CHAPTER ONE
Why Your Dog Needs a Dog House?

Having a pet at home has through the years become a tradition. People love having pets and most people keep their pets around the home environment. You can find a number of different studies and pieces of research that have revealed that the most common pet is a dog. . If you're planning to have a pet dog it is vital that he has a dog house and this is a part of the essential care of a pet dog. Every animal has fundamental needs and one of these basics is a house. People prefer to keep their dogs within their own residence however it is important to remember that dogs have feeling too, therefore it is critical that the dog has its own house either in the yard or within the owners home. Animals enjoy having a place where they can escape from everything, sleep and eat and this is one good reason why a dog house is necessary.

It's an excellent idea to give your dog a house that's the correct size and this varies with regards to the size of the individual dog. It is very important to ensure that you get a house that is suited to your own dog as all dogs are unique just like humans.Ahead of either making or buying a dog house it is vital to measure your dog to find out what size he is. It's likewise important to make sure that the house that you build for your dog provides the proper degree of ventilation and that the air flow is at floor level. Additionally it is essential that the house is constructed so that it's effective in keeping the dog warm during the winter months.A dog house, regarded in British English as a kennel, is a small shed commonly constructed in the shape of a little house designed for a dog. It's a structure in which a dog is kept or can run into for shelter from the elements.
Varieties of Dog Houses
To several people, the term "dog house" refers back to the classic "Snoopy" -- a house with a peaked roof structure plus a curved entrance centered on one end of the house.But when you start searching, you promptly understand that dog houses are available in a variety of shapes and styles and are made out of a number of materials including wood, plastic, aluminum, and steel.Dog houses also deviate by their intended use. Some houses are created to sit fixed in your yard. This is exactly what most people consider to be a true dog house. Even so, there are also transportable dog houses. This group includes dog boxes, dog tents, crates, and numerous types of carriers. You may consider these as temporary dog homes.


To assist you understand things, listed here is an introduction to the most typical types of dog houses available on the market. But first, a brief information in regards to the term 'kennel’.Kennel, nowadays, have become an overused term. You'll regularly come across the term 'kennel' when researching dog houses. If you look up its definition, there are two basic definitions, one common and one more precise: the former, any type of a dog shelter; and the latter, a place where canines are bred, trained, and boarded. It appears as if marketers have liberally used the first definition of kennel in order for the word now identifies a broad range of pet containment items like pet carriers, crates, exercise pens and good old fashioned outdoor dog houses.So, when you see the term 'kennel' utilized for a number of the items explained here, don't get too stuck on the terminology. Just think dog refuge or dog container.

Stationary or Fixed Dog House
Wood Dog HouseWood has customarily been the material preferred for constructing dog houses and it's still very popular these days. Some factors behind wood's good reputation are that the material is abundant, comparatively cheap, easy to work with, and it simply just looksnice, especially when correctly maintained. The best wooden dog houses are constructed from decay resistant woods like cedar and redwood.If wood dog houses are to be grouped according to roof structure, you will find three basic styles:Pitched RoofThis is the traditional Snoopy peaked roof created by two tilted panels joined at the center of the house. The most popular and attractive design that makes a house similar to a miniature version of a human home.These aren't likely to turn out to be family heirlooms however they are good enough to supply basic shelter for your dog. For those who are buying, an extra $60 or so, you will get an insulation kit for many of these houses -- a good suggestion if you reside in an area with cold winters and hot summers.
 A-Frame Dog House - If you're handy with tools and wood, this house offers a great base platform from which to build a custom dog house. For instance, you can add an asphalt or steel roof, stick in a window with window shutters, maybe a sun deck at the front, a name tag over the doorway, cedar siding, and so on and so forth. It's basically the platform for so many possibilities. Deluxe A-Frame Dog House - This design is a bit spiffier than the basic dog house. It's usually created from 3/8 inch thick exterior grade groove styled plywoodcompleted with a golden stain. The door frame and roof line are coated forest green for a nice contrast.Screened vents in both the front and back offer cross ventilation through the house. The doorway features a solid wood frame and plastic masking that will keep your dog safe from undesirable weather conditions. Ware Ultimate A-Frame Dog House - Getting a tad fancier, the Ware Ultimate A-Frame house incorporates a waterproof shingle roof, changeable waterproof Feet, a Peak-roof design, and solid wood construction. For sale in multiple sizes and easy to put together in just minutes with just a screwdriver, this house will conveniently fit your dog needs. The A-Frame Package is additionally provided with a zip in and out dog house insulating material kit which guarantees maximum protection and comfort. The quality canvas material is created for simple and easy installation, removal and storage.A patio portion can also be available for this dog house. It offers a comfortable elevated resting spot which keeps your pet cool in the summer and off the cold and wet ground in the winter months.

