Best Dog Houses Reviewed

The 8 Best Dog Houses Compared

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  Suncast DH350 Best Dog House

Suncast DH350 Dog House
Confidence Pet Waterproof Plastic Dog-Kennel Outdoor Winter House

Confidence Pet Waterproof Plastic Dog-Kennel Outdoor Winter House

Merry Products Wood Pet HomeMerry Products Wood Pet Home
Petsfit Dog HousePetsfit Dog House
Petmate Barnhome III Dog HousePetmate Barnhome III Dog House
Arf Frame Dog HousePetsqueak Arf Frame Dog House
Petmate INDIGO W/MICROBAN Dog HousePetmate INDIGO W/MICROBAN
ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace with Floor Heater Dog HouseASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace with Floor Heater

We share our homes and lives with our dogs in a unique and closer fashion than other pets. Our canine companions become as much a member of the household as any member of the family. In fact, most dog parents tend to treat their dogs like children or tiny humans, so it is without a doubt that dogs behave as if they are one. You might have already noticed how your dog has taken over your house. So what are you going to do about it?

Best Dog Houses Reviewed

Reclaim what is yours and teach your dog where he should be. Providing your dog his own castle is advantageous for you and your pet. For one, dog houses allow your pets to have ideal outside coverage so he can run and play under the sun instead of lounging all day on the sofa. When he is done frolicking in the garden, a dog house can always serve as his special retreat so he can enjoy peace and quiet when necessary. As soon as he learns his place, you will be king of the castle again!

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Dog House

Size

The size is the biggest consideration in purchasing a dog house. It must fit your dog and allow him to stand up, lay down, and turn around. Also, it must have enough room for food and water. Anything bigger is at your discretion, but a house too large for a small dog is impossible to be warmed by your dog’s natural body heat. You can try to use a dog chair/sofa to fill up the space.

If you have a puppy, consider that your pooch is a growing fella. You don’t want to waste time and money buying a dog house to have your dog outgrow it in just a few months.

Ventilation and Insulation

It is crucial that your pet has plenty of breathing room to keep him cool during humid climates as well as sufficient insulation to keep him feeling toasty during the cold seasons.

Material

Plastic and wood both have advantages and disadvantages. Plastic is lighter, easier to clean, and requires less maintenance than wood, which is heavier and needs frequent re-staining. On the contrary, temperatures tend to fluctuate more in plastic construction. Wood provides natural insulation and is also more aesthetically pleasing. However, wood is prone to termite infestation.

Elevation and Flooring

Some dog houses exhibit raised flooring to aid ventilation. A raised floor also prevents the cold ground temperature from affecting the house during winter. Likewise, a sloped floor towards the entryway keeps rainwater and melted snow from getting inside the house.

Your Pet’s Habits

Perhaps your dog won’t mind ducking each time he enters his house, but a door with a round edge would be kind for a clumsy dog. If he loves to keep himself updated with all the action while he relaxes, he would certainly appreciate a dog house with a small window. Most dogs love to hoard things, so make sure it has extra space for his toys or unearthed treasures. 

Aesthetics

Dogs rarely become picky with dog house designs, but since you are going to place a dog house for a long time in your yard, you might as well choose a charming one.

1. Suncast DH350 Deluxe Dog House– Editors Choice

Give your dog his own abode with the Suncast DH350 Deluxe dog house, which is currently the most popular product within its price range. The Suncast DH350 Deluxe provides all your pet’s necessities within your budget. Its construction is made of resin, a non-toxic and highly durable plastic that mimics the appearance of stone at a fraction of the weight and an affordable cost.

Assembling the dog house is quite easy and does not require any tools. Simply slide and lock the pieces together to set. 

Suncast DH350 Best Dog House Review

The Suncast DH350 Deluxe can accommodate Border Collies, German Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers, among other large breeds between 70 to 100 pounds. However, the dog house may still fall apart in spite of its sturdy resin construction if the pieces aren’t properly locked so take note!

Moreover, the Suncast DH350 Deluxe is lightweight and single-walled. Some customers are anxious that it might be too fragile for a heavy, agile dog. Nonetheless, such house is resilient enough to endure strong winds if staked to the ground; hence, it might withstand a hyperactive dog as well. There are four markings on each bottom corner of the dog house. Using a utility knife, you can cut through the markings and insert stakes into each hole.

Aesthetic-wise, the Suncast DH350 Deluxe features a cute decorative design, making it a complementary addition to your landscape or garden. It has faux pas windows, a blue plastic roof, and a vinyl door, both of which can be removed for easy cleaning. To increase ventilation during summer, simply remove the door. Unfortunately, the doorway is low; thereby, your dog has to duck should he enter his house.

