Best Dog Houses Right Now
Dog houses come in a range of sizes, designs, and materials, so we’ve put lots of time into finding the best dog houses on the market. If you are looking for a place your dog can call their own, read on for the DogGear team’s best dog houses in 2021 choices!
- 1 Petsfit Wooden Best Dog House
- 2 Tangkula Pet Dog House
- 3 Petmate Barnhome III Dog House
- 4 Suncast DH350 Dog House
- 5 Petmate 25944 Indigo Dog House
- 6 Petsfit Dog House
- 7 INDIGO W/MICROBAN Dog House
- 8 Pet Zone Step 2 Dog House
- 9 Kennel House Dog House
- 10 PETITE MAISON Pet House
- 11 Giantex Pet Dog House
- 12 Casual Home Wooden Pet Crate
- 13 Merry Pet Wood Pet House
- 14 Pet Tent Soft Bed
- 15 Petnation Port-A-Crate
- 16 Disney Zero Portable Pet House
- 17 Portable Indoor Pet House
- 18 Bonnlo Plastic Dog House
- 19 Alpha Plastic Doghouse
- 20 Soft Indoor Dog House
- 21 Friday discount Pet Dog House
- 22 Petmate Barnhome III Dog House
- 23 Aspen PetBarn 3
- 24 Suncast Outdoor Dog House
- 25 Always – Quality Dog House
- 26 Petsfit Portable Folding Wood Dog House
- 27 Pet Zone Cozy Dog House
Best Dog House Buying Guide
The dog house is a permanent fixture in your home to keep your four-legged friend happy. It should be large enough to accommodate your pup’s size, and it should have comfortable features, like comfortable bedding or toys, to give your pooch something to do while he‘s inside. Dog houses are designed with a variety of features that can make them suitable for different types of dogs, from small companions to large canines.In this article, we've put together a handy guide that will help you find the best kit for your dog. If you want to know more about dog houses before buying, keep reading.
Tips for Buying a Dog House
Dog houses come in a variety of materials to suit different needs and budgets. Wood is an inexpensive option, but it is also susceptible to rot and decay. Vinyl is a great alternative that is both durable and easy to clean. If you’re looking for something that can be easily moved, plywood is the way to go (while ply is lightweight and durable, it's also a bit more expensive). Plastic is more durable than wood, as it isn't susceptible when wood is. It's still not as strong as higher-quality materials, and it does take up more room. Foam is another great choice, both because it's lightweight, strong, easy and inexpensive to install, plus it smells awesome. Stone is as durable as any other material, although it doesn't look as stylish as some of the other options. Metal is durable but doesn't look like much of a house when it comes to style. Regardless of what you choose, most dog houses should come with some sort of finish to prevent rust. This is usually a matte black or white, which won t stand out too much. You can also opt for finishes like satin, natural, or rustic, depending on the look you want to achieve.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Dog House
Dog houses are often made of plastic or metal and feature a combination of heavy-duty materials to hold the dog bed in place.
Wood
The most common dog house material, wooden dog houses offer a level of durability and energy efficiency that metal dog huts do not.
Metal
Metal dog shelters feature corrosion resistance and have a sturdier construction. Some metal structures are constructed from heavy aluminum, offering the same level and level durability as wood. The main benefit of metal shelters is weight: they’re more stable and more buoyant than wooden structures. Or, to put it another way, metal huddles offer more stability than wood huddled hogs.
Plastic
Plastic hudge materials are lightweight and highly portable. They are also more easily punctured and ripped than metal or other heavy hodgepodge materials. This makes them a poor choice if your pet has chewed through their stuffing or if it will become dislodged in transit.
Metal hutch materials offer the best level protection for your dog's stuffing and bones. These materials also offer greater structural integrity and a greater level resistance to being damaged by sharp objects. However, the material is not as sturdy as plastic and may crack if subjected to excessive outdoor weather.
Dog House Pricing
Dog houses vary in price based on size, materials, heating and cooling features, and special features. Most can cost between $40 and $800.
Inexpensive
Small and portable dog houses that are made from mesh and fold for storage cost less than $70. These models typically do not have many special design features like lights, audio, or UV protection.
Mid-range
For models that include heating or cooling and other special options, you’ll typically pay $80 to $200. You”ll find plush dog house models in this price range as well as options that add a second door for added convenience.
Expensive
The biggest spenders are large, plush models with special designs that combine heat, cooling, lighting, sound, special audio features and storage. They typically cost $250 and more.
Key Features to Look For
When it comes to size, it is true that bigger is not always better. For instance, a small dog house is fine, but it will be harder for you to take a walk or find a spot to go. Luckily, finding a good sized dog shelter is an ongoing process. If you are willing to put in the time, you will find the perfect size for your dog.
