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Do you live in the house? Well, obviously yes - so, let your dog to enjoy his own house too...
DOGHOUSE: HISTORY & ORIGINS This article is proudly presented by WWW.ALL-ABOUT DOG-HOUSES.COM and WWW.FOREST DEFENSENOW.ORG
Believe it or not but dog houses have been around in one form or another for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence shows that dogs were quite prevalent in ancient Egypt, going back to 4500 BC or so, and were often held in high esteem as pets and hunting partners.
Some dogs were even considered to be messengers of the gods. Egyptian nobility kept their hounds in mud-brick kennels, where the dogs were trained and cared for by professional dog trainers. These are some of the earliest known dog houses in the historical record.
Dogs were also an accepted part of ancient Chinese, Greek and Roman societies and were often viewed as status symbols. Small dogs were popular as "companion dogs", spending much of their time living and sleeping under the same roof as their owner. The master's home was their home. Such was the life of the privileged pooch throughout the ages.
But, for every dog that lived the life of leisure, there have been many more homeless ones, relegated to scrounging for an existence in the streets on the edges of human society. For example, during the Middle Ages, packs of feral hounds roamed many a hamlet, scavenging for a living, sleeping wherever they could find cover, and basically terrorizing the locals.
Hunting became a very popular sport among the nobility during the Middle Ages and noblemen often maintained sizable dog kennels. Hunting dogs were considered valuable pieces of property and their owners were willing to spend large sums to properly feed and house them. Reportedly, King Henry I of England had a kennel containing several hundred dogs. Not surprisingly, the "common" dogs owned by peasants had much less elaborate sleeping quarters than the dogs of the elite. Few peasants could afford to spare precious building materials for dog houses so their dogs lived on or under porches, in barns, or even inside with their owners.
Dog breeding came into its own in the 1800's, especially among the aristocratic members of society in America and industrialized Europe. This was an era of elite kennels with private registries that only dealt with canines sired in equally illustrious kennels. Pinkies extended please. The classic pitched roof dog house was apparently in vogue by this time. Evidence for this includes Victorian era mausoleums in the shape of doghouses. The pitched roof dog house was good enough for presidential dogs of the 1800's. This photo, taken between 1889-93 by Library of Congress photographer Frances Benjamin Johnston, shows the dog house digs for First Lady Caroline Harrison's pet collie Dash.
In combination with a heightened interest in dog breeding, dog shows became very popular in the 1800's, among both the nobility as well as the middle class. It wasn't uncommon to see show dogs being shipped on rail cars inside feces-filled wooden crates. These crates were effectively their homes for a good chunk of their lives. Now, that's a bummer.
During World War II, The U.S. military used German Shepherds, Belgian Sheep Dogs, Doberman Pinschers, Farm Collies, and several other breeds as messengers, sentries, trackers, and mine sniffers. They were transported in vented wooden boxes, which also doubled as houses on the battlefield. These animals were well cared for, and the ones that survived, were returned to their civilian homes when their tour of duty was over. In more recent wars, dogs have been transported in wood, aluminum and steel dog boxes.
Historically, most dog houses have been handmade from whatever materials could be scraped together. This has changed over the last century, especially since World War II, such that most dog houses today are commercially mass produced in factories. Contributing factors here include reduced costs and greater availability of plywood, framing lumber, and roofing materials as well as the introduction of new materials such as foam sheet insulation, pressure-treated lumber, and weather resistant plastics and wood finishes. Advances in machinery and manufacturing techniques have also played a role.
Wood has been the preferred material for dog houses over the years due to it's ready availability, low cost, ease of working, insulating properties, and structural integrity. The demand for wood dog houses has been accommodated over the last quarter century or so by the emergence of a number of medium & large sized companies that specialize in wooden houses. Some of the big names in the business today include Merry Products, Ware Manufacturing and Blythe Woodworks.
Plastic dog houses were introduced in the 1960's and have steadily grown their market share since. In some cases, the companies producing plastic dog houses got their start building wooden ones. Doskocil, the leading U.S. manufacturer of both plastic portable kennels and doghouses, started business in 1962 when Ben Doskocil landed a contract to supply wooden travel kennels to Delta Airlines. By 1968, his company was producing plastic kennels which soon became the industry standard for pet transport.
Lots of people like to build their own dog houses. I can't back this up with solid evidence, but I have a strong hunch that the number of hand-crafted dog houses has grown considerably since the early 1990's thanks to the greater availability of dog house plans on the Internet in combination with the growth of woodworking as a hobby.
What does the future hold for dog houses? We predict there will be more houses built from composite wood or plastic lumber, reduced use of pressure treated lumber, greater use of laminated panels, perhaps with integrated insulation layers, and maybe even some innovative new designs that don't resemble today's dog houses.
But do not expect the basic wooden snoopy dog house to go away anytime soon.
To many people, the term "dog house" refers to the classic "Snoopy" - a house with a peaked roof and an arched doorway centered on one end of the house.
But once you start looking, you quickly realize that dog houses come in many different shapes and styles and are made from a variety of materials including wood, plastic, aluminum, and steel. Dog houses also vary by their intended use.
Some houses are designed to sit stationary in your back yard. This is what most people consider to be a true dog house. However, there are also portable dog houses. This category includes dog boxes, dog tents, crates, and various types of carriers. You can think of these as temporary dog homes.
Dog Kennel: an overused term! You will frequently encounter the term "kennel" when shopping for dog houses. If you look up its definition, there are two basic meanings, one general and one more specific: 1) any kind of a dog shelter, and 2) a place where dogs are bred, trained, and boarded. It seems that marketers have liberally adopted the first definition of kennel so that the word now refers to a broad range of pet containment products such as pet carriers, crates, exercise pens and good old fashioned outdoor dog houses. So, when you see the term "kennel" used for some of the products described here, don't get too hung up on the terminology. Just think dog shelter or dog container.
STATIONARY DOGHOUSES
Wood Dog Houses Wood has traditionally been the material of choice for building dog houses and it is still very popular today. Some reasons for wood's popularity are that it is plentiful, relatively inexpensive, easy to work with, and it just looks nice - when properly maintained. Wood dog houses tend to be more substantial than plastic ones, they offer more design add-on possibilities, and they will provide your dog better protection against the elements. Wood is a much better insulator than plastic so your dog is less likely to overheat inside a wood house. It tends to conjure up warmer, fuzzier feelings than plastic ever will. And many people prefer the natural look of wood to plastic. Tics and fleas can be a problem with wood houses but this can be mitigated by buying a cedar wood house and using cedar shavings for bedding. The best wooden dog houses are made from decay resistant woods such as cedar and redwood. If one were to group wooden dog houses by roof style, there are three basic designs:
Pitched Roof - This is the classic Snoopy peaked roof formed by two angled panels joined at the center of the house. A very popular and attractive design that results in a house resembling a miniature version of a human home.
Single Panel Flat Roof - A simpler design consisting of a single flat panel that usually has a gentle tilt going from the front to the back of the house. Many dogs love to lounge on top of houses with such a roof.
Loft Roof - Some of the fancier houses have a loft or sun deck above the house. In some cases, the loft is built above a conventional pitched or slanted roof. Some loft roof dog houses look like they would make good play houses for kids.
Plastic DogHouses Plastic dog houses have come on strong in recent years. They are competitively priced, light-weight, and low maintenance. Some are ready to go right out of the box - others require snapping together a few panels. No fuss, no muss -that's the value proposition. Some of the most popular plastic dog house styles are the igloo, the barn gambrel roof, and the conventional dog house with a pitched roof. In spite of what the sales literature may say about the virtues of "structural foam construction with nitrogen insulation", a properly insulated wooden house will generally keep a dog cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter than a plastic one will. Keep this in mind if you live in an area with hot or cold weather extremes.
Metal DogHouses You don't see them very often but there are metal dog houses on the market. These are typically rectangular shaped, made from stainless steel or aluminum, and heavily insulated. They are fairly indestructible because dogs can't chew apart the metal and they won't rot. They are not for everybody, you will mostly see these sold by vendors that specialize in hunting dog supplies. Metal is also used for dog houses. Such structures are typically known as dog "boxes" and are often used to transport dogs and provide temporary housing for shows and sporting events. However, some owners undoubtedly use them as year-round houses. Metal dog boxes are made from aluminum or stainless steel and are often insulated because metal by itself is a poor insulator. Most dog boxes don't come cheap but they tend to be very solidly built and will likely outlive your dog.
