Most owners of dogs end up having ones that can be outside. In most states and cities though, having a dog outside either means the dog must be tagged, and even have shelter if you are not home.
Therefore, many dog owners end up getting systems in place for their dogs to run around, and more importantly, to have a place to call home outside. The term dog house is more than when a man gets in trouble with his wife – it’s a place that your dog can find comfort in and feel safe and secure.
But how do you choose the right one for your dog? In this guide, we’ll explore options that you may want to consider, as well as other things you need to consider before you get a dog house outside.
Table of Contents
The Size is Greatly Important #
Getting an outdoor dog house (or building one) that’s the right size is one of the most important things that you can consider when it comes to providing shelter for your dog. You don’t want it too big, but you don’t want it too small either.
If it’s too big, your dog may end up getting cold and it can cause your dog to defecate in its dog house when it’s afraid to go out of it (or during bad weather). However, if it’s too small, then obviously, you’re not going to get the right size shelter for it.
A good rule of thumb is to make the dog house big enough for your dog to turn around in it – much similar to the rule of having a dog crate – and have plenty of room to stand up in it or lay down.
Your Dog’s Habits Are Important : #
Consider your dog’s habits when it comes to snuggling up or sleeping. You want your dog house to cater to your dog’s personality. If your pet likes to look around at its surroundings frequently, you may want to consider buying or building one with a flat roof so it can hop on top and lounge about while being able to look around.
Whatever you do, don’t put regular shingles on the roof, as they can hold in heat during the summer months. Consider plywood as a roof, coated with a good water seal and stain.
Weatherizing is Also Crucial #
If you’re wanting your pooch to be outside and be able to endure the elements, then you need to consider weatherizing your dog’s house. For example, you want it to be able to repel water and not leak when it’s raining, but you also want it to be warm for it during the winter months, but not hold in heat during the summer.
Consider the materials and also things like double-layering the walls so you can insulate them. Do you want it to stay warm? They also make small heating elements that are designed to keep the inside of the house warm during the winter for your pet.
Location in Your Yard is Important Too #
Knowing where to put your dog house is extremely important. You want your dog house to give your dog its territory away from danger, but also to protect other people.
You don’t want to seclude your dog too much though, and you’ll want the house to be easily accessible during any moment so your dog can always have a haven to go into when it wants.
You’ll want it often in the shadiest area in your yard, as this can help to keep the life of your dog house up to par for the long run too. Also, try not to have it out in the open where it can get wind damaged or debris damaged (from large limbs, etc.)
Make Sure You Have the Right Materials #
We mentioned briefly the materials above, but it’s important to have the right materials when it comes to getting your dog an outdoor shelter.
Many people opt for the igloo-shaped dog houses when they buy them, as they’re often pretty cheap and don’t require maintenance or building. If you build one, you want it made with sturdy materials, and you don’t want to use anything that could end up being toxic for your pet.
Be sure that you use heavy-duty plastic if you’re using plastic, and opt for things like plexiglass instead of glass if you’re going to give your dog a skylight or window.
Should You Build or Buy?#
As mentioned earlier, there are premanufactured dog houses. It’s important to consider whether you’re wanting to build or buy your dog house. While there are affordable options to manufactured dog homes, it’s almost always cheaper to build it yourself – as it is with almost anything.
Consider your options as well as all of the above items in this guide when it comes to buying, or whether it’s better to buy or build your dog’s home for yourself.
Believe it or not, there are things you can do to accessorize your dog house. For example, if you’re wanting to use items that can repel fleas and ticks, consider using things like cedar shavings over hay. You can also add things like waterproof cushions, heating elements, and even high-quality and durable water or food distribution bowls that are practically weatherproof as well.
You can even add things in the house that can allow them to have fun too, or feel comfortable. And don’t forget to add their favorite stuffed animal or dog toy!
Conclusion #
If you’re wanting the best dog house possible, you may consider buying it, but there are many factors to consider. This is another reason why many people end up building their own – simply because they know what they’re getting in terms of material, size, and the location of their dog house.
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