How to Warm a Dog Igloo

If you own a dog Igloo for your pet to stay in while he's outside, it is important that you know how to keep it warm and heated, especially during cold winter months. Igloos are designed to be warmer alternatives to typical dog houses and are especially ideal for dogs who live in colder climates. However, this does not mean that there is nothing else that can be done to the Igloo to make sure it stays warm and dry for your pet. Winter elements can adversely affect any dog, even breeds that generally handle cold weather well, so it's important to make sure your dog's Igloo is warm and safe during colder months.

Things You'll Need

  • Igloo
  • Dog house door cover
  • Straw
  • Dog house heater or heating tape
  • Water bowl heater
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase an Igloo for your dog that is the correct size for him. The Igloo should be just big enough for him to curl up in and sleep comfortably without there being too much wasted space, as this is the best way to conserve heat. Igloos are designed in a rounded shape so that dogs can curl up in a ball and conserve heat while inside the house.

    • 2

      Add a door protector to your Igloo if it did not come with one. A door protector is essential to help keep out the wind and keep the heat inside.

    • 3

      Place a simple piece of ply wood or a wood pallet underneath the Igloo to keep it off the ground. Even if his Igloo is waterproof, water and snow can get into his house and make it cold and wet inside.

    • 4

      Place a thick layer of straw inside the Igloo. Straw should be replaced periodically to make sure it stays clean and dry. Don't use fabric beds or blankets because they can get wet and icy making an uncomfortable bed for your pet.

    • 5

      Invest in a dog house heater or heat tape. They are both inexpensive accessories to add to the inside of your dog's house to keep it warm in the winter. Heated beds should be avoided because they are often created out of cotton or other fabrics that can get wet and cold.

    • 6

      Check on your dog periodically while she is inside her house. Even if you have fully equipped her Igloo to stay warm and dry, some dogs are still not able to handle cold weather. Make sure your dog isn't displaying any intense signs up hypothermia such as discoloring in the nose, excessive shaking or complete loss of energy. In these situations, your dog should immediately be put inside a warm heated house or garage.