Note: A distinction is made here between metal dog houses and metal dog boxes. Metal dog houses are often designed for stationary use whereas a dog box is generally designed for mobile use. One sits in your back yard, the other goes in your truck.
Barrel DogHouses Pretty much in a class by itself is the barrel dog house. These can be made from old wooden wine barrels, plastic barrels, or metal barrels. The thinking behind this design is that dogs naturally prefer to sleep in shallow, curved holes and so a barrel, lined with lots of wood chips, can be used to emulate this natural environment.
Fiberglass Cave DogHouses Just when you think you have seen it all, this fiberglass cave dog house comes along. It's made of 100% heavy-duty fiberglass that should never rot or leak and is designed to hold two large dogs comfortably. This look may not appeal to everyone but it sure it sure makes for a unique dwelling for your pet.
PORTABLE & TEMPORARY DOGHOUSES
DOG TENTS A dog tent is a soft-sided portable shelter. Made from waterproof materials, most dog tents are easy to assemble and break down in minutes. They are lightweight and easy to transport which makes them popular for camping, traveling, and other outdoor pursuits. Some dog tents are quite elaborate, sporting features like ventilated side panels, elevated floors, hold open door flaps, and zippered closures. Dog tents are not for diggers, chewers, aggressive dogs or dogs that experience anxiety while contained.
SOFT DOG CRATES A soft dog crate is basically a rectangular dog tent. It resembles a conventional dog crate except that it is soft-sided with nylon mesh instead of metal or plastic grating. A soft dog crate is also lighter than a conventional crate which makes it more convenient for transporting a dog. However, soft crates are not suitable for diggers, chewers, aggressive dogs or dogs that "freak out" while crated.
INFLATABLE DOG HOUSES Egads, what will they think of next? The Kodiak is an inflatable dog house made from materials normally used for high end outdoor camping and sporting gear. The manufacturer claims that it provides 10X the insulating qualities of plastic dog houses, making it a viable temporary shelter for cold weather situations. If your dog is a chewer, this may not be the most appropriate dog house for him.
DOG CRATES Dog crates are a multi-purpose enclosures made from metal or molded plastic. They are used for housebreaking, travel, protection of household items, and to provide your dog with a secure haven of his own. Once a dog gets used to his crate, he will look forward to using it because he feels safe and secure there. A crate takes advantage of a dog's natural instinct to be in an enclosed place when resting. Note that many models come with divider panels to accommodate growing puppies. As the dog grows, you just widen the living area by moving the divider.
HARD PLASTIC DOG KENNELS As the name implies, hard plastic pet carriers (also called "kennels") are used to carry and transport pets. Unlike soft crates and tents, many carriers are approved for airline travel. They can also be used as an everyday crate but note that they typically don't come with divider panels so they aren't the best choice for growing puppies. Dog carriers usually have a metal grate locking door, a handle on top, and ample ventilation slots on the top and sides.
SOFT-SIDED DOG CARRIERS Soft sided dog carriers or travel bags are designed to transport a small dog, say under 25 lbs. They are handy for containing your dog in a vehicle and many are also approved for airline travel. They are lighter and more compact than other types of dog carriers or containers. When not in use, many compress into a flat bundle to conserve storage space. Note that a soft dog carrier should not be used as a dog crate.
DOG BOXES A close relative of the afore-mentioned metal dog house is the dog box. These are typically used as temporary shelters for transporting dogs and are often seen in the back of a pick-up truck or on a trailer. Many dog boxes are made from aluminum although steel, plastic, and wood are also used. Dog boxes can be quite elaborate. For example, some models are built as a stand-alone trailer with wheels. Others are custom-built to fit snugly in the back of pickup trucks. Some incorporate cages into the design. Many are just simple rectangular boxes that can be carried by one or two people.
DOGHOUSE, KENNEL & IGLOO: FIT SIZE MANUAL This article is proudly presented by WWW.ALL-ABOUT DOG-HOUSES.COM and WWW.HAYNEEDLE.COM
One of the most important attributes of a dog house is that it be the appropriate size for your dog. If the house is too small, it will be uncomfortable and your dog won't want to stay in it. If the house is too large, it will be harder for your dog to retain body heat in order to stay comfy and warm. Also, dogs feel more secure in a snug-fitting abode.
How do you determine the proper size for a dog house? The "standard" answer is that a dog house should be large enough to allow the dog to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably inside the house.
There's just one problem with this guideline: it assumes you can physically test out the dog house with your dog. If you are buying a dog house online, you are not able to use it. Fortunately, there are a number of sizing formulas for determining the recommended dimensions of a dog house given the dimensions of your pet. Unfortunately, because there is no single "golden rule" sizing formula, you have to decide which formula or variation of a formula works for you. As you will see, the formulas are all similar but different.
Doghouse Sizing Formulas Some dog house vendors provide sizing formulas for their specific products. In this situation, it's a simple matter to find a dog house that fits. If the vendor doesn't provide decent sizing guidance or you are planning to build a dog house from scratch, then your job is a little more involved.
Summary As promised above, these formulas are similar but different: some more so than others. Depending on which formula you select, the length of the dog house should be somewhere between 1 to 1-1/2 times the dog's length, the width 2/3 to 1-1/4 times the dog's length, the height 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 times the dog's height, and the doorway about 3/4 the dog's shoulder height. The height of the doorway should be a little less than the dog's shoulder height. The length and width of the house should be a little more than the dog's length. The height should be slightly more than the dog's standing height. You can work out the exact scaling factors yourself, within the bounds given above. If your winters are very cold, it would make sense to keep the house as small as possible to help retain the dog's body heat. If your winters are mild, a larger dog house would be acceptable.
One final tip: Before spending your hard-earned money on a dog house, make a cardboard mock-up. Coax your dog inside and see if he can easily turn around and lie down comfortably. Tweak the dimensions of the mock-up until he can do so.
So, you wish your doggy to enjoy his warm & comfortable, brand - new and perfectly choosen doghouse? Unfortunately, that warm and fuzzy feeling quickly dissipates once it becomes apparent that your pet wants nothing to do with the dog house. What to do? This is a scenario that happens all too often with new dog houses. If it's any consolation, don't feel too bad because you are not alone.
However, for those of you who have just spent $400 on an insulated cedar dog house with a personalized door plate, this isn't really the answer you were looking for. Chances are your thinking runs more along the lines of: sometimes it's OK for dogs to be indoors but at other times, they love to be outdoors and should be outdoors, even for sleeping. After all, dogs and their wolf ancestors happily lived outdoors for thousands of years. Some Dogs Respond to Living in a Dog House Better than Others. Realize that some dogs are more inclined to use a dog house than others because of their upbringing. For example, dogs that were whelped and raised by their mom in a dog house are patterned to it from day one and are therefore quite comfortable with living in a dog house. To such dogs, their house is their home and it represents security and good times with mom. This isn't to say that a dog house-raised pet will readily adopt a new dog house but it will be a much easier task to get her to accept the new house compared to a pet who has never used a house. And there are some things you can do to make the new house more familiar to your pet.
There is also anecdotal evidence to support the belief that certain breeds take more naturally to a dog house than others. Many Lab owners are convinced that labs are people-oriented dogs that really want to be inside with their families, not outdoors in a dog house. Of course, the situation gets murky because the dog's upbringing is always part of the equation. Much of it depends on how the dog has been raised. Alright, onto some specific suggestions for getting the dog to like the dog house. Some of these ideas are just common sense but they still bear telling.
TIPS ON GETTING DOG TO LOVE DOGHOUSE
Don't make your pet feel like she's being banished to Siberia. - Perhaps the worst thing to do with a new dog house is to put it in a remote area of the yard that is away from the familiar smells, sights, and sounds to which your dog has become accustomed. At least initially, give some consideration to placing the dog house closer to the area where her human buddies are coming and going.
