Factors to Consider When Building Your Dog a House

Feb

Factors to Consider When Building Your Dog a House

Thirty years ago, the thought of building your canine a house brought with it images of a hammer, nails, and several heavy planks of wood. After an entire weekend spent building (and cursing), you might have finally managed to erect a semi-livable dwelling for your pooch. Fortunately, the process of building a doghouse is easier today than it was back then. There’s still effort involved, but many pet supply stores sell kits to make the job problem-free (or nearly so).

Below, we’ll provide several useful tips for building your pooch a house that will keep him dry, cool in the heat, and warm in the cold. We’ll also describe a few potential problems with regard to the doghouse’s size and insulation.

Keeping Moisture Out

Most owners start building with the thought of making sure the roof is waterproof. That way, rain is kept out, which allows the canine to keep dry. But, there is a far more important consideration when it comes to moisture control: bacteria.

Depending on where you live, high temperatures may be accompanied by humidity. That can cause moisture to gain entry into your pooch’s house. If humidity rises high enough, the bacteria can become airborne. Eventually, it can cause bronchitis and other respiratory problems.

Use wood to build the doghouse; it breathes and therefore prevents moisture from accumulating inside. Also, use canvas-based flaps for the door to provide ventilation.

Keeping The Temperature Down

Some owners go to great lengths to build their pooches the equivalent of a mansion. Not only do they make it airtight to keep the place warm during the cold months, but many even install heating units. It’s entirely unnecessary.

Have you ever watched someone walk their dog in 30-degree temperature and wondered how the pooch could stand the cold? The answer is because canines have a built-in heating unit: their hair. It protects them from the cold while providing ventilation during the hot months. Don’t feel bad about letting your pooch stay in his doghouse during the winter months. As long as he’s protected from the wind, his hair will keep him warm.

Size And Insulation Issues

The size of a doghouse directly influences your canine’s ability to keep himself warm. The problem with a lot of the houses is that they’re far too big. If you allow too much space inside, your dog’s body heat will be less able to keep him warm.

While your dog is lying on the ground asleep, measure a rectangular box around him that allows four to five inches of space on all sides. That is all the area he needs inside his doghouse. Nothing more.

Also, if you’re planning to use insulation (using it is unnecessary), make certain it is not exposed. If it is visible, your dog might try to eat it. That can lead to intestinal issues. A better approach is to simply use two layers of wood, leaving a pocket of air between them; no insulation required. That provides ventilation, which allows humidity to escape.

Building a doghouse does not need to represent a major construction project. Use the suggestions above to build a sturdy house that your dog will find comfortable and protective from the wind and sun.

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