Single Panel Flat RoofAn easier design that includes a single flat panel that usually has a gentle tilt going from the front to the back of the house. Many dogs enjoy lounging on top of houses with such a roof. Ware Economy Dog House - Crafted from 1/2" thick exterior grade plywood, this box style dog kennel comes with an off-center entrance to protect your pup from the elements. The hinged roof allows quick access for cleaning and mat replacing while doubling as a ready-made sun deck for your dog. The raised floor provides defense against moisture and makes for a warmer abode during the winter time.Sizes are available for all breeds of dogs. This dog house has a non-toxic weather defensive red stain and is very easy to assemble with basic hand tools. Identical door is available.This model is a bit beefier compared to economy kennel. But you'll still wish to protect the plywood roof with a more water repellant cover and stain the walls a little darker to help make the inevitable mud less apparent.Loft RoofA number of the fancier houses have a loft or sun deck above the house. In some instances, the loft is created above a standard pitched or slanted roof. Some loft roof dog houses appear to be they would make good play houses for kids. Pet Palace - It's a loft bed, it's a playhouse, it's a conversation piece, it's a furniture piece, and this type of dog house is all that plus a dog house. The signature feature of this solid fir house with a dark cedar patina is a beautiful lattice roof top balcony to permit your pooch a resting place in addition to a "look out" loft (to keep an eye on the rest of the family).
Plastic Dog HousePlastic dog houses have come on strong in recent times. They're competitively priced, light-weight, and low maintenance. Some are ready to go right out of the box; others need snapping together a few panels. No fuss, that's the value proposal. Many of the most well-liked plastic dog house styles are named the igloo, the barn (gambrel roof), and the traditional dog house with a pitched roof.Regardless of what the sales materials may say about the virtues of "structural foam construction with nitrogen insulation", a correctly insulated wooden house will normally keep a dog cooler in the summertime and warmer in the wintertime than a plastic one will. Take this into account if you reside in an area with hot or cold weather extremes
Metal Dog HouseYou do not see them frequently but there are metal dog houses available on the market. These are generally rectangle shaped, made from stainless steel or aluminum, and intensely insulated. They're relatively indestructible because dogs can't chew apart themetal and they won't rot. They are not for every dog though -- you will mostly see these sold by suppliers specializing in hunting dog supplies.A distinction is made here between metal dog houses and metal dog boxes. Metal dog houses in many cases are created for stationary use as opposed to a dog box is usually designed for mobile use. One is located in your yard, the other goes into your truck.Barrel Dog HouseJust about in a class by itself is the barrel dog house. These may be made from old wooden wine barrels, plastic barrels, or metal barrels. The concept behind this design is that dogs naturally choose to sleep in shallow, curved holes and so a barrel - layered with lots of wood chips - enables you to emulate this habitat.Fiberglass Cave Dog HouseJust when you think you've seen it all, this fiberglass cave dog house shows up. This dog house is made of 100% heavy-duty fiberglass that should in no way rot or leak and is built to hold two large dogs comfortably. This look may not attract everyone but it sure results in a distinctive home for your pet.
Portable and Temporary Dog House : Dog TentsA dog tent is a soft-sided transportable shelter. Made from water-resistant materials, most dog tents are simple to put together and break down in minutes. They are lightweight and simple to transport making them popular for camping, traveling, and other outdoor pursuits. Some dog tents are fairly intricate, sporting features like ventilated side panels, elevated floors, hold open door flaps, and zippered closures. Dog tents aren't for diggers, chewers, aggressive dogs or canines that experience anxiety while contained.Soft Dog CrateA soft dog crate is essentially a rectangular dog tent. It looks like a regular dog crate with the exception that it is soft-sided with nylon mesh rather than metal or plastic grating. Asoft dog crate is also lighter than the usual conventional crate which makes it far more convenient for transporting a dog. Nonetheless, soft crates aren't ideal for diggers, chewers, aggressive dogs or dogs that freak out while crated.Inflatable Dog HouseThis dog house is created from materials normally used for high end outdoor camping and sporting gear. The known manufacturer of this dog house boasts that it provides ten times the insulating qualities of plastic dog houses, making it a practical temporary shelter for cold weather scenarios. If your dog is a chewer, this isn't really the best dog house for him.

