Dog houses protect pets from the elements.
There are many dog houses on the market and it is important to choose one that is best for your dog’s size and the climate you live in. Even if you live in a warm climate and your dog is only outside a few hours at a time, your dog needs to be able to escape the rain, heat, wind, sun, etc. (And in many states it is illegal to keep a dog confined outside without adequate shelter.)
Many of today’s dog houses provide very good insulation in both hot and cold weather. If you live in an area that is prone to excessive heat or cold or both, you might want to consider a dog house air conditioner, a dog house heater, or a ThermAssure Climate Control Unit that works just like a home’s heating/cooling system. In addition, experts recommend avoiding cold north winds by facing the dog house door to the east.
There are also outdoor cat houses available and many have heating options. These are ideal for providing weather protection for feral cats.
Training Tips
Some pets need to be taught or convinced to use dog houses. Start by putting a dinner bowl near the entrance. Then progressively feed them further and further into the dog house until they happily go in without reward. Some people recommend putting an old sock or t-shirt in dog houses to help fido feel secure.
Do not pressure or coerce your dog to try new things as this usually makes the dog avoid those things even more. The key is taking it slowly so the dog doesn’t realize things are changing. This is particularly important with dog houses that have doors on them.
Practical Design Features
Most dog houses are designed with either a flat roof or an A-frame. If you live in a snowy climate, you may want to consider an A-frame so you don’t have to continually clear off the roof. However, some dogs like to lounge or sleep on top of their dog house from time to time. If you choose a dog house with a flat roof, just be sure there is at least a slant to the roof so rain water will run off. Rain should not run off in front of the doorway.
For easier cleaning look for dog houses with removable or hinged roofs. Some dog houses (particularly those that are not made of wood) have drainage holes inside of them so you can just hose them down and the water will run out.
It is usually best to select a dog house with a floor that is raised off the ground. This is particularly important if you anticipate your dog will spend a lot of time in his or her dog house. A raised floor will protect the dog house from sitting in saturated dirt or grass during and after a rain storm.
Proper ventilation is important, too. This will help to keep acceptable air quality inside the dog house and deter pests from moving in. Most experts say just a few holes (the size of a nickel) under the eaves will suffice.
Construction Materials
America’s Pet Store carries dog houses made from solid wood including cedar; practically indestructible hard plastics; and eco-friendly materials made from recycled polymers and wood fibers. We also carry insulated dog houses made out of Styrofoam and fiber board.
Creature Comforts
You may want to add a comfortable bed or mat for the dog to lay on inside the dog house. There are weather resistant beds that are specifically designed for outside usage. Or, as mentioned above, keep your dog comfortable with a dog house air conditioner, heater, or our popular HVAC ThermAssure Climate Control Unit that will cool and heat your dog’s house to whatever temperature you desire.
Or, you could provide plenty of straw (not hay) on the floor of the dog house. Straw should be changed every couple of weeks.
Provide a fresh and continual source of water.
You will need a constant source of fresh water for a pet that is outside with the elements. There are self waterers, bowls that clip onto fences, heavy bowls that don’t get knocked over easy, heated water bowls that won't freeze, and plenty of other outdoor pet feeder products to provide your dog with a steady supply of clean water.
Keep your outdoor dog entertained.
Dogs are pack animals and by nature are not “wired” to be alone for an extended period of time. Often, a dog misbehaves because he is lonely or extremely bored.
Your dog should have many safe toys available to entertain himself when you are not with him. Specifically treat balls, buster cubes, Nylabones®, Kong® toys stuffed with treats, and other mentally stimulating toys are recommended for dog houses.
Customer Service
America’s Pet Store Customer Service Representatives are happy to help you compare dog houses to determine what is best for your dog. If you would like assistance or have any questions about any of our products, you can call us toll-free at 1-800-870-1941 Mon.-Fri. 8:30-4:30 EST, or email customerservice@americas-pet-store.com for a prompt reply.
