15 Best Dog House for Winter in 2023
by Patricia Jackson
It is always a great idea to have your dog stay in the house, but in some situations, such as those with small places, it might not be possible. In such instances, a proper dog house is vital. If the pet has to spend more time outdoors, you need the best dog house for winter.
Winter dog houses have thermal insulation to ensure the canine is warm and comfortable in the cold months. These houses are also effective at keeping water and snow to keep the dog dry, are well-built, block wind and provide enough room for the pet.
There are plenty of fantastic winter dog houses out there, and so to help you choose the most appropriate one, here we look at a few top models and show you how to pick one.
Editor's Recommendation: Top Dog House for Winter
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Contents
- Editor's Recommendation: Top Dog House for Winter
- 7 Best Dog Houses for Winter: Review
- Best Overall: Suncast Outdoor Dog House
- Best Budget: Petsfit Dog House
- Best for Large Dogs: Petmate Precision Extreme Outback Log Cabin
- Best for Small Dogs: Giantex Plastic Dog House
- Best Dog Igloo: Petmate Indigo Dog House
- Best for All-Weather: Starplast Dog House Kennel
- Best for Outdoor Use: MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio Outdoor Dog House
- Other Good Recommendations
- How to Buy the Best Dog Houses for Winter
- How to Keep a Dog House Warm in Winter
- Conclusion
- Related Posts
7 Best Dog Houses for Winter: Review
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. Suncast Outdoor Dog House (Best Overall) |
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 | 2. Petsfit Dog House (Best Budget) |
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 | 3. Petmate Precision Extreme Outback Log Cabin (Best for Large Dogs) |
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 | 4. Giantex Plastic Dog House (Best for Small Dogs) |
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 | 5. Petmate Indigo Dog House (Best Dog Igloo) |
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 | 6. Starplast Dog House Kennel (Best for All-Weather) |
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 | 7. MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio Outdoor Dog House (Best for Outdoor Use) |
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1. Best Overall: Suncast Outdoor Dog House
- Fit for Dogs: Up to 70 pounds
- Size: S - L
- Materials: Resin
- Weight: 26.69 pounds
The Suncast Outdoor Dog House is our best overall dog house for winter. It is well-built to provide adequate insulation, has excellent air circulation, and is also simple to set up and clean.
For the construction, Suncast uses a heavy-duty resin material that can take a lot of abuse from the dogs and the elements. Also, the dog house has a crowned floor to protect the pet in any weather.
With vents' inclusion, there is adequate air circulation to ensure space is as conducive for the dog as possible. Additionally, it has a sturdy door to help keep the dog locked in, and the roof is removable for easy cleaning. Moreover, the house takes little effort to set up, and you do not need any tools to do it.
The floor planks are a little thinner, but the good news is they are still sturdy enough and will not allow heat to escape.
Pros:
- Highly durable built
- Excellent air circulation
- Sturdy door included
- Quick and easy cleanup
- Simple assembly
Cons:
- Thinner floor planks
2. Best Budget: Petsfit Dog House
- Size: S - L
- Materials: Wood, canvas
- Weight: 6.17 pounds
For the dog owners shopping for a more budget-friendly option, the Petsfit Dog House is one of the best warm dog houses for winter for you. Maintenance is also easy as it includes a removable and washable canvas with EPE foam.
When it comes to set up, the dog house has some pre-drilled holes that ensure you have an easy time with the assembly. The kennel also comes with a carry case to make it easy to fold and carry for use in different locations.
The wood has a strong smell when new, and it is not sealed. However, the scent dissipates quickly, and for its price, you should not have any difficulties sealing it yourself.
Pros:
- Suitable for budget shoppers
- Easy maintenance with washable canvas
- Includes pre-drilled holes for easy installation
- Portable with a carry case
Cons:
- Strong smell when new
- Wood is not sealed
3. Best for Large Dogs: Petmate Precision Extreme Outback Log Cabin
- Size: S - L
- Materials: Wood
- Weight: 8 pounds
For pet owners with large dog breeds, the Petmate Precision Extreme Log Cabin is a fantastic choice. The 46.1 x 32.7 x 5.3 inches dog house is spacious and sturdy enough to accommodate most large breeds.
