Most dog owners prefer to house train their dogs and have them living with them in the house. However; some dog owners may prefer to have their dogs spend some times with them in the house but sleep in an outdoor dog house. Dog owners with dogs that love to spend time outdoor might also find an insulated outdoor dog house to be important.
The best insulated dog house can keep your dog warm and comfortable during winters. When shopping for an insulated dog house, you need to consider the size of the structure, the material and durability of the house among other features. There are so many insulated dog houses in the market, making it hard for first time buyers to identify the best dog house for their canine friend. This article will help you know what to look out for in the best insulated dog house.
Shopping Tips for the Best Insulated Dog House
Despite the numerous dog houses in the market, choosing the best insulated dog house is still not easy. An outdoor dog house is a smart investment for any dog owner. However; you need to ensure that the dog you choose suits the purpose and provide your dog with enough protection from elements when he is outside.
The house should not only be sturdy and stable but it should be hygienic and safe for your pooch. Here are other factors that you need to consider when looking for the best insulated dog house.
Location
It is important for you to consider the location where you intend to place the dog house. When choosing the location, ensure that the location has an elevation to prevent snow, ice and winter weather from getting in. The insulated dog house should be placed on a location that is shielded from high winds to keep your dog comfortable when the weather is bad. The dog house should also fit well on the location or space you have set aside for the dog house.
Insulation
The best insulated dog house should provide your dog with a stable weatherproof floor. Proper insulation is also very important to keep your dog warm and comfortable during the winter. Despite the fact that you can make the dog house warm by including a cozy dog bed, heat pads and floor covering; good insulation is very important.
If you live in areas that experience extreme winter, it is important to look for dog houses that are labeled as “winter dog houses”. There are also some dog houses that are designed to make them winter-friendly. A winter dog house should have all the features needed to keep you dog comfortable and warm even when outdoors.
Size
Selecting the right dog house size for your dog is very important. Prior to placing an order for the dog house, you need to ensure that the dimensions of the house are compatible with the size of your dog. The house should be comfortable for your dog. Many dog owners are tempted to get the largest dog house. A large dog house can give your dog free movement but it is hard to keep warm.
The best size for your dog should allow your dog to comfortably stand up, lay down and turn around in the space provided. Insulated dog house come in different sizes and designs to meet the needs of different dog breeds. You can make a mock-up of the house you are looking to buy for your dog and use it to guide you when selecting the best insulated dog house. It can help you avoid disappointment and prevent expensive return charges.
Top 10 Best Insulated Dog Houses
The best insulated dog house should be made from quality material to ensure durability and reliability. Despite the many dog houses in the market that claim to be winter-friendly, there are only a few dog houses that live up to the claim. We have provided you with reviews of some of the most reliable, durable and reliable insulated dog houses that offer you value for your money. Here are reviews for the best insulated dog houses available in the market today.
#1) ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace with Floor Heater
The ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace is a quality and durable insulated dog house that is designed to provide your dog with comfort and protection from cold weather and harsh elements. It features electrically-operated floor heater is embedded in the dog house to provide sustained warmth despite the freezing outdoors.
The walls of the house are stuffed with professional-grade styrofoam EPS material for thermal insulation and water barrier. It includes a self-closing insulated door that does not have a spare space between the frame and the door. The self-closing front door comes with a see-through window that lets your dog see what is happening outside. The insulated dog house is very easy to clean since the floor is slightly sloped towards a drain hole which you can use to empty water.
Pros
- The insulated dog house comes with electrically-operated floor heater is embedded in the dog house to provide sustained warmth despite the freezing outdoors.
- It includes walls stuffed with professional-grade styrofoam EPS material for thermal insulation and water barrier.
- The dog house is easy to clean since the floor is slightly sloped towards a drain hole which you can use to empty water.
- It has a self-closing insulated door that does not have a spare space between the frame and the door.
- The ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog house includes a self-closing front door with a see-through window that lets your dog see what is happening outside.
Cons
- Training your dog to get used to its new winter home is necessary.
- Complete isolation doesn’t work well with all dogs.
