In the past on this fine blog, we’ve posted about a wide variety of different dog houses you can find and buy for your favorite pooch in the world.  They range from log cabins to barns, to full on condominiums for our 4-legged friends, but the real question is:  What kind of dog house IS best for your dog?  The simple fact of the matter is, there are more choices out there than any of us would ever believe, so picking the right one can be tricky.  Here are some tips that should help You find the perfect abode for your furry friend.

According to the article I just read, there are basically 6 different criteria you should keep in mind as you’re house hunting for something that won’t require panic or a 30-year fixed rate mortgage on.  Check out the full article, but for now, here is a paraphrasing of the 6 things:

1. Consider Your Dogs Size - You want a house that is big enough for your dog to completely turn around inside, but that is about it.  Wasted space leads to cold, drafty houses and improper insulation.  Give him/her room but not too much.
2. Consider the Weather Patterns - If you live in an area where it is hot, consider a dog house with some sort of built in air conditioning.  If you live in an area where it gets colder, and colder as winter rolls around, consider a well insulated, possibly heated dog house.  Heated beds and mats also exist to put inside.  Always make sure your dog is comfortable.
3. Consider the Cleaning - The harder a dog house is to clean, the less likely you will be to actually clean it.  Metal and Plastic materials are much easier to clean than wood.
4. Consider Your Dog’s Safety - Hard, sharp corners can lead to cuts and accidents if your dog accidentally runs into it.  Round soft corners are better.
5. Consider Practical Implications - How easy is it to build?  Take down?  Is it easy to move after you’ve built it?
6. Consider the Cost - If you’re low on cash, consider building one out of wood you already have.  They can be durable and nice.  If money is less of an issue, look into pre-made dog houses.  There are thousands.

There you have it.  For me, living where I do in Montana where it is Winter from October 1 - May 1, I have to have very warm, very durable outdoor dog houses for my dogs.  For my money, I’ve always loved and relied upon the well insulated, roomy and durable PetMate Indigo DogIgloo or something similar.  Igloos for your dog!  Perfect.