The Best Doghouses for Your Best Friend

Doghouses have traditionally been built with wood, which when properly maintained is a great material. Wooden doghouses can be striking in appearance and offer more design choices. Wood can be stained or painted which provides limitless color options. Cedar wood doghouses are naturally rot and insect-resistant. Wood does require a layer of paint or sealant to protect it from the elements, especially in an area with harsh winters or intense summers.

But modern plastic and composite doghouses have become a popular choice for dog owners thanks to their low-maintenance and good looks. Plastic doghouses are a nice alternative to wood as they are often less expensive and the most resistant to wet weather. They need to be cleaned often to prevent mold and mildew buildup though and can fade in the sun. One of the major cons to a plastic doghouse is they aren’t very durable. Keep in mind, if it cracks the entire doghouse will need to be replaced.

Composite doghouses strike a nice balance between wood and plastic. Composite materials can consist of a mix of non-toxic recycled plastic-wood polymer that has been formulated to not warp, crack or split, regardless of the weather. Composite doghouses are great for retaining heat and are often vented for airflow in the summer.

The top priority of a doghouse is to keep your dog dry and warm. When constructed properly it should remain dry inside during a rainstorm but keeping it warm is a bit trickier. The best way to winterize your doghouse is to start with an insulated doghouse that will help retain heat. Here are some other ways to help keep your pup cozy.

• Get a doghouse with a raised floor. This will create an air barrier between the ground and the doghouse, keeping the frozen ground from radiating coldness into the doghouse.
  
• Move your doghouse to an area with a southern exposure so it can remain in the sun as long as possible.
  
• Invest in a dog bed with faux sheepskin and a plush poly-fill or wood chip interior for warmth.
  
• Install a vinyl flap across the front of the door opening of the doghouse to keep the cold air out and the warm air in.

Big dogs need big shelters and they’ll be most comfortable when they don’t feel cramped in a doghouse that’s too small. You can shop for doghouses based on the weight of your dog including large doghouses for those weighing 71-90 pounds and extra-large for dogs that are 91 pounds and up. A large doghouse can also be the best solution for two smaller dogs who like to sleep together.

Why should cats get all the cozy little indoor spaces to snuggle into? An indoor doghouse might be just what your pup needs to call home. 

Some dogs prefer more privacy and need a way to escape a chaotic household full of other pets and kids. Thunderstorms and firecrackers can also lead to an anxious pet who would prefer to hide inside. An indoor doghouse can provide that respite without taking up too much room or be a complete eyesore. 

There are even some indoor pet houses that double as furniture like a pet bed nightstand, end table dog crate and pet bed ottoman.