As you shop for wooden dog houses, you will want to consider more than their looks. Some features you can抰 change. You do have control, however, over where you choose to position the house.
Thinking about how you will position the house you抳e selected is actually quite important. Before it arrives at your home, you should consider all your options. You might wish to contemplate several factors when deciding where you will place the dog house. These factors will affect your dog抯 comfort, and maybe even its safety, during inclement weather and during cold or hot months.
You don抰 want your dog to lie in a puddle of water all night or to sleep on damp bedding. You can create elevation by building a small platform on which to place the dog house. This platform does not need to be high. Some wooden dog houses solve the moisture problem for you. To save yourself time and trouble, you can look for houses with raised floors. In addition to guarding against moisture, elevation also improves the natural insulation of wooden dog houses. The air beneath the floor helps to keep your pet warm during the winter.
Secondly, take advantage of natural warmth. Observe where the sun lights your yard at various times of the day. During cooler months, position the dog house where the sun can warm it for a few hours each day. If the house is not stationary, you may wish to move the house into shade during very warm months.
Regardless of the season, always make sure your dog has access to fresh drinking water. Whether you place a dish inside, install a dispenser, or use another method, keep the water fresh. Even in winter, dogs can dehydrate. Position the dog抯 shelter where you can easily provide fresh water daily.
Pay attention to the wind patterns, as well. Positioning the dog house in a more sheltered location will help to regulate its temperature. You can also reduce wind by covering the door opening with a flap. Many wooden dog houses today come with flaps already installed. If you prefer a sturdier alternative, you can purchase doors made from Plexiglas. These self-closing doors come equipped with seals to keep out rain, snow, and wind. (If you plan to use a heating and air conditioning unit, the seal will also help to regulate the temperature.)
Remember these things when choosing a position for wooden dog houses: Purchase a shelter with a raised floor or provide elevation by building a low platform as a foundation for the dog house. Take advantage of natural sunlight and shade to help regulate the temperature inside the dog house. If necessary, choose a house that you can move to different locations during seasonal extremes. Place the house where you can easily provide fresh drinking water for your pet. Take precautions to cut down on wind; place the house out of the wind and make sure openings are covered appropriately. Keep your dog safe, happy, and healthy.
