10 Best Dog House Ideas Your Dog Will Love

Some dogs love to live outdoors instead of indoors, and they may even like to sleep out in the yard. If this is the case, there are several nice dog house ideas out there that will give your dog a place to sleep. No matter if your dog likes to stay outside while you’re at work or if they just like to spend an hour or two a day outside, having an outdoor dog house gives them options. They can go inside if they get tired, cold, or if it starts to rain or snow.

Where to Find Dog House Ideas

Finding the best dog house ideas isn’t hard if you know what you’re searching for, and what dog house options you have available to you. There are dozens of materials, models, and sizes to pick from, and there is something for every sized dog. One thing is certain, your dog will love spending time in their new home when you tailor it for them.

Durable dog house ideas create a shelter that your dog uses to mimic a natural den. You can get indoor or outdoor houses. 

1. Petsfit Dog House

If you have a larger dog at home, you know who much space they can take up when they sprawl out. These dog house ideas brings a larger choice at 45.6 by 30.9 by 32.1 inches. It’s big enough for your dog to stretch out, and it comes elevated slightly off the ground. It won’t kills the grass around it, and it won’t flood if it snows or rains heavily. It looks like a Cape Cod-style house with a cute blue-grey coloring with white trim. The house uses a completely weather-proof design that keeps your dog warm while locking out the elements.

There are pre-drilled holes with this dog house idea that makes it easy to put together when you get it. You can tilt the roof open during nice weather, and this also makes the house very easy to clean and maintain. The weather-proof wood isn’t extremely comfortable, so the company recommends you laying a few blankets inside or a mat for your dog to lounge on. There is a clear door flap that will help retain the heat and keep the moisture out of the dog house.

Benefits:

• Roof flips up for easy cleaning
• Elevated off the ground
• Clear door flap locks moisture out

Drawbacks:

• Floor has no support beams
• May leak in the corner
• Has no padding on the floor

2. Suncast Outdoor Dog House

This dog house idea can work well for both indoor and outdoor use, and it’s large enough to accommodate dogs up to 100 pounds without being pressed for space. It’s a cost-effective dog house that is designed to be extremely sturdy. It can hold up against harsh weather conditions all year round, and it comes made out of resin plastic. The plastic makes it very easy to periodically clean, and you can spray it with a garden hose and let it air dry to freshen it up. If you need to break it down or set it up, you’ll get a snap-together assembly that is quick and easy.

The contemporary design has fake windows and a darker blue roof that will fit well into almost any interior design style. There is a vinyl door that provides additional protection from the cold and elements, but the house is entirely plastic. There’s no insulation, so you may want to put a blanket or bed in the house to keep your dog comfortable all year round.

Benefits:

• Vinyl door is very durable
• Is a very cost-effective option
• Contemporary design fits any decor

Drawbacks:

• No insulation
• Uses a lightweight material
• Roof is difficult to put on

3. Arf Frame Dog House

This smaller A-frame dog house idea is perfect for small dog breeds. It comes made out of solid cedar, and this is naturally resistant to pests, weatherproof, and it’s very durable. It comes in three different sizes, and the dog house sits off the ground to prevent premature rot, mold, and mildew growth from the moisture in the ground. It’s a great choice for any breed of dog that likes tighter and smaller dens. You may have to size up if you have a medium breed, and this house isn’t big enough for a larger one.

This dog house idea allows you to put it indoors or outdoors. If you have it indoors, you won’t have to worry about it scratching your flooring or damaging your carpets. The legs on this dog house are very stable and sturdy. It does have a strong cedar smell when you first get it that can dissipate with time. It’s relatively easy to put together, and it comes with a clear instruction booklet.

Benefits: 

• Has an attractive finish
• Solid wood design
• Non-toxic with a raised floor

Drawbacks:

• Can have rough edges
• Cedar smell is very strong
• Color may be darker than advertised

4. Petsfit Indoor Wooden Dog House

If you need a dog house idea for a dog that likes to sleep indoors, this is a good dog house choice. Maybe you have time on your hands and you’re thinking about redecorating your apartment but you don’t want wire in your living room. This sleek dog house takes care of that. It comes made out of cedar that is kiln-dried, and it has a non-toxic paint that is water based for a sleek look. The house color uses white trim to offset it for an eye-catching look, and it has a white metal door that your dog can look out.

The dog house door has a secure latch, and this makes this dog house idea safe for your pet. You can easily repaint it if you want, and it works well for dogs 30 pounds and under. It’s nice for you apartment or smaller house because it doesn’t take up a lot of space, and it has rubber feet to prevent it from scratching your floor if you move it. There is a 30-day warranty on this dog house that allows you to return it if you’re not 100% satisfied with it.

Benefits:

• Offers a full refund within 30 days
• Secure lock keeps your pet safe
• Very cute and attractive look

Drawbacks:

• Slightly more expensive
• Made with very lightweight wood
• Roof opens but doesn’t stay open

5. ASL Doggy Palace

Ideally, your dog house idea will keep your furry friend from getting cold or wet when they’re outside, and the Doggy Palace by ASL will do just that for you. It has insulated foam built right into the walls with a raised floor that keeps your dog out of the water while ensuring the heat stays in on colder days. The dog house door comes on hinges slightly off the ground, and it swings both directions to make it easy for your dog to get it out. It also creates a waterproof seal that is great for the winter months.

