What Is a Good Bedding for Dog Houses?

Dogs are pack animals, best suited to residing with you, their pack leader. While indoor confinement is best, you may opt for an outdoor doghouse. If you do provide a doghouse, it is important to select appropriate bedding.

  1. Straw

    • Straw or hay can be used to create a soft area for your dog to bed down. You can purchase straw or hay at local feed stores, or directly from many farms. Haw or straw should smell sweet and fresh.

    Cedar Shavings

    • Cedar shavings are an excellent choice for dog house bedding. The cedar naturally repels tics and fleas. Provide enough to allow your dog a cushion. Feed and animal supply stores often carry bags of cedar shavings.

    Foam Beds

    • If your dog's house is located in a covered kennel run, you may want to select a moisture-resistant foam cushion for the house. Choose a foam bed with a moisture-resistant, washable cover. This is only recommended if the flooring outside of the dog house is dry. Surrounding the area with pea gravel, pavers or cement will reduce mud and water that can be tracked into the dog house.

    Avoid

    • Avoid using old blankets or towels in a dog house. Fabrics can harbor fleas and ticks and will retain dirt and moisture. Freezing temperatures and wet fabrics can turn to ice and become highly uncomfortable or even dangerous to your dog. Additionally, fabrics can be chewed, ingested and possibly cause an intestinal blockage in your dog.

    Considerations

    • Regardless of the chosen bedding, it should be changed frequently to avoid mildew, mold, dirt and pests.