Material
Dog houses come in all kinds of materials. This is a choice that is mostly dependent on what kind of dog you have. However, metal shelters are the most common and durable ones. Wooden shelters also work well, as they’re flexible and easy to clean.
Color
The majority of dogs are color blind; thus, they are not necessarily drawn to certain colors. You should not worry, however, because there are so many color-conscious dog owners who will help you out. One of the best ways to give your pup a home that matches their personality is to choose a dog home with neutral colors, such as black, white or gray. Steel shelter dogs or even aluminum shelters, though pricey, have a lot of good qualities.
Size and Location
Size is important. The smaller the dog is, the better it can fit in a smaller house. Dog shelters come with varying sizes, ranging from small to very large. In order to find out which size you need, go online and look at the shelters that come out from different designers. We‘ve also provided a guide to the different sizes on the market. Location is also vital. A dog housing that comes close to your yard but is too far away is dangerous and could lead to an accident. As such, we recommend that you look for a shelter close enough to help bring your pooch closer to you.
Traditional
These shelters consist of walls and roof. They are usually constructed using materials that are durable, like steel or clay.
Wood
Wooden dog shelters tend to be the least expensive option. Many people prefer this type of shelter because it“s easy and comfortable to live in,” as well as because they give their dogs a place to lay their head down.
Plastic
Plastic dog houses are much cheaper than metal ones, and some models are even biodegradable. These shelter types are also less environmentally friendly than other shelters.
Bio-Concrete
This type is made from a mix of clay, sand, gravel, or concrete. It is great for dogs that can―t move around much due to health issues or other physical limitations.
Final Thoughts
Dog houses are designed to be sturdy, so they’re usually made from either wood or metal.
Wood
In most cases, the dog house is made of a composite material such as pine or cedar. However, you can also find some models made entirely of wood.
- Pros: It‘s a durable material that can withstand regular abuse. It can help protect your dog from falling debris and other dangers.
- Cons: A lot of dog houses made in wood are rather inexpensive. The material can warp or chip over time.
Metal
Dog houses constructed with metal can have a more modern appearance. For example, some metal dog huts are available in rustic wood designs.
- Pros: Metal is rust-resistant and can rustproof over a long period of time. Metal can often be painted to give it a modern or rusticated look.
- Con: Metal doghouses are quite costly. If you”re on a tight budgets, this could be a tough choice for you.
The Best Dog House of 2021
Petsfit Wooden Best Dog House
– Best Overall
If you’re ready to give your small puppy his own living space outside, this dog house is a great choice. Ideally suited for puppies and small dogs, it offers enough room for him to grow into as he gets older.
The structure is made of kiln-dried cedar, which has been treated for durability and water resistance. Cleaning is easy with this dog house as it has top opening and a pull-out bottom. It also has a window and a porch, so your pet will be more likely to stay in it without feeling boxed in. Assembly can be a bit of a challenge though, so you might have to set aside some time to put it together.
Tangkula Pet Dog House
– Contender
This dog house features a simple, yet elegant design, and it’s extremely durable for superior protection from the elements.
The roof is made asphalt, so it repels water and snow. The bottom sits on raised legs, elevating the house so your pup is up and off of the ground. The four side panels are made of natural fir, which has been painted with water-based paint. Many customers say that this dog house is easy to put together and they love the simple design. They also like that it is elevated, which prevents moisture from getting in. Some users did say that the material was a bit on the flimsy side and that the dog house was damaged upon arrival, so make sure to check it over before you put it together.
Petmate Barnhome III Dog House
– Bargain
This cute, barn-shaped dog house is made of plastic and designed to promote air circulation. It’s durable and assembles within seconds!
Dog owners like that this option is roomy enough for their pups and also appreciate that the material is actually quite heavy so it doesn’t get moved by the wind. They also love the quick assembly time. On the downside, it does not have any insulation, so you might need to get a heated dog bed or find another way to keep your pup warm in the winter.
Suncast DH350 Dog House
– Expert Choice
For a durable dog house that is easy to put together, the Suncast H350 is a great choice.
It’s made of resin, which is not only durable, but it also provides effective protection from the elements. Vents offer great circulation, and there’s plenty of space for medium sized dogs to get comfortable. The snap together assembly makes putting this dog house together a breeze. The snap-together assembly makes building this house a breeze. An issue that a few users reported was with the durability; aggressive chewers may be able to damage the house.
This dog house has an igloo-like design. It provides a spacious interior and will keep your pup protected from the wind, rain, and sun.
