How to Heat a Dog House in the Winter

If your dog spends most of its time outdoors, it is important to provide it outdoor shelter, like a dog house. A dog house is especially important during cold winters. If you live in a climate with cold winters, a dog house should be prepared accordingly. Keeping your dog house shielded against the cold protects your dog from discomfort and illness. A prepared dog house also gives you the peace of mind knowing your dog is safe, even in the cold.

Things You'll Need

  • Wood pallet, cinder blocks or bricks
  • Pet insulation kit
  • Black paint
  • Paint brush
  • Pet heat mat, heated dog bed or heater box
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a location for the dog house that keeps it out of the wind, such as next to the house or the garage.

    • 2

      Elevate the dog house with a wooden pallet, bricks or cinder blocks. Most dog houses are constructed so that the floor will not lay directly against the ground; however, if yours is not constructed this way, elevate it.

    • 3

      Insulate the walls, roof and floor of the dog house. You can buy a simple insulation kit from a pet center; follow the manufacturer's instruction on installation. The inside of the dog house should also be small enough that your dog can easily stay warm. Your dog should be able to sit and lay comfortably without too much extra room.

    • 4

      Paint the outside roof of the dog house black to better absorb sunlight and heat.

    • 5

      Place a heating mat designed especially for dogs, or a heated dog bed, on the floor of the dog house.

    • 6

      Use a dog house heater box if it tends to get very cold in your area. A heater box is simply a metal box with a light bulb or ceramic emitter inside.