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Dog House Design Ideas for Fun and Functionality
Gone are they days of standard four-walls-and-a-roof dog houses, and thank goodness for that.
Today’s dog house models are as unique as you and your pooch, and are built to suit your targeted needs and concerns as well.
Climate, region, and space allowance all play a part in your dog’s outside abode, as well as your dog’s size, age, and health. Surely you want a dog house that takes all these needs into consideration, in order to keep your furry family member looking and feeling good all year round?
The best dog house designs are built to last, no matter the season or wear and tear. Even better, they’re built to compliment your own home. After all, your dog’s house is an addition to your own, and should reflect all that you value and take joy in. Nothing beats the loyalty and companionship of a loving dog, and your dog deserves the best you can provide in return. Starting from the floor up, you can construct your canine companion’s digs according to his–and of course your–style standards.
Milled timber and stucco siding, thatched roofing and classic shingles–these are just the beginning when it comes to ideas worth considering. Once you’ve selected your materials you can set to work building your dream dog house. While one innovative Australian couple built their dog house out of cement and recycled bottles, Western urbanites have cornered the market on the doggie townhouse, proving there really is no limit to the canine-considerate imagination.
We’re fast approaching a new year and new attitude, and there’s no reason your treasured doggo can’t get a little upgrade of his own. No family is truly complete without a loyal, loving dog, and the same can be said of your house. Building the best miniature residency alongside your own lets the world know your dog isn’t just a temporary guest. With that said, go ahead and explore these top X best dog house ideas below.
How to make a simple dog house at home
Materials:
- Wooden planks or plywood for the walls, floor, and roof
- Nails or screws for assembling
- Roofing material (shingles, tarp, or corrugated sheets)
- Measuring tape, saw, hammer or screwdriver, and a drill
- Insulation material (optional)
Steps:
- Build the Base: Start by creating a square or rectangular base with wooden planks. Ensure the base is slightly raised from the ground to avoid moisture.
- Construct the Walls: Cut and attach four walls. Leave a door opening on one side for your dog to enter.
- Create the Roof: Build a slanted roof with slats to prevent rainwater accumulation. You can add shingles or another weatherproof material for durability.
- Add a Floor: Depending on the material you use, the floor can be insulated to keep your dog warm.
- Finishing Touches: Sand the edges to remove any splinters. Paint or stain the wood for extra protection against the weather.
Cost:
The cost of building a simple dog house varies depending on the materials used, but generally, it can range from $50 to $150 for basic wood and insulation. High-end materials (like cedar or metal roofing) can raise the price.
What is the best thing to put on the floor of a dog house?
- Blankets or Dog Beds: Soft materials such as fleece or cotton blankets and dog beds provide comfort. Make sure they are washable.
- Hay or Straw: Ideal for colder climates, straw offers warmth and comfort. It can also be replaced regularly.
- Rubber Mats: Provides a solid surface that is easy to clean, but it may not be as cozy in colder weather.
- Wooden Pallets: Using a wooden pallet elevates the bed off the ground, preventing dampness and providing ventilation.
Does a dog house need a floor?
Yes, a dog house typically needs a floor to:
- Keep the dog dry: The floor protects the dog from moisture, dirt, and cold ground.
- Ensure insulation: Without a floor, the cold can seep into the house, making it uncomfortable during the winter months.
However, you can leave the floor open (for example, using a raised platform) in certain climates where the ground doesn’t get too cold or wet.
Do dogs like the floor or bed?
Dogs generally prefer beds over just a floor for comfort. Soft beds provide support and warmth, and they mimic the feeling of resting in a den or cave, which dogs instinctively like. However, some dogs may enjoy sleeping directly on the floor, especially in cooler weather or if they are accustomed to that feeling.
In general, providing a cozy, warm space with a soft bed is recommended for most dogs.