Our DogGear team members say that this dog house is very easy to put together. It’s made of a foam-like material, which helps the house stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the summer. It also features a vent on the top for airflow, and is made with Microban to prevent the growth of bacteria. However, some people said that they had issues with the delivery, reporting that it arrived broken, was missing parts, or that it was covered in stickers.
We like this Petsfit house. It is made of weatherproof materials, so it will keep your pup protected in the snow, rain, and sun.
This dog house provides a den-like feeling that will appeal to the natural instincts of your dog. The interior dimensions are 36.6 inches long, 22.3 inches wide, and 22 inches high, so it offers plenty of room. It also features a door flap, which offers even more protection. Users say that they like how the roof can be opened and the floor can be removed,which allows for easier cleaning. They also say that the materials are durable and provide great protection. Some people say that it’s a bit difficult to put together, though.
This dog house is shaped like an igloo, which is more than just unique; it’s functional. Since it’s shaped like an igloo, the inside is warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
The extra large size offers lots of interior space for a large breed dog, and the roof ventilation offers proper airflow. The Microban coating prevents the growth of bacteria to offer a more hygienic environment. We love that this dog house has a raised floor for improved comfort, and we also like how easy this dog house is to put together. The only issue that some people had was problems with delivery.
This dog house from Our Pets is made to keep your canine companion warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather, thanks to the double-wall construction, which provides extra insulation.
The interior dimensions are approximately 24 inches by 25 inches by 14 inches, offering enough room for dogs that weigh up to 125 pounds. We love the no-tools-required, easy assembly. We also like how easy it is to clean. One complaint that some people have is that it’s smaller than they expected it to be.
This house is made of durable plastic, making it easy to clean and provides effective protection from all types of elements.
The extra large size offers a comfortable space for your large dog to enjoy a safe haven outside. This house is easy to put together and offers lot of space on the inside. It is sometime difficult in cleaning the inside of the house.
PETITE MAISON Pet House – House for Dog, Cat, Kitty or Puppy, Small to Medium Sized, Handmade Indoor/Outdoor Kennel, 100% Aluminium Super-Light, Portable, 24″ x 16″ x 25″, Petite House
The PETITE MAISON Pet House has a spacious interior to ensure dogs have plenty of room to stretch, move around and change positions without rubbing against the walls. It’s available in five different styles and various colors to accommodate different breeds. Do note that the materials can get dirty easily and may also begin to fray if the dog house is placed outdoors, which makes it more ideal for indoor use.
Giantex Pet Dog House, Wooden Dog Room Shelter with Stairs, Raised Roof and Balcony Bed for Indoor and Outdoor Use, Wood Dog House
The Giantex Pet Dog House will age gracefully whether it’s kept inside your home or is placed in the backyard due to the quality materials used in its construction. Its sturdy ladder is easy for small pets to climb up and down and doesn’t wobble or feel unstable. However, some of the wood is prone to splintering on some areas of the dog house.
Wooden Pet Crate
While the style might detract ever-so-slightly from the doggy aesthetic and the novelty factor, it does mean that this dog house will fit into your average décor much better. The dog house has small gaps for your canine to look through, and a lockable gate that you can use to keep your dog at home while you do other things. The big pro here is the design which is great for a lot of homes. It also comes in four colors. It’s sturdily built and also doubles up as a little coffee table where you can stand a book, which we love. The downside is that because it’s made of wood, it might not be a good option for chewers!
Wood Room with a View Pet House
Other than the very cute multi-story nature of this dog house, it’s also great that it can be used indoors or out. Owners like that it’s easy to assemble. The cushion included fits well and is comfy. Be prepared for a few splinters—you might need to break out the sandpaper.
Pet Tent Soft Bed for Dog and Cat by Best Pet Supplies
Pet Tent Soft Bed is lightweight and easy to move around and has a small footprint to ensure it can be placed in small rooms. The tight stitching allows it to hold up well to heavy use and doesn’t unravel or become loose even after it’s washed multiple times. The bottom of the bed doesn’t have a lot of padding and feels thin compared to the rest of the tent.
It uses a tight weave mesh fabric for the outer shell and provides a cozy environment for your dog’s relaxation, even when placed outdoors. You can even use it to crate train your puppies.
Designed to let you bring your pet wherever you go, this dog house is durable and has an extra-strong steel frame for reinforcement. It’s lightweight and portable and can also be assembled or dismantled within seconds.
Zero, Jack’s faithful ghost pet, has its name embroidered just above the dog door. The house also features an insert with a cute design that matches perfectly with the theme. Bring Halloween Town into your home with this adorable dog house.
