How to Choose the Right Dog House
Picking the perfect dog house means more than just buying something that looks cute in your yard. Your dog's comfort, safety, and health all depend on making smart choices about size, materials, insulation, and design. Let's walk through what matters most when selecting a dog house that truly suits your furry friend.
Size Matters: Measuring for Comfort
Getting the right size is crucial. A dog house that's too small will cramp your pet, while one that's too large won't keep them warm in winter. Here's how to measure:
- Standing height: Measure from floor to the top of your dog's head. The house should be at least 25% taller (but not more than 50%).
- Shoulder height: Measure from floor to shoulders for door height. The door should be about 75% of this number—dogs naturally duck to enter.
- Body length: Measure from nose to flank (excluding tail) for length and width. The interior should be at least as long as your dog's body.
If you have multiple dogs sharing a space, make sure each can move comfortably inside without crowding.
Material Choices: Wood vs. Plastic vs. Metal
The material affects everything from insulation to durability:
- Wood: Offers excellent insulation and consistent temperatures year-round. Red cedar is naturally pest-resistant but avoid pressure-treated wood (it can be toxic).
- Plastic: Lightweight and easy to clean but poor at insulating. Good for portability but may warp or crack over time.
- Metal: Not recommended—gets too hot in summer and too cold in winter.
The Importance of Insulation
If you live where winters bite hard, double-walled construction with one or two inches of foam insulation keeps things cozy. In milder climates, insulation isn't as critical but still helps maintain comfort. Skip fiberglass—it attracts pests like mice.
Elevation: Keeping Dry and Warm
A raised floor keeps water out and improves insulation. Use bricks or stones under the base or choose a model with built-in elevation. This also helps prevent flea infestations that start in soil.
Roof Design: Ventilation and Protection
The roof isn't just decoration—it shapes airflow and shields against weather:
- Hinged/removable roofs: Make cleaning easier; some can be adjusted for better airflow or heat retention.
- Sloped roofs: Prevent water buildup; peaked roofs may waste space but look traditional.
- Off-center doors: Offer better wind/rain shelter than centered doors; vestibules or wind walls help retain warmth.
Bedding Options for Every Season
Bedding makes a big difference in comfort and warmth. Try hay (reed canary grass), cedar chips (which repel pests), or dense foam pads. If you use fabric bedding, wash it regularly in hot water to keep things fresh and clean.
Tackling Extreme Weather
- Cold climates: Opt for snug houses with good insulation and minimal extra space inside; partitioned entrances or vestibules block wind.
- Hot climates: Look for increased ventilation—louvered windows, vents, or even rooftop decks offer shade and airflow.
User-Friendly Features
- Easily cleaned interiors—hinged roofs or removable panels help here.
- Adequate ventilation—top vents fight moisture buildup and odors.
- Tough materials—weather-resistant finishes protect wood; floors should withstand chewing and rough use.
- Awnings or door covers add shade/rain protection.
Kennel Runs: How Big Should They Be?
A kennel run doesn't need to be huge—just enough room for sleeping and moving around is fine. Typical sizes range from five by ten feet up to six by twelve feet; adjust based on your available space and number of dogs.
Caring for Your Dog House
- Clean regularly; keep bedding dry.
- Check for drafts or cracks—seal exposed wood as needed.
- Bedding like hay, straw, or cedar chips keeps warmth in while deterring pests.
Building vs Buying: What’s Right For You?
If you're handy, building lets you tailor features like insulation or awnings exactly how you want them. Ready-made plastic houses are affordable and portable but may lack durability or proper insulation compared to custom wood builds designed for specific climates.
The Bottom Line: Comfort & Safety First
Your dog's house should provide real shelter from rain, snow, wind, and sun—not just a place to hide out. Focus on fit, materials suited to your climate, good ventilation, easy maintenance, and features that match your dog's needs so they stay safe—and happy—all year long!