The insulation is safe to have around your dog, and it can house medium-sized dogs. The door is too high off the ground for a small dog to fit, but you could build a ramp with this dog house idea to help them get in and out. There is a good amount of ventilation with these dog houses that give your dog constant airflow in all weather conditions without being too drafty.

Benefits:

• Dog house door swings shut when your dog goes in or out
• Raised off the ground
• Has insulation to keep the cold out

Drawbacks:

• Insulation can flake off
• Door can be difficult to push
• Door is high off the ground

6. Petmate Indigo

This classic dog house idea is popular in areas that get colder weather, and it’s an igloo shape that will stand out in your yard. The insulated walls can help seal out the cold in the winter months, but it can also seal out the heat to keep your dog comfortable during the summer. The dog house has a slightly wider design that enables your dog to move comfortably, and this includes the opening. There are several different sizes you can choose from to fit different dogs without a problem.

The dog house door and sleeping space are cleverly separated on this dog house idea, and this prevents air from making it into the sleeping chamber. If you want to block the wind further, use your landscape to create a natural privacy screen and put the house right up against them. This will also reduce the chances of dust and dirt coming into the house. The material repels bacteria and mold growth to keep it looking nice.

Benefits:

• Entrance and sleeping area are separated
• Has a wider design with a wider door
• Slightly heavier material

Drawbacks:

• Rain can puddle at the entrance
• Not resistant to chewing
• Runs small to size

7. Aspen Pet PetBarn 3

If you want a simple dog house idea, this is it. This is perfect for those dog parents who like bigger breeds. This dog house features a durable construction that is weather-proof, and it comes designed to keep your dog warm and dry all year round, no matter the weather. It can also keep your dog cool in the summer by giving them a place to hide from those harsh sunbeams. It has a nice rustic barn shape with three different size options that you can tailor to your dog. It can fit dogs ranging from 15 pounds up to over 90 pounds.

The top and bottom parts of this dog house idea snap together, and this makes it easy to take apart and clean before putting back together. It has a larger doorway that lets your dog go in and out as they please without a problem. It works well for indoor and outdoor use.

Benefits:

• Provides long-lasting protection all year round
• Comes in three different sizes
• Very easy to take apart and put together

Drawbacks:

• Sits flat on the ground
• Water can get trapped inside
• Has no insulation

8. Always-Quality Indoor Outdoor Dog House

This is a cute indoor/outdoor dog house idea that would go wonderfully if you had a small patch of artificial turf to set it on. It’s a nice choice for a small or medium-sized dog, and it has a sturdy plastic build that makes it very easy to wash out and clean. The plastic also makes it difficult for bacteria to grow, and this makes it a healthier home for your dog. The design allows for plenty of ventilation, and this can help to keep your dog comfortable in hot and cool conditions.

This dog house idea is completely waterproof, and this is great news for wet environments. It has sturdy feet that allow the house to sit raised off the ground to prevent water from pooling. You only need one screwdriver to assemble this house, and it goes together to create a sturdy design that will last season after season. It comes in two color choices, and it has a wider doorway for your dog to enter and exit.

Benefits: 

• Has a compact design
• Goes together quickly and easily
• Sits off the ground to prevent water from pooling

Drawbacks: 

• Runs very small to size
• Roof can crack under heavy snow
• May blow over in very windy conditions

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9. SENYEPETS Soft Indoor House

Many smaller breeds can’t spend the night outdoors, so this dog house idea is perfect for them if you want to give them their own space indoors. This is a completely soft dog house that comes in an adorable design with plush walls and flooring. It’s available in three colors, and you can easily pull the roof off to clean it because it attaches with velcro. If you need more padding for your dog to sleep on, you can buy one of the two plush beds that fit perfectly on the floor of this dog house.

Once you buy this dog house idea, it’ll pop open by itself and return to its form in three days or less. There is an anti-skid material on the floor of this dog house that helps the bed stay in place. You can easily wash any portion of this dog house, and it fits perfectly in with any decor. The house is resistant to water, and this makes it easy to clean if your dog has an accident while they’re inside.

Benefits:

• Has a very plush design
• Anti-skid material on the floor
• Easy to clean

Drawbacks:

• Not very sturdy or durable
• Won’t withstand chewing or scratching
• Runs very small to size

10. Confidence Pet Plastic Dog Kennel

Maybe you’ve used the best lawn fertilizer to green up your yard and now you want to find the best dog house idea to give your furry friend a new home. If so, consider this plastic dog house. This is a hygienic choice that will give your dog a den to call their own, and the plastic repels germs and bacteria to keep it looking nice and being a healthy place for your dog to lay. You can hose it down or wipe it down with a cloth and let it air dry. There is no insulation with this dog house, so it won’t be good for colder climates.

