14 Best Dog Houses for Winter

Buying and setting up the best dog house for winter helps your dog avoid dog hypothermia. This condition occurs during cold days when the dog’s body temperature drops below 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The body of your dog cannot heat itself up efficiently and quickly becomes colder, before a lethal shutdown.

During cold days, dog owners must ensure their dogs have sufficient insulation using dog house heaters or simply, by installing a winter dog house. These insulated dog houses are engineered to block cold air streams from sneaking into your dog’s nest.

14 Best Winter Houses for Dogs

Many people look forward to winter because of the holidays and the picturesque surroundings. However, the cold nights during this season may not appeal to everyone. While we keep ourselves warm indoors, our dogs also need the same warmth while they are outside. So, to help you find the best for your pooch, we collated the best dog houses for winter. 

Our Best Pick:

Our best pick among the brands that we gathered is Petmate’s Indigo Dog House. Aside from its unique igloo shape, it offers Microban antimicrobial protection. Check out its details and the rest of the list below:

1. Insulated Dog Palace w/ Optional Floor Heater

— Great Insulated Dog House!

The DP Hunter brand provides high-quality pet products. This dog house is the perfect subzero dog house for multiple reasons. It comes with its own 30-watt heater that safely rests on the floor. Additionally, walls and ceiling have premium EPS insulation foam leaving your dogs perfectly cozy during the harshest days. This weather-proof dog house comes with a fantastic durable polystyrene exterior that further insulates the interior. When temperatures drop to extreme lows, this winter dog house will not disappoint.

Pets do not have to feel enclosed in a tiny space as the house is equipped with a self-closing door that comes with its own viewing window. Your dog can still have the pleasure of looking out around his surroundings while comfortably lounging in his hot spot. Window panels are adjustable and self-storing for simplicity. They are designed to reposition themselves depending on the season. During the colder months, they remain in a closed position, and in the warmer months into a cross ventilation position. Therefore, this deluxe dog house provides the protection your dog needs and craves without any of the hassles.

The floor remains raised above four inches off the ground, keeping the place dry as well as a draining hold with a slight slope. The mat, which features a built-in thermostat, is water-resistant and can be used for outdoor use, kennels, or garages.

2. Pets Imperial Insulated Wooden Dog Kennel

— Popular Insulated Wooden Dog House

Wood is one of the best materials to use during cold nights because it naturally keeps warmth inside. This wooden winter dog shelter is a great option with professional insulation consisting of:

• a layer of timber (tongue and groove),
• a layer of Styrofoam, and
• a layer of plywood board

This is a dog house designed to last for years even when being mistreated by the rain, snow and wind storms. The door may be the only little problem with this outdoor kennel. They decided to use flaps instead of a self-closing fitted door. However, thanks to the overall built quality, it is not a big problem though.

The manufacturer has not clearly expressed waterproof claims so I would recommend you to shelter this wooden dog house under a covered area. Better be safe than sorry, especially since this is not a cheap product.

The floor is removable to promote an easy and regular cleaning routine. This dog house can be well-ventilated by opening the roof via unlocking two locking arms. This makes this product a year-around great pick despite having walls 150% thicker than most other kennels on the marketplace today.

#petsimperial hashtag on Instagram • Photos and videos

3. Petmate Indigo with Microban

— Best Dog Igloo House!

The Petmate winter dog house is ingeniously igloo-shaped and provides the most year-round housing for your dog. With an easy to clean design and expansive space inside, this homey cottage features some heavy-duty construction that provides the perfect insulation for any weather condition. Whether it’s hot or cold, this indigo dog house provides an offset doorway for easy entrance and exit for your pet’s convenience.

The roof ventilation provides maximum comfort for your pets as the unique design allows fresh air to circulate its premises. The Petmate dog house comes in medium, large, or extra-large sizes to fit any type of breed and size of the dog. The advanced Microban antimicrobial protection prevents odors and stains while keeping your pet’s home clean.

