Best Dog House Reviews of 2020: Top 7

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With so many dog houses on the market today, it can be confusing as to which one would be the best fit for your furry friend. There are so many factors to consider when choosing the best dog houses, and you need to think about everything from where and when you will be using it to the style and comfort level of the product. You even need to think about how active your pooch is.

This can create a pretty aggravating experience when you are scrolling through hundreds of options that all sound similar. There are definitely some great options on the market today, and we are here to help you find the best one for you and your pup.

We’ll look at six top dog houses for 2020 and describe each product, explaining the pros and cons of each type. This will allow you to gather information so you can pick the one you know will provide the best home for your pooch.

The Top 6 Best Dog Houses of 2020

The chart below provides you a quick reference to the six best dog houses on our list. After reviewing the table, continue reading to get more in-depth information about each house.

Best igloo style – Petmate Indigo Dog House with Microban

The Petmate Indigo Dog House is an igloo-shaped dog home that comes with a coordinating door and dog pad to provide a completely insulated home for both small and large dogs. This pooch pad is water repellent to keep your pup from getting soaking wet when it rains or snows. The igloo shape comes out on the front to create an extended doorway.

This insulated dog house features Microban, which is an anti-microbial material that fights the growth of microbes, such as mold, odor-causing bacteria, and mildew. It even helps fight stains that develop over time.

This house comes in three different sizes: medium, large, and extra-large. There is one to fit every size dog from 25 pounds all the way up to 125 pounds. Each of these houses has a structural foam that helps keep it warm in the winter and keeps the wind and cold out. It also keeps the interior cooler in the warmer months by protecting it from the heat.

Pros

First and foremost, this is one of the best all-weather dog houses on the market today because of the excellent materials that make up this product. The structural foam material provides great insulation to keep your dog warm during winter and cool during summer, and the Microban material keeps odor-causing bacteria and mildew from growing, which keeps your pup safe from any harmful effects of outdoor bacteria. Additionally, this dog home has an adjustable top for ventilation and that allows easy cleaning.

If you’re the pet parent of a larger dog breed, you know that a lot of companies don’t make options for larger dogs, which can be really annoying and make it difficult to find a house for bigger pups. The extra-large size option for this model ensures your big furball will fit nicely.

Cons

There are some downsides to this house, and while the problems have easy fixes, you may want to take them into consideration when making a final decision. If you are housing breeds that are much taller than a standard large breed dog, you may have some issues getting your dog to enter the house. Remember, this is an igloo-shaped house with a rounded design, so it’s covered on all sides except the entrance, which is like a hole. This could make it hard for larger breed dogs to get in and out. Some pet owners complain about their pup having to duck and squeeze to get in and out of the dog house.

Best Wood – Precision Pet Outback Log Exterior

The Precision Pet Outback Log Exterior Dog House comes in multiple sizes. The small one measures 33.5 inches by about 25 inches and stands 22 inches tall. It makes a super cute option for pups less than 40 pounds. The medium one is slightly larger at 45.5 inches by about 27 inches and is a bit taller than the small version at 27.5 inches tall. This medium log-cabin style dog house is a perfect fit for dogs 40 to70 pounds. The large breed one is 45.5 inches by 44 inches and is the tallest of the bunch at 33 inches. This version fits dogs 70 to 95 pounds.

The Precision Pet Outback Log Exterior Dog House features an off-center entrance to create more space and shelter so your pup has plenty of room to turn around and get comfortable. It is easy to assemble and take apart in three easy steps.

The materials used in this product make it one of the best outdoor dog houses. It is solid fir wood with a natural cedar finish.

The slanted wood roof makes it the best all-weather option because it allows rain to run off efficiently. It also prevents a buildup of leaves and debris, so you are not stuck cleaning out the roof every time leaves fall from the trees. This option includes plastic feet which raise the floor to keep it and your pup dry and comfortable.

