Dog House Buying Guide

What to look for when shopping for a Dog House:

1. Bigger is not always better. The ideal dog house should be just large enough so that your dog can lie down comfortably while inside, and enter and exit easily. A dog house that is too large can result in interior temperatures that are too warm in the summer and too cold in the winter.


2. Some dog houses are insulated and others are not. If you live in a region with severe temperatures (below 32 degrees and/or above 90 degrees), choose an insulated dog house to protect against this intense heat or cold. You can also add insulation to a non-insulated dog house.


3. A raised panel floor increases the airflow beneath the dog house, resulting in enhanced temperature control. Raised floor panels also prevent unnecessary buildup of yard debris inside the dog house. Excess debris can bring in moisture and promote wood rot on the dog house floor. Our recommended raised panel floor dog house is the Outback Country Lodge Dog House.


4. You may want a dog house with a removable roof. A removable roof provides easy access to the dog house and also allows it to be cleaned quickly and easily. We recommend the Ware Economy Dog House.


5. Plastic dog houses are generally more durable and easier to clean than wood dog houses. Wood dog houses tend to offer considerably more visual appeal and a timeless, rustic look that complements the backyard setting.

More Information:

With our vast selection of dog houses, finding the right one may seem a little tricky. However, a simple and proven way to find the right dog house is through a quick process of elimination. This page will help you understand how the characteristics of a dog house affect its durability, performance, and sense of style.

Material

The two basic material options are plastic and wood. Plastic dog houses last longer and better resist the elements and wear and tear than wood dog houses do. Plastic is particularly easy to clean as well, because it does not absorb moisture. However, plastic tends to sacrifice some of the natural appeal that wood dog houses offer.

Wood dog houses provide a special place for your dog and offer a little more style. You can choose from among various types of wood, from simple plywood to real cedar. Another appealing aspect of wood dog houses is that you can choose a painted or stained dog house or an unfinished dog house that will let you add your own personal touch.

DogHouses.com also has a growing selection of heavy-duty, insulated dog houses. Crafted from metal with thick insulation, these dog houses offer the best available protection for your dog. Insulated dog houses offer temperature control that is modeled after your own home, thus keeping your dog cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Anyone in a harsh environment should consider an insulated dog house first.

Design

The basic design of a dog house affects how it will provide protection for your dog. Along with raised floor panels, a dog house door is on of the most common ways to regulate temperature inside the house. By simply covering the main opening, where heat and cold can freely enter or exit the house, you can significantly increase the performance of your dog house. Another way to protect your dog from the elements is by using an off-center door. An off-center door prevents wind and rain from directly hitting your dog while it relaxes inside its dog house.

The design of the roof, including material and shape, are also important. A shingled roof will protect the wood more than an unfinished roof, and a slanted roof will prevent water from pooling and causing unnecessary strain or water damage.

Some houses are designed for mild climates where extreme temperatures and harsh weather are uncommon. Take this into account when browsing dog houses, especially if you live in a place that has even occasional harsh weather.