The inside of the Petmate features raised floors and side moats to keep liquids drained off encouraging a dry, comfortable resting place. The snap design is easily integrated into the product to allow for a simple assembly without needing any additional tools. For maximum comfort, Petmate provides accessories for added convenience including an Indigo-branded door and mat, which can be purchased separately.

Made in the USA, your pet can now live at ease during any time of the year while enjoying air in the summer, and heat during the winter. It can even be shaded and protected from wind and rain. Users appreciate the durability this winter dog house offers.

#igloodoghouse hashtag on Instagram • Photos and videos

4. Petsfit Insulation Kit

— Best Insulation Kit for Petsfit Dog Houses

The Petsfit insulation kit is not a dog house, but rather an insulation kit that comes with the Petsfit Wooden Dog House. The actual dog house that this kit is used for measures 41.3 inches in length, 25.8 inches in width, and 30 inches in height, however, this insulation kit fits in a Petsfit 45.6 in by 30.9 in by 32.1 dog house. The dog house is sold separately.

With this handy kit, buyers can be sure their dog house is getting the perfect insulation for subzero temperatures. The piece fits snuggly and keeps the inside nice and warm during those cold nights. It adds a sense of coziness and comfort for your dog’s enjoyment.

The material is easily removable and can be washed for sheer convenience. The insulation design is filled with an EPE foam that makes it easier to handle and provides the right fit for a leisurely rest. Just open the zippers to place or remove the foam. One of the most appreciated features is how easy it is to install as it comes in its own carry case for simple storage. A very sturdy bed kit, this Petsfit product can last a lifetime.

5. Confidence Pet Waterproof Outdoor Dog Kennel

— Great Insulated Dog House!

This outdoor kennel made by Confidence Pet is an innovative waterproof dog house. It provides ample room inside and has earned its spot at the top of the list. Users who have bought this dog house confirm that this pet house does not leak and provides the needed sturdiness any dog owner is looking for.

Its plastic construction makes it an ideal dog house for easy and effective cleaning, as well as a quick set up and assembly. It is a very appealing house that resembles a conservative, suburban home. The durable and tough plastic material creates a comfortable and personal space for your pets. The ingenious design is built to withstand all weather conditions. It features an entrance of medium size that measures 10.5 x 17 inches. Large and extra-large house entrances are also available for purchase that measure 12.5 x 20.5 inches and 14.1 x 24.6 inches, respectively.

The waterproof dog house provides a hygienic way for your dog’s “home away from home” settlement. It can beat those rainy days during outdoor use. When it’s extra cold outside, just throw a warm blanket over it to add additional insulation. Dog owners can also decorate by adding pillows inside.

6. Best Pet Supplies, Inc. Tent Bed for Pets

— Best Indoor Dog Tent for Chilly Days

Only for indoors and for small dogs! Your dog’s resting space couldn’t get any comfier than with this sleek-designed winter dog house. Ultimately created with your pet’s ease in mind, this tent bed features soft plush from top to bottom and side to side. With its faux suede material, corduroy and linen, your loved ones are bound to get lost in time while resting inside this haven.

The soft poly-foam lining gives this tent an all-around soft feel while keeping your puppies warm. This house is great for indoors. It is ok for outdoor use unless the weather permits otherwise, as these winter dog houses can easily get dirty or wet from the rain. Their decorative design matches any interior of the home as they are inspired by elegance for pet design. Colors can be chosen based on the décor of your home so that they will match.

The house provides ample 19 x 19 x 19-inch dimensions inside to accommodate your pets, providing a sense of security and ultimate privacy from outside influences. This tent is so easy to maintain it can be washed in the machine without ruining its original shape. It is also easy to carry and travel with as it acts as a plush, soft crate. This durable dog house is made to last a really long time. These dome beds do not collapse and fall over as other soft dog beds tend to do and come in a varied range of sizes to accommodate any breed. They also come with comfy pillows so your pet can comfortably get some shut-eye.

