Just like us humans, our furry friends need a sanctuary — a place to call their own, to decompress after a long, stimulating walk, or to survey their kingdom (your living room) with pride. And that’s why getting them the best dog house will only make you their favorite person ever (again!).
Whether it’s a charming dog house inside your home or a sturdy shelter for the outdoors, creating a cozy haven for your canine companion is the end goal. Different types of breeds would also need different sizes of houses. But how do you go about picking the best one for your pooch?
In this article, we’ll walk you through the features to consider, from size and material to insulation and ventilation, and of course, present you our top picks before you can make your final choice.
Do Dogs Like Dog Houses?
If you’ve ever seen your pup curl up contentedly in a laundry basket or burrow under a pile of blankets, then you know dogs crave cozy hideaways. And a well-chosen dog house can be just that — a personal sanctuary offering security, comfort, and a place to relax. Here are some of the reasons why your pooch may prefer a dog house:
Safe Haven
Dog houses provide a sense of security, a place to retreat from loud noises or overwhelming situations. Imagine a thunderstorm rolling through — your pup can cuddle up inside his cozy house, feeling safe and secure.
Den Instinct
Dogs descended from wolves, who denned in burrows and caves. A dog house taps into this natural instinct, offering a familiar and comforting space.
Temperature Control
A well-insulated dog house can offer a cool escape on a hot summer day or a warm haven during chilly nights. Your furry friend can bask in the shade of their house on a sunny afternoon or enjoy a cozy retreat on a crisp winter evening.
Personal Space
Even the most social pups need downtime. A dog house provides a space for them to relax and unwind without interruption.
Are Dog Houses Safe?
A well-constructed and appropriately placed dog house can be a safe and enriching part of your pet’s life. However, safety depends on a few factors, such as:
- Weatherproofing: The dog house should be built to withstand the elements.
- Structural Integrity: A sturdy house made from durable materials is essential.
- Location: The dog house should be placed in a safe, shady, and dry area.
- Regular Maintenance: Regular inspections and cleaning help maintain a safe environment inside the dog house.
What to Look for in the Best Dog House
When searching for the right dog house for your furry friend, several key factors should guide your decision-making process. Here’s what to consider:
Size
This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial to ensure that you choose a proper size. Your dog should be able to comfortably stand, turn around, and curl up inside. Measure your pooch from nose to tail (standing) and from the floor to the top of their shoulders. Adding a few inches to these measurements will ensure a spacious and non-cramped home.
Material
Consider your climate and intended use. For indoor dog houses, opt for easy-to-clean materials like washable fabric, plastic, or wood, which are also durable. Outdoor dog houses need to be weatherproof. Wood (treated for weather resistance) and insulated plastic are the popular choices. Avoid metal, as it can get very hot or cold unless it’s well-insulated. Also, check the hardware on the homes; outdoor homes should have stainless steel or its equivalent hardware that can weather the outdoors.
Insulation
Outdoor dog houses need proper insulation to keep your pup warm in winter. Look for double walls or insulated panels. An elevated floor in an insulated dog house helps protect your dog from the cold ground. Additionally, a door flap on the entrance provides extra protection from wind and rain.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential to prevent overheating, especially in warmer months. Many dog houses have built-in vents, but you can also add mesh panels for extra airflow.
Safety Features and Accessibility
Ensure that the dog house has no sharp edges, protruding nails, or toxic material accents that could harm your pet. Additionally, choose a dog house with a door or entrance that’s appropriately sized for your dog. It should allow easy access while offering protection from the rain, wind, and cold.
Easy Maintenance
Consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance. Removable roofs or floors and smooth surfaces make it simpler to keep the dog house clean and hygienic.
The Best Dog Houses to Buy in 2024
Even with all this information, choosing the right dog house for your pup can be confusing — too many options are available. This is why we’ve simplified the process for you. Our list of the best dog houses available will help you pick the best option for your furry friend.
