How to Paint an Igloo Dog House

You've probably seen those igloo doghouses. They're hard to miss, what with their being bright white and shaped like an igloo. Although they offer a cozy haven for your humble canine, they can be a real eyesore. You can paint an igloo dog house to make it better match your yard or décor, or simply so it doesn’t stick out in such a garish way.

Things You'll Need

  • Paint
  • Painter's tape
  • Dropcloth
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose your paint carefully. Igloo doghouses are made of a very thick plastic, so either pick a paint specifically made for plastic or use a primer to make sure it sticks. If your igloo doghouse is going to be outdoors (as most of them are), make sure to pick a paint that can weather the elements. Spray paints are the easiest to apply, but feel free to play around with sponges or brushes if that’s your thing.

    • 2

      Select your paint color. Igloo doghouses aren't bright white simply to be ugly. The white absorbs less color, making the temperature inside the house less sweltering for your precious pooch. Pick a light color for an overall coat, and use darker colors only sparingly as parts of a design. Mint green would be dashing, as would covering much of the house to keep it white but painting certain areas black.

    • 3

      If your igloo doghouse has been outside for a while, use a stiff brush, dish soap and a hose to clean off dust and debris. Once the house is dry, place a dropcloth inside, taping it around the interior edges. You don’t want to paint the interior where the dog hangs out.

    • 4

      Apply the painter's tape. At the very least, place a strip of tape around the round vented piece at the top of the doghouse. This has to remain unpainted so it can turn and air can get in (or be blocked out). For a fun design, use both thick and thin painter's tape to make random strips all over the house that will stay white and help keep the structure cool. Rub the tape thoroughly, as it otherwise won't stick too well to the igloo’s exterior.

    • 5

      As soon as the tape is in position, paint the igloo doghouse as desired. Be careful around the edges of the tape, as it will tend to come up. Either spray straight on at the edges or brush downward, further securing the tape in place.

    • 6

      Let the paint dry and remove the tape. Your ugly igloo is now a gorgeous doggie hideaway.