Looking for an insulated dog house to keep your pup warm this cold season? You have come to the right place. Today’s spotlight is on the best dog houses for winter.
A proper and well-insulated dog house is a must if your dog loves to spend most of his time outdoors. Choosing the perfect dwelling place for your canine friend takes the right amount of thought and planning because it must be warm during winter, cold during summer, and dry all the time.
While a regular outdoor dog kennel will work well during the summer season, you don’t want to depend on it to shelter your dog during the winter months. During winter, your dog needs to stay warm just like you do.
The best dog houses for winter feature proper insulation to protect your dog from frostbite, hypothermia and enable him to experience comfort that’s similar to your actual home. While the market is flooded with dog houses, only a few are suitable for use during winter.
Which Dogs Deserve the Best Dog Houses for Winter?
Since dog breeds have different characteristics, the cold season affects them differently. Some are prone to the effects of winter and require more protection than others. Here are some of the features to consider when determining dog vulnerability to cold weather:
- Type of Coat
Canine buddies with a thinner and single-layered coat are more vulnerable than their counterparts with thicker coats. If your pup falls into this bracket, he/she lacks the added protection offered by an undercoat. So, they need extra protection during winter. You should consider getting a dog jacket for added insulation. Single coated dogs include Whippet and Afghan Hound.
- Body Size
When talking about heat loss from the body, the body is an important consideration. A smaller dog has a higher surface area to volume ratio meaning it will readily lose heat from its body. Smaller dog breeds are therefore more prone to the effects of harsh cold weather than large pups. Pugs and Chihuahua need added insulation during the winter.
- Age
Being a puppy or a senior dog during winter is unpleasant. Puppies have an immature thermoregulatory system and so are unable to produce enough heat to keep them warm during the cold season. Additionally, they have a higher body surface area to volume ratio meaning they will readily give off heat. Exposure to the cold is therefore hard on puppies and they need extra protection. Senior dogs, on the other hand, have poor muscle tone, reduced body fat, and underperforming thermoregulation. All of these predispose older dogs to cold effects calling for extra insulation during the winter.
- Natural Insulation
Like other mammals, dogs use their body fat for insulation. Canines with sufficient fat layers have better insulation than their thinner cousins. If a dog has insufficient body fat, the bitter cold can be merciless and for this reason, you will need to protect her.
- Adaptations of the Dog
Some breeds are accustomed to living in cold weather. Such dogs have evolved and developed adaptive features that help them survive in extremely cold environments. These dogs require less protection during the winter as they have developed mechanisms to cope with the cold.
9 Best Dog Houses for Winter
Below is a review of the best dog houses for winter, so let’s take a look.
#1) Petmate Precision Pet Log Cabin
Are you looking for a furniture dog house for your large-sized dog? If your answer is yes, the Petmate Precision Pet Log Cabin is the ideal dog house for you. Available in 4 different sizes, this dog house has been made to accommodate a wide range of dogs.
The extreme log cabin’s solid wood structure is reinforced with stainless steel making it tough and sturdy for durable protection. The extra sturdy construction makes Petmate Log Cabin one of the best dog houses for winter.
For all-weather reliability, the dog house features a weatherproof construction, seal coating, raised floor, and a slanted roof, all of which help keep your dog snug and warm all year round. For versatile placement on different yards, this pet log cabin features adjustable feet that allow stable placement on a wide range of surfaces.
What’s more, is that there is no fuss about setting up this dog house. The cabin assembles easily in three quick steps. And that’s not all. The unique cabin design made with wood finish and black edges complement any backyard while the double layer canvas improves temperature control.
Key Features
- Water-resistant construction.
- Solid wood and stainless steel construction provide long-lasting protection for your pet.
- Available in four sizes to accommodate a wide range of pets.
- Adjustable feet ensure stability for simple worry-free placements.
- Quick and straightforward assembly.
- Slanted, weatherproof asphalt roof sheds off rain and snow.
