We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. The 8 Best Dog Houses for Any Environment By Ellie Welles Ellie Welles Ellie Welles is a writer and product expert for The Spruce Pets. She currently shares her home with two cats, Agnes and Peppercorn, who were found motherless on the streets but have since become pampered indoor darlings. Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process and Lorraine Wilde Lorraine Wilde Lorraine Wilde, M.S. is a writer for The Spruce Pets. She has over 25 years of experience, almost as long as her 30 years of being a dog and cat mom. Her work has included Run Those Dogs, Parents Magazine, Leaders in Heels, Sheownsit.com, and Miss Millennia Magazine, among other publications and, most recently, a Sniffspot host. Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process Updated on 01/15/25 In This Article View All In This Article Top Picks Reviews What to Look For in Dog Houses FAQ Why Trust The Spruce Pets Credit: The Spruce Pets / Lecia Landis A quality, functional dog house is essential if your canine pal spends significant time outdoors, especially in inclement weather. “An outdoor dog house protects dogs from the elements,” Janet Cutler, PhD, certified dog behavior consultant at SeniorTailWaggers.com, told The Spruce Pets. “This means that you want to make sure that it provides warmth and protection from any rain or snow in the cold and provides shade and protection from rain or other weather in the heat. The house should have some ventilation, especially in warm climates, and have some insulation or the ability to add bedding for colder weather.” Our best overall pick, the Petsfit Wooden Dog House, features three colors and a smart, functional, weather-resistant design in three sizes. Top Picks Best Overall: Petsfit Petsfit Dog House at Amazon $185 Jump to Review Best Budget: PetMate Aspen Pet Petbarn III Plastic Dog House at Amazon $99 Jump to Review Easiest Assembly: Midwest Homes for Pets Eilio Folding Dog House at Amazon $198 Jump to Review Best Insulated: Dog Palace Insulated Dog House at Chewy $280 Jump to Review Best for Hot Weather: PawHut Wicker Dog House Outdoor with Canopy at Amazon $100 Jump to Review Best Tent: Arcadia Trail Outdoor Double Dog Shade Tent at PetSmart Jump to Review Best for Small Dogs: TRIXIE Natura Classic Dog House at Amazon $90 Jump to Review Best for Big Dogs: Petmate Indigo Dog House at Amazon $180 Jump to Review Best Overall Petsfit Petsfit Dog House Credit: Amazon $185 at Amazon View on Petsfit.com $300 at Lowe's What We Like Top opens for easy cleaning Three colors and three sizes Adjustable feet for leveling All-wood construction with pleasant cedar smell What We Don't Like Not well-insulated Constructed with Finnish spruce wood, weather-resistant asphalt shingles, and stainless steel parts, the Petsfit Wooden Dog House's solid construction makes it a clear standout and our favorite overall dog house. It has both clean metal lines and a cabin aesthetic. The Petsfit dog house is also practical, with a slanted roof and translucent door flaps, so your dog can find refuge from rain. Plus, the roof opens like a trunk, with pneumatic braces that make it easy to lift the top and clean inside. The floor—made of the same spruce slats as the exterior walls—is similarly easy to remove and clean. This dog house is best in warmer climates, since it's not well insulated. The floor, for example, is lifted off the ground, to increase airflow and keep the interior dry, but in cold weather, this would feel like drafts coming from between the floor slats. But if you want to try it out in colder weather, Petsfit sells a separate Dog House Insulation Kit that fits snugly inside. The all-wood construction comes with some trade-offs, like creaking floorboards and maintenance. Just like with a wood porch or deck, you may want to treat the wood for extra weather resistance on occasion. While the largest version of the dog house is built for dogs up to 80 pounds, we believe this dog house is better for medium-sized pooches and we have a separate large breed recommendation. The Petsfit Wooden Dog House comes with pre-drilled holes, so some assembly is required. However, it's easy to situate in your yard or other outdoor space, since it also includes four