The great thing about the exterior is that there are a couple of additional pieces you can purchase separately to make this an even warmer and comfortable home for your pup. First, there is an insulation kit to transform this into an insulated home. Installation is a snap with the single zipper and Velcro attachment that goes on the exterior. It’s made with durable, two-layer canvas to keep the insulation material safe against rugged outdoor conditions. The triple layer polyform construction guarantees to keep your pet dry, insulated, and warm. It comes in small, medium, and large, so make sure you buy the right size for the dog house you have.

The other additional purchase option is the Precision Outback Dog House Door. It keeps cold out and heat in with its heavy-duty plastic strips that hang from the top of the house opening. It is clear so your pup can still see out the door, but it’s heavy enough to block wind from coming in and heat exiting.

Pros

The first great thing about this house is it’s easy to assemble. It’s also sturdy and lasts in rugged outdoor conditions. The slanted roof is an important feature that makes it much easier to maintain.

The design is also charming and well done. It looks beautiful in any space with the natural cedar finish and dark brown trim that gives it a classic look.

It’s also nice that there is the insulation kit add-on option. It does make a world of a difference in making the space warm and cozy during winter months, and even helps keep it cooler during hot summer weather. It stays put, so you don’t have to worry about it moving around, even with your active dog playing around in the space. The add-on door is another perk that only adds to the insulation.

Cons

Since this pet home is wood, it may begin to soak up a lot of liquid if you have heavy snow or rain for extended periods. It’s the nature of the material,  which means it may not be the best option for climates with a lot of precipitation.

Because it is a covered home, larger dogs may have a harder time easily getting in and out. You obviously want to make sure your mutt can be comfortable entering and exiting the home, so measure your pet and compare it to the three different sizes. Choose the one that works comfortably for him.

While the insulation kit and the door are excellent options and make a considerable difference in insulation, you do have to purchase these pieces separately. This is a shame because the combination is what really makes this one of the best outdoor dog houses on the market today.

Unfortunately, these do not come in extra-large size. If you are the pet parent of an extra-large dog breed, you are out of luck.

Best for extra large dogs – Suncast Large Deluxe DH350

The Suncast Large Deluxe Dog House is a durable home made of sturdy resin construction. Plus, it has crowned floors and fits dogs up to one hundred pounds. This model comes with vinyl doors to help keep wind, rain, and snow out and keep heat in.

This house comes in two separate pieces that snap together. You do not need any extra tools. It’s super easy to assemble and take apart as necessary to move around or clean.

This sturdy pet home is leak proof and does an outstanding job of standing up against the forces of nature. This is true whether it is summer or winter. In the winter, it will keep the cold, rain, and snow out while keeping the heat in, and in the summer, the house will keep your pet cool from the heat.

The house has a blue roof and light gray bottom that does not fade over time. As a bonus, you can even personalize the house with your dog’s name right above the entrance.

Pros

This is an affordable unit, and does a great job in keeping your pet safe and cozy in a covered space. Unlike other options we have seen, this home comes with a plastic doorway cover.

This product is sturdy even with rowdy dogs running in and out. Best of all, it is roomy inside, so it makes one of the best dog houses for mastiffs or other larger breeds and even multiple dogs.

Cons

Unlike other pet houses we have looked at, this one does not have insulation. You can insulate it yourself, but that’s an additional cost.

Also, the heavy-duty plastic that makes up the house can separate, which leads to leaks and can let wind and rain in. In addition, you may need to train your pup to walk through the door.

Best for small dogs – Petmate 25112 Barn Home III for Small Pets

The Petmate 25112 Barn Home III for Small Pets is a barn-shaped house for your mutt that helps to protect it from the outdoor elements, like wind, sun, and rain. There is an air ventilation system in the rear for constant air circulation. It also keeps in the heat and keeps out drafts.

It comes in three different sizes. The small one fits pups 15 to 25 pounds. The medium version of the barn home is for dogs 25 to 50 pounds, and the large version is for dogs 50 to 90 pounds.

This home features quality materials that make it super sturdy and durable, so it lasts long and stays put, even in more extreme weather conditions. Best of all, it is designed in the USA with the highest standards in mind, so you know you are getting the best for your furry friend.