The sturdiness stems from the solid wood construction and stainless steel hardware. Other outstanding features include the adjustable feet for easy leveling, raised floor to keep pets dry, and the slanted roof that repels rain and snow runoff.
The instructions could be better with more illustrations and descriptions, but the good news is that it is still super easy to install.
Pros:
- Spacious and sturdy enough for large breeds
- Solid wood build with high-quality hardware
- Easy to keep level in uneven surfaces
- Raised floor keeps pets clean and dry
- Rain and snow-repelling roof
Cons:
- Instructions could be better
4. Best for Small Dogs: Giantex Plastic Dog House
- Size: 28 and 32 inches high
- Materials: Plastic
The Giantex Plastic Dog House comes in 28 and 32-inch size options, making it ideal for small to medium breeds. With this dog house, you also get excellent air circulation as it has some nice vents.
You never have to worry about things like water, wind, or rain getting in as the roof effectively keeps them out. Better still, this house has a raised design to keep dogs dry, and the top is removable, and the floor smooth enough for easy cleaning.
The only notable shortcoming is that some screw holes do not line up correctly, but you should still be able to assemble the dog house.
Pros:
- Suitable for small to medium breeds
- Excellent ventilation for superior air circulation
- Raised to keep dogs dry
- Smooth surface is easy to clean
- Rain, wind and waterproof roof
Cons:
- Some screw holes do not line up properly
5. Best Dog Igloo: Petmate Indigo Dog House
- Fit for Dogs: Up to 175 pounds
- Size: M - XL
- Material: Plastic
- Weight: 125 pounds
Dog igloos like the Petmate Indigo Dog House are always fantastic as the design allows them to trap heat more effectively to keep the dog warm, and they tend to be more spacious. Also, this heavy-duty dog house works well for any weather.
The dog house includes a microban antimicrobial protection that prevents bacteria growth, so you never have to deal with stains and odor. Better still, there is an extended offset door for more rain and wind protection and top vents for maximum air circulation.
When you compare this product to others on our dog house for winter review, it seems a little pricier, but the quality and service ensure you still get value for every buck.
Pros:
- Design is more spacious and effective at trapping heat
- Efficient air circulation
- Antimicrobial protection prevents growth of bacteria
- Suitable for all-weather use
- Extended offset door provides extra protection
Cons:
- Relatively pricier
6. Best for All-Weather: Starplast Dog House Kennel
- Fit for Dogs: up to 50 pounds
- Size: S - L
- Materials: Plastic
- Weight: 22 pounds
An all-weather dog house like Starplast Dog House Kennel is more convenient as the pup can use it all year round. What's more, it has an open doorway that stabilizes the temperature to keep the pet comfortable in any weather.
The material also does not disappoint as it is a heavy-duty and UV-stabilized plastic that does not fade or rust. Additionally, this is a more hygienic dog house that takes little effort to clean, and you can set it up in under 5 minutes.
Although the walls feel a little thinner, they are still sturdy enough and should hold up well. There are only two color options, but they are both quite pleasant.
Pros:
- Ideal for use in any weather
- Material does not fade or rust
- Easy to put together in under 5 minutes
- Hygienic and easy to clean design
Cons:
- Thinner walls
- Few color options
7. Best for Outdoor Use: MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio Outdoor Dog House
- Fit for Dogs: Up to 80 pounds
- Size: S - L
- Materials: Wood
- Weight: 74 pounds
The MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio is a heavy-duty and rugged wood house with stainless steel hardware that can stand up to the elements, making it one of the best outdoor dog houses for winter.
The dog house is raised to improve air circulation and keep the pet dry. What's more, the feet are adjustable to create a more level platform, and there is a large opening and a spacious interior. Also, the house takes little effort to assemble, and you will not need any tools.
Although the floor slats have some gaps between them, you can always ensure they do not affect the insulation by lining the floor with a thick dog mat.
