Insulated Dog House Buyer’s Guide
While you’re looking to buy a dog house for winter and cold weather already, you may be wondering how to tell when it’s too cold for your dog to need to be inside the house. So we will help you learn a bit about the signs that mean your dog needs more heat.
One of the most prominent signs when a dog starts feeling unbearably cold is when your otherwise super active furry buddy turns unusually slow, and sometimes even starts shivering.
If you find your dog has been shivering for a long period, then it means that they have already gone much longer without getting the heating help they needed. You must act faster in such a case.
A lack of interest in doing things that they typically enjoy, or abnormal fatigue, too, are signs that things may have gotten too cold for them.
Some dogs also start cuddling (or rather snuggling) excessively when they are seeking warmth. If you find this kind of behavior with your dog during a tough winter, they are likely seeking the warmth of their dog house or dog bed.
In some extreme cases, the dog’s skin would also get too cold or develop frostbites, or you would see a slight change in their skin color, usually with some shades that appear a bit blue-ish in color.
Finally, sometimes, even barking or whining can mean that they are not able to handle the cold of the winter.
How “Winter” Dog Houses Are Different Than The Regular Ones?
If you think you can turn your regular dog house into a “winter” one using a few blankets, then you might be in for a rude surprise.
Dogs need much more warmth and heat than you may think, and if the winters in your region are freezing, then your dog would get miserable in the house in no time no matter the number of blankets you use.
For such elements and weather conditions, a dog house specifically designed for the winter is a must. It’s because these dog houses are very different from a regular dog house.
The most significant difference is that they come with professional quality insulation. The insulation materials might differ depending on the dog house you’re buying and the price you’re willing to pay, but the best ones use the insulation materials that are used in buildings.
Further, the excellent winter dog houses have a thick layer of insulation rather than just a coating type of thing, which goes a long way in providing the warmth and heat your dog needs when the weather is harsh out there. Other dog accessories such as dog raincoats also have a layer of insulation for providing warmth and comfort too.
These dog houses are also designed differently. Unlike the regular ones such as heavy duty dog crates, most of them do come with a door or some kind of protection at the entry area to prevent the cold air from getting in.
Similarly, the best ones also do not have any gaps in the floor or in any other area to make sure no cold streams of winter air manage to sneak in.
They are elevated with raised floor, effectively reducing contact with the ground to reduce conduction of heat from the interior to the ground..
Our top picks also come with an in-built dog heater for a warm summer environment for your dog even when it’s cold outside.
Although there are other differences too, these are the main ones, and we hope you get the idea already.
Other Features To Look For In A Insulated Dog House
We are sure you were able to understand some of the main features you need to have in your winter dog house above, but there’s more to it.
Here are some of the other features that make the house more comfortable and overall a better option than other insulated dog houses without these features:
- A comfortable amount of space: If your dog finds themselves cramped for room inside the house, then they would be hesitant to use it for more extended periods.
- Helps your pooch stay dry: In many regions, it’s common to have snowfall during the winter. Getting wet in the rains can make your dog feel very cold as well. So your dog house must ideally protect them from both snowfall and rain. A waterproof dog house is the best bet for regions that get a lot of rainfall. Dog crates such as these are often cheaper but not a viable alternative, as these crates are not sheltered.
- Durable: This is a no-brainer. These dog houses are typically much more expensive than their regular counterparts so you would want them to last.
Some not super essential but nice-to-have features:
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to clean
- Great aesthetics (especially for smaller dogs to attract them)
Additional Accessories
If you live somewhere where the temperatures go well into the negative – and for more than a few days – then it makes sense for you also to consider purchasing some other accessories along with a winter dog house for better protection for your dog.
Let’s take a quick look at some of the important ones below.
Dog House Furnace
These are dog house heaters, and a good option for a dog house that doesn’t come with a good in-built heater (won’t be needed if you go with one of our top picks).
Thermal Pads
Thermal mats and pads are a form of heating device that your dog can sit and sleep on for additional warmth and comfort. This works on the same concept as a dog cooling pad.
Heated Dog Bowls
These are different than the regular dog bowls. They are particularly designed to keep the water warm for your dog to drink, especially during weathers when the water can either quickly get cold or even freeze.
