Insulated dog houses are designed to protect your precious pup from the worst of the winter weather. They’re available in a wide range of styles, using a variety of materials including wood and plastic. Some even come with integrated floor heaters to add even more warmth and comfort for your dog. If your dog lives outside through the winter, you should definitely consider using an insulated dog house to keep them warm and comfortable.
We looked at dozens of insulated dog houses to identify the best of the best. Considering features including the size of each dog house, the type of insulation used, and extras such as doors and windows helped us to narrow down our selection.
As our Top Pick, we selected the Suncast Outdoor Dog House. This robust resin dog house is suitable for dogs up to 70 pounds. The water resistant design includes a crowned floor, designed to keep your pet dry during wet weather.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Insulated Dog Houses
Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
---|---|---|
Best Overall | Suncast Outdoor Dog House | 3.8 |
Runner Up | ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace with Floor Heater | 3.9 |
Best Budget Buy | Petmate Aspen PetBarn 3 | 4.1 |
Best Large Insulated Dog House | ASL SOlutions Large Dog House | 3.8 |
Best Small Insulated Dog House | Petmate Indigo with Microban Dog House | 3.9 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Suncast Outdoor Dog House
The Suncast Outdoor Dog House is our Top Pick. This dog house is made from a durable resin material. It has a raised floor, which helps keep your pet warmer, while also protecting them from wet weather. The integrated door is easy for your dog to walk through, but will also help to keep them much warmer in cold weather. As a plus, the door is made from transparent vinyl, meaning your dog can still see outside.
This dog house has over 1600 reviews on Amazon, with buyers commenting on the fact that the sturdy construction of this dog house stood up well to low winter temperatures, that it is easy to put together, and most importantly, that their dogs love it!
Suncast Outdoor Dog House Key Features:
- Measures 35″ x 27″ x 29.5″
- Easy to assemble
- Suitable for dogs up to 70 pounds
Our Runner Up Pick: ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace with Floor Heater
As our Runner Up, we selected the ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace with Floor Heater. As the name suggests, this options is packed full of features which make it an excellent choice for colder climates. All panels, including the floor, are insulated with Styrofoam.
This dog house includes a sloping floor, with a drain hole. This makes it really easy to clean when you need to. The windows have self-storing panes, meaning it’s easy to re-position them from closed to open.
ASL Solutions Deluxe Insulated Dog Palace with Floor Heater Key Features:
- Self-closing, insulated door
- Floor heater included
- Measures 40″ x 27″ x 36″
Best Budget Pick: Petmate Aspen PetBarn 3
For our Budget Pick, we selected the Petmate Aspen PetBarn 3. Suitable for dogs up to 15 pounds, this durable dog house uses a plastic roof and base to provide shelter for your pets. Assembly is super easy, using quick-snap latches. The extended roof guard trim around the door is designed to divert rain, helping to keep your dog dry and cozy.
This dog house has ventilation holes to the rear, which helps promote the flow of fresh air through the dog house. If you plan to use this in cold weather, we would recommend adding a door to help keep the interior temperatures at a comfortable level.
Petmate Aspen PetBarn 3 Key Features:
- Also available in 2 other sizes
- Easy to clean
- Raised interior floor
Best Large Insulated Dog House: ASL Solutions Large Dog House
Our pick for the best large insulated dog house is the ASL Solutions Large Dog House. This is made of a robust plastic, with 2-4″ of Styrofoam insulation in all panels. The floor is raised 4″ from ground level, helping keep your large dog warm, dry, and comfortable.
The door has a small built-in window, as does the real panel. This means your dog can keep an eye on what’s going on outside from the comfort of their house. This configuration also helps to increase airflow and ventilation through the dog house, on warmer days.
ASL Solutions Large Dog House Key Features:
- Measures 47″ x 31″ x 38″
- Self-closing door
- Easy assembly
Best Small Insulated Dog House: Petmate Indigo with Microban
As the best small insulated dog house, we selected the Petmate Indigo with Microban. The raised floor has a side moat to help drain water away. The insulated dog house is covered with a coating of Microban antimicrobial protection, designed to help stop the growth of bacteria. The offset door helps to keep drafts and rain away from your dog.