Timing is everything. - Choosing an appropriate time of the year to put your dog outside can also be important. If you've been keeping your beloved pet indoors and then suddenly expect him to happily accept being stuck outdoors by himself in the dead of winter, don't you think there might be a little push back? Dogs require time to build up a tolerance for heat or cold so you are asking for trouble if you attempt to abruptly change the ambient temperature of their living environment.
Give your dog time to adjust to the new house. - Keep your expectations realistic. If you have been keeping the dog indoors at night, don't expect it to readily accept sleeping outside in a strange enclosure. If the dog is already an outdoors dog but has never used a dog house, or has an existing dog house that you wish to replace, it will probably take some time and persuasion to get him to adopt the new house. Patience grasshopper, patience.
Make the house intro a positive experience. - When you first introduce your dog to the house, spend some quality time with him. Maybe sit next to the house for a couple hours with your dog. If the house is big enough, you could even crawl into it yourself. Yes, some owners have success with this technique! The dog will be intrigued by this funny looking new object that his master seems to like so much. Also try using treats and familiar objects to lure the dog inside the house. Introducing your pet to the doghouse while you are around helps to reassure her that all is well when she is put there and that she has not been banished from the house or otherwise exiled.
Place familiar objects in the house. - To make the new dog house feel like a home, place something that belongs to your dog in the house. You know, something that he likes. This can be a favorite toy, a well-worn bone, a blanket with the dog's scent, his food bowl, your expensive shoes that he chewed apart, that dog face door mat from Aunt Matilda. Use your imagination. Get wild. You might even try placing some old clothes with your scent in the house. Although don't be offended if your dog drags them out, that's not unheard of.
Feed the dog in the house for awhile. - Some dog owners have had success introducing a new dog house by feeding the dog in the house. You could start by placing the dog's bowl just inside the doorway of the house so the dog can easily find it. Then, gradually move it further into the house so the dog is forced to go inside the house to chow down. You might even try hiding some dog bones inside the house. Eventually your pet will form a pleasant association between the dog house and eating and will decide that it's not such a bad place to hang out after all.
Make sure the house fits the dog. - If the dog house is too big, it won't feel like a cozy den to your pet. Furthermore, if the house is not heated, the dog must be able to heat the inside of the house with his own body heat. An overly large house defeats the purpose. Of course, if the house is too small for your pet to fit comfortably inside, that can cause problems. During the winter, make sure the house has plenty of clean, dry bedding into which your pet can burrow to stay warm and dry. You might even consider a heated pad as a further enticement to keep him in the house.
Give the dog a companion. - We all know that dogs are pack animals and like hanging out with others of their kind. If you have the desire and resources to acquire another dog, consider putting both of them in the same house - at least for awhile, to make it seem more like a snug pack den where they can keep each other warm. Having a companion will also help your dog feel like she hasn't been banished to the outdoors, she now has two "families" to hang with,an indoor one and an outdoor one.
I Tried All That But Nothing Works! Sometimes you try many different dog house introduction techniques and the dog still doesn't seem to like the house. What do you do then? Well, try to determine if the dog is suffering by not going inside the house.
Many dog owners have observed that their pet will use the house only under extreme weather conditions, on days when it is extremely rainy, snowy, windy or hot. Dogs, like almost any other living creature, will seek out a safe comfortable place when the situation requires. The important thing is to make the house available to your pet so he can use it when he wants. Dogs innately know how to make the best out of being outdoors.
If your dog doesn't use the house even under severe weather conditions and is obviously suffering, then clearly a change of course is warranted. Perhaps its time to give the dog house to a friend and bring Fido back inside the house with the humans. Just follow your instincts, they are usually spot on.
27 CREATIVE & INNOVATIVE DESIGNER DOGHOUSES This material proudly presented by WWW.DIYNET WORK.COM
1. Greta and Gypsy's Barn Congratulations to Greta's and Gypsy's owner. This DIYer built a barn-style, two room duplex with covered porch. The red roof, gingerbread trim and well-built details make it a winner.The two-room house has an interior passageway so Greta and her sister Gypsy can see each other from their rooms.
2. Brooklyn Brownstone City dwellers, Buster and Bruno show off their city-style brownstone house. Built by professional artist, Bruce Tunis, the two-story house boasts an electric street light and an interior chandelier. During the construction phase, Buster and Bruno try their home on for size. The brownstone replica stands over four-feet tall and has a hinged roof for storage.
3. Weimaraners' Winter Townhouse This multi-level doghouse stands 10-ft. tall. Big windows allow the dogs a view from each level. The house was built to match the owner's house including the green metal roof. This construction photo shows the ramp from the main floor to the second floor and the stairs going up to the third-floor loft, where the pups are lounging.
4. Rooftop Garden Lucy's eco-friendly pad includes a rooftop garden to help keep the place cool. A water-collection system captures rain then lets it drip down cascading water bowls. A slate floor will help keep Lucy cool in the dog days of summer.
5. Dalmatian's Tudor-Style Chalet Nikki's tricked-out house includes exterior lighting, skylight, bay window, mailbox, birdhouse, a window box and a non-working chimney that is used to hold dog treats.
6. Mastiff's Ponderosa & Pond Storm the mastiff spends a lot of time in his owner's pond, so they built him a house with a deck to overlook the pond and the yard beyond.
7. Hot Tub House Azula's owner very cleverly used the frame of an old hot tub to make a chalet-style home complete with window box and second-floor window.
8. Log Cabin Duplex The sturdy duplex is built with landscape timbers that are chinked together with mortar. A section of wall is removable for human access. Vents in each end of the gable keep air flowing within.
9. Outfitted For All Weather The hinged roof allows easy interior access for Jimbo's owner. A sheet of Styrofoam on the underside of the roof keeps the sun from pounding through the dark roofing. A ceiling-mounted fan on an electric sensor also keeps the house cool. In the winter, a heat-lamp-style fixture is used and plastic mats cover the door.
10. Chihuahua's Pueblo Toto's builder designed the space in the authentic pueblo style. Toto's two pug brothers also have matching homes. See more of this artist, Bruce Tunis' work. This doghouse includes the high-durable terra-cotta tile floor and the Southwestern architectural details.
11. Recycled Ranch House Honorable Mention: Recycled Ranch House! Wooden shipping pallets were repurposed to make Domino's cozy retreat.
12. Recycled Shipping-Pallet Home Another Recycled Shipping-Pallet Home for dog! This home was constructed for an animal-rescue fundraising event where teams of architects and builders were asked to make doghouses. This one was constructed using only recycled materials.
13. Little Red House Tongue-&-groove wood planks discarded from a job site were used on construct this house. The shingle roof is hinged for easy opening and side windows allow a 2-way view. This pooch also has a night light, and eave vents and an electric fan to keep cool.
14. Puppy Palapa An off-the-shelf doghouse kit was turned into a tiki hut with the addition of woven siding and a thatched roof.
15. House of Cards Large wooden playing cards are stacked together to create this unique doghouse.
16. Dogs Downstairs, Cats Upstairs The lower level of this pet condo is split in half to accommodate two dogs, while the upper level is for the cats. A heat lamp keeps the structure warm in the winter.
17. Gingerbread Cottage This sturdy stucco and stone house sports an ample front porch with decorative floor, beefy columns and gingerbread trim.
18. Mini Mansion This pup palace was designed to match the owner's house and it was built using the same materials.
19. Australian Bottle House This doghouse was constructed in the 1960s and has since become something of roadside attraction. It just goes to show what a little recycling and ingenuity can get you.
20. Wing House This was a standard doghouse. A portico was added and the roof extended to include shade "wings". The builders adorned the house with lights, making it quite an evening spectacle.
21. Hollywood Sound Stage Buster and Bruno's home is a small version of a Hollywood studio. Lined with paw-printed red carpet, the interior and exterior of the structure is embellished with movie posters and studio-like signage.
22. Classical Korean Architecture This doghouse in South Korea is made from thickly milled timbers and a heavy tiled roof in a traditional ornamental style.
23. Thatched Cottage A well-thatched straw roof can last half a century. The materials make it a cool place for Fido to escape the noonday sun and keep the elements out when the weather turns foul.