#2) DP Hunter Dog House with Floor Heater
The DP Hunter Dog House is a deluxe dog house that is designed to provide the protection your dog needs. It is a subzero dog house that can be used for multiple reasons. The waterproof dog house features a durable polystyrene exterior that insulates the interior. It includes a 30-watt heater that safely rests on the floor.
The walls and ceiling of the dog house are filled up with premium EPS insulation foam to ensure that the dog is cozy during the harsh weather conditions. It is equipped with a self-closing door that includes a viewing window to let the dog see what is going on outside. The dog house is designed to reposition depending on the season. During the colder months, it remains in a closed position, and into a cross ventilation position during the warmer months.
The floor of the dog house remains raised above four inches off the ground, keeping the house dry and comfortable. It comes with a mat with a built-in thermostat and is water-resistant and can therefore be used for outdoor use.
Pros
- It is a waterproof dog house that has a durable polystyrene exterior that insulates the interior.
- The dog house comes with a self-closing door that includes a viewing window to allow the dog see the outside.
- DP Hunter Dog House features walls and ceiling filled up with premium EPS insulation foam to ensure that the dog is cozy during the harsh weather conditions.
- It can be used for multiple reasons since it is designed to reposition depending on the season; it remains in a closed position during the colder months, and is in a cross ventilation position during the warmer months.
- The insulated dog house has a mat with a built-in thermostat and is water-resistant and is therefore ideal for outdoor use.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty against cracking and breaking and can be used year-round.
Cons
- You will likely need to cover up the heating mat since its external and not built into floor if your dog is a chewer.
#3) Pets Imperial Insulated Wooden Dog Kennel
Pets Imperial Insulated Wooden Dog Kennel is a popular dog house that comes with a removable floor for easy cleaning. It is made of wood which is a great material which naturally keeps warmth inside and prevents your pet from feeling cold even during extremely cold days. The dog house has professional insulation consisting of: a layer of timber, a layer of Styrofoam, and a layer of plywood board.
The dog house is designed to last for years even when it is exposed to rain, snow and windy storms. However; the manufacturer has not stated the dog house to be waterproof thus it is important to place the dog house in a location away from the elements. It comes with a flap door. The wooden dog house can be ventilated by opening the roof through unlocking two locking arms.
Pros
- The dog house is made of wood which is a great material which naturally keeps warmth inside and protects your pet from the cold weather.
- It has professional insulation consisting of: a layer of timber, a layer of Styrofoam, and a layer of plywood board to keep your dog cold even during extreme winters.
- The Pets Imperial Insulated Wooden Dog Kennel can be ventilated by opening the roof through unlocking two locking arms.
- It comes with a removable floor for easy cleaning.
Cons
- It has flaps instead of a self-closing fitted door.
- The dog house is not fully waterproof.
#4) Petmate Indigo with Microban
The Petmate Indigo is an inventively igloo-shaped dog house that is designed to provide year-round housing for your dog. It comes in an easy to clean design and offers an expansive space inside. The insulated dog house has a heavy-duty construction that provides enough insulation for any weather condition.
The dog house comes with an offset doorway for easy entrance and exit for your pet. It has roof ventilation that ensures maximum comfort for your dog. It has a unique design that allows fresh air to circulate inside. Petmate Indigo is available in medium, large, or extra-large sizes to fit different dog breeds.
The dog house includes advanced Microban antimicrobial protection prevents odors and stains to keep the house clean and hygienic. It has raised floors and side moats to keep liquids drained off to ensure a dry, comfortable resting place for your pooch. The house has a snap design that is easy to integrate and assemble without requiring any additional tools.
Pros
- It is made in the USA.
- The dog house comes in an easy to clean design and offers an expansive space inside.
- It includes a heavy-duty construction that provides enough insulation for any weather condition.
- Petmate Indigo has a unique design that allows fresh air to circulate inside.
- It is available in medium, large, or extra-large sizes to fit different dog breeds.
- The insulated dog house comes with an offset doorway for easy entrance and exit for your pet.