7. Lifetime Deluxe Dog House with Adjustable Vents

If you’re looking for a sturdy and weather-proof dog house for dogs, then get the Deluxe Dog House from Lifetime. It boasts a durable plastic exterior that is reinforced by steel for excellent strength. Its HDPE (High-density Polyethylene) formulation contains UV-resistant pigments so the plastic material would last long despite sun exposure. Lifetime designed this dog bed specifically for outdoor use. The vinyl door flapped is weighted so it stays closed. And its frame is metal to deter your dogs from chewing it. This dog house also includes a heater mount bracket in case you want to buy and add a heater to your dog’s hangout place. 

Because of its plastic construction, it’s easy to clean. Additionally, you have the option to subdivide the interior as it includes a partition. With this dog house, your pooch will be safely protected from outdoor weather conditions. However, you have to prepare a hefty amount for this product. Although, with all its benefits, your dog will surely thank you for it. Also, this dog house comes in one large size, so if you have a small dog, he may feel lonely inside this spacious dog house. 

8. ZENY Plastic Dog House

The next dog cabin on our list is the versatile Plastic Dog House by ZENY. It is made from good quality plastic material which makes it waterproof. You can use this dog house indoors or outdoors as it boasts anti-corrosion properties. The flooring of this product is elevated keeping the interiors dry and protected from ground elements. It also boasts a sloping asphalt roof that shields your dog from the rain and snow. 

What makes this dog house great is its thermal balancing properties. This means you can use it all year round. Plus, its front and back built-in vents provide circulation of fresh air inside. It comes in two sizes ideal for small and medium breeds. However, many dog owners shared that it’s suitable for small breeds only. They also mentioned that the installation instructions were vague making assembly difficult. The strap that holds the roof together may also be hard to attach. Some said they added extra screws to close any gaps.

9. Petsfit Dog House Outdoor

Fur parents will surely take delight in the unique design of Petsfit Dog House Outdoor. Among all the other dog houses on the list, this one boasts a covered balcony where your dog can relax. It has four feet for elevated flooring. They are adjustable in case of uneven ground. This dog house is made of solid wood reinforced by stainless steel hardware for longevity. Its asphalt roof is slanted to make sure rain and other liquids flow to the ground keeping the dog house dry. 

Additionally, the roofing has pneumatics so you can lift it open for ease of cleaning. The holes of this dog house are pre-drilled for easy installation. However, many dog owners still shared their frustrations with the assembly of the dog house. They cited some parts that seem to not fit together. Since this dog cabin is made of wood, it is not waterproof and is prone to water damage. You also need to add insulating materials to keep it warm though. 

10. BestPet Large Insulated Durable Plastic Dog House

The Large Insulated Durable Plastic Dog House from BestPet offers a great hangout space for large dogs at home. This dog cabin is weather and water-resistant making it an effective shelter outdoors. But, it can also be a safe spot for your dog inside your home. Not only is it useful for winter, but for other seasons as well. Because of its double air vents, your pet will enjoy good air circulation while inside the dog house. 

The roofing for the pet house is removable so you can easily clean the interiors. The flooring is elevated to protect your dog from dirt and wetness from the ground. This dog house is stable and strong enough to carry up to 200 pounds. It has 2 nails so you can fix it on the ground. However, pet owners shared that its actual size is smaller than expected. Installation may need more than one person. The walls may bend so you’ll need extra hands to hold them while you are fastening them together. Also, it doesn’t have a self-closing door to seal warmth inside during winter.

11. Ferplast Dog Villa Dog House

The Dog Villa Dog House by Ferplast stands out from the rest for a unique reason. It has a one-of-a-kind design that converts one of the side panels into a porch. So, your dog has an extra living space, especially during summer. In winter, you can put the side panel back to keep warmth inside. Aside from that, it boasts sturdy materials made of waterproof and UV-resistant plastic. The flooring has built-in drainage so liquids don’t settle inside keeping it dry. Plus, it doubles as an added ventilation too. That is in addition to the large entryway and the fold-out porch. 