Pros:
- Great for outdoor use
- Excellent air circulation
- Easy installation with no tools required
- Large door opening and spacious interior
- Adjustable foot for a level platform
Cons:
- Floor slats have tiny gaps between them
Other Good Recommendations
8. Petmate Aspen Pet Petbarn Dog House
Pet owners with small to medium breeds up to 15 pounds should give the Petmate Aspen Petbarn a try. The dog house has a durable all-plastic construction that helps prevent fleas. Also, the pet house has a raised to help keep the dog dry.
The roof has an extended roof guard rim that diverts rain and snow to keep the interior dry and cozy. Additionally, the house has a rear ventilation system for maximum air circulation.
Key Features
- Durable, all-plastic construction
- Raised interior floor keeps pets dry
- Rear air ventilation system
- Extended roof guard rim diverts rains and snow
9. Suncast Outdoor Dog House
With the larger 29.5-inch high Suncast Outdoor Dog House, you get a spacious house that can accommodate pets up to 70 pounds. The house has a heavy-duty resin build and with a crowned floor that provides all-weather protection.
When it comes to the assembly, the dog house snaps together with ease without using any tools. What's more, it includes a door for extra security and insulation.
Key Features
- Crowned floor for all weather protection
- Heavy-duty resin material
- Snaps together with ease
- Door provides extra security
10. Trixie Classic Outdoor Wooden Dog House
Trixie Classic Dog House features a solid pine wood construction that is completely weatherproof for winter and all other seasons. The house also has a removable raised floor that provides better air circulation.
Other things like the adjustable feet for keeping the house level even on all surfaces and a hinged roof that opens for easy cleanups make this an even more fantastic product.
Key Features
- Solid and weatherproof pine construction
- Removable raised floor for improved air circulation
- Adjustable feet to keep it level
- Hinged roof opens for easy cleaning
11. Pets Imperial Insulated Wooden Norfolk Dog Kennel
With all the panels on the Pets Imperial Wooden Dog Kennel insulated, it is one of the best insulated dog houses out there as it effectively keeps dogs warm in winter and cool in summer. Better still, it has support rails to support pets up to 154 pounds.
The floor on the dog house is removable for easier cleaning, and you also have an easy time keeping it level as the feet are adjustable. What's more, the animal-friendly timber ensures you get many years of service.
Key Features
- All panels are insulated
- Support rails provide high weight capacity
- Removable floor for easy cleaning
- Adjustable feet keep it level
- Durable animal-friendly timber
12. Ferplast Dog Kennel
The damaging effects of water and the sun should never be a concern with the Ferplast Dog Kennel as its robust anti-shock plastic material handles both well. The kennel is ideal for small breeds and includes a fold-out porch to give them extra living space.
You can be sure the interior always remains dry and comfortable as this shelter has built-in ventilation and drainage system. Also, when it comes to assembling or dismantling it, things are easy and quick as you never have to use any tools.
Key Features
- Waterproof and UV-resistant material
- Fold-out porch provides additional living space
- Built-in ventilation and drainage
- Easy assembly and dismantling with no tools
13. ASL Solutions Dog Palace
With up to 4 inches of real foam insulation on all the panels on the ASL Solutions Dog Palace, you can be sure it will be highly effective at keeping the dog warm as it does not allow heat to escape.
There is a door on the dog house to provide extra security and even better insulation. What's more, you never have to worry about snow and rain pilling up on the roof as the roof design helps repel them.
Key Features
- Up to 4 inches of real foam insulation
- Door included for maximum security
- Heavy-duty plastic material
- Snow and water diverting roof
14. SF Net Trading Winter Outdoor Pet Kennel
If you want to give your dog a cozy place to sleep even on the coldest nights, the SF Net Trading Winter Outdoor Pet Kennel is a perfect choice. It is an adequately cushioned product that is guaranteed to provide maximum warmth.
Despite being a soft dog kennel, it stays in place thanks to the anti-skid bottom. Maintenance is also more effortless since it is machine-washable, and pet owners will love that no assembly is required.
Key Features
- Plush cozy and cushioned kennel
- Anti-skid bottom
- Machine-washable for easy cleaning
- No assembly required
15. Rockever Wood Dog Houses
What makes the Rockever Wood Dog Houses one of the best dog houses for cold weather is the heavy-duty and leak-proof wood build that is very effective at insulation. Also, it is an easy-to-assemble model with pre-drilled holes.