Bathing Your Dog

Bathing a dog




Bathing a dog needs to be given more emphasis. This is because of the fact that if you are careless in bathing, the animal may end up having some infections.  For example, if you don’t close the ears with large cotton ball, the water may enter into ear canals and may cause some ear infections with signs like constant discharge from the ears and shaking of head.
Frequency of bathing actually depends on the breed of the dog. If the dog is of a hairy type like the cocker spaniel, then the bathing is to be carried out once in six to eight weeks. If these breeds are bathed too frequently, then the skin and coat loose the protective characters.  However, when the dog has defecated on the skin due to the frequent digestive upsets leading to diarrhea, to avoid the bad smell, the dog may be subjected to frequent bathing some times by the owners.

Take more care in avoiding some irritant soaps or human soaps. The soap materials used for human beings are not suitable for dogs.  Similarly, many human shampoo products are having some ingredients that are not suitable in the proportions that are to be used in case of dogs. Hence, always try to use the shampoo products that are mentioned mainly for use in dogs. Take more care in using any new product.

Always have good time and patience for products required for bathing in one place with availability of water source.  Dogs love the sprinkling of water, river, and oceans.  Even when you are using bathtub, have everything in one place and then start bathing of the dog. Try to have a leash, conditioner, towel, and shampoo in the bath place.
Conditioner is of helpful to make the combing activity easier later. Then there is less friction. Bathing should be a convenient activity to both the dog and the owner. This should not be a burden.

Dog Houses: Chapter Two

As a Dog Parent you are faced with a variety of choices when shopping for a dog house. 

A few of the big decisions you have to make are:

•  The amount to shell out
•  How small or big the house to get
•  What style or type of house

But there are various other supplementary questions to be addressed:

• Are you interested in wood, plastic, or metal? If you choose for wood, do you prefer a peaked or flat roof? Centered or off-set doorway? Painted or coated? And so on and so forth.
• What's the best way to heat?
• Will your dog love it?

Don't be overwhelmed though. With proper research and consideration for what your dog really needs (and not what you really want), you'll get there without even a headache.
So, What Now? Plastic, Wood, or Metal?


A fundamental decision to be made at the start is whether to obtain a plastic, a wood, or a metal dog house. Let's start with the plastic. Dog houses constructed from plastic are often lighter and more affordable than wood ones. They're very easy to transport, lack splinters, don't decay, and don't need refinishing. They are also easy to clean and don't have tiny holes for fleas and tics to produce nests.
Alternatively, wood dog houses are usually more substantial than plastic ones, they provide more design add-on options, and they'll supply your dog better protection from the elements. Wood is a far better insulator than plastic so your pet is less likely to
overheat inside a wood house. It has a tendency to produce warmer, fuzzier feelings than plastic material ever will. And lots of people choose the natural look of wood to plastic. Tics and fleas can generate problems with wood houses however this can be mitigated by getting a cedar wood house and using cedar shavings for bedding.
On the other hand, metal can also be used for dog houses. Such constructions are usually known as dog "boxes" and are often utilized to transport dogs and offer temporary housing for shows and competitive sports. Nonetheless, some owners certainly use them as year-round houses. Metal dog boxes are constructed from aluminum or stainless steel and are often insulated because metal by itself is an inadequate insulator. Most dog boxes don't come cheap however they are usually very solidly built and will most likely outlive your dog.

