They might not care about throw pillows or thread count, but all dogs still deserve a comfortable place to sleep. If you want to know how to build a dog house that will keep your dog healthy and happy, there are a number of considerations you should make to let them sleep easier. In this article we’ll be discussing how you can improve your dog’s sleep with proper bedding and housing.

 

Bedding

Like your own bedding, your dog’s should be comfortable and supportive. One extra consideration though, is sanitation. Dogs track a lot more dirt and bacteria into their beds than we do. Focusing on these key qualities will ensure that your dog’s bedding will provide a great night’s sleep.

• Tracking moisture onto bedding will result in mold growth and could affect your dog’s health. This can be prevented by washing the bedding as well as by washing your dog, effectively limiting the bedding’s exposure to bacteria.

• Use material that is both durable and washable. Regular washing of your dog’s bedding prevents the growth of mold and bacteria, but it’s important that the bedding can withstand those washes. This can often be solved by simply using a slip or cover over the bed that can be removed to wash separately.

• If the bedding is going to be placed outdoors, insulation and moisture-resistance are essential. Straw can be used in this setting, but require regular replacement to keep the area sanitary. A layer of woodchips underneath can provide limited drainage to prevent mold growth before the straw is replaced.

• Older or injured dogs may require softer bedding or warmer bedding in the winter. Foam rubber or extra blankets can provide additional warmth while keeping the bedding soft and supportive.

 

Housing

When building a dog house it’s crucial to consider your pet’s individual needs based on its age, breed, and personality to maximize the house’s comfort and durability. There are also a few key points that apply to dog houses of all shapes and sizes.

• Remember to consider your location and climate. These factors will heavily influence how insulated, and weather-resistant your dog house should be.

• Houses for dogs that are especially old, young, sick, or thin-coated should feature extra insulation, as these conditions would make your dog much more susceptible to cold weather.

• Ventilation is always important, but must be effectively balanced with the level of insulation in colder climates.

• Wood is a better insulator than metal, though some dogs may chew on exposed sections of wood. This can be countered by covering these areas with metal strips or sheets of metal. If you plan on leaving any wood exposed where your dog could reach it, be absolutely sure not to use treated lumber, as it could make your dog very sick if it’s chewed on or ingested.

• There should be enough room for your dog to comfortably stand up and move around when it’s fully grown. If you plan to house multiple dogs in the same shelter, be sure to adjust its size accordingly.

• The dog house should be slightly raised from the ground to prevent moisture from damaging the structure and to keep mold, bacteria, and bugs out. A dry dog house is a clean dog house.

• A plastic flap serving as a front door will make it easy for your dog to get in and out while shielding it from the elements and keeping the inside dry.

• Adding hinges to the roof will make it easier for you to clean and maintain the inside of the dog house. Without hinges, you’ll have to crawl inside to tidy up.

• You should be able to move your dog house around your yard if the weather or other circumstances affect the location’s suitability.

• Keep the dog house somewhere you can easily keep an eye on it. This will make it easier to supervise your dog and help to remind you when the dog house requires upkeep.

• Do not use a travel crate as a dog house. These enclosures do not provide enough space or protection to comfortably house your animals for extended periods of time or when exposed to the elements.