Furthermore, the Suncast DH350 Deluxe comes with stickers for you to create a nameplate for your pet. It also exhibits a crowned floor and a gutter surrounding the interior’s bottom that captures rainwater to keep your dog dry. Unfortunately, you have to turn the house upside down to drain the accumulated water, which is quite inconvenient when you have already staked the dog house to the ground.

Overall, the Suncast DH350 is a great housing solution designed for large breeds minus the hefty price tag. It’s durable and adorable.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly dog house
  • Made of durable resin construction
  • Accommodates a large dog up to 100 pounds
  • Easy to assemble, no tools required
  • Looks cute and comes with stickers
  • Sturdy when set up properly
  • Does not tarnish nor rust
  • Can withstand wear and tear
  • Requires low maintenance
  • Roomy and has air vents
  • Roof is removable for easy cleaning
  • Door is removable to suit climate changes

Cons

  • Doorway is low
  • Lightweight and single-walled
  • Has no sufficient insulation
  • Has to be staked down to withstand strong winds and hyperactive dogs
  • Gutter has no exit

2. Confidence Waterproof Plastic Dog House/ Kennel

When resistant to the elements, have great faith in the Confidence Waterproof Dog Kennel. As its name suggests, such a house confidently withstands harsh weather conditions to keep your furry buddy safe and sound throughout the year. It protects your dog from sun, wind, snow, and rain. Confidence Waterproof Dog Kennel is made entirely of resin. It’s durable, versatile, and non-toxic. What is more, it is shock-proof so you won’t have to worry about dents and cracks even if you have a clumsy or overactive dog who can’t help but bang against the walls every time he is out and about.

Confidence Pet Waterproof Plastic Dog-Kennel Outdoor Winter Dog House Review

Moreover, this dog house is an excellent choice for dog parents who just wish to gift their furry family member a castle of his own. It’s tall, wide, and spacious, befitting for your kingly dog. You can add his favorite toys, beddings, pillows, and even a heated dog bed for added plush and warmth. One of the best features of the Confidence Waterproof Dog Kennel is its large doorway that has a round edge that keeps your dog from hurting itself as he enters his abode. It isn’t too small that will force him to duck or large enough that will leave himself exposed to rain.

Because of its size, the Confidence Waterproof Dog Kennel is better off as an outdoor dog house. From a cosmetic standpoint, it looks cool and expensive. Its blue roof beautifully contrasts its white walls. Your dog may not fuss about color combinations, but surely you wouldn’t want a blot on your beautiful landscape. Likewise, its roof and walls are both sleek, which makes cleaning a breeze. In addition, the dog house is slightly elevated and exhibits a ramp at its entrance.

The Confidence Waterproof Dog Kennel can accommodate large to extra large dogs. Assembling the dog house is an easy feat but due to its size and weight, it would be quite a challenge to move the house from one place to another. You have to disassemble the entire house first before you can place it somewhere else. Therefore, you have to undergo deliberate consideration regarding its location. Regardless, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t put it up inside the house when you have enough space for such a luxurious dog house.

Pros

  • Exhibits cool, minimalistic aesthetics
  • Can endure varying climates
  • Shock-proof property prevents cracks and dents
  • Does not rust or rot
  • Strongly built
  • Waterproof and allows easy cleaning
  • Accommodates all kinds of large breeds
  • Spacious

​Cons

  • Heavy
  • Requires a fixed location; otherwise
  • House has to be disassembled first before you can move it

3. Merry Products Wood Pet Home

Toy dogs, despite their bantam stature, have big personalities. These tiny, pompous creatures such as the Pomeranian, love to strut around and examine their kingdom. What better way to delight the furry monarch than by getting him his own little condominium? The Merry Wood Pet Home should be on top of your list if you want a functional dog house with a fancy touch. It is a two-in-one dog house that features a separate bedroom and a sun deck balcony, which is accessible by a cute staircase. The balcony allows your pooch to watch over his territory, observe passersby, or simply relax and bask under the sun. What is more, the balcony features a dainty lattice fence that complements both indoor and outdoor décor.

Merry-Products-Wood Dog House Review

The Merry Wood Pet Home is particularly built for teacups and toy dogs. Its bedroom measures 14” x 18” x 18” while its balcony measures 18” x 18”. Unfortunately, such house does not come with any cushioning, so you have to buy a mattress separately.