There are three size options, and the floor is a non-slip material that prevents water from pooling in the dog house. It will shield your dog from sunlight to keep them cool, and you can add blankets or straw to give your dog somewhere comfortable to spend their time. It’s easy to put together, and this dog house idea has a slightly heavier build that is nice for windy environments.

Benefits: 

• Available in three sizes
• Made with a thicker plastic
• Has a non-slip floor

Drawbacks:

• No insulation
• Pre-drilled holes may not line up correctly
• Ramp-style entrance makes it difficult to keep bedding in

More on Dog House Ideas

When you start thinking about dog house ideas and trying to find the one that is the best fit for your furry friend, there are a few things you have to consider before you pick one out. Not all dog house ideas fit different situations or breeds, and you want your dog to be comfortable every time they’re outside.

Picking out the correct dog house can ensure your dog is happy and comfortable all year round, and you have dozens of great options to choose from.

Why Material Matters

When people think of dog house ideas, their mind usually goes to materials. One of the most common materials you can get is plastic. Plastic is cheap, relatively easy to clean, and it can resist mold or bacteria growth. However, it can be a problem if your dog decides to chew on their house.

The second type of material is wood. A thick wood dog house usually has a weatherproof coating on it that prevents it from breaking down. This is a durable option that can withstand various weather conditions, and it’s nice for windy environments.

For indoor dog house ideas, wire is popular. Wire gives your dog a chance to see everything that is happening around them, and it opens the house up for excellent ventilation. However, it doesn’t provide any sun or weather protection, so you shouldn’t use it outside if you can help it.

Insulation

If you have a shade sail out in your yard, you can set your dog house underneath it to help shield it from the harsh sunlight. This shade sail can also protect your dog’s house from the rain. Insulation is an important aspect of your dog’s house, especially if it’s in an area where the temperature drops below freezing and it snows or sleets. Insulation can also protect your dog from extreme heat, and not all dog house ideas come with it. A lot of them aren’t insulated, and this reduces the amount of protection your dog gets.

Insulated dog houses provide an additional layer of protection from the cold, wind, and sun, and not all dog houses come with it. 

Size

Your dog house should be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and move comfortably. Some breeds do like tighter quarters, but it shouldn’t be too small. Pay close attention to the dog house size. Many have a maximum weight requirement, and that will tell you whether or not it would be a good fit for your animal. If your dog is a puppy, get a house that will grow with them so you don’t have to replace it when your dog outgrows it.

Open or Covered Door

Is it nice enough for your dog to have an open door if they’re outside? Many indoor dog houses have an open door because you don’t have to worry about the elements. If the weather gets harsh or if your dog lives outside, consider getting your dog a house with a door that closes. It could be something as simple as a vinyl flap that moves when your dog goes in and out. Others have plastic doors that create a seal when your dog goes in and out, and a popular indoor option is wire.

You may have to experiment with door types for your dog house ideas because many dogs are afraid of pushing through the door to get in and out of their house. 

Location

Where you put our dog house matters too. Maybe you added an extension onto your home and you’re looking for a new spot for your dog house ideas. If this is the case, pay attention to the location. You shouldn’t put your dog house out somewhere that is completely exposed. It does better if you put it by the house, garage, building, or even a tree. Anything can help provide a buffer from the wind and rain. It should be easy for your dog to get in and out, and it should be somewhere that you can reach to clean.

Durability

Some dog house ideas are more expensive than others, so you want to make sure that it’s durable enough to withstand wear and tear without breaking down or wearing out. Wood and plastic are the two most durable materials available, and they tend to last the longest. If your dog house is inside, the durability won’t be that big of a deal. However, outdoor dog houses have to withstand different weather conditions and water. The house should be waterproof or water-resistant, and it should resist mold or mildew.

Ease of Assembly

Most dog house ideas require that the manufacturer send it in pieces. You have to put it together, and you don’t want this to be a long or drawn-out process. Whichever dog house you buy should be easy and quick to put together. You shouldn’t need a lot of tools to do so, and it should stay together once you set it up. Double-check and see if it comes assembled or disassembled and what you need to put it together before you buy it.

Raised Floor or Ground Level

One of the final things to consider is whether or not the dog house is sitting on the ground level or if it’s raised. A raised dog house is nice if you live in an area that gets a lot of moisture and rain. Raising it off the ground prevents moisture from seeping into the dog house and swelling the wood or encouraging mold and bacteria growth. If you have an indoor dog house or you live in a dry and arid area, it won’t be a problem to have a dog house that sits flat to the ground.

Matching your dog house with your dog will ensure that they use it and feel comfortable. This short guide and reviews will help you do just that. 

Bottom Line

These 10 dog house ideas with the short buying guide can help you pick out a great house for your dog that lasts and become an important element of your home decor.  If you have time, you can also try to build a dog house using DIY dog house plans. If you have a large dog, DIY dog house plans may allow you to create a DIY dog house to make your dog feel more at home. They can help to keep your dog comfortable all year round, no matter if you have an indoor or and outdoor dog.