24. Curb Appeal This finely crafted shingled doghouse has glass-paned windows, copper flashing, detailed trim and even potted plants around the entrance.
25. Classic Design Smokey the pup inherited this old classic when his family moved to a new house. He will soon grow into the bunkhouse, which is sturdily built to withstand the snowy Canadian winters.
26. Harlesson Flat Top This solid-wood doghouse combines functionality with a fashionable design. The structure comes in an easy-to-assemble kit. The shingled, waterproof roof is slanted to allow rain and melting snow to roll off. And the roof is hinged so it lifts up to make cleaning inside very easy.
27. Frank Lloyd Wright Influence Corrugated metal and plywood come together in this modern design. A cantilevered roof provides a shady entrance for Lola the Australian shepherd.
Not all types of dog house bedding are created equal. You will often come across suggestions to use blankets, towels, carpet, hay, straw, old newspapers, pretty much whatever you can get your hands on. The problem with most of these materials is that they attract and retain fleas, tics, and other creatures. They are also susceptible to mold and mildew.
A better option is to use cedar shavings for bedding because the oils in the cedar will repel fleas and tics. However, be aware that the cedar oils cause contact allergies in a small percentage of dogs. To minimize this possibility and also to keep the house neater, you could get a dog bed cover with a liner and stuff the liner with the wood chips. A dense, moisture-proof foam pad also works well for dog bedding because it stays dry and fleas can't penetrate it. If your dog tries to chew the mat, you could cover it with a layer of cedar shavings.
Ideally, a dog house should have an insulated floor that is elevated a few inches above the ground. This so called "dead air space" affords an extra measure of insulation, keeps moisture away from the house and your beloved pet, and provides extra protection against flea infestation from hatching eggs in the soil. A raised floor also prevents the wood from rotting thereby extending the life of the doghouse. Some dog houses are made with skid plates or extended corner posts to elevate the house above the ground. The same effect can be achieved by placing the house atop bricks, stones, or 4x4 blocks of wood.
Even with a raised floor, the wood on the underside of the floor may be subject to rotting over time, especially wood in direct contact with the ground. To minimize rotting, look for a dog house that uses decay resistant woods such as cedar or redwood. Pressure-treated wood should be OK also as long as it is only used on the base frame of the floor so that your pet does not come in direct contact with it. Just be prepared to cover the pressure-treated wood with plywood strips if you find your dog chewing on it.
Perhaps the first consideration for a proper sized doghouse is the doorway. It has to be big enough for your dog to easily get in and out of the house but not so big that it results in excessive heat loss and over-exposure to the elements. Remember that, unlike people, dogs require smaller doors than what their total height is. They have no issues with having to duck to enter a house. Exactly how big should a doorway be? Well, there are least two rules of thumb used to determine this. The first one says that the door height opening should be no less than 3/4 of the dog's shoulder to ground height. The second rule says that the opening should be at least 1" greater than the distance from the top of the dog's shoulder to the bottom of his chest. Regardless of formula used, these are minimum doorway heights - you can get a house with a taller doorway, just keep in mind that heat retention and coziness could suffer.
The width of a dog house doorway needs to be just slightly larger than the girth of your pet. You might want to measure him after a full meal :) The location of the doorway can also be important. The classic style dog house has the doorway centered in the middle of the house. This looks fine but may not be optimal depending on the severity of your weather and your dog's need for privacy. A dog house doorway that is located off center minimizes direct exposure to the outdoor elements and provides extra privacy space inside the house for your dog to hang out. An off center doorway also provides extra space to insert an interior wind deflection panel which further improves the warmth and coziness of the house. Look for a dog house that comes with a door. This will provide an extra level of protection against the sun, cold, and rain, especially in a house with a centered doorway. The big thing in dog house doors these days seems to be a flap of vinyl with vertical slits cut into it. This enables the dog to see what's going on outside but still stay warm and dry inside. And the slits allow him to easily push through the "door".
Some doors are designed to be removable. This is good as far as improving air flow during the hot summer as long as you don't mind a little rain getting in now and then. If you find a house that you like but it doesn't come with a door, don't sweat it. You can pick up some vinyl from Home Depot and make your own. Or you could simply order a vinyl door flap online. Other materials used for doors include tractor tire inner tubes, mud flaps, canvas, and even old carpet. Just keep in mind that your dog may chew apart certain materials.
Most dog owners probably don't give much thought to the type of roof on their pet's house but, there's more to it than you probably realize. For example, what is the advantage/disadvantage of a flat roof versus a peaked roof? If you are in the market for a wooden dog house, you will have to decide what type of roof you prefer. This is both a style and function decision.Are wooden shingles better than asphalt shingles? Are metal roofs appropriate for a doghouse? Wooden dog houses generally come with either:
1) the classic pitched roof, aka, the Snoopy, made from two panels joined together to form a peak, or 2) the single panel roof, typically with a gentle slope from the front to the back of the house. A third type of roof is the loft or sun deck style roof, which is usually a single or double panel roof with an attached wooden platform on top. You also need to decide on the type of protective covering on the roof. The main choices here are asphalt shingles, wood - shingles, plywood, boards, metal, or plain old tar paper. There are pros and cons to each. Regardless of the type of roof on the house, it's very convenient if the roof is removable so you can easily gain access to the inside of the house for cleaning and maintenance. A hinged roof is especially nice.
DOGHOUSE ROOF TYPE The type of roof you choose is both a style and function decision. Wooden dog houses generally come with either: 1) the classic pitched roof, made from two panels joined together to form a peak, or 2) the single panel roof, typically with a gentle slope from the front to the back of the house.
A pitched roof makes a dog house look more "house like" but it also creates extra space to heat during cold weather. This could be an important consideration if you live in an area with cold winters and don't plan on heating the house. However, you could add an inner ceiling to the house to make the house snugger, if the roof is removable, it shouldn't be too hard to create a plywood ceiling insert. This insert could be removed during the hot summer to improve airflow and provide an area for the hot air to rise into.
A single panel roof allows for a more compact dog house, which is a good thing during cold weather. Another nice thing is that it provides a ready-made sun deck and look-out platform for your dog. A convenient place to howl at the moon. A panel roof also has fewer nooks and crannies than a pitched roof so hornets and wasps are less likely to establish a residence.
A third type of dog house roof is the loft or sun deck style roof, which is usually a single or double panel roof with an attached wooden platform on top. In some cases, the loft and the roof are one and the same, essentially a flat roof with a railing around the perimeter. This isn't the best design in terms of shedding water so a house with such a roof is a good candidate for indoor use or outside use under shelter.
DOGHOUSE: ROOF COVERING Your buying decision should factor in the type of protective covering on the roof. The main choices here are asphalt shingles, wood - shingles, plywood, boards, metal, or plain old tar paper. If you are thinking of purchasing a dog house with a flat panel roof, keep in mind that your dog may adopt the roof as his personal sun deck. This means the roofing material is likely to be subjected to scratching and chewing. You might see if heavy duty shingles - asphalt or wood, are an option.
Asphalt shingles are ok as long as there's adequate insulation to keep the heat absorbed by the shingles from seeping into the interior of the house. They hold up well over time, look good on certain styles of houses, and don't require repainting or staining.
Some of the most attractive dog houses feature a pitched roof with wood shingles. The best of these use a decay resistant wood such as cedar or redwood for the shingles. The advantage of a wood roof is that wood has very good insulating properties and minimizes heat build-up in the interior of the house. Other materials such as asphalt shingles require more insulation to achieve the same effect.
Metal roofs are fairly uncommon on commercial dog houses but they do a good job of shedding rain and snow. There's a reason why a lot of cabins in snow country have metal roofs. Metal roofs don't offer much in the way of insulation so if you buy a dog house with a metal roof, make sure it comes with interior insulation.
The cheapest houses have exposed plywood roofs with no protective covering other than paint or stain, or perhaps tar paper. Such roofs can last quite a while as long as you maintain them. But, who likes doing extra maintenance? You are better served getting a house that comes with a decent roof covering.