- The raised floor keeps the dog clean and dry.
- The unique and beautiful cabin design perfectly blends with any backyard.
- Double-layer canvas improves temperature control.
#2) Confidence Pet Plastic Dog Kennel
The best dog houses for winter offer tremendous protection for your pet especially during the cold season and so do Confidence Pet Plastic Dog Kennel. One unique feature of this dog house that makes it stand out among the rest is a taller and narrower door that shelters your dog from any drafts of cold air and wind.
The dog house is made of durable plastic materials that are easy to clean and its floor is elevated from the ground which keeps the dog clean and dry. The large room and internal volume provide your dog with adequate space to sleep and relax.
Furthermore, the setup process is quick and straightforward, however, you will need a few basic tools to set it up. The raised floors, spacious living space, and durable plastic construction makes the Confidence dog kennel rank highly among the best dog houses for winter.
Key Features
- Dog kennel with a large living room.
- Quick and simple to set up.
- Made of durable plastic materials.
- Easy to clean.
- The raised floor keeps the dog clean and dry.
- Taller and narrower doors prevent the entry of any drafts of cold air and wind.
#3) PETMATE INDIGO W/MICROBAN
PETMATE INDIGO W/MICROBAN is a sturdy and spacious dog shelter for all seasons. It features heavy-duty construction that provides insulation and keeps your dog warm during winter and cool during summer seasons. The all-weather application solidifies its reputation as one of the best dog houses for winter.
With a ventilation opening at the top, your pet gets to enjoy fresh air circulation while inside the house. To ensure all-weather protection, this dog house features heavy-duty construction and an offset doorway which helps in temperature regulation and protects pets from wind and rain.
The raised floor and side moats also play a huge role in draining water and keeping your dog dry. One unique feature about the indigo dog house is the micro ban antimicrobial product protection which helps prevent the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria.
A wide range of pets gets to enjoy the spacious living room which is large enough to accommodate pets weighing up to 90-125 pounds. And that’s not all. With this dog house, you get to customize it with accessories such as a sleeping pad bought separately to keep your dog snug.
Key Features
- Raised floor with side moats keeps the dog clean and dry.
- Available in 3 sizes; medium, large, and extra-large.
- A vented top at the roof promotes air circulation.
- Spacious and very snug.
- Antimicrobial protection hinders the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria.
- Heavy-duty and durable construction.
- An Extended, offset doorway provides all-weather protection.
- Accommodate pets weighing up to 90-125 pounds.
#4) Suncast Outdoor Dog House with Door
Your favorite canine friends deserve the best dog houses for dogs to keep them warm and snug during the cold days. Suncast Dog House takes pride in helping you do that to your buddy.
Made with heavy-duty plastic materials that resist fading, rust, and rot, the house will serve you and your pet for a long time. The kennel’s attractive and durable design will last through the harshest winter conditions while still providing your dog with the shelter that he deserves.
The durable resin construction isn’t just sturdy but strong as well. Furthermore, the vinyl door included provides your pet with convenient entry and exit points while the crowned floor with inner channel capture fluids keeps your dog dry and snug. Another good thing about this dog house is the removable roof that makes cleaning easy as well as the vented sides that enhance air circulation.
And that’s not all. This dog house provides all-weather protection by being waterproof and UV rays resistant. Its assembly process is quick and straightforward with no tools required.
For convenient transportation, the dog house is lightweight and has a comfortable carry handle. Without a doubt, Suncast Outdoor House is one of the best dog houses for winter.
Key Features
- Durable, heavy-duty resin construction.
- Hassle-free set up process.
- Vinyl door provides convenient entry and exit.
- Stylish design that matches most outdoor décor.
- Waterproof and UV resistant construction.
- Low maintenance is needed.
- Removable roof for easy to clean.
- Crowned floor with inner channel capture fluids to keep the dog dry and snug.
- Vented for ample air circulation.
