Step1
Plastic dog houses do offer good insulation, but can be more of an eyesore in a nicely landscaped yard. A "sun faded white igloo shaped dog house" sitting next to a prize winning rose garden might offer great appeal for some, but I would venture that most pet parents live in wood houses, and so should their canine friends!
Step2
To choose the right dog house, there are several considerations to take into account. First of all, years ago, the ancestors of today's dogs were cave dwellers. Dogs have an instinctive want to be safe in a quiet, small space. The correct dog house can offer your pet this peaceful retreat. Second, dogs that live in their owner's houses can benefit from having a house of their own, if for nothing more than to have a quiet place to get out of the sun, enjoy a nice spring day, or to take a break from the world for a few quiet moments.
Step3
For dogs that spend the day outside while their owners are at work, a dog house is a necessity to provide protection form everything from hot sun, to heavy rain, to cold and snow and even wind. This is especially true for dogs that live outside all the time. Providing the correct dog house for these dogs could prove critical in their ability to thrive in difficult conditions.
Step4
Probably the most important decision when choosing the right dog house is to pick the right size. It is normal for a dog to stoop down to enter his or her dog house. Measure from the ground to the top of your dog's back. The entrance to the dog house should be just slightly larger than your dog's back. The larger the entranceway, the less it will offer protection from the elements, so smaller can be better
Step5
Measure the distance from your dog's chest to the back of their rump, under the tail. Your dog should just be able to turn completely around inside the dog house. The length and width should be no more than 25% larger than the front to back measurement of your dog. (Note: do not include the tail in the measurement) Ideally, the length and width should be only slightly larger than your dog's length. For example, if your dog measures 36 inches, the length and width should be no more than 48 inches. If your dog measured 44 inches, the 48 inch size would still be good.
Step6
Lastly, measure from the ground to the top of your dog's head. The highest point in the dog house should be no more than 25% taller than your dog when standing, but should be no less than slightly larger than the height of your dog's head when standing. Your dog should be able to stand completely up and turn completely around inside the dog house, but will stoop to enter and exit.
Step7
Since the average dog house is not equipped with heating or cooling systems, the only protection from the elements is the dog house. Heat is from your dog's own body heat. If the house is too large, it will waste body heat and make it harder for your dog. If it is too small, your dog will not feel comfortable. It is also important to raise your dog house off the ground to keep rain, moisture, snow and insects out. Position the hous so the entrance is on the opposite side from the direction that the prevailing winds in your area generally blow. Lastly, consider cutting some heavy plastic strips and fastening them across the top of the entrance. This will allow your dog to enter and exit, but the hanging plastic will help keep the cold and rain out, and afford extra protection for your pet!
Stylish Wood House Looks Better than a Plastic Igloo!
Authority 