Pros

The Petite Barn Home III is a super sturdy option for your pup, and we have seen it survive super strong winds and rain without budging one bit. It’s wider than you would think and quite roomy inside.

You can rest assured that it will keep your pet dry and comfortable, even in more extreme weather conditions. The ventilation system lets your pooch get freshly circulated air while he is inside it but still keeps the cold air from getting in. The back side has a slope, which keeps rain and snow from getting into the house as it just rolls off the back.

The pet barn comes in two separate pieces, so it’s super easy to assemble. You just connect the top to the bottom. This also means it is simple to clean. Disassemble the two pieces and wash out.

Cons

This house uses a smooth plastic material with a flat floor, which makes it difficult to secure any type of soft fabric in there to create a warm and cozy space for your pup. Putting in blankets or towels for your pet makes the floor super slippery since the fabric moves on the slick floor. If you are pretty set on putting in some type of warm fabric in there for your pup, you can purchase a rubber mat to put on the floor and add the fabric material on top of that, but the mat is an additional cost.

One other thing to note about the barn home is that it is not an insulated unit, so if you are specifically looking for an insulated product for your dog, this house may not work.

Best Two Story – Merry Pet MPS002 Wood Room With a View Pet House

The Merry Pet MPS002 Wood Room With a View Pet House is an adorable home for smaller dogs. It’s durable enough for both indoor and outdoor use. It’s made with kiln dried cedar and finished with natural color stains. If you want a specific color, you can always stain the wood to give it the look you want.

The kiln-dried cedar creates a very stable wood structure that withstands extreme temperatures and climates. It provides a sleeping area, balcony, step on the side, and latticework to create a cute refuge for your pup.

Don’t worry, though. It is quite simple to assemble and does not take more than 20 minutes to put together. Once assembled, you can easily remove the rooftop and panel on the bottom of the house so you can clean as frequently as you want to without going through a lot of effort to break it down and set it up again.

Small legs raise the bottom of the dog house a couple of inches. This keeps it off the floor and helps it to stay dry if it rains or snows.

Pros

This is an adorable pet house that most small dogs will love playing around in, and pet parents will enjoy having inside or outside their homes. The fact that it is kiln-dried cedar is wonderful because you know it will be sturdy and long-lasting. A nice bonus is it smells lovely.

The construction is sturdy and strong. It is an all in one solution for your pet. The space on the bottom is functional and comfortable for dogs to sleep and play around in, while the top viewing balcony provides a fun area for your dogs to relax on. It is a beautiful design with a simple set up.

Cons

The staircase feature that leads up to the balcony may not work for all dogs. Some pups don’t like being in an elevated position that way. It is also relatively narrow, so some of the larger small breeds may not feel comfortable squeezing themselves into the space to climb to the top.

If you think your pooch will not like the staircase option, you can get a ramp to use instead. Do keep in mind that this is an extra cost and requires further installation.

Also, depending on how active and playful your pet is, it may chew on the lattice. Be careful if your pet is a chewer. You don’t want it getting splinters from the exposed wood.

Most versatile – Petsfit Dog House, Dog House Outdoor

Petsfit is one of the premier manufacturers of dog houses. When they come out with a product, you just know that it’s going to be well-built. You also know that people who truly love dogs made the product. That’s a very important detail. This house from Petsfit is made for dogs by dog lovers.

The Petsfit Outdoor Dog House series comes in four different sizes:

• 33″L x 25″W x 23″H
• 33.7″L x 22.6″W x 22.9″H
• 40.8″L x 26″W x 27.6″H
• 45.6″L x 30.9″W x 32.1″H

It also comes in four different colors: light grey, red, turquoise, and rose red. Do note that not all sizes are available in all colors.

With so many different sizing options, you can find a house to fit any size of dog with ease. It’s also great that they have both small and large options available so your puppy can have a dog house regardless of their size.

This house uses heavy-duty kiln-dried cedar, which will easily withstand the harsh outdoor elements. Kiln-dried cedar is one of the best woods for a dog house because it’s all but immune to wood rot. Also, by having the exterior treated with a natural color stain, pests are less likely to want to invade.