Are you a big fan of The Nightmare Before Christmas? Get to relive your childhood with this themed dog bed that features a graveyard motif. This dog house has a bottom that’s made from nylon fabric, which is resistant to dirt and water. It also prevents accidental spills from leaking to your floor.
This versatile pet house can also be used by other smaller animals, like cats or puppies. It easily collapses so that you can store it under your bed or in the closet when not in use.
This pet house uses polyfoam and polyfill materials, giving it a plush feel and optimal cushioning capacity. It also comes with a cuddle-inducing pillow that makes nap time extra comfortable for your beloved pooch.
Bonnlo Plastic Dog House, Pet Dog Kennel Water Resistant for Small Medium Sized Dogs with Door, Indoor & Outdoor Use
Made from premium polypropylene, this doghouse provides your furry friend a safe and durable shelter both indoors and outdoors. Its sturdy construction and waterproof material can withstand the usual use and abuse from active pets. Its barn-like design also looks great with clean white walls and blue roof, and its stable base prevents it from tipping over.
Alpha Dog Series Medium-Sized Indoor Plastic Doghouse
This cute doghouse features pawprint windows and an adorable doorway. You’d love it even more for the comfort and security it can provide your doggos. Add some pillows or cushions inside and they’d have a cozy private space to relax in while inside your home.
Dog House Soft Indoor Small Medium Large Dog Houses, Pets Sponge Material Portable and Great for Transportation and Short outings
Your furry pet would love lounging in this soft and plushy doghouse. It’s made from 300GSM soft plush and fleece that provides ultimate comfort. The striped roof is also removable so it can be used both as an indoor house and as a sofa bed. While it’s cushy, it is made of high-quality materials that ensure durability, and is created with equally excellent workmanship.
Friday discount Pet Dog House Indoor 3 Steps Assembly Natural Wooden Cabin Kennel Cat Puppy Room with Openable Top & Removable Bottom, Adjustable Foot and Wire Door
Made from unfinished natural wood for a touch of character, this fir wood doghouse assembles and folds in a jiffy without sacrificing durability and safety. When assembled, it looks like a small wooden crate with a full top lid and small wired front gate. The top is flat and can be used as a table for small plants, books or accessories. It can also be opened to let in fresh air and improve ventilation.
Petmate Barnhome III Dog House
The PetMate Barnhome III comes out of the box in large pieces and is easy to assemble. It is constructed from hard, durable plastic and will last your pet for years. The snaps might be slightly misaligned but this can be easily remedied by trimming them a bit.
Aspen Pet PetBarn 3
The quick snap latches on the side make it easy to secure the top and bottom half of the Aspen PetBarn. The barn’s interior dimensions are large and will give your pet enough room. You still need to take care when assembling and disassembling it, as the plastic is slightly thin.
Suncast Outdoor Dog House with Door
The Suncast Outdoor Dog House is constructed from resin, making it more durable compared to other models made of plastic. It is also easy to clean; all you have to do is hose down the outside surface. One thing to address is that you need to add more insulation material to keep it warm during the colder seasons.
Indoor Outdoor Dog House Small to Medium
A good thing about the Always Quality Indoor Outdoor Dog House is that it has smooth surfaces. This makes cleanup easy since you just hose it down or wipe it with soap and water. If you plan to use it outdoors, be sure to provide additional insulation and protection as it can get chilly.
Petsfit Portable Wooden Dog House, No Assemble Required
One standout feature of the Petsfit Portable Dog House is its ability to fold flat for storage. You can also open the top for cleaning. One thing you might need to do is to treat the wood with a coat of varnish since it comes unpainted and might have some splinters.
Pet Zone Cozy Cottage Durable Plastic Dog House
For added stability, you have the option to stake the Pet Zone Cozy Cottage to the ground. It is also lightweight for the size, making it easy to move around. However, the unit doesn’t come with stake pieces, so you will have to provide your own.
Dog House FAQ
A: A dog or cat house is designed to provide your pet with a secure and private location to live out their days. These types of structures are useful for keeping your canine companion safe and secure while they are outside all day.
A: Dog houses include large, compact and portable models. A large dog building is the most popular choice among buyers as it can accommodate several dogs at once and works well when your dog can be outside but you are in the house with them, as in, you’re not keeping the dog inside at night. They're also excellent for small homes and apartments as they accommodate everyone, including the pet‘s fellow household members. Compact and lightweight houses are great for people who don't have the room for a fully-fledged large building. Lastly, there are portable dog houses that can easily be moved around the home with the help of a cart. What's more, they re ideal for travel as well as for those who want to keep a pet inside even while on vacation.
