Although most dogs enjoy spending some time in the outdoors, it is always important to keep them safe and in good health by providing shelter. Best Dog houses help to keep them cool in the summer and warm during the winter. There are pet owners who argue that dogs are not meant to stay in dens but that’s partially true.
Studies related to dogs’ ancestral history have proven that dogs love hiding away in dog houses or dens as particularly observed in wild dogs. The best dog houses provide your dog with shelter and the feeling of being safe and secure. It also satisfies their innate feeling to den or hideaway to have some rest.
Furthermore, animal experts are certain about the fact that the best dog houses are extremely useful for dog care, dog training and providing them with a more well-rounded living. Purchasing a pet house promotes a desirable behavior for your dog and also reduces undesirable behavior that may develop in them over time.
You might be undecided on the type of dog house that is suitable for your family companion. We can help guide your purchasing decision to find one that best suits your dog’s needs. In this article, we will look at factors to consider when choosing the best dog houses and review some of the top picks in different categories.
Contents
How to Choose the Best Dog Houses
It is essential to pick the right kennel for your dog depending on whether you intend to keep them in the outdoor or indoors. It needs to offer adequate protection to your dog against various elements by serving its intended purpose. The structure should be stable, safe, dry and hygienic. Here are factors to consider when picking the best dog houses.
Size
The right size for your dog’s house is crucial for making them comfortable. Although you might be tempted to pick the largest option possible, it is not always the best choice for just any dog. Dogs prefer to relax in a cozy space but it will be difficult to keep them warm.
The best size of a dog house is one that allows your dog to stand up comfortably, turn around or lay down in the area provided. Generally, the height of the kennel should measure approximately two times your dog’s height while measuring from the ground to top of its head.
Position
Choosing the best location to place the kennel is equally as important as determining the right size. It is ideal to select a dog house that has some sort of elevation at the bottom. If it is positioned away from the damp earth and puddles, the distance from the ground will prevent water, ice, snow, and winter weather from getting in. Ensure that the kennel is positioned in a sheltered spot that is covered from high winds to keep your dog comfortable when the weather turns bad.
[db]Insulation
Your dog’s house should be weatherproof and have a stable floor. Proper insulation helps keep your companion warm during the colder months. Beds, floor coverings, and heat pads can provide additional warmth. However, the dog house itself should provide the primary form of insulation to guarantee sustainability.
Material used
The material used in making the dog house also determines the durability of the kennel. They can be made from wooden, plastic, or metallic materials and may vary in terms of their designs. The durability of these materials may vary depending on whether you intend to use them indoors or in the outdoors. It should be resistant to changes in weather while regulating the temperature inside the kennel.
Best Insulated Dog Houses
Comparison Table
| Item | Construction Material | Item Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Master-Plus Insulated Dog House | Wood | 106 lbs |
| Petmate Indigo Dog House | Plastic | 29 lbs |
| ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace | Plastic | 70 lbs |
Both plastic and wood kennels are great options for providing insulation during different weather conditions. They are also very easy to clean. Here are some of the best-insulated dog houses you can check out.
Climate Master-Plus Insulated Dog House
This one tops as the best dog houses featuring a chalet style kennel. It is technically-advanced and offers some serious protection for dogs of all sizes. It is bound to ensure your dog is warm and comfortable when the weather turns bad.
It makes this possible through the full inch of true foam insulation that comes with its laminated engineered panels. Other extraordinary properties that make the Climate Master Plus dog house the best include a removable roof and a raised floor.
Features
Weighs 160 lbs, vented ridge cap, insulated floor, removable roof, offset door and a raised floor.
- The removable roof allows for easier cleaning
- It is best suited for cold weather with its insulated roof panels, walls, and floors.
- It allows free flow of air with the vented ridge cap
- It also provides extra weather protection with its steep roof and an extended overhang
- It offers extra protection against various elements with its offset door.
- It is built to withstand strong weather conditions
- It is high quality
- It is highly priced compared to other top models
Petmate Indigo Dog House
It is a top quality dog house with an igloo shape that provides excellent insulation in cold weather. It offers great wind and rain protection with its extended offset doorway. The insulating benefits of the Petmate Indigo Dog House have been enhanced further by the inbuilt structural foam.
