A Place of His Own: Things to Consider When Buying a Dog House
Dogs are family and should be treated as such. A dog isn’t only having a four-legged pal to accompany you when you take a walk or entertain you. A dog is a living being that requires love and attention, above all. There are many ways to give your furry pal the necessary love and attention, like spending as much time together as possible and acquiring the necessary bits and pieces to make him feel at home, starting with the dog house.
One of the biggest benefits of constructing or buying a dog house is providing your dog with his very own place where it can sleep, nap, relax and feel safe while being sheltered from the elements. Your dog will be able to play in your yard and then retreat into his house whenever it pleases.
But even if your dog stays inside the house, having a pet dog house outside is still a smart thing. This way, you can leave your dog to play outside when you’re not at home without worrying whether he will get soaked in the rain or become cold.
So, it goes without saying that having a safe outdoor place for your dog is essential. Whether it’s going to be in the backyard or on your porch, you’d want to pick a suitable pet dog house that would allow the dog to relax, feel safe and be a place to hide from the weather. Now, let’s see what are some important things to consider when buying a shelter for your pet.
Source: pawcastle.com
Determine the Size of the Dog House
This is one of the most important things to consider when buying or building a dog house. Your dog should fit in and should feel comfortable inside. However, the pet dog house should not be too large (if it’s a small dog) since it will feel cold during the winter months.
There has to be enough space to lie down, turn around, and get inside and outside. Keep in mind that dogs love cosy spaces not open and airy. So, the best size for a suitable house should be the height of your dog plus 20cm. Add 45cm to the length of your dog and another 30cm to the width of your dog. These measurements would make a perfect dog house.
What Are Your Dog’s Habits?
You already know your dog’s habits and behaviour. Maybe they want to observe the surroundings and check what’s going on across the fence. If that’s the case, the house should have a window where your dog could check out what’s going outside without actually living the house.
If your dog pants and overheats, make sure to pick materials that don’t attract heat in the summer. Avoid houses with shingles and instead, pick plywood panel for the roof and treat it with linseed oil. Do what’s in your power to make the house for your dog as cosy and as comfortable as possible.
Source: sydneywidepetdoors.com.au
What’s the Weather Like?
It’s important to make a pleasant house for your pet that is also suitable for the weather in your area. If you live in an area where the cold months are harsh, make sure to put a door on the dog house to provide even more warmth. You can pick a model with magnetised flaps; they’ll let your pet get in and out easily while the inside of the house will stay warm. It’s important that you don’t leave puppies, smaller or older dogs outside when the weather is extremely cold. During the summer, remove the house door so there will be constant airflow.
Place the house off the ground so the inside will stay dry during the raining days. Also, this provides insulation from the cold ground. When it comes to ventilation, you can drill a few holes with the size of a penny. Drill the holes on the side of the walls. This way, hot air will leave the house during the hot days, and in the winter, the house will dry out faster.
Which Material Works Best?
It’s important that you chose the right material for the house. Wood is a great material that will allow the house to integrate beautifully into your home’s exterior, unlike plastic or metal options. Additionally, wooden houses provide warmth in the winter and help the space stay cool in the summer. However, if you go for this option, make sure that it’s sealed and painted with enamel to make it waterproof and easy for cleaning and more durable.
Source: loveproperty.com
Find a Location
If the house is placed in your backyard, make sure to position it under a shade. This way it will be protected from the sun and rain and your dog will feel more secure. It would be best if you place it against a wall of your house, shed or garage. This way it will be protected from the wind. If it has a door, put the doorway east, so the house will be protected from upcoming storms. Put the house close to your home (or garage) so you can always have it in your sight. Your dog would feel much more comfortable, knowing they’re right there close to you.
Make sure you meet your dog’s needs and size. In the end, it’s essential that your dog feels comfortable using the house and feels safe in there. However, if you have a puppy, older dog or a small dog, make sure not to leave them outside too long or when it’s extremely cold. Even for large and healthy young dogs, the cold can be a threat.
