The best pet parents know the best dog houses can make a world of difference. Modern outdoor dog houses have come a long way in recent years. The demand for quality dog houses is rising thanks to the number of pet parents who share life with one or more pups.

At least 58 million U.S. households share life with at least one dog (1). The level of comfort and people’s willingness to provide dogs has increased. Dogs are members of the family who deserve to feel safe, secure, and protected from the elements when outside. 

Outdoor dog houses are ideal year-round. Choosing the right size and type is important. Protection from the elements and outdoor comfort are of the utmost importance. Never chain dogs up or leave them alone in a dog house for security and safety reasons.

This article will outline our favorite dog house selections. Topics include various sizes, materials, assembly and portability, price ranges, seasonality, and more. 

Our Picks

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Best Dog Houses: 10 to Consider

Each dog house must meet specific criteria to rank on our list: 

  • Ample size
  • Durable materials
  • Proper flooring
  • Ease of cleaning
  • Straightforward assembly
  • Functionality

It is essential to ensure your dog has enough room to stand up, turn around, and rest. The entrance should be large enough to accommodate your dog without compromising insulation.

Our list features a variety of dog house styles and categories to suit different needs. Every dog is unique, so we include options made from higher-quality materials and those with additional features. While these may be pricier, they offer desired features and designs.

Pro Tip: Measure your dog first. Ensure their height and length are suitable for the dog house you are considering. This ensures a perfect fit and comfort for your furry friend.

Here are our top 10 dog house selections for your consideration. 

Overall Best Dog House

Our Pick: Aivituvun Dog House

Aivituvun Dog House
Buy at Amazon

Aivituvin has an insulated dog house no matter what size dog you have. Made of wood with a metal frame, this dog house is available with an insulated liner. The company has been making professional pet houses for 21 years. They understand pet parents want an aesthetically pleasing, functional, affordable dog house. The 100 percent fir wood is coated with waterproof paint. It is ideal for indoor and outdoor use for all seasons. 

Highlights

  • Easy to assemble, and each part is stamped separately for ease
  • Six-sided insulated liner removes easily for machine washing
  • Strong iron frame for longevity 
  • Available in a variety of sizes to accommodate all dogs
  • Durable enough for a 180-pound adult to sit on
  • Pet parents can decorate the outside for personal style
  • Nicely priced for all budgets

Things to Consider

  • Some pet parents report better screws are needed
  • Make sure to order the size to best accommodate your dog

Best Large Outdoor Dog House

Our Pick: Petsfit 47” Dog House

Petsfit 47” Dog House
Buy at Amazon

Big dogs deserve a dog house that feels like home. Petsfit hits a home run with its large-sized dog house that can easily accommodate up to two pups. Overall dimensions measure 47″ L × 40″ W × 43.5″ H. The waterproof PVC material for the roof is weather-resistant and washes easily. Because the roof is slanted, rain won’t accumulate. Dogs will love their personal view of the world thanks to the included window. If your yard is uneven, there is no need to worry. This large dog house remains stable thanks to its adjustability. 

Highlights

  • Extra-large dog house that is rainproof with sun protection
  • Door flap, adjustable feet pads, and windproof window 
  • Ideal for dogs from Bulldogs to German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers
  • Foot pads minimum height is 3.3 inches and adjust as needed
  • White flower railing allows pet parents to decorate the dog house
  • Modern streamlined look
  • Easy to assemble 

Things to Consider

  • Available in one color, grey
  • Most ideal for one large dog

Best Outdoor Dog House

Our Pick: Suncast Deluxe DogHouse 

Suncast Deluxe DogHouse 
Buy at Amazon

Durable, waterproof, and cozy—these are three words to describe the Suncast Deluxe Dog House. Designed to house dogs up to 100 pounds, the well-ventilated design keeps pets comfortable and right at home. Made of sturdy resin, the removable roof makes cleaning a snap. It easily snaps together and features vents to improve air circulation. Thanks to the included labels, you can add personalized touches for your dog. 

