The Best Large Outdoor Dog Houses
A high-quality outdoor dog house is essential if your large dog spends a lot of time outside. It will ensure your dog stays dry in the rain, cool when it gets too hot, and warm when it gets chilly. You can also put a cozy bed inside to keep them comfortable. Some even have spaces for heaters or air conditioning in case the weather gets extreme.
What to Look For
To keep your large dog as comfortable as possible while they spend time outside, we recommend choosing a durable, spacious dog house that can withstand different weather conditions. For example, the extra-large, solid wood Precision Pet Extreme Outback Log Cabin features a sealed protective coating to protect your pet from rain, snow, or heavy winds. On the other hand, if you live in an area that gets hot and muggy, the airy Zooba elevated dog house keeps your furry friend cooler and more comfortable. No matter where you live or what type of outdoor space you have, we have you covered with the list below.
Precision Pet Outback Log Cabin Dog House
Heavy-duty protection
The Precision Pet Outback Log Cabin dog house is an excellent choice for any weather or surface. It boasts a roomy interior where your pup can hang out to escape the beating sun or heavy rains. The raised floor, slanted asphalt roof, and weatherproof coating offer additional protection to keep puddles and mess from getting inside. As a bonus, its beautiful natural finish looks lovely in any backyard or deck.
Pros:
- Assembly is quick and easy
- Durable construction ensures it holds up for years
- You can safely add heating when it gets cold
- Plenty of space for dogs of almost any size, including Pit Bulls, Terriers, and Golden Retrievers
Cons:
- Power chewers can tear the wood up
Petsfit Weatherproof Wooden Dog House
This weatherproof wooden dog house from Petsfit is made of sturdy Finnish spruce, steel hardware, and asphalt shingles for maximum weatherproofing. It also features thick door flaps that add a layer of insulation and protection from splashing rain and freezing temperatures. We also appreciate the adjustable feet, which help you level the floor no matter where you place it. Also, the additional support in the center keeps extra-large dogs safe and sound.
Pros:
- Top opens on hinges to make it easier to clean and change bedding
- You can usually assemble it in under an hour
- Sturdy spruce boards ensure it holds up for a long time
- Addition of the flaps makes a big difference in temperature and moisture protection
Cons:
- An extra layer of waterproofing can make a huge difference in durability
Petmate Igloo Dog House
Designed with care
If you live somewhere chilly, your dog may need a little more protection than usual. That’s where the Petmate Igloo dog house comes in. The heavy-duty walls and weatherproof roof also provide ventilation for added comfort. In addition, the offset doorway helps keep your dog safe from the wind, snow, and other weather conditions, allowing them to spend time outside safely.
Pros:
- Insulated enough for any weather
- Heavy-duty material is easy to spray with a hose or wipe with a cloth
- Ventilation helps add airflow but doesn’t let water inside
- No assembly required
Cons:
- A little tough to clean the inside
Suncast Outdoor Dog House
You can save money while providing your dog with a safe space to hang out by choosing the Suncast outdoor dog house. The durable resin protects against all elements, including snow, rain, and extreme heat. Meanwhile, the unique floor design prevents water from getting to your dog, and the removable clear flaps keep the wind at bay. Best of all, every part of this house is easy to clean. All you have to do is spray it down with a hose, and it looks like new.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and hard for dogs to chew through
- Super roomy and fits extra-large dogs
- Roof provides easy access to the inside
- All you have to do for assembly is snap pieces together
Cons:
- Not raised, so heavy rains can cause some moisture to get inside
Zooba Elevated Dog House
Maximum ventilation
It can be challenging to keep your dog safely shaded while allowing for plenty of ventilation. But the Zooba elevated dog house is the exception. The heavy-duty water-resistant fabric helps keep the rain from getting in, while mesh panels at the top help air flow freely through. If it starts raining, there are two flaps that you can put over the panels for protection. It’s all built on a durable steel frame and raised off the ground to keep it out of puddles and mud.
Pros:
- Big enough for giant breeds, like Great Danes and Mastiffs
- Shades your dog without overheating
- Keeps your dog dry and safe from rain
- Easy to put together
Cons:
- If the fabric rips, there’s no way to fix it
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my dog need a dog house?
Leaving your dog outside in the elements without a dog house can leave them susceptible to overheating, freezing, and more. A dog house provides protection from the weather while helping them feel safer.
Where is the best place in my yard to put the dog house?
We recommend putting your dog’s new dog house in an area that’s as flat as possible. It should also be away from areas that tend to fill with puddles when it rains.
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