Quality-wise, the Merry Wood Pet Home is durable enough to accommodate two tiny pooches weighing 20 pounds each or less. If you have two pets who don’t mind sharing, one can sleep inside the bedroom while the other sleeps on the balcony. Moreover, setting up this dog house is child’s play and can be done in just a few minutes. It is also fairly lightweight so you can transfer it from your patio to your balcony or elsewhere anytime. The Merry Wood Pet Home is made of real cedar wood, which is further dried and lacquered to preserve its quality and to produce an attractive, glossy finish. The cedar wood gives off an earthy fragrance, but it will vanish eventually.

Manufacturers claim that this dog house can be used rain or shine, but so far, it remains a moot point among customers. Wood Pet Home apparently cannot withstand both rain and wind. Manufactures must have meant ‘outside’ for roofed terraces or patios. Nonetheless, the Wood Pet Home is adorable, functional, and reasonably priced. If you have a dog house or dog bed reserved for winter, there is no reason why you shouldn’t get this one also.

Pros

  • Adorable and affordable
  • Made of real cedar wood
  • Does not rot
  • Two-in-one dog house
  • Easy to assemble
  • Can be moved from one place to another
  • Can be shared by two tiny dogs
  • Easy to clean

​Cons

  • Not weather-proof
  • Lattice fence may break
  • Has no cushion
  • House must be re-stained to maintain gloss and color

4. Petsfit Dog House

Petsfit is an established company known for their expertise in creating pet houses. The Petsfit outdoor dog house in particular, is built by artisans with dogs in mind. Putting a great deal of canine consideration while building a dog house is vital to amplify the product’s efficiency, making sure you get more bang out of your buck.

Petsfit dog house is available in four sizes: the smallest model measures 33” x 25” x 23” while the largest measures 45” x 30” x 32”. It is currently available in maroon with white accents, something that will surely give your garden a pop of color. Moreover, this dog house is made of kiln-cedar wood, which is notable for its insect-repelling and anti-rot properties.

Petsfit Dog House Review

Cedar is strong and resilient, making it one of the best materials for housing. Perfect for all seasons, it has the prowess to withstand wind, rain, and snow. You won’t have to fret about your clumsy dog getting wood splints either.

In addition, the exterior of the house is varnished with an odorless and non-toxic lacquer to preserve wood quality and help ward off termites. The result is a beautiful glossy finish! Another great feature about Petsfit dog house is its heavy-duty flooring, which can withstand a 100-pound dog. Likewise, the floor is off the ground, which is very advantageous during the wet season. The raised floor allows water to simply pass under the house during heavy rains and keeps the dog house dry and free of mud and mold. You wouldn’t want your dog sleeping on a damp bed. The house’s feet are also protected with strong plastic; thus, it will not succumb to damage caused by moisture.

Petsfit-Dog-House-Outdoor-2

Moreover, its walls are 12 mm thick, which guarantees your dog’s klutziness won’t knock down his own house. The Petsfit dog house also features a slanted roof to prevent accumulation of rainwater, dry leaves, or any debris. Its groove design enables better drainage and helps curb damage on the roof that may cause due to impact.

Pros

  • Features a slanted roof and grooved design for draining rainwater
  • Raised roof prevents accumulation of water and debris
  • Floor and door are removable
  • Floor is heavy-duty
  • Cleaning and maintenance is a breeze
  • Easy to setup

Cons

  • Relies merely on wood insulation for warmth

5. Petmate Barnhome III Dog House

Petmate Barnhome III dog house may not be included in the cutest dog house list, but this unit is for you if you prefer practicability over expensive frills for your dog. Petmate Barnhome III  provides your pet a cozy nook where he could retreat for an afternoon siesta or a convenient shelter from the rain shower. It may not go along with your outdoor paraphernalia, but it offers more advantages over traditional wooden dog houses. Despite its simplicity, the Petmate Barnhome III is among the dog houses with the highest ratings. For one, it is as functional as a dog house and as lightweight as a crate. Its lightweight design allows you to move it whenever necessary. 

Petmate Barnhome III Best Dog House Review

Petmate Barnhome III is made of hard, heavy-duty plastic. Rotting wood, termites, and splinters are the least of your concerns. Likewise, its solid walls prevent strong winds and clumsy dogs from knocking down the house.

Heat and moisture increases the risk of mold and mildew appearing on certain areas outdoors, including the dog house. Getting rid of molds is a challenge and must be dealt with immediately; otherwise, it can cause health problems for you and your pet. Fortunately, Petmate Barnhome III is mold resistant. Its physical properties also makes it easy to clean, rinse, and disinfect. It also dries fast so your dog can use it again in no time.