The raised floors and roof ventilation have side channels that allow moisture to run off. This feature allows the rain to run off the frame. One thing that makes the Petmate Indigo Dog House a favorite is that it has been made with Microban treatment.
Features
Roof vent, Microban treatment, easy-install, extended doorway, roof ventilation and built-in structural foam.
- It is very easy to clean
- The door flap offers additional protection
- The Microban treatment protects the kennel from the growth of odor and stain-causing bacteria.
- It has a robust design with a tool-free construction
- Rain and water are repelled by the channels along the sides of the raised roof.
- It is best suited for cold weather conditions because of the foam material in its structure.
- Continuous airflow is guaranteed by the roof ventilation.
- The plastic can crack if not handled properly
- The entrance might be smaller than the dog house itself
ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace
As the name suggests, this is the perfect choice where your dog can spend some good time during the colder months. The temperature inside the house is warmer than the outside temperature because of the four inches of foam insulation used in its structure. The floor is easier to clean as it features a drainage hole.
The ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace provides your dog with a warm and dry place to rest since its floor is raised by five and a half inches from the floor. The window panels are flexible as they enable ventilation during cold weather but can be removed during warm weather.
Features
Self-storing window panes, real foam insulation, rear exit, removable bottom and a see-through window.
- The raised floor helps to prevent flooding
- The see-through window allows your dog to watch outside
- There is a rear exit on the heater cord portal to prevent your dog and the owner from tripping over the cord.
- It can be assembled easily
- It has a sturdy design which defines its long-lasting properties.
- It comes with a heating pad that provides additional insulation
- The heat pad does not fit the entire floor properly
- Most dogs are usually scared of the door that swings shut behind them
- The insulation can be accessed easily if your dog is an active chewer.
Best Dog House for Winter
Comparison Table
| Item | Construction Material | Item Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Boomer & George Wooden Barn Dog House | Wood | 51 lbs |
| Best Pet Supplies Home Sweet Home Bed | Poly fabric | 1.5 lbs |
| Cozy Cottage Durable Plastic Dog House | Plastic | 26.5 lbs |
Buying a dog house that is purposely designed for winter helps your dog to stay safe and be warm during the cold months. Most of them are made from durable materials that can withstand the cold weather climates. Here are some of the best dog house for winter you can check out.
Boomer & George Wooden Barn Dog House
This outdoor barn-style dog house features an angled roof and a durable fir wood construction to provide protection from outside elements. It comes with a raised floor for greater insulation and ventilation. The front covered porch area allows your dog to relax during warm weather conditions.
It comes with a heater which helps to keep your pet warm and comfortable during the winter months. The Boomer & George Wooden Barn Dog House has naturally colored stains that makes it appealing. A see-through window on the sides helps your dog to keep an eye on their surroundings.
Features
Barn-style design, removable floor panels and roof, naturally colored stains, side window, raised floors, and sturdy wood construction.
- The raised floor prevents your dog from the damp or cold ground
- It comes with a see-through window that allows your dog to keep an eye on the compound.
- The removable floor panels and roof make it easier to clean the dog house.
- The roofed porch provides a great amount of shade and provides protects your dog during the rainy days.
- It is well-insulated to keep your pet warm during the winter months
- It has a sturdy construction to withstand extreme temperatures and humidity.
- It is a little pricey compared to other models
Best Pet Supplies Home Sweet Home Bed
This would definitely be my perfect choice if I had a little pup as it is so awesome! Home Sweet Home Bed by Best Poet Supplies is an adorable indoor dog house for your little dog. It is lightweight having been made from Ultra-soft polyfoam that ensures your dog is warm and comfortable during the winter months.
You can also disassemble the house for easier cleaning and run it inside the washing machine. It is can then be assembled once dry to offer comfort to your little pet. This soft house was designed to last as the material used gives them maximum durability.
Features
High-quality poly fabric, timeless style, soft poly-foam lining, 1.5lbs weight, and easy-to-clean.