Highlights

  • The crowned channeled floor offers a comfortable surface and ensures your dog has a dry and clean environment
  • Constructed with waterproof, durable materials
  • Easy to clean 
  • Made with a sturdy resin material
  • Spacious, clean, modern design 
  • Ideal for larger dogs (or small ones who want space)
  • Sturdy and built for longevity

Things to Consider

  • One color choice (blue and taupe)
  • Some pet parents say it feels lightweight

Best Dog House for Hot and Cold Weather

Our Pick: PetMate Indigo Dog House

PetMate Indigo Dog House
Buy at Amazon
Buy at Chewy

If you prefer an American-made indoor/outdoor dog house, the Petmate is a worthy consideration. This spacious, sturdy, insulated dog house is well-made and boasts an igloo design. Protect your dog from the elements with the extended, offset doorway. Made for dogs weighing 25 to 125 pounds, the assembly is tool-free. If you prefer additional features, Petmate offers the indigo door and quilted indigo dog house pad. It is made with Microban to help fight bacteria, mildew, and mold. 

Highlights

  • Igloo shape naturally sheds snow and debris from the top
  • Patented, classic dome design
  • House remains stable even in high winds
  • Air circulation thanks to rooftop ventilation 
  • Made in the USA with 90 percent recycled materials 
  • Weights 30 pounds 
  • All-season weather protection for your dog’s comfort
  • Available in three sizes (medium, large, and extra-large)

Things to Consider

  • Available in one color: taupe/black
  • Priced according to size

Best Heated Dog House

Our Pick: Dog Palace Insulated Heated Dog House 

Dog Palace Insulated Heated Dog House 
Buy at Chewy

Keep your dog safe and warm with the Dog Palace Insulated Heated Dog House. It features a Palace Central Heater with a remote and digital thermostat. It comfortably accommodates medium—and large-sized dogs with a shoulder height of 26.5 inches or less. Each of the panels features two to four inches of insulation. Dogs will stay warm since you can easily set and monitor the temperature. The raised flooring and drainage system keep pets dry and make cleanup super easy.

Highlights

  • Made solid with plastic, steel, and metal
  • Weighs 76 pounds for stability 
  • Comes with a double-hinged swinging door 
  • Insulation doubles in warmer months to keep dogs cool
  • Comes with a remote and digital thermostat you control
  • Optional accessories for purchase include a solar-powered fan and DP Palace fleece dog bed
  • Easy assembly
  • Available in two color options 

Things to Consider

  • Price may not be conducive to all budgets
  • The dog door cannot be locked
  • The heater range is 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit

Best Indoor Dog House

Our Pick: Original Dog Furniture Indoor Dog House

Original Dog Furniture Indoor Dog House
Buy at Etsy

Most dogs love having a den or retreat area of their own. This modern indoor dog house is made of high-quality plywood and is available in many colors. Pet parents can feel good about the non-toxic paint used to create this product. Each order comes with a tent and pillow made of natural cotton. Add a personalized touch with your dog’s name embossed in the wood. Available in small to extra-large to accommodate any size dog. 

Highlights

  • Sturdy plywood can be custom-painted with non-toxic paint
  • Two types of fonts for personalization with your dog’s name
  • Modern look that blends nicely with any décor
  • Ships worldwide 
  • Gives dogs a private area of their own indoors
  • Dimensions allow for small to extra-large dogs

Things to Consider

  • Shipping is a bit costly 
  • Ships from overseas

Best Luxury Dog House

Our Pick: Lifetime Deluxe Dog House

Lifetime Deluxe Dog House
Buy at Amazon
Buy at Wayfair

This luxury dog house has it all. It starts with a channel and ridge wall for impact resistance and long-lasting performance. The rough-cut texture is durable and gives the look and feel of natural wood without all the upkeep. Made of plastic, this low-maintenance design features an easy-to-open rooftop. Water easily drains out thanks to the base channels. The weighted vinyl door allows dogs to come and go. As for the sun’s rays, the entire unit is U.V. protected. This luxury dog house will accommodate most dogs from small to extra-large. 