This house also has a reinforced floor. This gives the dog house the ability to withstand heavier dogs. If you have a small dog that’s a little plump, this dog house will support its weight as well. It also means that multiple dogs can share one home.

With a slanted roof and groove design, this house has excellent drainage. It prevents damage to the roof and overall structure, which can save you money in the long term. You also don’t have to worry about the roof springing a leak and dripping on your dog.

With its raised floor, it is never going to suffer from mold or rot on the underside. Water passes underneath, leaving the reinforced floorboards untouched. This is one of the main reasons why dog houses deteriorate over time, so it’s nice to know it won’t be a problem. Also, the feet touching the ground are plastic, which is much more resistant to the constant effects of water than wood.

There’s also a door flap included. While this may seem like a nice afterthought, it is a very important piece. It provides cooling during the summer and insulation during the winter. It also protects your dog from wind gusts and precipitation.

Pros

There are many things to love about this dog house. The combination of high-quality materials, a well-made design, and an affordable cost make this a winning choice. You won’t find many other options that offer as much value like this.

The weatherproofing elements are wonderful because they only increase the life of the house. Plus, you get more for your money because you won’t have to make repairs as often.

Not only are features like the door, raised bottom, and slanted roof, great for keeping this house in good condition but they also make it comfortable for your furry friend. It is a well-insulated spot for your dog to get out of the elements.

Cons

Even though this comes in a variety of sizes, it isn’t the best option for extra large dogs. It is too small even in the largest size, and the floor supports are too weak to support the weight of a big dog.

There is also a slight construction issue. The floor has small gaps that can let in cold air and moisture.

Finally, while the house looks nice, upon arrival, you may want to paint the trim. It does not come with more than primer on it.

Dog House Buying Guide

While plenty of dogs sleep on dog beds or just on the ground, you shouldn’t underestimate the importance of pet homes. A dog, especially if it lives outside, needs a place to go where it feels safe. Buying a house can significantly improve your pet’s quality of life.

There are plenty of pet houses available on the market today. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors and have different features. There are dog houses designed for outdoor and indoor use. Usually, they are wood and plastic, but there are metal or fabric. Outdoor dog houses often come with a heating option while indoor models feature all types of different designs and are less sturdy. The sizes of outdoor and indoor dog houses vary to suit all dog breeds.

With so many choices, it can be hard to narrow down which one will be the best fit for your pup. There are a few essential factors to consider when choosing a new dog housing. Let’s look at the many considerations you need to make when shopping for a house for your dog. By keeping all these things in mind, you can end up with the best choice for your pup.

Indoor, outdoor, or portable

Before you set out on your search, you need to decide where you will install it.

Indoor models

There aren’t many requirements for indoor pet housing. Their primary purpose is to create an impression of safety for your pet. You can get one for a low cost because they are usually fabric or plastic.

Outdoor Models

When it comes to choosing an outdoor dog house, the main concern is that it provides protection for your mutt from the weather while also offering a comfortable spot to hang out. There are heated dog houses specially designed for cold winters. Some houses have ventilation options as well, which work for both cold and hot weather. Outdoor houses are plastic, metal, or wood, which can stand up to the elements.

Portable models

If you like traveling, you might want to consider a portable model. There are several options to choose from:

• Tent – A smaller version of a tent you would use for camping, compact and easy to store
• Inflatable – Inflates with air, often has insulation, not suitable for chewers
• Soft crates – A rectangular tent that looks like a regular pet crate with nylon mesh instead of metal or plastic walls, light and easy to transport, not suitable for aggressive dogs
• Plastic kennels – A plastic box with a door, suitable for airline travel
• Travel bags – A soft-sided kennel, may use for airline travel, good choice for car traveling

Material choices

When choosing a dog house, also consider the material options. The most common ones are plastic and wood. These are ideal materials for outdoor homes because they both do not rust and stand up pretty well against the elements, ensuring the dog house will last through at least a few seasons, even in rugged weather conditions. However, there is also metal, which provides a durable option. Each one has its good and bad points.

