Types of Dog Houses To Choose From
Here are some of the popular types of dog houses on the market to choose from:
In America alone, there are an estimated tens of millions of dogs. Many houses and apartments don’t allow pets and those that do may not have a backyard for their dog to run around in and play fetch. There is an alternative to building a fence – the dog house. More than just a place for the dog to lay its head, it can be used to keep dogs out of trouble and warm during winter.
There are several types of dog houses out there:
Indoor Dog Houses
These stylish dog houses offer luxury and style but don’t be fooled. They are only meant for small dogs and it’s best to keep them indoors. If you bring your dog out, then there is a chance that they can damage the house and chew on the materials used to make it which isn’t good if you want to keep things clean and safe at home.
Outdoor Dog Houses
These can be very basic or quite versatile. They are meant for bigger dogs to live in the backyard and like the name suggests, they need to be placed outdoors. Some may not have insulation which means you’re going to need to purchase one separately.
Kennel Dog Houses
This type of dog house is ideal for large dogs that need plenty of room to stretch out. They are similar to indoor dog houses which means you should keep them indoors. The only difference is that they can be placed outdoors as long as you’re okay with the price tag and extra maintenance for this type of house.
Foldable Dog Houses
If you need a cheap alternative, then consider picking up a foldable dog house. It is usually made of plastic and can be used for camping trips or vacations with your pooch. They are not suitable if you want a permanent solution as they tend to break easily and you would have wasted money on it.
Wooden Dog Houses
Wooden dog houses are also great for indoor use if you want your pup to feel like he is protecting your house from intruders! Although they may still want to be by your side in the bedroom, they will definitely feel safer in their own space!
Soft Dog Houses
Soft-sided dog houses are great for indoor use, especially for pups who like to sleep with their owners or if you want your pup to feel safe and cozy. They cannot be used outdoors because they are not sturdy enough to withstand the weather conditions.
For those pup owners who want something stronger, then there is the Plastic Dog House which is lightweight and waterproof. They are not as comfortable to lay in as the soft dog houses, but they certainly do the job and usually come with a floor attached!
Insulated Dog Houses:
For outdoor use, it is essential to get a heated or Insulated Dog House. Although it is not always necessary (depending on your area), they are made of heavy-duty plastic and insulation material. They can also come with a special “cooling system” which runs cold water through the walls to keep the pup cool in hot weather!
So, whether you get an indoor or outdoor dog house will depend on the climate in your area, the living conditions of your pup and which type you think your pup would feel most secure in!
Tips for selecting the right type of dog house for your dog:
Size matter
In general, bigger dogs will require a larger dog house that can fit them inside. Don’t purchase one that is too large though since they tend to get cold very easily. Make sure the dimensions are appropriate for your pooch so it has enough room to turn around in or stand up – whichever you prefer. You can also purchase a dog bed and a blanket for them to snuggle up in.
Construction material
Wood is the most common type of material used to make dog houses with plastic being an alternative. Wood is cheap, easy to install, long lasting but it will need some maintenance over time. You have to ensure that your pooch doesn’t chew on it to avoid ingesting splinters. If your pooch likes to dig, it is best to look for a dog house made of plastic.
Weather protection
Dog houses are usually equipped with insulation or roofing that protects them from the elements. However, if you live in an area that experience below zero temperatures throughout winter, it is prudent to purchase a dog house with insulation and heating. There are also houses made of plastic that can be heated via pads, though it is advisable not to put anything on the floor of your pooch’s new cozy abode since they may not like it and can chew on it.
Price
Depending on the type of material used to make the dog house, they can be costly. If you are on a budget and just want one for your pooch to keep it safe and warm, then consider purchasing a plastic dog house that is cheaper than the rest.
How To Keep Your Dog Warm In The Winter
A dog house isn’t meant for keeping your pooch warm through winter. You need to purchase a doghouse pad that is heated for this purpose. Not only will it keep your dog warm but you can also use it indoors if you are planning on leaving them at home alone while you are at work or outside doing other errands.
You can also purchase a heater pad that attaches onto the dog house floor which will keep them warm during winter.
Place a blanket over top of the doghouse to keep your pet warm and cozy.
With all that said, you should be prepared for next winter and purchase a dog house and heater pad set. This will keep them safe from extreme cold weather as well as being comfortable inside their new home.
If it’s too cold, remember your dog can always come inside to warm up. Don’t just leave them outside in the cold where they could freeze or become sick with an illness that is often contracted by dogs left outside during winter.
To purchase any of the above, head to your local pet store or search online for deals if you are on a budget. You can find dog houses made from plastic and other materials that will fit the needs of your pooch whether they need extra room or just protection from harsh weather conditions.
We hope you find the above tips helpful. Do share with other dog lovers and bookmark our site http://www.bigskytv.org