#5) Petmate Barnhome III Dog House
Beautifully designed like a barn, this dog house has been made to provide your dog with a snug and warm place which shields and protects him from both hot and cold weather elements.
This dog house features rear ventilation to ensure ample fresh air circulation and an extended roof guard rim that diverts rain from the entrance and to the sides so you can keep your canine friend toasty warm and dry as well.
The unique design, coziness, and ability to safeguard your pup from weather elements make Petmate Barn home III dog house score highly whenever best dog houses for winter are mentioned. The two-piece snap-together assembling process on this dog house takes just seconds with no tools even required.
Made with heavy-duty plastic materials that resist fading, rust and rot, the kennel’s attractive and durable design will last through the harshest winter conditions while still providing your dog with the shelter that he deserves. The raised interior floor helps keep your dog dry and warm. The clean-up process is easy as you just spray it with a garden hose pipe.
Key Features
- A raised interior floor that keeps the dog dry.
- Rear ventilation provides ample air circulation.
- Easy assembling process with no tools needed.
- Extended roof guard rim that diverts rain from the entrance.
- Heavy-duty plastic construction ensures many years of use.
- Resistant to fading, rust and rot.
- Easy to clean.
- Improved insulation keeps your dog warm during winter and cool during summer.
#6) Petsfit Outdoor Dog House
If your dog loves to spend quality time outdoors, the Petsfit outdoor dog house is the ideal dog house for him. The dog house isn’t just spacious but also very comfortable for dogs of all sizes making it one of the best dog houses for winter. It features an ultra-tough and hard-wearing weatherproof asphalt roof that shields your dog against weather elements.
With reinforcement on all sides, you are assured of tough and sturdy strength. Moreover, this dog house features a high-quality pneumatic brace and an openable top for easy cleaning.
An elevated base enhances maximum ventilation and ample air circulation while keeping your pet safe. And that’s not all. This dog house is treated with water-based paint which prevents it from rusting while still being safe for your dog.
With an off-center entrance, your dog gets increased shelter and more space to moving and turning around. The flap-off-center door also keeps drafts and cold outside. There is no fuss about setting it up as its assembly process is easy with just a few steps to follow and the adjustable feet enhance stability on different level platforms.
With all these features, it is no doubt that the Petsfit outdoor dog house is one of the best dog houses for winter. As one of the best dog houses for winter, Petsfit Outdoor Dog House packs a wide array of features that enhance comfort and keep your canine warm during the winter season.
Key Features
- Door lifter for smoother and safer rooftop opening.
- Off-center door location provides easy entry and exit.
- Easy to set up.
- Comes with door flaps that keep drafts and cold outside.
- A Weatherproofing dog house shields your pet from all-weather elements.
- Removable bottom floor for easy cleaning.
- Adjustable feet to create a level platform.
- Elevated base for better ventilation and circulation.
- Spacious and very comfortable.
#7) TRIXIE Classic Outdoor Wooden Dog House
Crafted with solid pine wood which is treated with a waterproof finish, the stylish yet unique design of this wooden dog house blends perfectly with all yards while still offering your dog perfect protection from cold and snow. The roof is slanted at the back to channel away water from the front side where the door is located.
For additional protection against water and cold, this dog house features elevated flooring that also helps keep the dog dry. With an off-center door design, this dog house will provide your dog with maximum protection and the height of each leg can be adjusted to enhance stability on uneven ground surfaces.
Other attractive benefits of this dog house include an attractive weatherproof finish both on the inside and outside, a large access door, a quick assembly process and a removable floor that makes cleaning simpler. This dog house also comes with a one-year warranty.
Key Features
- Removable floor for easy cleaning.
- Easy to assemble.
- Raised floor to keep your dog dry and warm.
- Adjustable plastic footing enhances stability on uneven ground surfaces.
- Beautiful and stylish weatherproof finish.
- Durable solid pine construction.
- Draft resistant tongue and groove elements.