Plastic

Plastic dog houses are usually the cheapest and the most popular. They are light and easy to transport. The variety of different designs is unbelievable. Plastic houses will never rot and won’t need any touch-ups because the outside stays looking great. They are easy to clean and don’t have any pores for tics to nestle in. Such houses don’t usually require any complicated assembly because they often come in one or two pieces. However, they may not be very durable, and don’t always offer proper insulation for cold weather periods or good ventilation during the hot summer days.

Wood

Wooden dog houses are sturdier than plastic ones. They often have different add-ons and come in various designs to suit even the pickiest customer. They are also environmentally safe with a warmer and more natural feeling to them and suit most decors. Wood is an excellent insulator, so your pooch won’t overheat. One problem that comes with this material is that it attracts ticks and fleas, but with cedar, this problem is avoidable.

Metal

Metal dog houses don’t appear on the market too often. Usually, they are rectangular and made from aluminum or stainless steel. These houses typically have heavy insulation since metal doesn’t provide any naturally. They are very durable since your dog can’t chew it apart and it won’t rot like wooden houses. On the downside, these houses are expensive.

A word about maintenance

Given this dog house will most likely be used outdoors for extended periods, durability is super important, but you also have to think about maintenance. Almost all the materials require some maintenance.

Plastic is easy to clean and lasts forever but can be flimsy if you do not get a sturdy, heavy duty plastic. These thinner plastic models are cheap and will not last a long time. They may easily blow away in the wind as well.

Wood dog houses can be strong and stable, but make sure it is solid wood, not particles. Solid wood won’t break as easily. It also needs a protective layer coating to ensure it will stand up to natural elements, such as snow and rain, to prevent rot. You may need to recoat it each year.

Metal is very low maintenance. You can clean it off to keep it looking nice. One issue is you do have to watch for rust. Don’t let water stand in a metal house to reduce this risk.

Style options

You will also want to consider the general style you want. There are many design plans for dog houses. You can get them as simple or complex as you want. Think about the look you like for your yard and the functional benefits of each so you can find one that will be great for both you and your pup. We’ll just take a look at two of the most popular style options.

Traditional

A traditional style house has three walls on the sides and back. The front wall has a built-in door. It usually has a pitched roof. There are many different ways to alter this main design. You could have a porch or add windows.

Pros

• Simple to put together
• Aesthetically pleasing
• Comes in sizes for every dog
• Can come in a variety of materials

Cons

• Some are low quality
• Has to be very big to accommodate larger dogs
• Can be difficult to assemble

Igloo

Igloo houses are gaining popularity fast, and people consider having one of them in your backyard as stylish. These have a specific shape, which is how they get their name. They are molded plastic with an extended door and rounded look.

Pros

• Tightly enclosed to give extra protection against outside elements
• Stabile and strong
• Easy Installation
• Portable

Cons

• Hard to find for large dogs
• Made from only plastic
• The specific look might not fit into every backyard decor

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Size considerations

This is an important one! A lot of these dog houses have a small, medium, or large designation to keep the categorization simple, but there is no standard measurement for these sizing options, so each product will be different in the square space it offers your dog. Make sure you look at the measurements. Additionally, most products will list how many pounds your pet will have to be to fit into each size.

You should always match the size of the dog house to the size of the dog. You want your dog to be able to easily get in and out while also being able to sit and lay down comfortably.

Depending on the size of your dog and how much space you want for it, you can size up or down. Just remember, more space is not always better. Smaller spaces can be cozier and retain more of your dog’s heat in the winter, ensuring it stays warm in colder months. If you have an extra large dog, you may have to look a little harder to find a model that provides enough room but is still aesthetically pleasing for you. Beyond this, there are some special needs dogs may have depending on their size.

Small pups

Smaller dogs may not need a large space, but they are often sensitive to temperature changes. You need to make sure the house will keep them warm in colder weather and cool in hot weather. Look for an insulated option with ventilation.

Large mutts

A large dog needs a bigger house, so you should expect to pay more. Do be aware that the cheaper options usually have lower quality materials. Always read labels. It is worth it to spend more on higher quality because it is more durable.

