The right dog house will protect your dog from bad weather and make him feel safe and secure so here's everything you need to know about how to choose a dog house.
Size
It's important to choose the right size dog house for your pet's comfort. The house should be big enough so that your dog can turn around inside the house and lie down flat. Be sure not to get a dog house that's too big, though. When it's cold outside, your dog's body heat can warm the surrounding air in a smaller dog house. If the house is too big, though, there would be colder air surrounding him than his body can warm.
Style
The style, shape and look of the house is really a matter of your personal preference. Choose something that looks nice in your yard so that you won't be tempted to hide it in the garage. Manufacturers produce everything from inexpensive basic plastic igloos to extravagant dog houses that are custom-made to match your house. Regardless what you choose, make sure the dog house has a vent near the top to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce humidity inside the house.
Bedding
Be sure to provide your dog with soft, thick washable bedding. Not only will it raise your dog off the cold floor, helping to keep him warmer than if he was on the floor, but it will also help prevent the
joint pain that can result from resting on a hard surface. Remove and wash the bedding regularly.
Location
During spring and summer, choose a place to put your dog house that will be in the shade for the majority of the day. Dog houses placed in direct sunlight can reach dangerous temperatures inside, so it is very important to keep your pet in a cool place. It’s also important to make sure you position your dog house so that the prevailing winds will not be blowing directly into the door of the dog house.
Conditioning Tips
Encourage your dog to explore his new dog house by placing treats or a special toy inside. Make your dog feel more comfortable by placing something of yours, like an old shirt, on your dog's bedding so that he'll be comforted by your scent. If your dog seems hesitant to enter his new house, try spending some time there yourself. Have a seat in front of the dog house and play with your dog, encouraging him to enter his house with gentle pushes and praise while he’s inside. Before too long, your dog will be happy in his new home, and you will have an attractive new addition to your property.
