The Scoop On Dog Houses

Dog houses are small shelters kept outside to protect dogs from the elements of nature. They assure that the dog is protected from heat and cold and has plenty of water.

Dogs have been man's best friend since at least the ancient days of Egypt. They were often pets and hunting partners. In Egypt, they lived in mud-brick kennels where they were trained. Dogs were also known throughout ancient Greece, China and Rome. Smaller dogs were often kept in the home but nobility and those with the means or necessity kept their dogs in their own houses outside the home.

There are a few factors to consider when selecting a dog house to purchase such as the size of the dog, the size of the backyard and the material and design of the house. Bigger doesn't always mean better: the dog should be able to enter and exit the house and lay down in it comfortably. Houses that are too big can make the interior temperature too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter.

There are many types of dog houses. Many immediately think of the typical house with a peaked roof and arched doorway, but there is a large variety available. The "typical" house has a pitched roof and is the most popular style. There are also single panel flat roofs and loft roofs, which feature a sun deck on the roof. Doors on these houses are useful for temperature control. The houses can be made of plastic, metal, fiberglass or wood. Plastic ones are the easiest to clean, while the wooden ones are the most traditional. Houses with removable roofs provide easy access to the dog. Some houses are portable and some are even inflatable. Kennels refer to crates and carriers used for travel. Also available are dog tents and dog boxes. They all slightly differ and are appropriate for various uses.

Some houses for dogs can be extraordinarily lavish. Many are designed to look like villas, mansions, palaces, castles, estates or almost anything else. Some are hooked up to electricity and feature lighting, furniture, heating and air conditioning. Some may take things a bit far, installing chandeliers, multiple floors, moulding and tinted window treatments. Those with the finances and the space can have as lavish a home for their dog as they desire.

If pooch doesn't seem to be crazy about his new house - even if it's luxury - there are a few ways to remedy this problem. It's important not to make the new abode seem like a place of punishment. Being in the house should be a positive experience. Put some of his favorite toys or blankets in his house, or give him some treats in his house. It should also be as close to home as possible. Make sure that the house isn't too large or small for the dog's size, as well. If the dog still isn't crazy about his new house, just give him time. He might just need to adjust to it, especially if he is used to being indoors.

Basic houses for dogs start at around $80 and may go up exponentially depending on material, add-ons, style and size.

Steven Barnhart is owner of Doowaggle a great resource for custom dog houses, climate controlled dog houses and other dog supplies designed to enhance the life of your pet.
http://www.doowaggle.com/dog-houses