With extra-large breeds, you will want to pay close attention to the entrance to ensure that your big pup has plenty of room to get in and out of its new home without having to duck or crawl in. If that’s the case, it probably won’t use the house very often.

Taking accurate measurements

The best way to ensure you get the right size is to take measurements. Here is a rundown of how to do that properly.

• The height of the entryway should not be less than three-quarters of the dog’s size (shoulder to ground).
• Measure the nose to the flank length of your dog (the tail doesn’t count), and add 25 percent. You’ll get the length and the width of the dog housing.
• Measure the dog’s height from the head to the toes. Add 25 to 50 percent, and you’ll get the perfect height.

A note about extra-large houses

Many pet owners prefer buying extra-large houses for their dogs. They believe that the dog will be more comfortable in a large one just as a human would. However, this is not the case.

A house that is too large will be harder to keep warm in cooler temperatures and cool in warmer temperatures. It also may feel too big to your dog, thus not providing the security your dog craves. Just like humans, dogs will not feel comfortable sleeping alone in a large and empty house.

Extra-large houses available on the market today are for extra-large dogs to feel comfortable and not for small dogs to have more space. Unless you have a supersized mutt, you don’t need a gigantic abode.

Features

As you shop, make sure to note the different features of each option. You want to find those that will suit your dog, your space, and you the best while also offering everything you need and want.

The roof

Pay close attention to the roof of the house. You want one that slants to allow the rain, snow, and debris to run off naturally. The roof also needs insulation. When it comes to design, though, simple is better. If you are choosing a fancy house, remember, that gables and dormers make the roof more prone to leaks.

The doorway

You can let your imagination go wild here as long as the size is good enough for your pet to walk through. If you have more than one dog, the entryway should accommodate the largest pet. Doors must have a windbreak to keep the drafts from getting inside. Look for houses with doors that close behind the pet after it walks in or out for the best insulation.

The floor

Make sure that the back part of the floor is slightly elevated to allow the water to drain. The floor must be very thick to provide sound insulation against the cold ground. The best ones have feet that raise them several inches off the ground.

The bedding

Many owners forget that dogs are susceptible to tics and fleas and try to create bedding out of old towels or blankets. The best way to prevent the parasites from attacking your tail wagger is to purchase cedar shavings to use as bedding. The second choice is a moisture-resistant foam pad. It always stays dry, and fleas can’t get through. Do note houses do not come with bedding, so you will have to buy this separately, but you will need it because it won’t be as comfortable without it.

The porch

Dogs love porches, so if you have space, look for a house that has a porch with some type of protective overhang. It will provide your pet with shade from the sun and also keep it safe from rain and snow.

The ventilation

If there is not proper ventilation, the house will get hot, stuffy, and dangerous for your pet in the summer. During the winter, lack of ventilation can cause moisture buildup that will provide a suitable environment for mildew. While the entryway provides some ventilation, there needs to be additional vent holes near the roof of the house since the hot air rises in the summer. Make sure the openings are not too large or the heat loss during the winter will be excessive.

The heat

Heated dog houses are a must have for dogs that stay outside in the winter or who are susceptible to the cold. Unless you get a model that has a built-in heating system, you will need to purchase a standalone heater, heated kennel mats (which are not suitable for chewers), or metal light bulb heaters. If you do need to add a heater, you must remember to leave some space for a heater.

The insulation

Depending on what area of the world you live in and whether your pet will be using this home outdoors or indoors, insulation can be a necessity or just a nice to have. Insulation keeps the house comfortable. It keeps your pet warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Insulation is usually a foam inserted between the wall panels of the house. It blocks out the heat in the summer and doesn’t allow it to escape during the winter.

Thicker the foam provides better the insulation, but it adds to cost. However, proper insulation works just like the insulation in your home and is a huge help in controlling the temperature of the dog house, so you know your pooch will be comfortable even when it is outside. Make sure the floor has insulation and sits off the ground. Also, make sure there is insulation in the walls and roof.

