How to Heat a Doghouse

Whether you live in a colder climate or in a temperate zone, you may be concerned that your dog is exposed to the elements in his doghouse you have for him outside. You may be concerned that your pooch is not sleeping well because of the extreme cold or that he is uncomfortable due to the cold. Especially if your dog is older, the cold can really have a detrimental effect on your four-legged friend's demeanor and quality of life. There is a way to provide warmth for your pet but still allow him to enjoy the freedom of the outdoors: a heated doghouse. You can purchase heated doghouses from many retailers, but you can build your own or even retrofit an existing house without too much hassle by following a few simple steps.

Things You'll Need

  • Wiring
  • Receptacle
  • Wood screws
  • Junction box
  • 100-watt light bulb
  • Tin snips
  • Drill
  • Metal 3-lb. coffee can
  • Bolts
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Instructions

    • 1

      Drill a small hole in one side of your dog's existing house, and route wire through this hole, underground, and back to a junction box at your house. Connect the wires to the appropriate junction in your electrical box and wire a receptacle on the other end of the wire inside the doghouse.

    • 2

      Use the screws and secure a junction box around the receptacle, and screw a light bulb in place. Use the tin snips to cut a few holes in the coffee can just so you can see if the light is on and allow some moisture to dissipate.

    • 3

      Drill four holes along the edge of the coffee can, and then thread wood screws through these holes to mount the coffee can over the light (this helps to radiate heat and protect your dog).

    • 4

      Turn the light on when the weather starts turning colder and the light bulb will heat up the coffee can and warm the inside of the box, safely and effectively.