- It holds up perfectly
- It is lightweight and very portable
- It can be disassembled easily when traveling
- It offers real comfort and luxury to your pet during winter
- It was designed to last
- It is easier to maintain.
- It is only meant for small dog breeds
- It needs thorough cleaning to avoid bad smell.
Cozy Cottage Durable Plastic Dog House
Unlike other common plastic houses, the Cozy Cottage Durable Plastic Dog House is double walled and specifically designed for winter purposes. It provides great comfort that helps protect your dog from outside elements.
It is one of the cheapest options despite the fact that it lacks any insulating material or foam. However, the double walls provide some level of insulation so that your pet can feel warm during the cold months. It is made of durable plastic that is sure to last and can be assembled very easily.
Features
Plastic material, double-walled, detachable roof, 75 lbs weight capacity, 26.5 pounds in weight.
- Its double-walled design provides some degree of insulation against outside elements
- It is made to last with its durable plastic construction
- The removable roof allows for easier cleaning
- It is lightweight which enhances its portability
- It best suited for small to medium dog breeds
- It is easy to assemble as you require no tools.
- Not suitable for large dog breeds exceeding 75 pounds
- It is lightweight thus can be turned over by strong winds or rambunctious dogs.
- It does not offer the perfect insulation against extreme weather conditions.
Best Dog House for Hot Weather
Comparison Table
| Item | Construction Material | Item Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Merry Pet ‘Room with a View' Dog House | Wood | 8.62 lbs |
| Suncast DH350 Dog House | Plastic | 16.6 lbs |
| Rustic Dog House by Trixie Pet Products | Wood | 78 lbs |
Dogs are vulnerable to hot weather just like the cold. They tend to become dehydrated and are likely to suffer from heat stroke. Leaving your dog to bake inside a hot kennel can really be fatal. In this section, we explore some of the best dog houses that can be used in hot weather and how they can help your dog stay cool in warm months.
Merry Products Wood Pet Home
This is one of the extraordinary dog houses for hot weather having a balcony area on the roof and steps to the kennel. It is very attractive but best suited with small dogs. The flat space on the roof of the dog house allows your dog to lie on when it cannot withstand the rising temperatures inside the kennel.
It comes with a raised floor so that it cannot absorb heat from the ground. The kennel has a variety of features that make it an ideal dog house for hot weather.
Features
Single-walled construction, raised the floor, uncovered entrance, and a resting space on top.
- The practical space on top allows your dog to feel the fresh air when it is really hot
- It has a raised floor that prevents absorption of heat from the ground
- The uncovered entrance allows circulation of cool air inside the dog house.
- The single-walled construction prevents hot air from accumulating inside.
- It requires additional ventilation holes to improve ventilation in very hot climates.
Suncast DH350 Dog House
Suncast D350 is on the opposite side of the spectrum. It is a flat packed to allow easier transportation so that it can be assembled by the owner. It comes with a molded plastic design and is best suited for dogs weighing up to 100 pounds. It does not offer any insulation with its single-walled construction thus plenty of ventilation inside the kennel allows free flow of cool air. Although it comes equipped with a plastic entrance covering, you can remove it to provide extra ventilation during hot weather.
Features
Flat packed, plastic design, supports up to 100 pounds, single wall construction, plastic entrance covering, and different sizes
- It allows free flow of air inside the kennel with its single-walled construction.
- It is an affordable option for dog houses for hot weather
- The plastic entrance can be removed to enhance ventilation.
- It is available in different sizes so you can adjust the kennel depending on the size of your dog at home.
- It was flat packed so that you can assemble it for your dog
- It lacks a raised floor and requires a support mechanism to avoid absorbing heat from the ground.
Rustic Dog House by Trixie Pet Products
Trixie Pet Products is a well-known company that manufactures quality dog houses and the Rustic Dog House is just among the best in their collection. It is a perfect kennel for small to medium sized pets. It features a raised floor that has been integrated with a shaded space to allow your dog to rest during hot weather. It can carry dogs that weigh up to 70 pounds such as the Labrador.
