Thinking about a doghouse?

Thinking about buying a doghouse? Good for you! This simple canine shelter can be a welcomed addition to any canine companion's household. Much like a crate, a doghouse offers your pet a quiet refuge with the added versatility of indoor or outdoor placement.

Location is everything

Whether you plan to situate your pet's doghouse inside or outside your home, some thought must be given to the structure's location. A vivacious puppy, for instance, may prefer his doghouse to sit in the midst of the household action. Placing a doghouse in the kitchen can even be a practical way of teaching your dog not to beg during meals without having to remand him to another room. Simply place a yummy treat (or your dog's own dinner) inside before sitting down to a meal yourself. An older or more subdued dog, on the other hand, might fare better in a darker corner of your den or living room where he can nap without being disturbed.

If your dog will use his doghouse outdoors, you will still need to consider its placement. Ideally, this should be out of direct sunlight for most of the day during warmer months and where the structure is shielded from the wind during colder time periods. Even if these considerations are addressed, however, it is vital that your dog is never left outdoors in the elements for prolonged periods of time. Additionally, you should always provide your dog with fresh drinking water, but avoid stainless steel bowls in the winter. Instead, consider investing in a temperature-controlled fountain that will keep his water cool in the summer and from freezing when the mercury starts dropping in the winter.

Wood provides the best cold comfort

While plastic and metal doghouses require virtually no upkeep besides washing, they both absorb heat and cold amazingly quickly, causing temperatures inside structures made from these materials to fluctuate dramatically. Houses made from wood usually provide the most effective insulation and therefore the best protection against extreme temperatures. If you live in a milder climate, though, temperature may be less of a concern, making a lightweight plastic doghouse a mighty attractive choice. Likewise, if your dog is a chewer, metal may be your best option.

How the house is made can be just as important as what it is made from. A doghouse with an elevated floor, for example, will help protect your pet from a number of dangers – including intrusive water from rain, parasites, and even hot and cold temperatures. Look for models with removable panels for easy cleaning. This may seem a bit compulsive, but once you've attempted to crawl into a doghouse with a broom and dustpan in hand, you will instantly understand the practicality of this helpful feature.

Size matters, too

While a large doghouse may seem like a great way to indulge your pet, there are some significant liabilities to buying an overly spacious structure. First, remember that dogs typically feel most secure in smaller dwellings. Second, a large space will leave your pet more vulnerable to the cold. Select a house that allows your dog to stand up, turn around, and stretch out comfortably when lying down – but no more.

And don't forget to add some soft bedding. The filling may be any material your dog finds comfortable (orthopedic foam is an excellent choice for older or arthritic dogs, as are heated inserts), but be sure to select a moisture-proof cover to help prevent mildew from forming if the house will be placed outdoors where the air can become damp. Machine-washable materials are often the most practical choices no matter where the doghouse will be placed. A crate liner that matches the measurements of the doghouse is an excellent option for an indoor structure. Crate liners are available in a variety of sizes, colors, and materials. Remember, you want your dog to enjoy spending time in his doghouse, so make the environment as pleasing as possible.