However, because of its plastic build, it is prone to cracks, especially on the joints or corners. There is also a lack of screw holes that could have made assembly easier. Although the dog house has different sizes, the largest available may still be too small for large dogs. 

12. Precision Pet Products Petmate Extreme Log Cabin Dog House

Get the rustic vibe plus other great features of this Extreme Outdoor Log Cabin from Precision Pet Products. Aside from its real cabin feel, it boasts a solid wood build paired with stainless steel hardware. So, it offers a sturdy and long-lasting shelter for your pooch. The asphalt roof of this dog house is slightly slanted to drain rainwater or any liquids. Plus, this dog cabin has four legs that are adjustable in case the ground is uneven. And since the flooring is elevated, it stays dry as well. 

Different dog breeds can enjoy this durable and protective cabin as it comes in three different sizes. However, this dog house lacks a self-closing door or a flap to stop the cold temperatures from seeping through the interiors. According to some pet owners, the quality of this dog cabin is only good for small to medium dogs, and well-behaved large dogs. If you have an active large breed, the materials of this dog house may not stand a chance from the movements, chewing, and rough play. Lastly, it may be a bit expensive for the quality it offers. 

13. BLKMTY Winter Doghouse Cute Dog Condo

Keeping your dogs warm even during cold winter nights is made easy with the Winter Doghouse from BLKMTY. This plastic-made dog cabin offers warmth and security outdoors. Even during warm seasons, your dogs can still enjoy the breeze because of its two air vents. This affordable dog house comes in 3 sizes to choose from. 

The exteriors of this dog cabin are sealed and the floors are elevated to keep your pooch dry. You can also fix this to the ground for added stability. Cleaning will not be a hassle because the roof is removable. However, despite the 3 size options, it seems to be ideal for small and medium dogs only. Overall, the dog house is good, but it doesn’t have enough insulation for winter. So, you need to add a bed, some blankets, and other insulating materials. Also, it doesn’t include a door cover to seal the warmth inside. 

14. BestPet All Weather Dog House with Base Support House

To complete our list, we included the All Weather Dog House with Base Support from BestPet. This waterproof dog cabin is made of high-quality polypropylene material. This makes it ideal for outdoor use in the backyard, porch, or even indoors as well. It comes in three sizes to cater to different dog breeds. Aside from the front door, it also opens to the side to increase ventilation during warmer seasons. Plus, it has dual air vents for air circulation. 

This dog house can be fixed to the ground. Its honeycomb non-slip silicone base ensures it stays in place. It is also easy to clean by just splashing some water because of its plastic build. However, there have been mixed reviews on its quality. Come customers said it is not for big dogs who move a lot as they may break some parts. Its size as well is not spacious enough for large dogs. Others have mentioned that they expected a lot from the price and got disappointed when it arrived. 

When Is It too Cold for Dogs in Winter?

As soon as a dog moves slower and starts shivering, it is time to offer external help to warm up the dog’s body. There are plenty of signs indicating that a dog is suffering from cold weather:

• shivering – your dog’s body shakes for long periods of times
• lethargy – your dog moves a lot less and shows signs of abnormal fatigue and listlessness
• snuggling – excessive snuggling is a sign that your dog seeks warmth rather than cuddles
• frostbites – freezing of the dog’s skin layers, generally affecting extremities, due to prolonged exposure to the cold
• skin color change – blue-ish shades on your dog’s normally-pink tummy skin

If your dog lives outdoors throughout the year, you do want to monitor them closely during the coldest days of the year. Regular outdoor kennels won’t protect your day as well against harsh elements. Check for frostbites and color changes. If your dog shows barks or whines a lot, you will need to install a dog house heater outdoors or use a winter dog house indoors. More than low temperatures, wintertime is also a period in which blizzard, rain, and snowstorms can attack a dog’s organism.