Porch or Awning Your dog will really be your buddy if you get him a house with a porch, an awning or some other type of protective overhang. Such a structure provides extra shade during the hot summer and helps to keep rain and snow away from the interior of the house - especially if you remove the door flap to improve air flow inside the house during the summer. Some houses have a combination porch or sun deck in which the dog can climb topside to hang out and look around or lie underneath in the covered area to play it cool.
DOGHOUSE VENTILATION If a dog house lacks adequate ventilation, the air will become hot and stifling during the summer, creating an uncomfortable, and possibly dangerous environment for your pet. During the winter, poor ventilation may result in excessive moisture buildup from the dog's breathing. This moisture will condense on the interior surfaces creating a clammy environment and inviting bugs and mildew to take up residence. So, proper ventilation is essential. The doorway opening obviously provides a certain degree of ventilation but if a door flap is used, the ventilation will be restricted. This is more of an issue during the winter when door flaps are used to keep the house warmer. Just a few small quarter-sized holes near the top of a house will often suffice for venting. Remember, hot air rises. Some houses have slatted ventilation openings, often in the style of windows. These can work quite well at improving air flow while keeping out rain and snow. However, if the opening is too large, this can result in excessive heat loss during the winter. Be prepared to partially cover up the openings with something like vinyl door flap material.
DOGHOUSE HEATING To heat or not to heat. That is a question that dog house buyers sometimes grapple with. There are really two questions to answer:
1) - Does your dog require additional heat to keep warm?
2) - If so, what is the best way to heat the house? In a nutshell, heating a dog house makes sense if you live in a cold environment, your dog is a warm-weather breed, i.e., short hair, your dog is used to be being indoors, or your dog is old and/or sickly. Heating options include a standalone heater/AC unit, metal light bulb heaters, and heated kennel mats.
If you live in an area with frigid winters, the temperature may get so cold at times that your dog's body heat is not sufficient to keep her warm in the dog house. This is most likely to be the case with older dogs since their metabolism and general fitness isn't what it used to be. The same applies to sick dogs or dogs who are recovering from an illness. In these situations, a heated dog house can make a difference. A heated dog house is also recommended if the house will be used for whelping.
If you are a responsible pet owner, you're well aware of how important it is to keep your dog's house clean. For easier cleaning, make sure that the roof of your dog's house can be removed. An igloo-style doghouse is lightweight and durable, with a design that keeps pets cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Several models have vents in the ceiling to allow air ventilation on hot days. Closing the vent keeps your pet warmer in winter by eliminating body heat loss. Igloo doghouses have a doorway that is off center to protect your pet from blowing winds, rain and snow. Proper cleaning of an outdoor doghouse eliminates harmful bacteria from your dog's outdoor environment.
Follow these guidelines to properly clean the doghouse:
1. - Press each locking tab on the bottom of the igloo doghouse downward. Depending on the size, each house has three or more tabs that connect the floor to the house.
2. - Pull the top of the house straight off and lay it on the ground upside down.
3. - Remove all bedding and toys from the doghouse. Run all washable items through a washing machine and dryer.
4. - Sweep any remaining items into a dustpan with a broom and dispose of them. Dog hair, grass, sticks and feces from an older or potty-training dog can cause bacteria within his home as they decompose.
5. - Measure and pour 1/2 cup of 5.25% household bleach into a bucket. Add water from a garden hose to the 1-gallon mark on the bucket. Dilution of 32 parts water to 1 part bleach disinfects dog igloos. Stir the mixture thoroughly with a stiff scrub brush.
6. - Dip the brush into the cleaning solution and scrub the doghouse thoroughly. Scrub the floor and the interior of the house, making sure to get the solution into the edges and small corners near the opening.
7. - Allow the cleaning solution to sit for about 10 minutes. Rinse the disinfectant off with ample amounts of water from a garden hose. Turn the floor and the top of the doghouse over, and clean and rinse these surfaces in the same manner.
8. - Turn the inside of the doghouse floor and roof upward and allow them to completely dry. Reassemble the doghouse and flip the locking tabs down. Replace clean bedding, blankets and toys.
MORE DOGHOUSE CLEANING TIPS Clean the doghouse at least once a month. During wet seasons, humid summers, and cold weather, clean the doghouse more often.
Always wear rubber gloves when you clean the doghouse, as you most likely will remove feces and urine from bedding. Make sure that your doghouse has a removable roof to gain easy access to the structure.
First, remove all feces around the doghouse, including from the roof, steps, and surrounding yard. It is counterproductive to clean the inside of the doghouse if you leave feces around the structure, since your pet will track it into the doghouse later.
Remove all of your dog's toys and place them into a container of warm, soapy water and allow them to soak.
Next, remove all of the bedding. You should always use disposable bedding inside your doghouse, as it may become wet with urine or feces, and water or mud. Remove all of the bedding and dispose of it.
Sweep the structure of twigs, branches, leaves, and debris.
Fill a large bucket with hot, soapy water. Using a stout brush, thoroughly scour the entire doghouse, inside and out. Pay special attention to the inside corners, as debris, feces, and urine easily collect in corners.
Completely rinse the structure with water from your garden hose, using a hard spray.
Disinfect the doghouse with a household disinfectant. Or, purchase a specially formulated doghouse disinfectant from your local pet store. Follow the directions on the product.
While the doghouse air dries, clean your dog's toys.
Inspect the doghouse to determine if you need to make any repairs. Always make sure that nails do not protrude into the frame of the structure, since they could poke into the skin of your pet. Replace fresh bedding once the doghouse is completely dry and free of the scent of the disinfectant. Place your dog's toys on the porch of the doghouse. Never place food inside of your dog's house. Food draws rodents and pests.
Warning! Keep bleach containers tightly closed and store them in an area with no sunlight to preserve disinfecting properties.
If you are in the market for a dog house, here is the place to start. Here you'll learn about the types of dog houses that are available online, tips for selecting a house, reviews of some popular models, figuring out what size dog house your dog needs, how to get the best deal on a dog house, and lots more. You will find that many of the sites selling dog houses are featuring the same or very similar models. That's because there are a relatively small number of manufacturers, wholesalers if you will, actually building the houses and most of the dog house store fronts on the web represent their retail distribution network.
Ok, onto the good stuff. How much can you potentially save on a dog house by doing your homework? Well, you might be surprised. For a dog house in the $150 range, it's not uncommon for prices to vary by as much as $30 to $40 from the low to high end. Just make sure you take shipping charges into consideration because some of the listed prices include shipping and some don't. Once you have "normalized" the prices, I think you'll find that some vendors offer much better deals than others.
Some of the biggies in the wholesale business are Ware Manufacturing Inc., Petmate, and Blythe Wood Works. That's a little helpful background information to keep in your back pocket. At the retail level, there are quite a few companies selling dog houses on the web including the big names such as Amazon, Target, and WalMart. There are also a number of more specialized outfits. Some of the latter include Adams All Natural Cedar, DogHouses.com, PETCO, and PetSmart. When it comes to buying a dog house, keep in mind that you have a much better chance of getting your questions answered by these more specialized retailers. The big guys may provide a cheaper price, sometimes, but the specialized retailers will provide better product expertise.
DECISIONS... Buying a dog house isn't rocket science but if you have never gone dog house shopping before, you may be a bit overwhelmed at first. That's because you have a number of decisions to make:
How much do I want to spend?
What size house does my dog need?
What style of house?
Wood, plastic, or metal?
What kind of wood?
Centered or off-set doorway?
Asphalt shingle, metal, or wood roof? Painted or stained?
Insulated?
Heating/cooling system?
In all likelihood, your buying decision will be largely influenced by how much you want to spend and what particular style of dog house catches your fancy, kind of like buying a car. But you want to do right by your dog and make an informed decision. Right? Well, that's why you are reading this buyer's guide.
BUYING ONLINE IS NOT A GOOD IDEA! You may think: "Why in the blue blazes would I want to buy a bulky item like a dog house online? Won't I pay a fortune in shipping? And, what if the house is the wrong size for my dog?" These are excellent questions and deserve to be addressed. First off, dog house technology has evolved along with the Internet so that many of the houses sold online feature a break down modular design. The walls, the floor, the roof, deck, etc. are all separate panels that are shipped as a fairly compact bundle in a cardboard box. It's just a matter of screwing and bolting the pieces together. In many, perhaps most, cases, shipping is free. Even for the larger, heavier houses, shipping is seldom more than about $50.
