If you have a yard, it’s always a good idea to give your pup a shelter where they can stay safe and cosy while hanging out outside. It keeps them warm in the winter and shaded in the summer, and gives them a spot where they can just curl up and relax.
How long the shelter lasts really comes down to the material it’s made from. You can find an outdoor dog house made from timber, plastic, or even metal, and each one has its own pros and cons. The best one for you depends on your local climate and what works best for your dog.
Wood vs. Plastic vs. Metal: How Do They Compare?
Durability
If you want to buy an outdoor dog house that will last, wood or timber is the best pick. Timber is naturally tough, and if you take care of it, it can last for years, regardless of the weather outside. However, you may need to seal or paint the dog house from time to time to keep it looking new, stop it from rotting or getting damaged by the rain. But you can still find a lot of wooden dog houses that already have a weather-resistant coating, so they’re less likely to rot or get damaged by rain and moisture.
Plastic ones, on the other hand, are pretty low-maintenance. Plastic doesn’t rot or rust and doesn’t require much to keep it in good condition. Just hose the houses down when they get dirty, and you’re good. Since they don’t absorb moisture, they are great for wet areas. However, they are not as strong as wood and might not last as long.
Metal outside dog houses are tough, that’s for sure. But during the summer they can heat up a lot, and during winter they can get super cold if they are not insulated properly. What you pick really depends on the kind of weather you’re dealing with and how much effort you’re willing to put into upkeep.
Insulation and Comfort
Dogs tend to sleep a lot better in wooden outdoor dog houses, especially when it’s chilly outside. That’s because wood just feels warmer and cosier. Wood or timber is naturally a good insulator, and it keeps the cold out in the winter, and it doesn’t get too hot in the summer.
Plastic shelters are ok too, but it’s better to use them indoors. If the weather changes a lot, they can’t really do much to keep the inside temperature stable. But when it comes to metal, it’s not quite the best option for keeping your pup comfy year-round. It’s better to stick to wood or plastic shelters as they do a better job at keeping your canine friend comfortable and cosy.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Ok, let’s get real now, cleaning a wooden dog house can sometimes be a pain. You will need to scrub it from time to time or even re-stain. Wood definitely looks the best, but it needs more upkeep. However, if you’re up for a bit of maintenance, wood is still overall the best pick when it comes to dog houses.
Plastic ones are incredibly easy to maintain. They may not look as cute as timber shelters, but they are so easy and simple to clean. As for metal, this is kind of in between; it’s not as demanding as wood, but it can rust if it’s not coated properly, which requires additional cleaning and maintenance.
Appearance and Style
Let’s just say that wooden outside dog houses look the best. Wood has that natural charm about it that no other material can ever match. Plus, timber is so easy to paint and stain, so you can always change up the look of your dog house and make it even cuter.
Not that you can’t find cute plastic ones, but the material’s simply not winning in beauty contests. Yes, they do the job and are super practical, but they can’t match natural wood. As for metal ones, they definitely give off a more industrial look, which a lot of dog owners find non-appealing. So, if you’re all about the looks, then wood definitely wins this category.
Do Outdoor Dog Houses Need Bedding?
Yes, outside houses need bedding. Even if the house is solid, the floor can still get cold or hard, and a soft blanket or a dog bed makes everything way more comfortable.
Can all Dogs Stay Outside Year-Round?
It depends. Some dogs may be just fine living outside year-round, but not all pups are the same. Also, dogs shouldn’t be left out by themselves all the time. Just like humans, dogs crave social connection and bonding. They need love and company, too. So, yes, outdoor living can totally work, but only if you’re really looking after them, play with them and take them out for daily walks. It’s all about keeping them safe and happy.