The door needs a door or flap that seals it off, and there should be an interior windbreak wall. While it may not seem like much, covering the area can make a big difference in insulating the space for your dog.

Again, this may or may not be a necessity for you, depending on the climate you are in and how much time your pooch will be spending outdoors, but it is something to keep in mind when making a choice.

One last consideration

While we have gone over many different considerations to make when buying a new abode for your mutt, one thing you still need to think about it your dog. You know your pup better than anyone else, so think about the type of dog you have and details such as its personality, activity level, age, size, temperament, and habits.

Some dogs hate confined spaces, so you will want to check and make sure your puppy is ok with a tight space if you want to get an igloo style house. Some dogs have a hard time comprehending that they will need to enter in and out of the small circular entrance to get into the house, and will refuse to do it. If this is the case, it’s probably best to get a dog house with a large opening that does not feel so confined.

Some of these dog houses are two stories and have stairs on the side. If your pooch is not a fan of heights or stairs, you may want to consider one with a ramp instead.

If your pup gets cold easily, then you will need to make sure to look for proper insulation and possibly a heater.

If your dog is rambunctious and loves to flop down, then you need to look for a substantial house. It needs to have sturdy construction so it won’t fall apart on your rough and tumble fur baby.

You need to make sure what you pick matches your dog. You can get the best dog house on the market, but if your dog doesn’t like it, then you have wasted your money.

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Buying checklist

Choosing the best dog house is not an easy job. Even with all the information you have, it may still be tough. So, here is a checklist to go through to get the best possible house for your pet.

• Decide where you will use it.
• Measure the size of your dog.
• Do you need a heated/insulated house?
• Does the house need a porch?
• Will the roof allow precipitation to run off?
• Does a floor mat come with the house?
• Is the house well-ventilated?
• Is it made out of safe materials?
• Will it fit into your yard comfortably?
• Are you satisfied with the design?
• Does it fit into your budget?
• Will your dog like it?

FAQ

You may still have some questions about buying a dog house. We understand. It is a big decision. So, here’s a look at some of the most popular questions people ask when shopping for an abode for dogs.

Q: What if my dog doesn’t like the new house?

A: If your pet is the picky type, it’s recommended to bring it to the store with you when choosing a house. If you order online, you can always return it if the pooch doesn’t like it.

Q: Can I use a portable model  on a regular basis?

A: Most portable dog houses are durable enough to withstand heavy use. However, the manufacturer does not create them for long-term comfort. Your pet may be happier in a permanent home.

Q: How often should I clean an outdoor dog house?

A: Try to clean it at least once a month using disinfectants. You can clean it more frequently if the weather is hot and humid.

Q: Do dog houses come with a warranty?

A: Most come with a manufacturer’s warranty, the duration of which varies from a few years to a lifetime. Make sure it has at least a minimal warranty before purchasing it.

Q: Are Dog Houses Safe?

A: Dog houses designed following the safety requirements are perfectly safe. If you are building a dog house on your own, you are responsible for reading the guidelines. This means no sharp edges that can hurt the dog, no toxic materials, and no poisonous paint.

A properly designed and built dog house can become a place where your pet will feel safe, comfortable, and protected from the weather. To guarantee your pet’s safety, buy a new (not used) dog house from a trusted manufacturer.

What is the difference between a kennel and a house?

A: People generally use the two terms interchangeably to mean the same thing. Although, kennel almost always refers to an outdoor structure while a dog house could be indoor or outdoor. When people say “kennel,” they are more likely thinking about a metal wire structure that secures into the ground, may not have a roof or cover and does not have a bottom whereas a house has four solid walls, a floor, and a roof.

Final Words

The best dog house is the one that provides the most comfort for your pet while taking care of its basic needs. It must be warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It should keep the bad weather out and provide proper ventilation.

You have the knowledge now to shop for the right abode for your pet confidently. You know what features to look for and the pros and cons of different style options. With this information, you should have no trouble finding one that works for you and your pet. So, go forth and shop with confidence. Your furry family member is sure to be very happy with your purchase.

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Last update on 2023-04-02 at 00:57 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API