adjustable feet for easy leveling. Dimensions: 33.5 x 22.5 x 23 inches (small), 41 x 26 x 27.5 inches (medium), 45.5 x 31 x 32 inches (large)︱Materials: Spruce wood, stainless steel, asphalt︱Weight: 32.2 pounds (small), 46.3 pounds (medium), 55 pounds (large)︱Colors: Light gray, yellow and white, red Best Budget PetMate Aspen Pet Petbarn III Plastic Dog House Credit: Amazon $99 at Amazon $156 at Petco $244 $80 at Walmart What We Like Easy to clean Durable and rot-resistant Available in a range of colors What We Don’t Like Limited availability for some sizes The PetMate Aspen Pet Barnhome III is an affordable plastic dog house that comes in four different sizes and a range of colors (we’ve found that online retailers often have a more limited range of options available). It’s simple to assemble without tools, and though plastic has its drawbacks, it is also durable, rot-resistant, and easy to clean. The extended roof rim and raised interior floor help ward off wet weather. It’s also got rear ventilation for air circulation. The top is sturdy enough to bear the weight of the dog too, if they’re a fan of parkour. Dimensions: 26.5 x 18 x 16.5 inches (x-small); 29 x 22 x 21 inches (small); 32 x 26 x 24 inches (medium); 38 x 29 x 30 inches (large) | Materials: Polypropylene plastic | Weight: 10.8 pounds (x-small); 14.7 pounds (small); 21 pounds (medium); 25.26 pounds (large) | Colors: Various Easiest Assembly Midwest Homes for Pets Eilio Folding Dog House Credit: Chewy $198 at Amazon $185 at Chewy $220 $124 at Petco What We Like Setup requires no tools, just unfolding Asphalt roof and water-resistant wood Adjustable feet for leveling Optional insulation kit What We Don’t Like Only available in two muted colors The Eilio shares a similar design with our overall favorite, but it requires no tools to set up. Instead, it unfolds right out of the box, with hinged sides and a hinged asphalt roof that you fold over top as a final touch. The Eilio is made from water-resistant stained wood, with a paneled, elevated floor for circulation and to ward off water. It’s available in three sizes. There’s also an insulation kit, sold separately, which will ready the Eilio dog house for cold weather. Dimensions: 21.74 x 33.59 x 25.28 inches (small); 24.81 x 40.56 x 28.94 inches (medium); 28.55 x 45.32 x 32.88 inches (large) | Materials: Treated wood, asphalt | Weight: 42 pounds (small); 57 pounds (medium); 74 pounds (large) | Colors: Gray, tan Best Insulated Dog Palace Insulated Dog House Credit: Chewy $280 at Chewy View on Petco $215 at Samsclub.com What We Like Insulated for temperature control Sturdy construction Overhang to block rain from entry Easy to clean What We Don’t Like Not very attractive color options May be difficult to enter for dogs with low mobility The Insulated Dog Palace checks a lot of boxes. It’s well-built, solid and durable. It’s also fully enclosed from the elements, with a double-hinged door that’s raised off the ground to keep out rain. It features an elevated and slanted floor to aid in runoff when cleaning too. But the standout feature is that each panel has several inches of foam insulation. The insulation will help keep your dog's house cooler during warm weather and warmer during cold weather. Because of its wet-weather-friendly raised floor, the double-hinged door is about 11 inches off the ground, which may make this dog house too difficult to enter for senior dogs and dogs with mobility limitations. The interior is 35.5 by 24 inches, making it most appropriate for medium to large dogs. If your dog’s shoulders are less than 26.5 inches off the ground, this house could be a good fit. There’s also a portal to install a heater, which is sold separately. The heater comes with a thermostat and remote control. Dimensions: 47.5 x 31.5 x 38.5 inches | Materials: Insulated plastic | Weight: 55 pounds | Colors: Tan and brown; gray and dark gray Best for Hot Weather PawHut Wicker Dog House Outdoor with Canopy Credit: Amazon $100 at Amazon View on Aosom.com What We Like Removable and washable cushion cover Tons of airflow What We Don’t Like Not suitable for large dogs Open sides won’t block strong weather The PawHut Wicker Dog House features an open design that won’t provide much protection from the elements but will keep your