For cheaper options, you may decide to go with a dog house heat lamp as a safe external source of heat. Regardless of the product category, most heating sources are electrically-powered. Therefore, safety is very important to avoid burning a dog’s skin, to electric hazards (e.g. cord chewing).

Regular Dog Houses vs Insulated Winter Dog Houses

The main goal of an insulated winter dog house is to isolate your dog’s home from outside. Dog bodies naturally heat up their immediate surroundings, as long as very little external air enters the area. Holes must be shut, walls should be thicker, and beddings should encourage heat retention. Insulated dog houses focus on the flooring, too, to avoid the passing of cold temperature from the ground to the dog house.

There is no deal kennel for winter since you also want your dog to be able to go in and out of their house — therefore it cannot be completely locked. Depending on your dog’s size, you may need to add fleece blankets and thermal mats to offer additional levels of protection against the subzero temperatures.

Materials and Designed Used

Buying a dog house for winter is a matter of understanding what measures do you want the dog house to take care of. Ideally, you want thick walls made from insulating materials and flooring that is designed to block the cold. Some materials and designs are better than others to protect against cold weather.

For instance, metal is bad for winter time as it keeps the cold. Obviously, grid-like dog crates and soft dog crates are useless against cold weather. If you are using an indoor playpen you should move it to a warm room or insulate it further.

Igloo-type dog houses are recommended due to their thicker walls. Additionally, raised floors help to trap the cold air between the bottom part of the house and the ground. Adding a fleece or sherpa blanket should further insulate the dog house floor.

Closable Door

Regardless of the heat inside the dog house, if the door is wide open, it will get cold again within seconds. Ideally, find a dog house with a flap or make a DIY thick curtain for your dog’s crate to stop cold air streams from entering the dog house.

Ideally, you want to shelter the dog house in a garage or within your own home. If you do so, the closed kennel door can matter a little less since it is already sheltered from air drafts.

Size of the dog

Small dogs require a lot more warmth due to their lack of body fat and thinner muscle mass. Additionally, small dogs such as Chihuahuas lack a thick coat that would otherwise help with warmth. Big dogs too can lack such furry coats and should also be taken care of accordingly. Greyhounds are great examples of large and impressive dogs that get cold very fast when not active. A fleece blanket or snuggly coat should both help to compensate for their lack of natural insulation.

Buying an outdoor winter dog house can also be challenging for giant breeds but our selection of reviewed products below cater for all types of dogs. Giant dog houses may be pricier, though.

Durable

Winter is harsh on dogs and on gears. Cold, dirt, mud, snow, rain, rust, mold, and a heap of other potential issues to occur. Depending on where you place your dog’s winter igloo, you may need to check it is in good shape weekly. Storms and strong winds can often deteriorate dog houses very quickly. The same goes for rain.

Hygiene is also important so you should probably wash up and completely dry your dog’s beddings regularly. Dampness keeps the cold for longer and cancels any insulation you may have built.

Can I use a dog house heater in my dog house?

Dog house heaters can be safely installed inside or right outside a regular outdoor dog house as long as safety instructions are followed. Most heaters manufactured for dog houses are encased within a protective housing. This is to make sure dogs’ hair and skin do not get burnt by accident.

However, you should not use heaters made for humans to heat up a dog house. Dogs may suffocate if the heat becomes too high. Dog house heaters have their own thermostat and mechanisms to reduce or stop the heating once a certain temperature is reached.

How to build a DIY dog house for winter?

Building a DIY winter-proof dog house requires thicker and insulation-friendly materials. Thick wood of high quality is ideal for the walls, while bricks and wood could be used for the flooring. Raise the floor to trap cold air between the ground and the house’s floor. Remember to completely seal the edges where walls meet as these often allow cold air to come in. If you can buy insulation foam materials, wrap it around the house’s roof, walls and floor to enhance heat retention.