- Off-center door design.
#8) Pet Zone Tuff-N-Rugged Weather-Resistant Dog House
This is a versatile dog house that is uniquely designed for use both indoors and outdoors. As one of the best dog houses for winter, Pet Zone dog house features a double-wall design that maintains a warm ambiance to keep the bitter cold at bay. Fitted on this dog house are adjustable vents that allow excellent airflow.
Durability is another desirable feature of this dog house. It is constructed from heavy-duty materials that are fade-resistant and sturdy to safeguard your canine from outside elements. When it comes to cleanliness, the dog house is easy to clean. The detachable roof makes cleaning effortless.
Key Features
- Made of quality plastic material to ensure durability
- An effortless assembly as no tools are needed for the set-up
- Has a detachable roof for easy cleaning
- The double-wall design maintains warmth during the winter
- Proper ventilation to keep your pup comfortable
#9) Giantex Plastic Dog House Waterproof Ventilate Pet Kennel
Combining the durability of sturdy construction materials and the comfort of the deluxe construction, Giantex Plastic Dog House is undoubtedly one of the best dog houses for winter.
The tough and solid PP materials used in the construction of this kennel guarantee long-lasting service. What’s more? The superior construction gives your pooch a sense of comfort and reliability.
The kennel has a unique design featuring higher floors and slanting roofs. The elevated floors prevent water from flowing into the dog house and also keeps dirt away.
The slanting roofs help protect your pup from rain, wind, sleet and snow. If you are looking for a sturdy and warm shelter for your buddy before the onset of winter, look no further than the Giantex Plastic Dog House Waterproof Ventilate Pet Kennel.
Another positive attribute of this pet is the detachable roof. This makes cleaning the dog house interior an effortless job. When it comes to assembly, the dog house is easy to set up as it comes with all the required accessories. The plastic material used is an excellent insulator and can retain the heat in the dog house. This helps safeguard your dog during cold nights.
The house is also properly ventilated keeping the whole house airy and fresh. Indeed, the thermal properties of this dog house make it great for both the summer and winter seasons. You get a reliable dog house where your canine friend can retreat for a peaceful and warm night’s sleep.
Key Features
- Made of durable materials
- Elevated floors keep dirt and other elements away
- Proper ventilation to help stabilize temperatures in the dog house
- Suitable for small and medium dogs
- A detachable roof for easy clean-ups
- Easy assembly
See Also
Best Dog Houses for Winter Buying Guide & FAQs
Criteria for Choosing the Best Dog Houses for Winter
Dog houses for winter come in various sizes and shapes to suit different dog needs. Knowing the difference between a normal dog house and a house built for winter will help you decide on the best dog house for use during winter. Here are some of the important features you need to look out for when buying a good dog house for winter.
Construction
The best dog houses for winter are made to specially protect your dog during the winter season. They are insulated and shut tight with tight walls to keep all weather elements out. The thicker the walls the better it is when it comes to keeping the interior warm and snug. A good house should have adequate thermal insulation.
Furthermore, the floor should be insulated to keep your dog warm and the bedding used should be able to help your dog retain its body heat. Having a dog bed with an elevated floor also plays a major role in making the sleeping surface warm in cold months. An elevated floor also locks out moisture which can be harsh on the building materials used.
Dog’s Size
Since most dogs don’t have body fat or thick coat to keep them warm, their bodies require a lot more warmth to stay snug and warm. Although small dogs take up less room in your house, the general rule of thumb is that any dog house should generally be at least 25% wider and longer than the dog itself.
All other dog house features would do him no good if he or she can’t fit in snugly. With a large-sized dog house, your dog gets adequate space to stand, move around snugly and stretch out as well.
Materials
The materials used in making any dog house for winter should have adequate thermal insulation. Some dog houses use PE foams which do a great job in providing exceptional warmth inside even when it is freezing outside. Look for thick walls made from high-quality materials designed to keep the cold out.
