How to Keep a Dog in the Dog House When It Is Raining

Dog houses provide warmth, security and shelter from outdoor elements. Dogs that don't use their dog house when it's raining are at increased risk of serious health consequences, such as hypothermia. If a dog is not using its house, that may be a signal or sign that something is wrong with the house that makes the dog uncomfortable inside. Discovering the exact reason your dog isn't using its house is key in keeping your dog inside when it's raining.

Things You'll Need

  • Wood
  • Caulking
  • Water hose
  • Rag
  • Bricks, cinder blocks or a wooden platform
  • Hay or pine straw
  • Blanket
  • Dog toys and/or treats
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Seal or cover any holes or gaps in the dog house with wood or caulking. If the dog house has small gaps or openings and rain is getting inside, even if it's only a little bit, the dog will not want to go in it's house.

    • 2

      Clean the interior and exterior of the dog house thoroughly to remove any foul odors, debris or dust present in or on the dog house. Many dogs will not inhabit an unclean house. Hose the dog house down with water if it's made of plastic or similar material. Wipe it down thoroughly with a damp rag if it's made of wood.

    • 3

      Place the dog house on bricks, cinder blocks or a wooden platform to prevent rain from entering and forming puddles on the floor, as well as prevent insects, such as ants or termites, from inhabiting the house. If water or insects have easy access to the house, your dog may avoid entering.

    • 4

      Put hay, pine straw or a blanket inside the dog house as bedding to provide additional insulation--as well as extra warmth and protection. Change your dog's bedding every one to two weeks to prevent it from becoming too soiled.

    • 5

      Place a few of your dog's favorite toys or treats inside the dog house to entice it into the house while it's raining and prevent it from becoming bored.