In a rush and just want my recommendation? I think the MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio Outdoor Dog House is a great choice.
Your hound may well spend lots of time with you, in the house. But there are occasions when they may need to be left outside for a time. You may be at work, out for dinner, or even just having friends over who don’t like dogs, (I know! Is that possible?)
The US Humane Society encourages you to contact local law enforcement agencies if pets are left outside in extreme temperatures, especially without food or shelter. Their owners are at risk of facing criminal charges
If you’re looking for the best dog house for your hound, there are a few things to consider.
In this article, I’m reviewing the following dog houses.
- MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio Outdoor Dog House
- ROCKEVER Wood Dog Houses Outdoor Insulated
- Ferplast Dog Kennel
- Tangkula Wooden Dog House
- AmazonBasics Elevated Portable Pet House
5 Best Dog Houses For Everyday Use Reviewed
MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio Outdoor Dog House
This is a wood house which comes in three sizes. They are quite roomy, with a good space for bedding. The doorway is a good size, which is helpful for older dogs.
The wood has been stained to give it protection against the rain. It’s a well made house with good quality stainless steel fittings, and the roof is made from asphalt shingles. This protects the house but also reinforces it.
The no-tools assembly is a great feature. You simply unfold it and put the roof on. The house is elevated for good airflow, and the feet have levelers which help if your yard isn’t flat.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Floor slats increase airflow
- Durable
- Lift off roof makes it easy to clean
Cons:
- Wood stain can smell when first unpacked
ROCKEVER Wood Dog Houses Outdoor Insulated
This solid and durable house for dogs up to 30lb is a slightly higher price point. With all necessary parts included, the pet house can be easily assembled with pre-drilled holes.
The Rockever has a pitched roof, so efficient diversion of rainfall. The bottom is elevated for good airflow and damp-proofing. The removable plastic window is a nice feature, providing more light in winter and ventilation in summer.
Pros:
- Sturdy
- Well made
- Easy access inside for cleaning
- Good ventilation
Cons:
- No waterproofing on roof
- Not actually insulated
- For small dogs only
Ferplast Dog Kennel
This dog house comes in three sizes. It has a nice look, and I really like the two tone colors. I also think the pitched roof is a great feature to divert the rain.
There is a good floor elevation to keep the hound off the ground. Venting round the bottom is included to maximize airflow. There is also a fold-out porch along with built-in ventilation & drainage system. The fold out porch can be assembled on either side of the house. A great feature if your hound house is against a wall or fence.
The Ferplast dog house does not require any tools for assembly and can be constructed or dismantled very easily.
Pros:
- Three sizes
- Easy to clean
- Quick to assemble when familiar with product
- Large opening
- Fold out porch
Cons:
- Flimsy
- Can be difficult to assemble
Tangkula Wooden Dog House
This log cabin style dog house comes in medium and large sizes. I really like the pitched asphalt roof, and the two locking hinges are a great feature. Good for airing the house out on a nice day.
The floor is removable which is important for thorough cleaning. Adjustable feet make it easy to level it on uneven ground.
This dog house looks nice, is made from fir wood which is sealed, to protect against the elements.
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Made from wood
- Attractive design
- Good customer service
Cons:
- Thin walls
- Very light so can be unstable in strong winds
AmazonBasics Elevated Portable Pet House
This extremely affordable dog house comes in three sizes. It’s lightweight and portable so you can easily move it round your house or yard.
The material is a thin fabric, so not suitable for inclement weather. The assembly is easy. It’s a matter of attaching all the tubing together, like a small tent frame. The fabric is then placed over the frame and secured with velcro.
There is a mesh panel along the pitched roof for air circulation, and the base is off the ground.
Pros:
- Strong material
- Good stitching
- Supportive base
- Portable
- 1 year limited warranty
Cons:
- Not weatherproof
- Roof flap lifts in wind
Guide To Buying A Dog House For Everyday Use
What Makes A Great Dog House?
Good materials and appropriate sizes are the most important thing. A product that looks fantastic may not always be the best dog house.
Your hound needs to be protected from the elements. Hot sun, freezing temperatures, and driving rain. Your climate will determine what materials you choose for your dog house. Wood will protect a dog from the heat, while plastic can heat up in summer. If you have strong winds, you may need to secure the dog house.
The roof needs to be waterproof, and preferably with a pitch to allow run-off. It’s also helpful if the roof is hinged. This makes it much easier to clean the inside, and to install and remove bedding for cleaning.The house should be off the ground, to allow good air flow and to prevent dampness.
The walls and roof should preferably be insulated if your hound is to be out in all weathers.
There should be plenty of room for your dog to enter, turn around and lie down. Your hound will need space for food and water bowls, as well as some bedding.
The dog house should be positioned so that rain and wind can’t drive in through the door, and it should be shaded from heat in summer.
Do Dogs Like Dog Houses?
I think the answer depends on what your dog has been used to. If you have an older dog who has always lived in the house, they may not like a change in their routine. Dogs who are used to being outside, or in a crate, will be much more adaptable. Most dogs will get used to changes, in time. It’s essentially a shelter for them, so they will use it if they want to.
Are Wood Or Plastic Dog Houses Better?
Plastic
- Can be cheaper
- Easy to clean
- Lighter, so may need to be secured
- Not as well insulated, so will absorb both heat and cold
- Moulded houses won’t leak
- May be easy to chew
Wood
- Good insulation properties
- Durable
- Heavier than plastic
- Can be painted
- Usually good ventilation
Conclusion
My personal favorite is the MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio Outdoor Dog House.
Of all the dog houses I’ve looked at, this one stands out for me.
It’s great value for the price, sturdy and spacious. I put a thick bedding pad inside the house, so the large opening means my dog can still get in and out easily.
A good range of sizes means there’s the ideal house for your hound. The removable roof makes cleaning easy, and the leveling feet are a great addition.
I really appreciate the ease of assembly. The main consideration for me is its ability to keep my dog safe and comfortable. The durable construction and water-resistant wood make this house top of my list.
