Not too long ago, most dog houses were a simple square or rectangle, with four plywood walls, and a peaked roof, with no concern as to how insulated or even waterproof they were. These days, as more and more pets are being thought of as part of the family, their dog houses are becoming more and more like our homes. Whether insulated for the cold winter months or air-conditioned for the sultry summer days, designed to match the house it sits beside or having a distinctive look all of its own, a dog house should be more than just a house, it should be a home.
The commercially manufactured dog houses today are generally made of solid wood construction, from timber such as Western red cedar, to withstand the extreme weather conditions. If you are handy with tools, there are dog house plans available, or pre-cut packages, which will be more affordable. More than one room, a front porch with railing, and even a mansion shaped house or a log cabin design are just a few of the unique replicas available for your pet.
An alternative to wooden dog houses is the Petmate igloo shaped shelter, which is made of a hard plastic, which is durable against all weather conditions, and easy to clean and maintain. With a nitrogen insulation, this type of dwelling will keep your pet warmer in the winter, and cooler in the summer. This is the more affordable way to go, as opposed to the electrical air-conditioned model, which, believe it or not, are also available. Whatever you choose for your pet, make sure that it is not just a house, but also a home.