dog in the shade. The rattan style is cute and makes it look like your dog is lounging at a resort, as they should be. The water-resistant cushion features a removable, washable cover. At 27.25 by 38.5 inches, it is most suitable for smaller breeds. There are also variants with a more extended lounging cushion and even a wicker canopy on wheels, so you can shelter your dog’s favorite outdoor bed. Dimensions: 27.25 x 38.5 x 28.75 Inches | Materials: Rattan, cotton, fabric | Weight: 19.8 pounds | Colors: Brown and cream Best Tent Arcadia Trail Outdoor Double Dog Shade Tent Credit: Chewy View on PetSmart What We Like Lightweight and easy to transport Easy to set up and take down Waterproof and wind resistant Flame retardant and UV protection What We Don’t Like Velcro closure instead of zipper Designed to comfortably house two medium-sized dogs and provide UV protection from the hot sun, this lightweight, waterproof tent from Arcadia Trails comes with carrying handles, making it ideal to pack and transport on camping and outdoor adventures. It's quick and easy to set up just about anywhere you need on-demand protection from the elements—plus it's treated with flame retardant. The low profile design helps wind blow over the tent smoothly, while the hooped poles add stability. Mesh panels in the front and sides provide plenty of ventilation, though the opening is secured with Velcro, not a zipper. Dimensions: 41.25 x 31.5 x 30 inches | Materials: 600 denier waterproof ripstop polyester | Weight: Not listed | Colors: Charcoal Best for Small Dogs TRIXIE Natura Classic Dog House Credit: Amazon $90 at Amazon $123 at Chewy $119 $90 at PetSmart What We Like Tongue-and-groove design Weatherproof sealing inside and out Hinged roof for easy cleaning access Weatherproof asphalt roof What We Don't Like Not insulated Similar in look and design to our best overall pick, this dog house also has a slanted asphalt roof that opens, a raised floor, and adjustable feet for leveling. The removable floor also makes for easy cleaning. It’s made from traditional pine with a glazed, treated, weatherproof finish, with an asphalt roof for further weatherproofing. The Natura is available in two sizes, suitable for small to medium-sized dogs. Dimensions: 33.5 x 23.5 x 22.8 inches (small), 40.8 x 26.8, 28.3 inches (medium)︱Materials: Pine wood︱Weight: 29 pounds (small), 41 pounds (medium) | Colors: Brown, gray Best for Big Dogs Petmate Indigo Dog House Credit: Amazon $180 at Amazon View on Petmate.com $230 at Tractor Supply Co. What We Like Accommodates larger dogs Solid construction Extended opening blocks direct wind What We Don’t Like A little ugly Top can be tricky to remove for cleaning The igloo-style design is great for helping dogs stay warm and out of the elements. The domed roof allows rain and snow to run off and diverts the wind, while the long entranceway further protects the house from wind or rain blowing in. If snow does build up on the roof, you won’t have to worry about the structure collapsing, because this dog house is made from an extremely strong material and has been weight tested up to 1500 pounds. It’s available in multiple sizes ranging from medium to extra large. The extra large can accommodate dogs up to 125 pounds. The design choice is very specific and it might not be what you’re looking to stare at on your lawn. Also, compared to some of our other picks, the top can be tricky to remove for cleaning. Dimensions: 30.5 x 37.5 x 22.8 inches (medium); 43.8 x 34 x 25.8 inches (large); 51.5 x 39.3 x 30 inches (extra large) | Materials: Plastic | Weight: 39.7 pounds | Colors: Black and taupe Final Verdict The Petsfit Dog House is the best option for most dogs. With Finnish spruce panels, multiple available sizes, and an elevated floor for ventilation, it’s an excellent two- or three-season option, but not suitable for colder weather. But if you’re looking for the cheapest, easiest way to provide your dog a place to get out of the rain, check out our budget favorite, the Petmate Barnhome III. What to Look For in Dog Houses Consider Your Climate The type of dog house that’s right for you and Fido depends on the range of temperatures and weather your dog will experience throughout the seasons. “Dogs need to have protection from the cold and