An important part is to turn the front door as a flap. That way, cold air is blocked outside of the home and the dog’s natural body heat warms up the house. For adequate ventilation, you may use tiny holes in strategic spots so fresh air still comes in. If the winter-proof dog house is not sheltered in a garage or covered area, reinforce the roof using a waterproof lining. Heavy rain can degrade any regular flooring within a few hours, especially when the dampness is sustained for days or weeks.

Check out the below video as it offers great insights on building and proofing your DIY dog house!

How to care for dogs in winter?

Cold weather makes dog bodies burn a lot more calories in order to constantly elevate their body temperature. Therefore, a dog needs a lot more calories during cold days. Providing more frequent meals to your dog may be better than your usual daily single large meal. That way, the calories from their diet can be used more efficiently throughout the day.

Using a heated dog bowl will also allow your dog to drink warm water throughout the day and night, and prevent the liquid from freezing if left outside. Add-ons such as dog blankets and heating mats definitely better your dog’s life during winter. When dealing with any electrical appliance, indoor or outdoor, take precautions to avoid obvious dramatic accidents.

Additional Winter Dog House Equipment

Recommended additional items for kennel houses during winter

Dog House Furnace

The obvious quick fix for any dog owner is to buy and install a dog house furnace. I would love to hate these but they do work extremely well and do what they say they do. They are moderately priced but do last for several years. Good dog house heaters such as the Akoma Hound Furnace, need you to manually install them within your dog’s kennel. While most people are happy doing it, others who are not very handy will hesitate. If you have a large kennel or some kennel runs, such heaters are perfect and professional-grade.

Thermal Pads

Thermal pads are flat heating devices placed under a dog bed or acting as dog beds. Products vary in design but the most important distinction to pay attention to is their heating mechanism. A lot of heating pads are electrically powered and require to be plugged. While others use special materials to offer a self-heating and heat-retention mechanism. For these, the dog’s natural body heat bounces back as soon as it leaves the dog’s body.

Thermal mats and thermal pads for dogs are simpler to use and a lot cheaper to buy. However, heating pads may be insufficient during very harsh cold weather when temperatures enter the sub-zero zone.

Heated Dog Bowls

Dogs should remain hydrated whether it is hot or cold outside. Yet, too many dog owners forget that water will freeze when left outdoors so using a heated dog bowl is a must. Do not boil the water and leave it out as it represents a danger for the dog who tries to drink it right away, and will eventually cool down and freeze after dozens of minutes.

When buying a heated dog bowl, be sure to see what low-temperature limits it has. Ideally, pick a product that remains intact even at 20 degrees below zero F.

Fleece Blankets

Thermal blankets for dogs are cheap and easy to stock up. They can be washed with regular clothes, and you can pile them up on a dog bed for more heat retention. Dog blankets come in so many shapes, sizes, and materials. You need to try a few before finding the one(s) that your dog really loves to be snuggled up in. Fleece, sherpa and microfiber plush are great materials during cold weather and they won’t set you back by much. When you place an order, plan ahead and buy a couple of sets so you have one ready to be used while the other set is in the laundry.

Kennel Heat Lamps

Heat lamps are specially-designed lamps that emit heat rather than visible light. Infrared heat lamps are a great way to provide an external source of heat controlled environment for dogs, puppies, and small animals like chickens. Farmers have been using these infrared lamps for years in order to maintain their coop temperature constant.

Heated Outdoor Dog Houses

While most dog houses are purchased for their looks and comfort, if you expect very cold temperatures you may want to consider buying a heated outdoor dog house instead. Indeed, these outdoor kennels come with a heating system that will provide a sustainable source of warmth for your outdoor-living dog. They generally come with a floor heater embedded or special foam panels.

Dog Houses for Winter: FAQs 

After going through the benefits and caveats of the brands we presented, let’s tackle the frequently asked questions about dog houses for winter. 

Despite the cold temperature during winter, some dogs still want to hang out in the backyard or other open areas at home. With the different dog house options we presented, you’ll have enough knowledge in choosing the best one for your dog. While you’re cozy and warm in the house, you’ll be at ease knowing your dog is enjoying the warmth of his dog house too.