Alright, maybe "free" shipping really means that the price of the dog house was jacked up accordingly. But, if you do a little comparison shopping, you will find that the total cost of an online house purchase compares quite favorably, OR better, to that of a house purchased from a local store. This assumes you can find a decent selection locally and then you still have to get it delivered to your home somehow. That's two more reasons for buying a dog house online. But what to do if you purchase a dog house online and find out that it is too small or too big for your pet? Well, this shouldn't happen if you have done your due diligence and consulted this page on sizing a dog house. And, of course, I'm sure you spent a few minutes to create a cardboard mock-up with the same dimensions as the house you purchased. You did this right? ;-P
Well, the good news is that most reputable vendors will allow you to return the house within 30 days. The bad news is that you will probably have to pay return shipping. So, just order the right size house in the first place and this will all be moot. Undoubtedly, the biggest advantages of buying a dog house online are selection and competitive pricing. Our friend, the Internet, offers a number of mechanisms for finding the best price on products. These include things like price comparison services, discount coupons, auction sites like eBay, and classified ads.
PREPARE DOGHOUSE FOR WINTER This material proudly presented by WWW.DOGSAHOLIC.COM and John Walton
Being able to provide shelter for your dog is a necessity if you want to keep him happy and healthy. He may have fun romping around outside and taking in all of the wonderful smells. Not to mention that you get to keep the inside of your home free of fur. Whether your dog simply does better outdoors or your home is too small for them, it's important that you provide some kind of shelter that he can use. This is even more essential during the cold winter months, when he is at risk for hypothermia and frostbite. Even cold weather dog breeds that do well in winter need some kind of shelter from the ice and snow so that their health is not being jeopardized. In this article, there are tips and how-to on winterizing your dog house, as well as building one from scratch.
Hypothermia & Frostbite Winter can be a cruel time for those who are exposed to the elements, and the same is true of your dog. Hypothermia sets in when your dog's internal temperature is abnormally low. This can result in damage to your dog's central nervous system. The heart and rate of blood flow are also affected, as they begin to slow in an attempt to preserve themselves. Signs of hypothermia include an irregular heartbeat, impaired consciousness, and irregular breathing. If you see that your dog is acting lethargic or being slower than normal, then you should seek medical attention immediately. Frostbite is a more difficult condition to diagnose, due to your dog's fur. Your dogs extremities should be checked on a regular basis, such as their ears, tail and paws. If they feel extremely cold, then they are suffering from frostbite. This is when the body retracts the blood flowing into the extremities in order to keep the core temperature regular. This means that ice crystals can form in your dog's blood and lead to damage in his veins and arteries. To make sure Dog is protected while outside, for his regular walk or for a quick play in the snow, you should protect his body with a Dog Blanket Coat that covers the back, the chest, and the belly. This coat is recommended especially if your dog's hair is short and rare.
Where to put your dog house Even though his shelter may be prepared for winter, taking the extra steps to pick a spot that maximizes on the insulation of the dog house ensures that he reaps all of the rewards. First, the opening of the dog shelter should face a direction that doesn't directly point into the wind. Wind chill can be even colder than the surrounding temperatures, and the insulation will do no good if the wind is blowing directly into his home. If this proves to be difficult, you can cover the entrance of the shelter with scraps of carpeting, old bathmats, or plastic sheeting. Secondly, choose a part of the yard that is not prone to flooding. When the ice and snow melts, the yard can become quite wet and swampy. Choosing elevated areas will ensure that he's dry and avoid the inside of his shelter from becoming wet as well. With nowhere to be dry, your dog can have hypothermia set in very quickly if he is always wet and cold. Thirdly, the dog shelter should be raised from the ground through the use of some kind of platform. The flat inside surface of the shelter is in constant contact with the ground, which makes it quite easy for the inside of the dog house to become cold. Elevation from the ground causes the house to retain more heat, making it easier for your dog to stay warm.
Winterizing a Dog House If you already have a doghouse in place in your yard, then there are some extra purchases that you can make in order to help your dog stay warm during the winter. Many doghouses that you can purchase at the store are already insulated for both cold and summer months, but it helps to go that extra step to maximize the comfort of your dog. These options are cost-effective solutions that will protect the health of your dog and ensure that he is comfortable. They can also be switched around if your dog isn't particular about any of the additions that are made.
Insulation: many dog houses are already equipped with a variety of insulation materials, but you can always add your own. Check that the dog house that you have purchased has insulation in all parts of the shelter. If not, then you are probably going to have to add your own, especially in the floor. Styrofoam sheets or polystyrene foam can be used between the walls of the dog house, and make great insulating material. However, if you want to offer your dog a cozy home even during the worst winter days, you should consider a Dog House Insulation Kit. This will keep the cold outside while Rover can keep warm inside. Be sure to check your dog's house for any holes or weak spots, as the last thing you need is for your dog to start using the insulation as his new chew toy. Not only will that undo all of your work, but it can also make your dog very sick.
Heating pads and units: if you worry that the insulation alone won't be enough to keep your dog warm, then you can always choose to include heating pads or heating units within the dog shelter to help. Heating pads should be no bigger than the size of the shelter interior, and should not be left on at all times. Doing so can leave your dog at risk for being burned or becoming dehydrated. Heating pads should be no bigger than the size of the shelter interior, and should not be left on at all times. Doing so can leave your dog at risk for being burned or becoming dehydrated. Heating units can be added to warm the exterior of the house, which will radiate to within. If possible, you can put these devices on some kind of timer so that it only warms up when the dog needs it. No matter which option you choose, it's important that the cords be hidden from your dog in order to avoid the risk of chewing. An electrocuted dog should be the least of your worries during the winter season.
Bedding: choosing bedding that's cheap such as sheets and fabric bedding may seem like the easy option, but they are not going to keep your dog warm if they get wet. Lining the bottom of the shelter with straw and/or cedar shavings will do well to keep your dog both warm and dry. They are quite cheap, and come in quite large bags, meaning that they can be used over and over again. Be aware that you are going to have to change the bedding on a regular basis, once every two to three weeks – in order to provide constantly clean and warm bedding for your dog.
Bedding: it's easy for your dog's water bowl to freeze during the winter, and he is going to need a constant supply of fresh water during the day. You can choose to change his water every few hours, or you can splurge a little and decide to get a heated water bowl to prevent his water from freezing. These are easy to find in any pet store, and should not be placed in the middle of your dog's bedding.
Proper Cold Weather Construction Before getting into the nuts and bolts of heating a dog house, it's worth pointing out that a properly constructed dog house will go a long way towards keeping your pet comfy warm during the winter. Ideally, a cold weather dog house has the following features:
1) The dog house floor is insulated and elevated above the ground. A cement floor is nice and cool in the winter but bitter cold in the winter. It soaks the heat right out of live things. Insulated wood is best. In a pinch, you could place the dog house on top of a wooden pallet.
2) The house is large enough for your dog to comfortably turn around and to stretch out but not so large that it is own body heat can not keep the house warm.
3) The floor, walls, and roof of the house are insulated.
4) The doorway has some kind of door. A flap of clear vinyl or carpet will suffice.
5) The house has an interior wind break wall so your dog is better protected from the elements.
Looking for right decorations for our dog house? I wanted a simple design but not an eyesore, I finally thought to look for dog crate ideas that can blend with the interiors and furnishings. I was prepared to find more attractive solution to this problem, I have put together some cool dog house from various sources internet and I hope you can find dog crate that fits your decor. We think dog house would look so cute with cool following ideas!