As its name suggests, Petmate Barnhome III is a barn-shaped dog house that highlights its wide, slanted roof. The dog house has sufficient headroom even if you decide to add paddings or blankets inside for warmth.  The doorway to the dog house is centered with a roof guard above it. The ledge extends outward to prevent water from dripping into the enclosure. Likewise, this dog house features a raised floor to prevent rainwater from coming in when it is raining heavily.

The Petmate Barnhome III offers rear ventilation slots that allow enough air to keep the breeze going. As long as air flows in from the front and exits in the back, the dog house remains cool inside. The ventilation slots are easily plugged to keep your dog feeling snug as a bug in a rug during long, chilly nights. Unfortunately, the Petmate Barnhome III isn’t designed for frigid conditions. Its durable construction can withstand wind and rain, but it doesn’t offer much insulation to counter the harsh winter. Nonetheless, Petmate Barnhome III provides protection and durability at a budget-friendly price. Its list of benefits can outweigh its handful of disadvantages.

Pros

  • Durable plastic construction
  • Solid walls prevent dog house from tumbling down
  • Maintenance free and easy to clean
  • Resistant to mold and mildew
  • No wood odors
  • Slanted roof repels water
  • Ledge above doorway keeps out the rain
  • Lightweight and easy to transfer
  • Includes rear ventilation
  • Features raised flooring

Cons

  • Looks basic
  • Small enclosures usually gets hot fast during summer
  • Centered doorways allow cold drafts to enter

6. Petsqueak Arf Frame

The Pet Squeak dog house looks exactly like a miniature cabin for your furry buddy. It exhibits an A-frame design with a single entryway in the front and three solid walls for privacy and protection against the elements. Unfortunately, no removable door or door flap comes with the unit. You might also want help from a DIY expert to assemble its pieces. It may take a little while to finish setting up its parts, but considering that this dog house can last for a decade, it is worth all your time and money. 

This dog house is entirely made of cedar, which is notable for its natural ability to resist mold and mildew as well as repel insects. Cedarwood is lightweight and heavy-duty; it can hold the brunt of a heavy dog without breaking. 

Arf Frame Best Dog House Review

Likewise, cedar is among the top choices for outdoor furniture due to is low moisture absorbance property. Wood is a natural insulator; hence, your dog can stay cool on sunny days and toasty on chilly nights. As of winter, you might want to lay a bulky mat in front of its door to prevent snow from going inside.

In addition, its wooden roof features an extended ridge to prevent rainwater from dripping into the enclosure. The roof’s interior has been sheet-lined to prevent any leakage. Its wooden floor is also raised on caste-like feet for added insulation and ground protection. This is good to keep your pet dry even if it rains cats and dogs. It provides protection against creepy crawlies above the ground as well.

Furthermore, the cedar wood is lacquered to create a lustrous finish and further preserve wood quality. The dog house accents a dark frame that enhances the stained cedar’s natural beauty. Not only does the Pet Squeak dog house provide a cozy nook to your dog, this house also makes a fine accessory to your veranda. 

The Pet Squeak dog house has a wide selection of sizes that can accommodate smaller dogs such as Pugs to larger ones such as Greyhounds. So choose one that is large enough for your dog to stand and circle around comfortably. Overall, the Pet Squeak dog house boasts excellent quality craftsmanship. If you are looking for a modern yet traditional-looking dog house, this is one of the best choices you can consider. In a nutshell, this unit is a wise investment.

Pros

  • Roof is lined with sheets to prevent leakage.
  • Roof overhangs to prevent drips from entering inside
  • Excellent choice of materials
  • Stylish design
  • Lightweight
  • Does not break or crack
  • Mold and mildew resistant
  • Easy to clean
  • Has elevated floor for protection
  • Available in varying sizes

Cons

  • Relies solely on wood insulation
  • Takes some time to set up

7. Petmate Igloo with Microban

If you don’t fancy conventional wooden dog houses, thinking it’s too bland for your doggy extraordinaire, why not give him Petmate Indigo Igloo dog house? Petmate has designed this intuitive dog house for eccentric canines.  It is well-built and adorable, making it a fine home for your dog and an eye candy to your porch.

The Petmate Indigo Igloo dog house highlights its artic design. Its igloo-inspired doorway provides an excellent safeguard from rain, wind, and snow. Likewise, its extended doorway provides your furry buddy some extra space, so he is free to move around or lay spread-eagled on the floor. The igloo dog house is designed for medium to large breeds. As a result, small dogs may have too much space. However, you can fix this minor problem with a stack of sheets and some pillows.

