How to Choose a Dog House for Cold Weather

Does your dog spend most of his days (and some nights) outside? Once the weather turns cold, you’ll want to invest in a winter dog house to keep your pooch warm during cold weather. Our Greensboro vets share how to choose the best dog house for cold weather. Plus: Three great options.

What makes a good cold-weather dog house?

While a regular outdoor kennel will suffice during warmer weather, you don’t want to rely on it to protect your dog during the winter months, when rain, driving snow and moisture can get inside your dog’s space and cause too much exposure to the cold. Here are a few factors to consider:

The dog’s size

Though small dogs take up less room, their bodies need a lot more warmth, as they don’t have the body fat or thick coat to keep them warm. Depending on the breed, larger dogs may not have heavy coats, either and owners should keep this in mind. A fur-lined coat or warm blanket could make the difference.

The general rule is that a dog house should typically be at least 25 percent longer and wider than the dog. Do they have enough space to easily turn around?

Construction

Dog houses that protect against winter weather are insulated and are shut tight, with thick walls to keep the elements out. The floor should also be insulated to protect against cold temperatures beyond the walls, and bedding should promote the retention of heat.

Also make sure that it’s elevated above ground and resistant to moisture, which can be harsh on building materials.

Maintenance

How durable is the house? Just like your own house, you may need to take a look at it on a regular basis to ensure moisture hasn’t gotten to any areas it shouldn’t, and that it is in good repair on both the outside and inside.

Materials

Look for thick walls constructed from high-quality flooring and materials that are designed to keep the cold out - and your pup warm inside. Like any other product, some are better designed, with higher quality materials than others to offer more protection against the harshest winter conditions. You may also want to provide a heating pad for maximum comfort.

High-Quality, Closable Door

The best dog houses have doors that shelter your dog from any drafts of cold air that will enter. Whether you make a thick curtain or flap, or the door is included with the house, make sure it will protect your dog against the coldest winds, otherwise he will be vulnerable to the cold air entering his abode.

Great Dog Houses

Here are three dog houses you may want to consider:

DP Hunter Dog House with Floor Heater (For Small Dogs)

Best for dogs in the petite-to-medium size range, this house is water-resistant with a removable, sloped floor that has a drain hole built in.

It is constructed four inches off the ground and features foam insulation in its ceiling and walls. Plus, your pooch gets an internal heating map to keep him warm (but this mat should be covered if you suspect your dog will chew it, as it’s not built into the floor).

Pets Imperial Large Insulated Wooden Dog Kennel (For Large Dogs)

The wood-cabin appearance of this large dog house belies the strength of its construction; its inside walls are built with Styrofoam, plywood insulation and timber to protect your pup against the harshest cold and wind. Its removable floor is easily cleanable and the roof can be opened for easy access.

The house is raised two inches off the ground and the plastic caps on the bottom prevent rotting.

ASL Solutions Dog Palace

This house’s raised, slightly sloped floor will keep your pet and his bedding dry, and is easily accessible and cleanable. The adjustable windows are a bonus, as it makes the house versatile enough to use year-round.

No matter which dog house you choose, you’ll still want to monitor your pup closely during the year’s coldest days, and clean their house regularly.