Dog House Size

Choosing the right house size for your dog can be one of the more complicated facets of dog house shopping. That's most likely because there are all sorts of guidelines available. Without being excessively technical, here are some ideas to help you identify what you and your dog really need:

• The dog house needs to be large enough so that your pet can turn around in it and lie down completely stretched out inside.
• Bigger isn't usually better. Canines feel safer in small spaces. Additionally, an extra-large dog house is trickier to keep warm during cold weather.
• If your dog is still a pup, research what her average adult weight and size will be and pick a house keeping that in mind.
• Before shelling out a lot of money on a dog house, think about making a cardboard mock-up that has the dimensions. 
• Cajole your dog inside and see if he can easily turnaround and lie down easily.

Entrance and Door

Probably the first consideration for a proper sized dog house is the doorway. It needs to be big enough for your dog to easily enter and exit of the house however, not so big that it leads to excessive heat loss and over-exposure to the elements. Keep in mind that,
unlike people, dogs need smaller doors than what their total height is. They don't have any problems with having to duck to enter a house.
Just how big should a doorway be? There are least two guidelines employed to know for sure. The first one states that the door height opening should not be less than 3/4 of the dog's shoulder to ground height. The second rule states that the opening needs to be at least 1" more than the distance from the top of the dog's shoulder to the bottom of his chest. No matter formula used, these are minimum entrance heights; you can acquire a house with a taller doorway, just remember that heat retention and coziness could suffer.

The width of a dog house doorway has to be just a bit larger than the girth of your dog. The location of the doorway can be crucial, too. The classic style dog house has the doorway centered in the middle of the house. This looks okay but may not be ideal depending on the harshness of your weather and your dog's desire for privacy.
A dog house entrance that is situated off center reduces direct exposure to the outdoor elements and gives extra privacy space indoors for your dog to hang out. An off center doorway also offers extra room to insert an interior wind deflection panel which further increases the warmth and coziness of the house.
Some doors are created to be detachable. This is good in terms of improving air flow during the hot summer so long as you don't mind a little rain getting in from time to time. If you find a house that you like but it doesn't come with a doorway, don't worry. You can get some vinyl from the store and build your own.

Roof Type

If you're looking for a wooden dog house, you'll have to determine what type of roof you want. This is both a style and function selection. Wooden dog houses typically feature either: 1) the classic pitched roof made from two sections joined together to create a peak, or 2) the single panel roof, generally with a gentle slope from the front to the back of the house.
A third type of roof is the loft or sun deck style roof, which is often a single or double panel roof with an attached wooden platform on top.

Raised Floor

Preferably, a dog house must have an insulated floor that is raised a few inches above the ground. This "dead air space" gives an extra measure of insulation, keeps dampness away from the house and your dog, and gives extra protection against flea invasion from hatching eggs in the soil. A raised floor additionally stops the wood from rotting thereby extending the life of the dog house.
Some dog houses are created with skid plates or expanded corner posts to elevate the house above the ground. A similar result can be achieved by placing the house on top of bricks, stones, or 4x4 blocks of wood.
Despite having a raised floor, the wood on the underside of the floor can be susceptible to rotting as time passes - particularly wood in direct exposure to the ground. To reduce rotting, choose a dog house that utilizes decay resistant woods like cedar or redwood.

Bedding

Not every type of dog house bedding is the same. You'll often find guidelines to use blankets, towels, carpet, hay, straw, old newspapers, just about whatever you can get your hands on. The issue with most of these materials is that they entice and sustain fleas, tics, and other critters. They're also prone to mold and mildew.
A more sensible choice is to use cedar shavings for bedding since the oils in the cedar will get rid of fleas and tics. Even so, know that the cedar oils trigger contact allergies in a small number of dogs. To reduce this possibility - also to keep the house neater - you can get a dog bed cover with a liner and stuff the liner with the wood chips.

