How to Choose A Dog House: Ultimate Buyer's Guide
Key Factors When Buying A New Dog House
When it comes time to choosing a dog house there are three main factors you need to consider – size, climate and material. Let's take a look at each one.The Size of Your Dog
Obviously, the size of your dog is going to be an important factor in what type of dog house will work best for them. You want to make sure that they have enough room inside the house so they can comfortably stand up, turn around and lay down.
If the dog house is too small, your pet could end up feeling cramped and uncomfortable.
The Climate
If you live in an area with severe winters, you'll need to invest in a dog house that is insulated and weatherproof. On the other hand, if you live in a hot climate it's important to get a model that has good ventilation so your pup stays cool.
Material
There are a variety of materials that dog houses can be made out of – wood, plastic, metal or fabric. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Plastic models are generally the cheapest but they may not last as long as those made from other materials. Fabric houses are lightweight but may not be very sturdy. Wood and metal dog houses are more expensive but they tend to be the most durable.
Once you've considered these factors, you'll be able to choose the perfect doghouse for your furry friend!
Are wood dog houses warm?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, redwood are such as the type of wood used, the size and insulation of the dog house, and the climate where you live.
However, in general, wooden dog houses are likely to be warmer than those made from other materials. This is because wood is a natural insulator and can help keep your pet warm in cold weather.
Just make sure that you take into account your pup's needs when selecting one, and provide plenty of extra bedding if necessary to keep them cozy!
How do I get the correct size doghouse for my dog?
Measure your dog.
The doghouse should be at least 25% higher than your dog's standing height.
HEIGHT:
So, if your dog stands at 30 inches high, the doghouse roof should be 38 inches. The height of the doghouse door should be 75% of your dog's shoulder height.
So, if your dog is 18 inches tall at the shoulder, the door height should be 13.50 inches.
WIDTH:
The doghouse width should be about twice the length of your dog's body plus a couple extra inches for comfort. The doghouse length should be about three times the length of your dog's body. So, if you have a 25-inch-long dog, the doghouse would need to be at least 75 inches long.
Should a dog house be insulated?
Insulating your dog's house helps to block out cold and retain your dog's body heat. A well-insulated doghouse, packed with plenty of dry, clean bedding material, is essential for any dog who must spend time outside. Such shelter is especially important for puppies and older or frail dogs.
In extreme weather conditions, an uninsulated dog house can even be life-threatening.
If you live in a cold climate, it is especially important to make sure your dog's house is well insulated. You may need to add extra insulation in the form of straw, hay, or blankets.
If your dog has his own house, but spends most of his time inside with you, that's great! But don't forget about providing him with a warm place to sleep at night when the temperature drops outside. A cozy pet bed will keep him comfortable and safe all winter long.
Best Places to Put Your Dog House
If possible, place your dog house in the coolest, shadiest part of your yard. The more time your dog house spends in the shade, the longer it lasts.
Try to situate the house against a wall of your house or garage to protect it from the wind. You'll also want to avoid placing the house in a low-lying area that can flood, or in an area with standing water as this will create a breeding ground for insects.
The Size of Your Yard.
If you have a small yard, consider opting for a dog house with a removable roof so your pet has more room to move around inside. Alternatively, try choosing a location near your backdoor where your pup can go indoors when he wants to escape bad weather or hot sun.
If you have plenty of space in your yard, take into account how much time your dog spends outside. A large house may be overkill if your pooch only hangs out in the backyard for short periods each day. Conversely, if your dog loves to play outdoors all day long, go ahead and pick a large dog house that will give him plenty of room to relax.
The Type of Dog House.
There are several different types of houses available on the market, from igloo-style houses that keep dogs warm in cold weather to open-air designs that allow pets to enjoy the outdoors without feeling cooped up.