2x4s or bricks to elevate it off the ground.