Petmate INDIGO W/MICROBAN Best Dog House Review

Petmate Indigo Igloo dog house is second to none when it comes to microbial resistance. This dog house is made of high-quality plastic that is incorporated with Microban technology. Such feature what makes the product stand out from the rest. Microban technology keeps your dog’s house safe from disease-causing bacteria. Likewise, it inhibits the growth of mold and mildew that cause putrid smells. In addition, the igloo is coated with non-toxic and waterproof paint for an extra layer of protection. Such features further increase the product’s overall durability. 

Due to its Microban technology, this dog house requires minimal maintenance and cleaning. Simply disassemble the dog house and grab a hose. It only takes a minute to assemble it back, which makes it even more convenient.

Moreover, the structural foam is attached to the interior panels of this dog house to provide proper insulation. It helps keep your dog feeling toasty throughout a long, cold evening and cool during a hot, sunny day. In addition, this dog house includes a vent on top to ensure constant air flow. However, there is a small chance that rainwater might enter due to the vent’s position.

Overall, Petmate Igloo dog house is built to provide your pet maximum comfort and security. The unit highlights an array of features including its unique design and high standard materials, which makes the product one of the best indoor or outdoor dog houses on the market today.

Pros

  • Unique design
  • Microban technology
  • One minute assembly
  • Lightweight and heavy-duty
  • Waterproof
  • Easy to clean
  • Requires low maintenance
  • Spacious
  • Includes structural foam
  • Igloo-inspired doorway provides extra protection

Cons

  • Small size may still be too roomy for a small dog
  • Roof ventilation may be a disadvantage during heavy rains

8. ASL Solutions Dog Palace

ASL Solutions Dog Palace pioneered real foam insulation, which is the same insulation used for modern homes. Its innovative construction offers security and maximum protection against the elements. It features four-inch insulation and cross-ventilation, so your dog feels safe and toasty no matter the weather. Its real foam insulation is very advantageous to breeds who love to stay outside in cold weather, such as the Labrador and Saint Bernard. Made of choice materials, its sturdy construction can last for several years and demands minimal maintenance. This dog house also exhibits a self-closing insulated door for added privacy and comfort.

ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace with Floor Heater Review

ASL Solutions Dog Palace resembles exactly like a barn with its arched roof. The dog house features earthy tones so it goes well with any outdoor landscape. It also features a viewing window so your dog can have a look-see to keep him updated with all the action outside of his abode. Likewise, the window offers additional airflow when necessary. This dog house is particularly designed for medium to large breeds, but it can also be used to accommodate several small dogs. Smaller breeds would have enough space for playing inside. 

ASL Solutions Dog Palace is made of polystyrene, which is lightweight and heavy-duty. Plastic dog houses are easy to clean and tends to be mold resistant. You may simply wipe down the house with a cloth damped with water or disinfectant. Furthermore, this dog house exhibits a drainage hole and an oblique flooring, which is also elevated for better insulation against cold seasons. If you wish to provide your dog extra comfort, you may purchase the ASL Solutions Dog Palace Floor Heater and the ASL Solutions Dog Palace Solar Powered Exhaust Fan.

Although ASL Solutions Dog Palace is more expensive compared to other brands, it is no doubt a wise investment. Plus, it gives you the option to install a solar powered exhaust fan and a heater when necessary. The heating pad is beneficial for older dogs with arthritis. Apart from its hefty price tag, there is nothing negative to say about this dog house.

Pros

  • Can accommodate breeds of all sizes
  • Provides maximum protection from the elements
  • Provides privacy for your dog
  • Blankets and pillows are unnecessary
  • Includes front and rear ventilation
  • Allows you to close ventilation panels during cold seasons
  • Exhaust fan and heating pads are optional
  • Easy to assemble
  • Low maintenance and easy to clean
  • Features sloped floor and drainage hole
  • Raised floor
  • Includes window for peeking
  • Mold and mildew resistant

Cons

  • Expensive

Conclusi​on

Allowing your dog to live outside the house does not mean you are dispatching him. Your furry best friend may thrive in your presence and attention, but he also needs a home he can call his own. Dogs are territorial animals, but since he cannot and must not dominate yours, provide him a castle of his own. Dog houses are advantageous, especially for dogs who love to explore the great outdoors. It provides a cool shade and protection against the elements. You don’t want someone who adores and protects you from living inside a box! So give him a home he can be proud of.

A proper dog house should be your pet’s second home where he can enjoy some peace and quiet. Your dog’s house should be well-insulated, so he remains cool during the hot summer and comfortably toasty even in the worst of weathers. Although there is a wide variety of the best dog houses on the market, choosing the right house for your canine companion is an easy feat when you make an informed choice. Both wood and plastic dog houses have their own benefits and disadvantages. It all boils down to you and your dog’s lifestyle.

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