BEST OVERALL
YITAHOME Large Plastic Dog House
PHOTO CREDIT: YITAHOME
Why We Love
Spacious design
All-weather protection
Thermal balancing properties
Made from thick, durable plastic
Features air vents
Easy to clean
But…
May need to add a heat mat for extra cold days
The first dog house on our list is a real winner that can be used both indoors and outdoors due to its adorable look and functionality. The YITAHOME dog house has a roomy interior with a large doorway that gives your pup enough space to relax and stretch out, while the weatherproof design helps keep them comfortable and dry in all seasons. The raised base and a cute shingle-patterned roof help in keeping out rain, snow, dirt, and other outdoor elements. There are also two ground nails to secure it in place for added stability in windy conditions.
Made from thick PP material, the house guarantees durability, and its built-in air vent promotes fresh air circulation. Additionally, its thermal balancing properties are perfect for offering comfort in any weather, hot or cold. Easy to install with included accessories and simple maintenance thanks to its smooth surface and detachable roof, this dog house may just be your beloved pet’s forever home.
BEST VERSATILE
LEMBERI Durable Waterproof Plastic Dog House
PHOTO CREDIT: LEMBERI
Why We Love
All-weather protection
Temperature regulation
Quick assembly
Easy to clean
It has ventilating features
Durable construction
But…
The plastic construction may not be as aesthetically pleasing as wood
Whether placed in the garden or the living room, the LEMBERI dog house is built to keep your four-legged friend comfortable through every season. With its angled roof, the plastic house effectively repels rainwater while the elevated base ensures that moisture doesn’t seep in. Both features ensure your pooch remains dry and comfortable in their home. You can also keep it securely anchored in your yard by using the ground nails if it gets windy.
An integrated ventilation system circulates fresh air inside the house, and its thermal properties help regulate temperature, keeping your pup warm in winter and cool in summer. You can pick from four roof colors that match well with your home’s interior if you decide to use it inside. What’s more? This house is easy to assemble, and cleaning up is just as straightforward. Just remove the detachable roof to access and clean all the dirty corners of your furry pal’s casa.
BEST FOR SUMMERS
PawHut Wicker Dog House With Canopy
PHOTO CREDIT: PawHut
Why We Love
Made from durable PE rattan
Indoor/outdoor use
Stylish design
Suitable for small to medium dogs
Easy to clean
The cushion cover is washable
But…
Available in only one size
It doesn’t matter if your furry friend loves basking in the backyard sun or curling up inside; the PawHut Wicker dog house offers an ideal spot for both. Made from durable PE rattan, a weather-resistant material, the house ensures your pup has a reliable shelter, come rain or shine. It also has a cozy and comfortable removable cushion with a water-resistant cover for easy cleaning.
This raised dog house keeps your pet warm and safe from drafts, wetness below, and pesky bugs that roam on the ground. Your pup will enjoy relaxing under the canopy that protects them from harsh solar rays outside and turns any space indoors into a warm nook ideal for resting. Choose from various color options for wicker and cushions and give your pup a stylish home within your home.
BEST FOR INDOOR
BXEBUI Indoor Foldable Dog House
PHOTO CREDIT: BXEBUI
Why We Love
Soft plush and velvet interior
Non-slip rubber bottom
Machine washable
The detachable roof doubles as a floor mat
Available in a variety of sizes
Easy to assemble and take apart
But…
Limited insulation
Have you ever come across a house that has stolen your heart? Because this adorable dog house from BXEBUI is likely to do that. A great alternative to the crate, this indoor house has some lovely features. The high-quality, 30D memory sponge filling retains its shape even after extended use, and its super soft plush and Arctic velvet interior ensures your pup luxuriates in cozy comfort. It even has a leather tag on the front of the house to write your pup’s name on it!
Available in multiple sizes to suit pets of various weights — whether you have a tiny teacup pup or a medium-sized friend — the house’s enclosed design creates a safe and secure space for your beloved pet to sleep in restfully. We love that the removable roof can double as a comfy floor mat and that the entire house is machine washable. Plus, the non-slip bottom ensures it stays put even when your dog is sprinting away in dreamland.
