by M. Morrison

Created on: July 26, 2009

As an animal that naturally makes its home in a den, domesticated dogs like to have an enclosure that is more suited to their size than our large homes. Their den is a safe haven for them, a place where they feel cozy and secure. When dogs feel threatened or scared, they have a tendency to run to the safest place they know: their den. But a dog's den is more than a comfort for them; it's a shelter from the elements. It provides shade on a hot day, shelter from wind, rain, snow, and hail. Since our pet dogs aren't generally allowed - or able, in the case of indoor dogs - to make their own den, it's important to give them the man-made equivalent: a dog house.

Wild canines prefer dens that suit their size, and as such it's important to choose a house that is appropriate for the size of your dog. It should have room to stand up and turn around, but shouldn't be so big that it isn't cozy. Also consider the climate - is it big enough that it won't be suffocatingly hot during the summer? Is it small enough that the dog's body heat will be enough to keep it sufficiently warm during the winter? And don't forget to account for any other dogs that may be sharing the dog house; if your dogs get along well, you'll probably want to consider a dog house big enough to accommodate two.

In choosing a dog house, don't get so wrapped up in its size that you forget its primary function: shelter from all sorts of weather. A good dog house needs more than a roof to keep the rain off - it needs a floor to keep the puddles out. While your dog probably won't start a protest if the house is without a floor, it will appreciate a dry place to lie down. The dog house should be sturdy and durable to withstand both harsh weather and time. After all, a dog house that falls apart in a month isn't much good, is it? Fido probably won't be impressed if his roof flies off during a rainstorm.

Our dogs love us as much as we love them, and they like to be able to survey their territory to ensure that everything is as it should be. Some dog houses have taken this into consideration and have windows built in. While this certainly isn't necessary and may take away from the cozy feeling of a den, it is a nice bonus for a vigilant dog as he can keep an eye on more of his territory from the same vantage point. There are a number of other extras you might consider as well, such as carpeting for the colder months, vents to improve air-flow come summer, or a small covered deck to keep water

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>