Keeping the interior dry is easier as the floor is raised and the roof slanted to ensure rainwater drains well. Both the top and bottom are removable for easy cleaning, and you can be sure of an easy time leveling the dog house as it has adjustable feet.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty wood
- Easy assembly with pre-drilled holes
- Raised bottom keeps pet dry
- Slanted roof for effective rain drain
- Removable top for easy cleaning
How to Buy the Best Dog Houses for Winter
1. Dog Size
Any dog house you buy needs to be the perfect size for your pet to ensure it gets enough space for maximum comfort. Therefore, before settling for any model, you have to consider the size of your dog.
While large houses can work for small and large breeds, they are not always the most appropriate for small ones because all that empty room makes the insulation less effective.
The good news is that most manufacturers often provide precise dimensions of their houses and the dog sizes they suit. For example, the Petmate Precision Extreme Log Cabin that measures 46.1 x 32.7 x 5.3 inches is meant for large breeds.
2. Materials and Durability
The best dog houses for cold weather also need to be well-built with high-quality materials to withstand the dog's abuse and the elements.
Different materials are used to make these houses, but the most common ones are wood, plastic, and metal. Wood is often the best as it is durable enough and does not fluctuate with the weather, ensuring it maintains an optimal environment for the dog.
On the other hand, metal and plastic are more prone to temperature fluctuations, but they are often affordable.
Besides the material, another thing that can determine the dog houses' durability is how it is held together. You need to make sure the parts are secure enough and with no flimsy sections that can break or come apart quickly.
3. Well-Insulated
Since these dog houses' primary function is to keep the pet warm and comfortable in cold weather, you need to make sure what you choose is well-insulated.
Something with thick walls and good sealing is often the best as it does not allow heat to escape or cold air and snow to get inside the house.
But, for extreme cold, this is still not enough. In such instances, you need something with an extra insulating material like the EPE foam you get on the Petsfit Dog House walla.
4. All-Weather Design
You do not want to have to buy several houses for different seasons. Therefore, even as you choose a winter dog house, it is always a great idea to make sure it is ideal for all-weather use.
An all-weather dog house has adequate insulation to keep the dog warm in the winter, adequate ventilation to keep it cool in warmer months, and a good roof and raised design to keep rainwater out.
5. Ease of Assembly
Most dog houses require some set up after purchase. Therefore, it is vital to make sure what you buy gives you a comfortable time assembling.
Something lightweight, easy to handle, and with parts that snap in place quickly without using any tools is the best.
Also, some clear and well-illustrated directions can be beneficial as they make the assembly even more effortless.
How to Keep a Dog House Warm in Winter
There are various ways of keeping a dog house warm and comfortable in the winter, but the following are the most effective and easiest ones.
1. Add Heated Bed
As the temperatures dip in winter, you do not water your pup sleeping on the cold floor. An excellent way to keep it warm is to ensure it rests on a heated dog bed. Besides keeping the dog's sleep area warm, these beds can help relieve muscle or joint stiffness for those with orthopedic issues.
2. Use a Dog Blanket
A dog blanket can add extra insulation for the pet, which keeps it even warmer in the cold winter season. Sherpa, microfiber plush, or fleece dog blankets are the best as they retain more heat.
3. Raise the Floor
Raising the floor of the dog house can also help keep it warmer. The ground is one of the areas where the dog house loses a lot of heat. Therefore, a kennel that is higher from the ground loses less heat.
4. Stuff the House
Although you want the pup to have as much space in the house as possible, a lot of space also means the temperature drops faster. While there is no specific way of stuffing the house to eliminate all that extra space, you can use things like large pillows, dog blankets, or waste foam if you have some. But, make sure you leave adequate space for the dog to be comfortable.