It prevents heat absorption from the ground since it has a raised floor. If your ground is uneven, you can calibrate the dog house using its adjustable feet. The roof opens to improve ventilation and allow you to interact with your pet.
Features
Uncovered entrance, removable floor, raised floors, adjustable feet, wooden construction, and easy-to-assemble.
- The removable floor allows for easier cleaning
- The uncovered entrance and the opening roof improve ventilation inside the dog house.
- The shaded area in front of the kennel makes it ideal for your dog to rest during hot weather.
- It prevents heat absorption from the ground because of the raised floor.
- The adjustable feet make it easier to raise the floor to an even level that will provide comfort to your pet.
- It is not suitable for larger breeds
Best Dog House for Large Dogs
Comparison Table
| Item | Construction Material | Item Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Confidence Pet XL Waterproof Plastic Dog House | Plastic | 31 lbs |
| Ware Premium A-Frame Wooden Dog House | Wood | 66 lbs |
| Trixie Pet Products Dog Club House | Wood | 40 lbs |
If you have a larger dog breed then you might consider choosing them a kennel that best suits their size. Some of the factors to consider when choosing dog house for a larger breed include the housing material, space, water resistance and a raised flooring. Here are some of the best dog house for large dogs you can check out.
Confidence Pet XL Waterproof Plastic Dog House
This is one of the best dog houses that requires no tools to be assembled. The plastic materials used in making the dog house makes it easier to clean. The tall entrance makes it great for larger breeds and the raised floor prevents your dog’s house from flooding.
The inner material is not insulated which makes it better for the warm climates. Although it can withstand light to moderate rain and wind, don’t expect your dog to weather a snow squall in it. It also comes with a great design and coloring making it appealing from the outside.
Features
Sturdy design, large interior space, tough plastic, wide entrance and lightweight.
- It is easier to clean because of the tough plastic material
- It can be assembled easily unlike other models
- It is lightweight at 31 lbs which makes it easier to move around
- It has a raised entrance to prevent flooding
- It is good for warm climates
- It is neither insulated not ventilated
- It cannot withstand hot and cold weather conditions
Ware Premium A-Frame Wooden Dog House
The Ware Premium A-Dog house is made of a wooden material and is best suited for older large dogs. It performs pretty well with a wider entrance for your dog to go through. The floor is slightly raised above the ground to prevent flooding. It also provides comfort since your family companion by offering a level place for your dog to sleep.
The real shingles provide a nice touch on the dog house and it will probably last for a long time if you live in a region with a fairly mild weather. It might be slightly heavy because of the Top Grade Fir Lumber used in its construction.
Features
Peak-roof design, adjustable feet, waterproof shingle roof, fir wood construction material, and a waterproof slanted peak frame.
- It is easy to assemble with a tool-free construction
- It comes with adjustable feet that can help you calibrated depending on your dog’s needs.
- It is highly customizable as you can paint the dog house with your favorite color
- It has been sealed with a non-toxic stain that is water-based
- Provides a wide living space for your dog
- It is heavier than other models
- It is neither insulated nor ventilated
Trixie Pet Products Dog Club House
This is one of the easiest to clean dog houses for large dogs. The housing material is made of Pinewood which gives it a sturdier look. The Trixie Dog Club House has an offset door that allows your dog to feel more protected from natural elements. It also helps in trapping heat during the cold months. It has paintable and stainable panels that allow you to change the default color of the wood material.
One of the best features that make Trixie Dog Clubhouse one of the best choices is that it easy to clean because the roof is hinged with locking arms. You might want to reinforce the floor panels with support posts and cross beams if you are a ‘handy’ man or woman.
Features
Solid pine construction, hinged roof, weatherproof, removable raised floor, and adjustable feet.
- It features a raised floor that prevents flooding
- It is fairly easy to assemble
- The hinged roof allows for easier cleaning
- It comes with adjustable feet that allows you to calibrate the house according to your dog’s needs.