wind, as well as the sun when hot. In the cold, having bedding to help with warmth is recommended,” Dr. Cutler told The Spruce Pets. “Additionally, dogs need to have the option to stay dry, especially when it’s cold." Select a dog house that will ensure you err on the side of caution during temperature extremes. The 6 Best Heated Dog Houses Materials and Finish Most dog houses on the market are made of either wood or plastic. If your dog is a super chewer, you might want to opt for natural fibers. Although wood doesn’t stand up to moisture the way plastic does, it’s beautiful, stylish, and more environmentally friendly. Plastic may be more durable than wood, but once it’s broken, it's generally not repairable the way a little glue, a new board, and some new screws can be for a wood dog house. Not all wood is alike, however. Check the thickness of the wood and the level of insulation, if any, before you buy. Some wood dog houses are made from thin interlocking planks or full panels that could break easily if your dog is rough on their home. Sturdier wood can mean that your dog house is more difficult to move. Be sure to consider the wood finish if your dog house will be exposed to any weather. Look for a waterproof finish or an unfinished product that you can treat with exterior paint or a water-resistant stain. Opt for stainless steel hardware that will hold up longer in outdoor weather. Make sure your roof is slanted, not flat, so that snow and rain will slide off. Also, opt for those with asphalt or other roofing material since the roof is the first place to leak and often the reason you need a replacement. Size, Safety, and Comfort It’s important to choose the right size dog house for your pal to ensure their long-term safety and comfort. “Similar to indoor dog crates or kennels, dogs should be able to walk in, turn around, stand, wag their tails, and lie down stretched out on their side,” Dr. Cutler said. “Water should be accessible at all times. Dogs will also need access to a potty area outside their shelter and [an] area for them to get some exercise or move around.” Be sure to measure your dog to ensure you’ll get the right size dog house. Many websites include diagrams on how to use your pet’s measurements to select the proper size. FAQ Is it okay for dogs to live in a dog house all year? “Some dogs can tolerate living outside in a dog house all year. This depends on the breed of dog, and you want to make sure that they’ve had time to get acclimatized to the temperature,” Dr. Cutler said. “In the cold, having clean, dry bedding can help to keep your dog warm.Having plenty of ventilation and shade in warm weather is important as well. Pay close attention to your dog to ensure they are acclimatizing well if there are really quick swings in temperature.” Do igloo dog houses keep dogs warm? “Many of the same considerations for outdoor shelter also apply to igloo dog houses,” Dr. Cutler said. “Most have ventilation within them and doorways that try to prevent too much wind or rain from entering the main area.” Why Trust The Spruce Pets The roundup was written by Ellie Welles, who has raised dogs, cats, rabbits, and even a green-cheeked conure. A specialist in small pets, Ellie has also made recommendations for the best guinea pig supplies, ferret toys, and chinchilla cages. Her two cats were a little more helpful when it came to finding great window perches. A previous version of this article was written by Lorraine Wilde, who has had at least two cat and two dog companions in her home for the past 35 years. Janet Cutler, PhD, certified dog behavior consultant at SeniorTailWaggers.com, was also consulted for this article. She holds a PhD in animal behavior and welfare from the University of Guelph. She is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) specializing in cat and dog behavior, and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). The 24 Best Dog Toys of 2026 Updated by Adrienne Kruzer Adrienne Kruzer Adrienne Kruzer is a veterinary technician with more than 15 years of experience providing healthcare to domestic and exotic animals. She is trained as a Fear Free Certified Professional to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process Explore more: What to Buy Dog Products Dog Supplies