Buy on Etsy
Tractive Waterproof GPS Dog Tracker - Location & Activity, Unlimited Range & Works with - Walmart Link
Starplast Dog House Kennel - Weather & Water Resistant - Easy Assembly - Perfect for - Walmart Link
Petsfit Wooden Dog Houses for Small Dog Medium Dog and Large Dogs Weatherproof Outdoor - Walmart Link
Large Dog House for Large Medium Dogs 32x30.5x34.5 inches Plastic Water Resistant Dog - Walmart Link
Homykic Dog House Outdoor Wooden, Fir Wood Pet Kennel Log Cabin Doghouse Elevated Shelter - Walmart Link
Petmate Precision Extreme Outback Log Cabin Dog House, Medium - Walmart Link
Pet Republic Dog House Medium Small Waterproof Ventilate Pet House Plastic Puppy Shed - Walmart Link
The Suncast Outdoor Dog House - Walmart Link
the Petsfit Dog House - Walmart Link
the Petmate Precision Extreme Log Cabin - Walmart Link
The Giantex Plastic Dog House - Walmart Link
the Petmate Indigo Dog House - Walmart Link
Starplast Dog House Kennel - Walmart Link
The MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio - Walmart Link
the Petmate Aspen Petbarn - Walmart Link
Suncast Outdoor Dog House - Walmart Link
Trixie Classic Dog House - Walmart Link
the Pets Imperial Wooden Dog Kennel - Walmart Link
the Ferplast Dog Kennel - Walmart Link
the ASL Solutions Dog Palace - Walmart Link
the SF Net Trading Winter Outdoor Pet Kennel - Walmart Link
the Rockever Wood Dog Houses - Walmart Link
the Suncast Outdoor Dog House - Walmart Link
Buy on eBay
Tractive Waterproof GPS Dog Tracker - Location & Activity, Unlimited Range & Works with - eBay Link
Starplast Dog House Kennel - Weather & Water Resistant - Easy Assembly - Perfect for - eBay Link
Petsfit Wooden Dog Houses for Small Dog Medium Dog and Large Dogs Weatherproof Outdoor - eBay Link
Large Dog House for Large Medium Dogs 32x30.5x34.5 inches Plastic Water Resistant Dog - eBay Link
Homykic Dog House Outdoor Wooden, Fir Wood Pet Kennel Log Cabin Doghouse Elevated Shelter - eBay Link
Petmate Precision Extreme Outback Log Cabin Dog House, Medium - eBay Link
Pet Republic Dog House Medium Small Waterproof Ventilate Pet House Plastic Puppy Shed - eBay Link
The Suncast Outdoor Dog House - eBay Link
the Petsfit Dog House - eBay Link
the Petmate Precision Extreme Log Cabin - eBay Link
The Giantex Plastic Dog House - eBay Link
the Petmate Indigo Dog House - eBay Link
Starplast Dog House Kennel - eBay Link
The MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio - eBay Link
the Petmate Aspen Petbarn - eBay Link
Suncast Outdoor Dog House - eBay Link
Trixie Classic Dog House - eBay Link
the Pets Imperial Wooden Dog Kennel - eBay Link
the Ferplast Dog Kennel - eBay Link
the ASL Solutions Dog Palace - eBay Link
the SF Net Trading Winter Outdoor Pet Kennel - eBay Link
the Rockever Wood Dog Houses - eBay Link
the Suncast Outdoor Dog House - eBay Link
Conclusion
With the best dog house for winter, you can be sure your pet will be warm, safe, and comfortable as the temperatures dip. If you are on the market for one, there is something for you on our list above.
While each model on our review is top-notch, the Suncast Outdoor Dog House is our best overall and top recommendation as it has a heavy-duty build, excellent air circulation, and is easy to setup.
But, for pet owners shopping on a tight budget, the Petsfit Dog House is a more appropriate option.
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About Patricia Jackson
Patricia just simply loves pets.
When she was eight years old, her parents got her a beautiful Maine Coon as a gift; and later an affectionate Husky.
Since then, she has raised them as her children; done minor first aid, taken in strays, administered antibiotics, bottle fed them when sick, and even midwifing.
Pat received her bachelor's degree in computer science at Univercity of Califronia Davis. She really hopes to transofrm her programming skills into something that really helpful for all pets someday. For now, lets just do that through writing.
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