There are a number of accessories available for the Indigo dog house, including a heated pad, and door. These are the perfect addition if you’re looking to provide some additional warmth during very cold winters.
Petmate Indigo with Microban Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- Easy to assemble
- Also available in 2 other sizes
Who Should Buy an Insulated Dog House
If you keep your dog outside, and live in an area where the climate includes cold winters, you should definitely invest in an insulated dog house. Using an insulated dog house means you don’t have to worry about your dog becoming cold overnight, especially if unexpected weather rolls in.
There’s a range of steps you can take to protect your dog over the winter season, and you can read our recommendations here. Selecting the best insulated dog house for your outdoor dog is a key point. Once you’ve made your choice, adding a soft and cozy bed, and maybe a heated pad if necessary, will mean your dog is comfortable and warm whatever the weather.
Important Features to Consider
An insulated dog house should have a few important features if it’s going to keep your dog warm and dry, all winter long. Here’s what to consider when selecting the best insulated dog house for your dog:
- Insulation. Some dog houses will provide insulation through the materials the outer walls are made of. Others include additional insulating panels. Check that any insulation is suitable for the winter temperatures in your area. You may choose to add more insulation of your own.
- Door. A dog house can be perfectly insulated, but if there’s no door then your dog’s body heat won’t be contained. The result is that your dog will still feel the cold. Dog houses with doors are best suited to colder climates, and will help to keep your dog feeling toasty warm. Some dog houses have an offset opening to help keep the maximum amount of heat inside.
- Floor heater. If the winters where you live are exceptionally cold, you may want to choose an insulated dog house with an integrated floor heater. This means it will stay warm even while your dog isn’t in it. Most floor heaters have a thermostat, meaning they will maintain a constant temperature, and not overheat.
- Windows. Some dogs don’t like the feeling of being contained – but you still want to keep them warm! Selecting an insulated dog house with a window will combine the best of both worlds. Your dog can stay warm and dry, while also keeping an eye on what’s going on outside.
- Cleaning. You’ll want to clean your dog’s insulated house regularly. Look for houses with removable roofs and draining holes to make this job easier. Some insulated dog houses are coated with antimicrobial protection to help keep them cleaner, for longer.
- Waterproof. If your insulated dog house is going to be kept outside, rather than in a garage, make sure it’s fully waterproof. Dampness from leaks will stop your dog from feeling warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an insulated dog house and how does it work?
Insulated dog houses are kennels designed specifically to protect your dog from cold, winter temperatures. They do this using a variety of features, which will vary depending on the dog house you choose. The walls and floor will be insulated using materials designed to provide a thermal barrier. Your dog’s body heat will be reflected within the house, helping to keep them toasty warm.
How do you keep a dog house warm in the winter?
Different dog houses will keep your dog’s warm in different ways. Most dog houses designed for winter will use walls insulated with plastic, resin, or wood. They will also have doors designed to prevent your dog’s body heat from escaping outside. Many insulated dog houses simply use a combination of your dog’s own body heat, and insulated sides, to provide passive heat. Others use an integrated heating mat within the floor to provide additional warmth. If you live in an exceptionally cold area, you may choose to add extra insulation.
How much does it cost to build an insulated dog house?
The price to build you own insulated dog house could vary anywhere from $50, to $1000 and up. If you have materials you can recycle, and plan on building it yourself, it could be a cheap option. However, if you’re buying everything new, and planning on hiring someone to build it for you, you’d be better off selecting an insulated dog house from this review!
Do dog houses need insulation?
This depends on where you live, and what time of year your dog will be living outside. If the winters where you live are cold, then yes, you should select an insulated dog house. If your dog’s body temperature drops below a certain level, then they can develop hypothermia and become very ill as a result.
Other Insulated Dog Houses We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other insulated dog houses. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best insulated dog houses list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your dog. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Large Insulated Dog Houses
- Small Insulated Dog Houses
- Extra-Small Insulated Dog Houses
- Wooden Insulated Dog Houses
Large Insulated Dog Houses
This dog house is made from a durable plastic, with a waterproof design which will protect your dog all winter long.
Key Features:
- Raised floor
- 30″ height
- Removable roof
Cost: $106
HiCaptain Waterproof Wooden Pet House
This heavy duty dog house is made from solid cedar, with a waterproof asphalt roof.