Since waterproofing has become a standard in all dog houses, you may want to check if the materials used are fully waterproof. Snow can accumulate on the roof of your dog’s house and end up melting once the sun is out.
Rain can also accompany snow which means that the house should be fully waterproof and leak-proof to keep the dog warm and dry. You may also want to provide your dog with a sleeping aid for maximum comfort.
High Quality & Closable Door
The best dog houses for winter should have doors that shelter your dog from any drafts of cold air that will enter. Whether you get a dog house with the thickest walls possible or with the best thermal insulation, you should make sure that the door included protects your dog against the wind, otherwise, he will be vulnerable to the cold air entering this house.
Accessories
Some luxurious details such as a raised floor are more practical in controlling parasites and preventing flooding. Best dog houses for winter with floor pads provide extra insulation and comfort to the inside of the house while hinged flaps and doors help break the wind and blowing rain.
A dog house with a hinged roof also makes clean up a snap for the dog owner while an openable window can add and enhance ventilation during summer months.
Read: Best Indoor Dog Houses
Advantages of the Best Dog Houses for Winter
- Protection against weather elements such as snow, rain, and cold. Exposure to these elements weakens your dog’s immune system and makes him more susceptible to illness.
- Offer great value for money. Winter dog houses are useful all year round.
- A good winter dog house keeps your dog warm, snug, and dry all year round.
- Insulate dog winter houses are available in a wide range of attractive designs and sizes to suit the needs of multiple dog owners.
Additional Equipment to Winter Dog Houses
While the best dog houses for winter will help provide the much-needed insulation and protection from the bitter cold, other recommended additional items will enhance the comfort of your pup. Here are some of the items:
- Dog House Furnace
This equipment helps keep your dog warm and comfortable. Although dogs are warm-blooded and they can generate heat to keep their bodies warm, some have a hard time warming up during the winter.
Dog house furnace comes to the rescue when the temperature falls too low. These heating elements supplement your dog’s natural heating mechanism. Installing them in your dog’s house will go a long way in protecting him/her from the effects of the unbearable cold.
- Thermal Pads
These devices come in handy during the winter. They are placed under the dog beds or can act like a dog bed. They come in two main categories: the self-heating pads and the electrically powered pads. The self-heating thermal pads absorb and retain heat emitted by the dog. The electrical thermal pads need to be plugged into a power source. Consider using thermal pads in dog houses.
Read: Best Heated Dog Pads
- Heated Dog Bowls
Dogs should remain hydrated all the time. During winter, the dip in temperature causes the freezing of water. Since the dog house is outside, a heated dog bowl is a must. These bowls ensure a constant supply of drinking water to your canine friend.
- Kennel Heat Lamps
These lamps emit infrared radiation which helps heat the dog house. These lamps are a great solution for providing a controlled heat source for dogs and puppies. Using these in a dog house helps create an ambient heat that protects the dog from harsh cold weather.
Best Dog Houses for Winter FAQs
Q: How Do I Know When it is Too Cold for Dogs During Winter?
As soon as you notice that your dog is shivering and moves slowly, it is time to offer to provide him with extra warmth. Excessive snuggling is also a sign that shows your dog seeks warmth rather than cuddles. In extreme cases, your dog’s skin color will start to change to blueish shades on his normally pink tummy skin.
Q: Which is The Best Way to Look After My Dog During Winter?
Cold weather makes your dog’s body burn a lot of calories to constantly keep them warm. Apart from getting a good winter house for your dog, you will also be required to provide more meals to him other than the usual daily single meal. You can also introduce a heated dog pad or blankets to keep him warmer.
Conclusion
A good quality dog house for winter provides your dog with maximum protection from harsh weather elements that can make him susceptible to illnesses. With multiple models available on the market, winter dog houses are durable and affordable.
We hope that after reading this review, you now know what the best dog houses for winter entail and can comfortably choose the best dog house depending on your dog’s needs.