Highlights

  • Measures 38.2″D x 47.1″W x 38.2″H with plenty of room to move 
  • Comes with a partition wall that subdivides the interior space 
  • Built for outdoor conditions and longevity 
  • Double wall system (DWS) features grid joint welds for strength 
  • Cleans easily 
  • Has two translucent, adjustable side vents for lighting and airflow
  • Clean, modern design

Things to Consider

  • One color option 
  • Luxury comes with a price

Best Plastic Dog House

Our Pick: Lemberi Durable Waterproof Plastic Dog House

Lemberi Durable Waterproof Plastic Dog House
Buy at Amazon

The Lemberi company features innovative designs for pets. Their durable, waterproof, plastic dog house has features galore at an affordable price. The sloping roof easily repels rainwater to ensure your pooch stays dry year-round. The 2.7-inch elevated base prevents water from seeping into the unit. Dogs receive good air circulation thanks to the two top vents. A strong base support with five cylindrical plastic feet ensures pressure distribution for stability. It comes with two plastic nails for grass or sand for pet parents who want extra stability.

Highlights

  • Rich, modern design made of plastic for easy upkeep
  • Detachable doghouse makes it easy to clean
  • Double air vents for adequate airflow year-round
  • Easy to assemble 
  • Several color choices
  • Elevated base to keep dogs off the ground and dry 

Things to Consider

  • Not insulated
  • May need two people to hold it up to assemble

Best Modern Dog House

Our Pick: Merry Products Room with a View Dog House

Merry Products Room with a View Dog House
Buy at Chewy

Give your very good dog a room with a view, including a comfortable veranda. It is made from kiln-dried, humidity-resistant cedar to resist extreme temperatures and humidity. The lightweight constructions make it ideal for indoor living, too. The removable roof top and bottom base are removed easily for cleaning. Your dog will have a two-unit house of their own to enjoy. Features include lattice fencing, steps, and rooms with a view. What’s not to love?

Highlights

  • Made of natural cedar with a woodsy scent 
  • Best for small breed dogs, as the interior measures 18.3 inches wide x 17.48 inches deep with a height of 13.98 inches
  • Elevated off the ground to keep pets safe and dry 
  • Comes with steps that measure 14.19 inches deep x 7.80 inches wide x 18.07 inches high
  • Can be used indoors or outdoors
  • Two floors so pets can choose which view they like best

Things to Consider

  • Requires a Phillips screwdriver and drill for assembly. Comes with an Allen key
  • Does not feature a door flap

Best Dog Tent

Our Pick: Zooba Dog House for Indoor or Outdoor

Zooba Dog House for Indoor or Outdoor
Buy at Amazon

Perhaps your dog would prefer a dog tent. Zooba makes a fun dog house in three sizes for indoor or outdoor use. It functions like a luxury elevated dog house despite its modern tent-like appearance. No assembly is required, and no screws are needed. The ruggedized 600D Oxford cloth is extra thick and durable, so your dog will use it for years. With a combination of sanctuary and practicality, dogs will enjoy their home away from home. The extra-large version can accommodate up to 178 pounds.

Highlights

  • Features 190g mesh fabric for increased airflow
  • Weatherproof for the ultimate comfort
  • Made with deluxe 600D PVC Oxford fabric outdoor dog house for durability and thickness
  • Elevated so dogs won’t touch the ground
  • Can be disassembled to use it as a 2×1 Textilene elevated dog bed
  • Reinforced steel structure for stability 
  • Accommodates dogs of all sizes (or two dogs in the extra-large dog house)
  • Available in three sizes

Things to Consider

  • Does not have a door cover
  • Priced according to size

When to Use a Dog House

Providing your dog with a space of their own while you garden, spend time together outside, or just chillax by the pool is a great idea. Dog houses also allow dogs a place to chill out when they need some downtime. They are ideal for working dogs and those who live on a farm to help keep dogs safe, secure, and protected from the elements.

Of course, dogs are happiest when they are with their people. A dog house can be used in many ways—in hotel rooms when traveling, when visiting friends and family, or simply during outdoor activities.

Resources

“Industry Trends and Stats.” APPA (American Pet Products Association). https://americanpetproducts.org/industry-trends-and-stats