Key Features:
- Available in natural or brown finishes
- Measures 45″ x 30″ x 31″
- 1 year warranty
Cost: $137
Internet’s Best Outdoor Dog House
The air vents on this dog house provide ventilation during the day, while the thick plastic walls provide insulation at night.
Key Features:
- Raised base
- Easy to assemble
- Measures 34″ x 34″ x 35″
Cost: $120
Pexio Extra Large Solid Wood Dog House
This large dog house is perfect if you have two large dogs, or one giant dog. The internal partition can be removed to create one huge dog house.
Key Features:
- Measures 72″ x 39″ x 42″
- Uses natural wood insulation
- Includes 2 vinyl doors
Cost: $449
Tangkula Large Elevated Cabin Dog House
This weatherproof house has a spacious deck porch, as well as a covered kennel.
Key Features:
- Raised platform
- Made of solid fir wood
- Hinged roof for easy cleaning
Small Insulated Dog Houses
Giantex Dog House with Balcony
If your small pup enjoys watching the world go by, they’ll love this dog house with built-in balcony viewing platform!
Key Features:
- Made from fir wood
- Removable balcony
- Raised floor
Cost: $70
Petmate Barnhome III Dog House
This cute, barn shaped dog house provides protection from the elements for your small dog.
Key Features:
- Easy to assemble
- Removable roof
- Suitable for dogs weighing up to 15 pounds
Cost: $40
Pet Squeak Doggy Den Dog House
The pitched roof, and white stained doors and windows of this dog house are perfect for keeping your dog warm, but letting them see outside.
Key Features:
- Raised floor
- Made from non-toxic wood
- Naturally weather resistant
Cost: $130
The raised floor, and waterproof panels of this dog house will help to keep your small dog cozy through winter.
Key Features:
- Raised floor
- Lightweight design
- Available with green or blue roof
Cost: $76
This heavy duty, small outdoor dog house is made from fir wood, and an asphalt roof.
Key Features:
- Raised base
- Removable floor for easy cleaning
- Painted with non-toxic paint
Extra-Small Insulated Dog Houses
The hinged top of this small dog house makes it easy to clean.
Key Features:
- Slanted roof
- Removable floor
- Offset door
Cost: $100
Always Quality Small Outdoor Dog House
This small, outdoor house house uses plastic walls and a raised floor to insulate your dog from winter weather.
Key Features:
- Available with red, green, or blue roof
- Durable construction
- Easy to assemble
Cost: $49
The pitched roof of this dog house means it’s suitable for wet weather.
Key Features:
- Raised floor
- Removable floor
- Rot resistant
Cost: $105
Pet Squeak Princess Pad Dog House
This cute princess styled dog house is perfect for your extra-small dog to shelter in.
Key Features:
- Easy to assemble
- Non-toxic pink and white stain
- Lightweight
Cost: $33
Precision Pet Extreme Weather Resistant Log Cabin Dog House
The sealed protective coating on this log cabin style dog house provides protection from any weather.
Key Features:
- Available in natural, or gray wood
- Offset door
- Raised floor, with adjustable feet
Wooden Insulated Dog Houses
This easy to assemble dog house is made from a naturally weather resistant and insulating wood.
Key Features:
- Available in 4 sizes
- Raised floor
- Lightweight
Cost: $85
Best Choice Products Wooden Dog House
The offset door of this dog house means your pup is protected from the weather.
Key Features:
- Hinged roof for easy cleaning
- Measures 25″ x 34″ x 22″
- Raised floor
Cost: $76
Petsfit No Assembly Portable Wooden Dog House
This handy dog house requires no assembly, simply fold out the sides. It’s recommended to either weather proof this, or keep under cover outside.
Key Features:
- Measures 31″ x 20″ x 24″
- Raised floor
- Hinged roof
Cost: $130
Tangkula Extreme Weather Resistant Dog House
This durable dog house uses natural fir wood for insulation from extreme weather.
Key Features:
- Log cabin style
- Suitable for dogs up to 33 pounds
- Raised floor
Cost: $146
Tangkula Wooden Weatherproof Dog House
This durable and stylish wooden dog house is made from hard-wearing fir wood.
Key Features:
- Slanted, asphalt roof
- Covered porch area
- Raised floor
Cost: $100