- It is a durable winter dog house that has roof ventilation that ensures maximum comfort for your dog.
- The dog house has advanced Microban antimicrobial protection prevents odors and stains to keep the house clean and hygienic.
Cons
- It is not fully waterproof.
#5) Petsfit Wooden Dog House
Petsfit Wooden Dog House is a quality dog house that comes with Petsfit insulation kit. The insulation kit and the dog house are sold separately. The insulation kit is designed to provide enough insulation for subzero temperatures. The kit fits snuggly in the dog house and keeps the inside warm and comfortable during cold weather.
The material used to make the insulation kit is removable for easy cleaning. The insulation is filled with an EPE foam that makes it easier to handle and provides the right fit for comfort. You only need to open the zippers to place or remove the foam. It is also easy to install since it comes in its own carry case for simple storage. The dog house and the insulation kits are highly sturdy and durable to ensure that they last a lifetime.
Pros
- The dog house is made of wood to ensure warmth and comfort.
- It can be used with a Petsfit insulation kit that is designed to provide enough insulation for subzero temperatures
- The insulation kit is filled with an EPE foam that makes it easier to handle and provides the right fit for comfort.
- The dog house is sturdy and very durable to last a lifetime.
- The insulation kit is made of a material that is easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- The insulation kit and the dog house are sold separately.
#6) Confidence Pet Waterproof Outdoor Dog Kennel
The Confidence Pet Waterproof Outdoor Dog Kennel is a waterproof dog house that is designed to provide your dog with ample room inside. It provides the needed sturdiness and stability needed and does not leak. The dog house features a plastic construction for easy and effective cleaning. It is also quick and easy to set up and assemble.
The durable and tough plastic construction frame resembles a conservative, suburban home. It provides your dog with a comfortable and personal space. The dog house has an ingenious design that is built to withstand all weather conditions. It has an entrance of medium size that measures 10.5 x 17 inches. You can also get large and extra-large house entrances that measure 12.5 x 20.5 inches and 14.1 x 24.6 inches, respectively for larger dogs.
Pros
- It is a waterproof dog house that provides a hygienic way for your dog.
- The dog hose allows dog owners to decorate and make the house cozier by adding pillows inside.
- It has an ingenious design that is built to withstand all weather conditions.
- Confidence Pet Waterproof Outdoor Dog Kennel provides your dog with an entrance of medium size that measures 10.5 x 17 inches for easy entrance and exit into the dog house.
- It is a waterproof dog house that is designed to provide your dog with ample room inside.
- The dog house provides the needed sturdiness and stability needed and does not leak.
- It features a plastic construction that is easy to clean and quick to set up and assemble.
Cons
- It is made of plastic which may not be so durable.
#7) TANGKULA Weather-Proof Dog House Outdoor
TANGKULA Weather-Proof Dog House is a reliable outdoor dog house that keeps your dog warm and comfortable during cold weather. It is a waterproof dog house that features raised floor to encourage air circulation. The floor stays dry and warm during cold days, and naturally cooler during warm days. It utilizes natural thermal properties of wood for improved insulation.
It is a great outdoor kennel for rainy days. The dog door has an open door which requires you to block and insulate the door yourself using a thick blanket or by cutting out a flap. It is a warm and comfortable dog house that can keep your dog cozy and warm during the cold weather. The dog house is highly durable and stable.
Pros
- The outdoor kennel features raised floor to encourage air circulation.
- It keeps your dog warm and comfortable during cold weather.
- The dog house floor stays dry and warm during cold days, and naturally cooler during warm days.
- It is made of quality material to ensure durability and stability.
- The TANGKULA Weather-Proof Dog House uses natural thermal properties of wood to ensure enough insulation.
Cons
- It is not ideal for cold weather since it has an open door.
#8) Petmate Barnhome III Dog House
The Petmate Barnhome III Dog House is a reliable temporary bad weather shelter for dogs while traveling. The dog house can be used while camping, trekking or even when you go for a long walk in the woods. It is made of sturdy PVC to protect your pet from the elements.