Ventilation

If a dog house falls short of sufficient ventilation, the air will become hot and sweltering throughout the summer, making an unpleasant and possibly dangerous environment for your dog. During the winter, poor ventilation may lead to excessive moisture buildup from the dog's breathing. This moisture will condense on the interior surfaces setting up a clammy environment and alluring bugs and mildew to take up residence. So, correct ventilation is vital.
The doorway opening certainly offers a certain degree of ventilation but if a door flap is used, the ventilation will be limited. This is really a problem during the winter when door flaps are used to maintain the house warmer.
Just a few small quarter-sized holes on top of a house will usually suffice for venting. Keep in mind, hot air rises. Some houses have slatted ventilation openings, usually in the design of windows. These can work rather effectively at bettering air flow while keeping out snow and rain. Nonetheless, if the opening wrong in size, this can result in extreme heat loss during the winter. Be ready to partially conceal the openings with something like vinyl door flap material.

Heating

To heat or not to heat. That is a concern that dog house buyers at times deal with. There are really two inquiries to respond to: 1) does your dog need additional heat to keep warm? 2) If that's the case, what's the best way to heat the house?

Heating a Dog House

If your home is in an area with freezing winters, the temperature may get so cold on occasion that your dog's body heat isn't sufficient to keep him warm in the dog house.
This is most likely to be true with older dogs since their metabolism and overall fitness isn't what it had been. The same pertains to sick dogs or canines who are recovering from an ailment. In these scenarios, a heated dog house can make a big difference.
A heated dog house is likewise encouraged if the house will be utilized for whelping.
Correct Cold Temperature Construction
Prior to getting into the basics of heating a dog house, it's worth mentioning that a properly constructed dog house goes quite a distance towards keeping your pet comfy warm during the winter. Preferably, a cold weather dog house has the following elements:
The dog house floor is insulated and raised above the ground. A cement floor is nice and cool during the cold months but bitter cold in the wintertime. It soaks the warmth right out of live things. Insulated wood is best. In a pinch, you can place the dog house on top of a wooden pallet.

• The house is big enough for your dog to comfortably turn around and to stretch out however, not so large that its own body heat can't maintain the house warm.
• The floor, walls, and roof of the dog house are insulated.
• The doorway has some sort of door. A flap of clear vinyl or carpet will be enough.
• The house has an interior wind break wall so your pet is better protected against the elements.

Items for Heating a Dog House

With regards to heating a dog house, below are a few recommendations you can consider.

Heated Kennel Mat

The easiest and cheapest approach to heating a dog house is to use a heated kennel mat or heating pad. You just place it on the floor of the dog house and plug it in. As an alternative, the mat could be hung on a wall of the house so the dog could lie against instead of over it.
A heated mat is a superb way to warm your pet - particularly if the house is insulated - though some owners may be a bit concern about their dog sleeping right on an electric device with a cord running from it. This is really a concern if your pet is a chewer. Be aware that most mats have a metal safety coil round the cord so if you can
Run the unprotected section of the cord out of the dog's reach, it'll be fine. Otherwise, you may consider encasing the rest of the cable with PVC pipe. A heated dog mat is suitable for wood, metal, and plastic dog houses. Most other heating sources are equipped for wood or metal houses only.
Heated Dog Bed
Heated canine beds are the same in some respects to heated kennel mats with the main distinction being that they are made for indoor use only. They offer radiant heating from a heating strip hidden inside the padded bed that keeps the top of bed about 12° to 15° above the ambient air temperature.
The outer covers are often detachable and washable. For those who have a drafty house or maybe an older dog with poor circulation, a heated dog bed is an inexpensive way to keep your pet warm and comfortable. Energy consumption is minimal - on the same level as the 10-watt bulb.
Heater Box
A dog house heater box is essentially a metal box with a light bulb or ceramic emitter inside. The box mounts in an upper nook of the dog house so as to not impinge on your dog's sleeping space and warms the house in similar way as the egg incubator does.
At present, there are just a few designs of heater boxes available.