Wooden Doghouse Furniture
Vintage Dog Crates
Stylish Indoor Dog Furniture
Small Indoor Doghouse
Skin Doghouse Ideas
Night Stand Doghouse
Modern Understair Doghouse
Indoor Kitchen Doghouse
Indoor Wooden Doghouse
Laundry Room Doghouse
Under Stair Doghouse
Doghouse Crates Cabinet
Indoor Doghouse Cabinet
Doghouse Console
Under Bookshelf Doghouse
Walled Dog Crates
DIY Homemade Doghouse
Door Homemade Doghouse
Baroque Dog Crate
TV Set Doghouse
Wooden Geometric Doghouse
Doghouse: Under Table
OUTDOOR DOGHOUSE This article is proudly presented by WWW.HOMEMY DESIGN.COM and Sean Longhurst
Everyone would agree that dogs are the most popular pet in the world. In addition to its cute and adorable, since the first dog also known as man's best friend. I am among those who likes to keep a dog, after you see my post about indoor dog house, it is now time outdoor dog houses shine. There are many ways of making outdoor dog house, if you have a little creativity can start by taking a wooden board and put them to the dog house. Take advantage of the backyard garden or terrace with a simple design, but try to keep your pet comfortable and protected from the sun and rain. For those of you who are very fond of them can order the house special dog with complete facilities. Some collection of dog house below are awesome, and hopefully you will find one of the 20 pictures for your lovely pooch!
Being in the doghouse has a new connotation thanks to Samsung's unbelievable doggie dream house. The luxurious kennel has everything from a hot tub to a media room that will get any pup's paw of approval and score you some major bragging rights! Samsung created the doggie dream house in alignment with their sponsorship for Crufts 2015, the world's largest dog show. The kennel was displayed at the event and is estimated to cost 31K! It took 12 architects and fabricators six weeks to create the pricey kennel. In order to make the best of the best, Samsung surveyed 1,500 people to find out what they think their pet would benefit from.
The survey found most pet owners believed their dogs would benefit from a spa, self-feeder, and treadmill amongst others amenities. The survey also showed nearly 40% of owners have left the television on for their pets and another quarter have used television to block out frightening sounds such as fireworks for their pups. Some owners also admitted to video calling their dogs while away. The results highly influenced which pawsome features would be included in the doggie dream house. While it is not actually for sale, the dog cave was up for grabs as the grand prize of a social media contest. Some of the kennel's comforts include a hot tub, treadmill, automated feeding bowl, and even a push-to-woof button to grab owner's attention without ever leaving the kennel! The doggie den also has a plush media room equipped with "dog-proof" leather buttons, luxurious bone pillows and a wall-mounted Samsung Galaxy Tab allowing dogs to watch TV from bed or interact with owners through a video link.
AC, Wi-Fi Web Camera and LED Lighting With built-in air conditioning, heating and a humidifier, "The Cool Pet House" is designed to keep small animals comfortable in any weather. The house comes with a remote control, LED lighting, and an optional wi-fi web camera so you can check on your pets while you are away.
Roof Garden Each one of these earth-friendly doghouses is custom sized and built for your pet. They are made of rot-resistant red cedar and recycled planks with beeswax waterproofing. They are shipped unplanted with vegetation that is native to your region.
Moddy Doggy House This modern doghouse integrates the horizontal slat style that is popular with modern furniture designers. The angled roof and thick-slab wood floor create interesting visuals without compromising utility. The "Moddy" doghouse is available in Ipe and Cedar wood.
K-9 Deluxe by Taparchitecture This eco-friendly doghouse includes a 5-gallon, roof-top rainwater collection tank that feeds a water bowl. The ventilation system and interior lighting are both solar powered.
Footstool Doghouse This black faux-leather ottoman is adorned with pewter studs and an ultra-suede zebra cushion to become a special home within a home.
Stylish "BowHaus" This structure satisfies a dogs' instinctive craving for a cozy, enclosed space yet can be displayed like an elegant piece of furniture. The house is made of powder-coated steel and the starburst design provides plenty of ventilation without compromising the snug dog den.
A Durable Doghouse Plastic pet homes are fully insulated to keep your dog comfortable all year. The houses are designed to withstand extreme weather without cracking or fading.
"The Dog Trot" by Taparchitecture This doghouse was inspired by a building style common in the South. It consists of two wood frame structures under a common roof with a breezeway between them.
Doghouse Den by DenHaus Not all dog houses are designed for the outdoors. This ingenious dog crate blends in with your home's decor and provides a cozy shelter for your dog. Comes in four sizes.
"The Dog Coop" by Taparchitecture The designers of this environmentally-friendly doghouse created insulated panels from plywood and used durable plastic for the decking.
The days of your pet dog becomes more fun with an awesome dog house after seeing the post today. They are not big houses Russian millionaire, or a Hollywood star but a dog houses that was born under a lucky star. Some dog house design even is very creative, unexpected places turned into a dog house that blends with your home decor. You may ask if the dog knows to appreciate the works of architecture, but these futuristic and ubelievable houses this awesome dog will definitely make the heart swell with pride owner. If you are a dog lover, you should see some of them to beautify your dog house!
CHECK 20 AMAZING DIY DOGHOUSE DESIGNS at WWW.HGTV.CA !!!
HOMEMADE DIY DOGHOUSE HEATER This article proudly presented by WWW.SEIZE THEPAGE.COM
Sometimes around it gets really cold, and you wish to be sure your dog is warm. I know they are animals and can deal with it, but while I am in my warm bed, I like to know they are well taken care of too, so I consulted with some friends and looked online and found a nice solution that is rather easy to make. It seems that in August/September of 1990 in a magazine called Gun Dog, there was an article about how to create a simple dog house heater for hunting dogs. It involved using a metal gallon paint can, a porcelain light bulb fixture, a 60 watt bulb and some wire, to make a convective heating device.
INSTRUCTIONS Go to a paint store and buy an unused 1 gallon paint can with the lid. Punch 1/4" dia holes on the lid and sides of the can. Keep the holes small enough to prevent much light from getting through yet still allow convective heat to escape. Punch a hole in the bottom about 2" in diameter. Enough room for your wire to be manageable. Mount the can keeping 4" of clearance on all sides to allow heat to circulate. You will need to run the wiring to the correct location first of course. Connect a porcelain light bulb socket inside the can, wire it up and put a bulb in the base, put the lid on. Accessories that can be included, after all it is built by guys are a dimmer switch to control heat and an indoor-outdoor thermometer to keep tabs on the temperature.
I quickly snapped a video using my cell phone this evening to show you what it looks like inside the dog house, so you can get an idea. The can is very hot, I cant even touch it. It has the dog house nice and toasty. I am looking forward to see how it does in the colder days ahead.
DOG AND PUPPY CRATES, CAGES & KENNELS This article is proudly presented by WWW.PETSTREET MALL.COM and WWW.DOGCRATES INFO.COM and WWW.FOTER.COM and WWW.MYGERMAN SHEPHERD.ORG
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CRATE FOR YOUR DOG A lot of people might think, how different can one type of dog crate be from the other? After all, it's just a crate. Wrong! - Dog crates come in all sizes, shapes and types and if you do not select the right one for your dog, then it's a stressful experience for the dog and a waste of your hard earned money.
The Size: The size of the crate is undoubtedly one of the most important factors to consider while selecting one. It should allow the dog to comfortably stand, sit and lie down with some extra head room. But do not select a crate that is too big for your dog, else, the dog may start to soil one part of the crate and sleep in the other.
The Type of Crate There are many different types of crates that you can choose from. Wire dog crates are the simplest and also the flimsiest of them all and heavy duty dog crates are the toughest. If you have a dog who is a bit of an escape artist or has a mischievous side to his personality, it is recommended that you opt for a heavy duty crate. They are tough, durable and will prevent your dog from playing Houdini, when you are away.
The Price: Last but not the least, you might want to consider the price. While you do not want to cut corners, you also want to ensure that it doesn't blow a hole in your pocket.
DOG CRATE vs DOG KENNEL Dog crate is not just for resting but also for sleeping. Unless you have a house the size of a palace, a dog crate should be available only in one room of the house. Crate and kennel are not the same thing. Kennel usually used to control, master the dog. Crate should be a den for your dog. Unlike a crate, a kennel is a closed area for the dog, with a roof and a door, typically even with a lock. This is where the word 'kennel' as a dog shelter derives from, they all are closed areas for dogs. Kennel and crate serve the opposite objective.