The dog house does not provide you with any insulation thus you need to add pillows, cushions and bracket to keep your dog warm and comfortable when you are traveling. It is a cheap dog house that is easy to clean and maintain. The dog house is easy to store and comes in different sizes but is ideal for small to medium sized dog breeds.
Pros
- The dog house is made of sturdy PVC to protect your pet from the elements.
- It can be used while camping, trekking or even when you go for a long walk in the woods.
- Petmate Barnhome III Dog House is a cheap dog house that is easy to clean and maintain.
- It is easy to store and comes in different sizes.
- The dog house is reliable to shelter your dog from bad weather.
Cons
- It is only a temporary bad weather dog house.
#9) Animals Favorite Dog House
The Animals Favorite Dog House is an affordable dog house that ensures stabilized temperature to keep your dog warm and comfortable. It features a raised floor that provides decent insulation against the mild cold. The dog house is great for autumnal weather. However; it does not have styrofoam and self-closing front door, thus it is not ideal for geographical areas in which temperatures drop very low.
It is a small sized dog house that is quick and easy to assemble. The dog house is not made of heavy-duty PVC so owners of heavy chewers should invest in sturdier and more premium insulated dog houses. Due to its small size, it is not advisable to install any dog heated pad inside the outdoor kennel.
Pros
- The dog house is quick and easy to assemble.
- Animals Favorite Dog House has a raised floor that provides decent insulation against the mild cold.
- It is great for autumnal weather.
- The dog house is designed to ensure stabilized temperature to keep your dog warm and comfortable.
- It is an affordable dog house.
Cons
- It lacks styrofoam and self-closing front door, thus it is not ideal for geographical areas in which temperatures drop very low.
- The dog house is not made of heavy-duty PVC so owners of heavy chewers should invest in sturdier and more premium insulated dog houses.
#10) Best Pet Supplies, Inc. Tent Bed for Pets
Best Pet Supplies, Inc. Tent Bed is a great dog house for indoors and for small dogs. It features soft plush from top to bottom and side to side as well as faux suede material, corduroy and linen to ensure that your pooch is comfortable and warm. The dog house has a decorative design that matches any interior of the home.
The design is inspired by elegance for pet design and is available in different colors to match the decor of your home. It provides your dog with ample 19 x 19 x 19-inch dimensions inside to accommodate your pets and provide a sense of security and ultimate privacy. The Best Pet Supplies, Inc. Tent Bed is easy to maintain and can be washed in the machine without ruining its original shape. It is also easy to carry and travel with.
Pros
- It comes in a varied range of sizes to accommodate any dog breed.
- The dog house do not collapse and fall over as other soft dog beds tend to do.
- It provides your dog with ample 19 x 19 x 19-inch dimensions inside to accommodate your pets and provide a sense of security and ultimate privacy.
- Best Pet Supplies, Inc. Tent Bed features soft plush from top to bottom and side to side as well as faux suede material, corduroy and linen to ensure that your pooch is comfortable and warm.
- It is easy to maintain and can be washed in the machine without ruining its original shape.
- The dog house is easy to carry and travel with.
Cons
- It is only ideal for indoors and for small dogs.
Conclusion
The best insulated dog house should provide your dog with comfort that he needs and should protect your dog from external elements. When choosing the best insulated dog house for your dog ensures that the dog house you choose is 25% longer and wider than your dog’s own measurements. It is necessary to ensure that your dog has enough space to be able to turn around easily.
The dog insulated dog houses we have reviewed are the most reliable and durable dog houses in the market. We hope that you have found a dog house that suits your needs and requirements from our list of the best insulated dog houses.
Dr. Candy, a holistic veterinarian and certified raw dog food nutrition specialist, graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2009 with a DVM and has since specialized in companion animal nutrition, advocating for species-specific diets. With a background in wildlife rehabilitation and oil spill response, she combines holistic health and conventional medicine in her unique approach to treating chronic diseases, allergies, and autoimmune conditions in pets. As the owner of a veterinary practice in Colorado and an author, Dr. Candy is dedicated to educating pet parents and improving the health and happiness of animals.