- It has a removable floor
- It is paintable and stainable if you don’t prefer the default color of pine wood
- It is not insulated
- Not suitable for heavier dog
Best Dog House for Outdoor
Comparison Table
| Item | Construction Material | Item Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Always-Quality All Weather Dog House | Plastic | 10.5 lbs |
| Precision Pet Extreme Log Cabin | Wood | 61.8 lbs |
| Petsfit 33″L X 25″W X 23″H Outdoor Wooden Dog House | Wood | 37.4 lbs |
Most pets love spending most of their time with their human family in the outdoors. It is a good idea to provide them with some sort of shelter that will protect them from the outside elements. Always consider the size of the structure when shopping around a dog house for the outdoors. The materials used will also determine how best it can offer you the longest durability. Here are some of the best dog house for outdoor that you can check out.
Always-quality All Weather Dog House
This is a dog house that can be assembled easily with just a screwdriver. It offers multipurpose functions making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. It features a sturdy plastic construction that enhances its durability and ability to withstand different weather conditions. It aims at providing the necessary comfort to your dog through the integrated ventilation on the sides.
Always-quality All Weather Dog House is best suited for small to medium sized dogs. The raised floor provides additional comfort and can prevent heat absorption from the ground. It also prevents flooding in an event of a rainy weather.
Features
Raised floor, durable construction, smooth surfaces, and easy-to-assemble
- It is light and easily portable
- It has small screen-like openings that enhance ventilation inside the dog house.
- It has an elevated floor to reduce heat absorption from the ground.
- It is relatively affordable and budget-friendly.
- It is made with smooth surfaces that make it easier to clean
- It has a cute design that is easy to assemble
- It lacks a flap door
- It is not suitable for large dog breeds
- It is only available in one size
Precision Pet Extreme Log Cabin
This sleek dog house boasts a solid wood construction and can house your canine companion in style. It comes in four different sizes that is fits all types of dog breeds. It also protects your dog from inclement weather as it features an off-center entrance.
The type of wood used in making the dog house has a weather-resistant coating for enhanced durability. You can also adjust the feet to calibrate the distance from the ground that best suits your dog. It can be assembled in only three steps making it one of the best choices for the outdoors.
Features
Weighs 61.8 lbs Solid wood construction, adjustable plastic feet, weather-resistant coating, easy-to-assemble.
- The adjustable feet makes your pet dry during rainy weather and prevents absorption of heat in the hot climates.
- Slanted asphalt roof is weather-resistant to repel water
- It is very easy to assemble
- The entrance is positioned at the far end to shelter your dog from outside elements.
- It has a sturdy construction which enhances its durability.
- It is available in different sizes
- It can be damaged by playful and heavier dogs.
- The prices may vary depending on the size chosen.
Petsfit Dog House
The Petsfit outdoor wooden dog house comes with a covered porch area and a weatherproof interior space. It has a removable floor making the cleanups a breeze and the lift-up top allows you to interact with your pet. This dog house is available in five different sizes to suit different sizes of dog breeds.
You can calibrate the right level from the ground that will offer comfort to your dog with its adjustable plastic feet. It can be assembled easily because of the pre-drilled holes. An optional insulation kit is also available.
Features
Wooded design, adjustable plastic feet, pre-drilled holes, opening top, removable bottom and weatherproof.
- It keeps your dog dry and safe during extreme weather conditions
- The pre-drilled holes make it easier to assemble.
- The top can be opened to allow room for more ventilation and interaction with your pet.
- It can be cleaned easily with the removable bottom floor.
- It comes with a side window and a porch
- The adjustable feet help you to calibrate the desired level of the floor from the ground.
- It is not suitable for large dog breeds
Summary
A dog house has several benefits for your dog which makes it ideal to find the best dog house for them. Always consider where you want to place the dog house depending on whether it will be used indoors or outdoors. The quality of material also matters when making your purchase decisions since the dog house will be ideal for different elements in their surroundings. The above list of the best dog houses was selected based on the quality, comfort, and reputation of the manufacturer. They are made from reputable brands that have been in the Pet Industry for quite some time. Having an idea of what to look for will guide your final decision when choosing the best pet house for your dog.
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