| The Humane Society of America recommends dogs | | | | conditioned dog houses. And you can find specialty |
| live indoors but sometimes it just isn't possible. Maybe | | | | dog beds such as the Canine Cooler that help keep |
| you own a large dog and just don't have enough | | | | you pet feeling comfortable, especially when |
| space in your home for the newest, furriest member. | | | | temperatures head over 100 degrees. |
| In this case, a dog house is a must. Here are a few | | | | Another important factor is the size of the house |
| tips on finding a dog house to suit your pet. | | | | Measure the size of your dog to determine the |
| The most obvious factor - geographic location | | | | length and height of the house you need. Your pet |
| If you live in an area with freezing cold winters and | | | | should have enough room to be able to turn around |
| plenty of rain you should consider a heated dog | | | | and stretch out but not so much space that they |
| house or at least one that is well insulated and | | | | can never get warm. They're really just using the |
| waterproof. If it's really cold you can add in a heated | | | | space to sleep so it doesn't have to be a mansion, |
| bed or pad. Make sure you use a heated pad that's | | | | just cozy. |
| designed for animals and not humans, as the latter | | | | Next, decide which material best suit your needs. |
| can get too hot for a dog. Heated pet beds operate | | | | You can find dog houses made out plastic, wooden, |
| safely at a lower voltage and are usually built to be | | | | PVC and galvanized steel. You can choose one that is |
| chew proof. Look for cedar chip stuffing, too, as it | | | | completely finished, right down to the paint, to some |
| repels the fleas. If you are concerned that other | | | | that need partial assembly. And if you are a real |
| dogs or critters from the neighborhood will take | | | | do-it-your-selfer you can purchase a set of plans and |
| advantage of this cozy, warm haven, choose a dog | | | | build your own dog house. |
| house with a magnetic door that allows only your | | | | What if your pet refuses to go into the dog house? |
| dog to enter. | | | | Sure, it can be tough convincing your dog that this |
| If you have the opposite problem and keeping your | | | | really is what's best for him but there are ways to |
| dog cool is more of a priority, make sure you choose | | | | do so even if he is stubborn. Use his new home as a |
| a house that is well ventilated and position it in a | | | | feeding location and he'll soon grow to love it. As |
| shaded area of the yard. If your dog is really having | | | | added incentive, leave some treats and toys inside |
| trouble with the heat, some manufacturers offer air | | | | his new abode. |