BEST FOR OUTDOOR
PRECISION PET Log Cabin Dog House
PHOTO CREDIT: PRECISION PET
Why We Love
Classic cabin design
Weatherproof construction
Durable hardware
Adjustable feet make it stable on uneven surfaces
Three-step assembly
Available in three sizes
But…
May require additional insulation for colder months
If you’re looking for a sturdy outdoor dog house for your large dog, look no further than the PRECISION PET Extreme Outback Log Cabin. Featuring a weather-resistant design, it is the perfect backyard shelter for your beloved pooch. A sealed protective coating, raised floor, and slanted asphalt roof work together to keep your pup dry and comfortable, no matter the season. That’s not all; the large dog house’s off-center entrance protects from wind and rain, ensuring your furry BFF can always find a cozy and dry spot.
This solid wood cabin is not just about comfort; it’s about durability, too. The stainless-steel hardware is built to last, and the adjustable feet provide stability on any surface. It is easy to assemble and comes in three sizes and three kinds of wood finishing, letting you choose the size and style that best suits your pooch and backyard.
BEST METEL KENNEL
PawGiant Outdoor Dog Kennel
PHOTO CREDIT: PawGiant
Why We Love
Made from durable materials
Secure locking system
Weatherproof and UV-resistant cover
Available in two sizes
Comes with 18 reinforced ground spikes
Additional panels can be added
But…
Complex to assemble
While not technically a house, the PawGiant Outdoor Dog Kennel provides a secure and spacious outdoor shelter for your furry friend. Ideal for enduring playful pups and outdoor elements, this dog kennel is made from tough, long-lasting materials that don’t rust, corrode, or fade. Rest easy knowing a sturdy double-locking system and one-way entry keep your beloved pet secure as they enjoy the outdoors.
Built with a waterproof and UV-resistant canopy that blocks harmful solar rays yet doesn’t let rainwater leak, providing peace of mind knowing your fur baby always feels safe within his kennel. It comes in two different sizes so both small and large dogs can move around comfortably.
BEST FOR SMALL DOGS
Jomifin Pet Teepee House with Bed
PHOTO CREDIT: Jomifin
Why We Love
Charming design
Portable
Easy to assemble
Durable
Easy to clean
It can be used indoors and outdoors
But…
Not suitable for large dogs
Well, who doesn’t love a teepee, whether for humans or our furry friends? The charming Jomifin Cozy Teepee doesn’t just allow your pooch to relax but is also a delightful addition to your home décor. Ideal for pets up to 25 pounds, this small dog house is easily portable and can be used for travel, camping, parks, or simply lounging around at home.
Made from durable cotton canvas that can ensure your pup’s playful and goofy antics, the teepee also comes with a comfy cushion cum bed, which is machine washable. Choose from cute patterns or solid cotton canvas and watch your canine pal camp comfortably. What’s more? It comes with a free blackboard to hang on top of, where you can write your pup’s name. Too, too, cute!
How We Chose the Best Dog Houses
At DogTime, our experts curated this list of the best dog raincoats by assessing factors such as overall construction, insulation, weatherproof properties, size, and durability. They further consulted with industry professionals to gain more insight into the top-selling products, using their guidance and experience to bring our readers the very best. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
What is the best indoor dog house?
Choosing the best indoor dog house depends on your pup’s size and needs. Consider plush options for small dogs who love to burrow or spacious, durable ones for larger dogs who can move around comfortably in them. From our list, the Jomifin Pet Teepee House with Bed and BXEBUI Indoor Foldable Dog House are good choices.
Do dogs prefer dog houses?
Dogs vary in preference, but many enjoy the security and comfort dog houses provide. A well-designed and appropriately sized dog house can offer a cozy retreat for dogs, especially when equipped with soft bedding and placed in a familiar environment.
What is the best material for a dog house?
The best material depends on the climate and durability needs. Wood offers insulation but needs maintenance. Plastic is weatherproof but can get hot. Metal is durable but cold in winter. Choose based on your location and your pup’s needs!
How do I choose a dog house?
Measure your dog to ensure they can stand up and turn around comfortably. Consider climate: wood for insulation, plastic for rain, etc. Easy cleaning is always a plus!
Are dog houses safe?
Dog houses can be safe if chosen correctly! Ensure proper ventilation, avoid overheating materials in the sun, and choose a size that allows movement. Supervise use initially and address any potential hazards.
