How to Winterize a Doghouse

Don't forget about Fido when cold weather comes, especially if he prefers to be outdoors year round. Though dogs have coats and can usually tolerate cold weather well, intense cold is not good for your dog. Having shelter for him may not be enough. You may need to winterize your dog house to keep your pet warm and healthy throughout the cold winter months.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Face the doghouse south or southeast so the door is out of the winter winds' way. If possible, turn doghouse to face a garage or shed wall.
2. Place bedding inside the doghouse. Straw or wood shavings work well; these materials retain heat and evaporate moisture. Old blankets or sheets, contrary to popular belief, actually mat down too much over time and provide less warmth than you might think.
3. Purchase a heated water dish to place inside the doghouse, available at most retail pet stores. Don't forget about the dog's food and water when winterizing the doghouse. A heated water dish can keep the water from freezing.
4. Check the roof of the doghouse for leaks or holes. Make necessary repairs. If the dog spends any time on the roof, there could be some damage that allows snow or rain to leak into the doghouse.
5. Install a doghouse heater, available at pet retail stores or online retailers. If this is too expensive, winterize the doghouse by insulating the walls or buying a heated dog mat.

Tips & Warnings

• Install a heavy rubber mat, such as an old car mat, over the opening. The dog can enter and exit the doghouse through this flap, and it helps to keep the cold out.
• Don't leave your dog outside, even in a winterized doghouse, in extremely cold weather. Dogs, like humans, cannot tolerate severely cold weather. In extreme conditions, bring your dog indoors.