In a kennel, dogs are locked away because the handler or owner fears trouble if the dog or dogs can freely move in and out. Either trouble for the owner or handler or other people, or trouble for dogs. The best dog crate is the one which best suits your needs. This includes the size of your dog, the space you need it to fit in, where you want the doors to be, and where you want to use it. Purchasing a crate, or two, can seem like a decent investment of money, but it's not just a monetary investment.
Crate training your dog is also an investment of time. However it's in my opinion, an invaluable investment into your dog that will have many pay offs during the rest of your life together. A dog who is comfortable spending time alone will be better behaved in a kennel or daycare, will be less stressed in a vets office and will make a great travel companion or hotel buddy. Don't give up on the crate training process, the end outcome and your dogs mental health are worth it!
SIZE MATTERS! No matter what material or design you decide, the most important decision of all is size. Size matters, not just to your dog, but to you as well! Selecting a crate that is appropriately sized for your dog can be tricky if you have a puppy, specifically one who will grow up to be much larger than they are now. You may have to invest in a couple crates or a specific style of crate that can be divided and then expanded as the dog grows. Or you may opt to borrow one from family or friends until they grow up a little more, or you may choose to just buy a couple and re-use or resale at some point down the line.
With a full grown dog choosing size can be a little easier. Your dog should have room to walk in, turn around and lay down comfortably within the crate with a little extra leg room if they decide to sprawl out. They should not have enough space to do all the above, and yet still have an equal sized space left over. These luxuriously over sized kennels do not encourage a natural "den" feeling, because the dog is not securely surrounded. Dogs like the cozy feeling a crate provides oversized, does not cozy. All that extra space you are providing might make You feel better about confining your pooch but for a lot of dogs, but it can actually create more anxiety.
Since super sized kennels can create more anxiety for a lot of dogs - a mind set already prime for more poor decision making, having excessive space in the crate can lead to other behavior problems like defecating or urinating in the crate, because they have enough space to go lay away from their mess. Where as in a tighter environment they would likely make a better choice, to hold it, to avoid having to lay in or beside their own excrement. It can lead to destructive behaviors like crate mutilation - destroying pieces of the crate, bending doors, scratching or even worse the anxiety could lead further into separation anxiety which can lead to self mutilation - gnawing their teeth down chewing doors, injuring themselves by attempting to escape confinement.
Size matters, so before investing in a crate for your dog be sure to read the rest of this article, do some research into brands available to your area and even take your dog along to try out floor models to ensure the best fit for your family!
WHATS IT MADE FOR? These days there is no shortage of different design options when choosing a dog crate. There's collapsible fabric crates, plastic airline carriers, wire kennels, car crates and even Alcatraz style, escape artist-proof crates! When selecting your crate it's important to consider what it's main function will be to you, for example: will you use it for "safekeeping" - confinement to ensure your dog isn't getting into funny business while you are out will they be using it unsupervised? Will it be mainly used for travel in the vehicle, keeping your dog off your lap and everyone on the road safe? Or will you be using it for short term use in a variety of locations, thus making portability and weight a factor? These are all important things to ask yourself when investing in a crate for your dog. You may even notice from my examples that having multiple crates, may even be necessary for your lifestyle.
If you are mainly going to need a crate to confine your dog for house training or to provide a safe place in your absence, your best bet is a plastic airline crate. These kennels get their "airline" associated name due to the fact that they are the only crates approved for travel in cargo holds of planes. They are durable, well designed and for the average dog provide more than enough security against escape artists. In my experience, most dogs prefer this style of kennel due to their usually rounded walls, encouraging a nice relaxed sleeping ball. The limited visibility beyond looking through the door, also helps keep visual distractions low and mimics a more "den" like space. These crates are also extremely easy to clean, making them a favorite of many dog care takers!
Wire kennels have become increasingly popular in the recent years, although to be honest- I have no idea why! Aside from their precisely square angles-which makes fitting them in places easier. There is no real upside to them over a plastic crate. They are heavy & I have caught my fingers in the wire while folding them to many times to count. They give a 360 view of all angles and so visual distractions are always available to create anxiety. Covering them with a blanket to reduce the visibility can also become a problem, due to the fact there is such large gaps between bars it takes almost no skill on the dogs part to pull things through the wire. Leading to potentially deadly ingestion of undesired items.
These large spacing Wooden Crates with in-between bars also makes fitting mouths around them very easy - these crates are often the first crates dog's learn to escape from, due to their poor quality and design. Once they think they have found an escape method, they will try it with any others. In my opinion, wire crates serve almost no purpose, unless they are to be placed in a location where a plastic kennel may not suit, by heat vent. Sure, they may seem more visually appealing in your beautiful home, but for most dogs they are the birthplace of anxiety. Unlike plastic crates, these wire counter parts are also extremely difficult to clean and the wide open holes leave plenty of room for messes to spill or be sprayed outwards.
Fabric crates are not for the first time crate user. These crates are for crate savvy dogs, who are well aware of the boundary's the crate reinforces. Why? These are extremely easy to rip or tear, specifically at the zippers, and especially if you buy one on the cheaper end with poor quality seams to begin with. These should not be used without supervision unless your dog is one of the crate savvy pups mentioned above, and not before they have have plenty of supervised interaction in it, to allow you to interrupt any naughty behaviors, like pawing the door. Once your dog is comfortable and content with what being in crate means, these can be an awesome addition to camping trips, dog classes and dog events.
These simple, lightweight pop-up crates are easy to travel with and provide an easy to grab "safe place" to stow your dog if your attention is distracted. For example, we went fishing on a camping trip and instead of leaving the dogs at the campsite, we were able to bring the pop up crate along to the lake, set it up in seconds in a shady spot, stow the dogs and focus on our original task. While still being able to include the dogs in activities. Ideally they'd of had a bomb proof place command, but that's another article! Fabric crates can be a great tool to have around, once you have installed that great crate foundation with your dog. Remember though, these are not for first time crate users, or to be used without supervision as a means of confinement until your dog is reliably calm in it, in your presence.
Car crates are the newest thing around these days, these funky looking kennels are specially designed to protect your pet and keep them safe and contained in the vehicle in case of an accident. They are on the pricier end of the scale, but unless you are like me and have multiple large breed dogs, the cost and functionality may be better justified. There's been many reports out lately showing the damage different styles of crates, like those mentioned above, can inflict not only your pet during a minor collision, but yourself as well. Not unlike a loose pet can become a flying projectile in an accident, so can their crate. I have even seen pictures of wire kennels smushed into bits and mangled by a low speed collision. Not only could your dog become impaled during that process, but should they come out unscathed but their crate is in pieces, the potential for them to flee the scene via a broken window, etc is increased. There's a variety of styles and brands to choose from when selecting one of these heavy-duty crates - Invest wisely!
Last but not least, there's escape-proof kennels! These crates are built from high quality, durable material and designed with every potential escape artist in mind. So if perhaps you made a mistake mentioned earlier and created an escape addict. These kennels will be your only solid investment. Plastic can be chewed, wire can be bent, fabric can be ripped. High end aluminum.. box and door and sophisticated locks.
Well they will be hard pressed to find a way to worm their way out of there. One of the most notably preferred escape proof kennels to serious dog professionals - those who see extreme separation anxiety on a regular basis is ZingerWinger. So if you have a crate killer at home, search no more, this crate can give you your freedom back and give you peace of mind knowing they are safe and contained, no matter what.
MINIATURE DOG CAMPERS This material proudly presented by WWW.DORNOB.COM
Camper aficionados who have full-sized mobile lodgings of their own can now have a matching miniature version made just for their pets. Designer Judson Beaumont of Straight Line Designs, who typically makes surrealist anthropomorphic furniture, got the idea when his daughter asked him to build a doghouse for their puppy.
The Pet Camper is available in four different versions, or you can order a custom version in any materials, size, color and style that you like.
They're made to be used indoors as a kennel or for brief periods outdoors as a place for pets to get out of the sun.
The trailers are made for small dogs weighing under 20 pounds, though larger models suitable for bigger dogs may be on the way, and the trailers are appropriate for cats, too.
It's easy to imagine these adorable mobile canine lodgings sitting outside the larger versions owned by the tiny occupants' human companions.
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