Is a wooden dog house weatherproof?
Is a wooden dog house weatherproof?
A wooden dog kennel provides a safe and comfortable space for your beloved pets, giving them a designated place to eat, sleep and rest. This means that a wooden dog kennel is placed somewhere in your garden that is exclusively theirs, which can bring them a sense of security and privacy.
Wooden dog kennels come in a variety of sizes and designs to suit all your needs. Indoor kennels or pens are generally easy to handle, easy to clean and can be equipped with a soft dog bed.
Outdoor dog kennels or pens are made of various materials. Some types of kennels are usually made of plastic or wood, while some are definitely not suitable for keeping dogs.
Read on to learn more about what material a wooden dog house is made of and how to choose the right outdoor home for your dog.
Why build an "outdoor living" for dogs in the garden?
Some dog owners prefer to keep their dogs in the comfort and warmth of their home, while others prefer an outdoor environment. There are several reasons to create an outdoor environment for your dog, such as:
Give your dog his own space – dogs can become territorial and restless if they feel they don't have a place to hide from the weather, eat, relax, or sleep.
Protecting your garden – giving your dog a designated place to go can reduce their need to damage your garden, garden furniture or other areas of your garden.
Support training and learning – an outdoor playpen or wooden dog house can help your dog learn obedience and also provide a stress-free space that will help minimize restless behavior.
Wooden dog house - features and benefits
A wooden dog house or kennel will vary greatly depending on the size and preferences of your dog, as well as your budget. But most homes with a garden, if your dog is part of it, cannot do without a kennel or kennel. A wooden dog house must mainly be of safe and high-quality construction, without sharp elements, easy to clean and with a long service life.
What features should a wooden dog house have:
● Insulation for heat
● Safe materials
● Lifting roofs for easy cleaning
● Pen floor suitable for rinsing with water
● Possibility to attach a feeder with a food and water bowl
● Open entrance for easy access
● Galvanized construction for long life
● Enough space for the dog
Plastic kennel or wooden kennel for a dog?
When purchasing a new dog house, you will need to consider two main options: a plastic dog house or a wooden dog house. Both options offer specific features that will suit different breeds of dogs.
Here is an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of both types:
Choosing a plastic shed
A plastic kennel or dog house will come in a wider variety of colors and shapes than a wooden alternative, making it a good choice if you're looking for a particularly bright or synthetic color scheme for your dog's new home.
Plastic options are generally more budget-friendly, as the material is cheaper and more readily available than wooden alternatives. It is also a lighter option, which can reduce shipping costs.
The plastic interior is easy to clean and maintain, while the smooth synthetic surface is easy to sterilize and clean. The plastic is resistant to moisture and mold caused by humid weather, meaning your dog house will stay in tip-top condition for longer.
Disadvantages
While plastic is waterproof and generally a good insulator because it can trap heat, it will not act as an effective thermal conductor, meaning it will not keep your dog as warm in cold weather as the wooden kennel alternative.
Plastic is also not as durable as a wooden kennel, where it will not last as long before it starts to degrade, especially in persistent bad weather. This can be made worse by your dog chewing on the plastic parts, resulting in holes or cracks, affecting the level of warmth and security the kennel provides.
Choosing a wooden shed
A wooden dog house is an excellent natural insulator and will keep your dog warm and dry during the colder months. When well built, a wooden dog house can withstand a range of weather conditions and is a very suitable solution for your dog.
A wooden dog kennel can be the perfect addition to your garden furniture, where the wooden structure matches the decking, benches and garden houses you have already purchased. The natural look of the dog kennel will also complement your existing plantings and grass areas.
Disadvantages
As a wooden dog house is more durable and of higher quality construction, it will generally be more expensive than plastic dog houses. Since it is a heavier construction, there may be potential higher shipping costs.
A wooden dog house is more resistant to chewing and weathering, but as a natural material it can be difficult to clean perfectly. Be especially careful of cheap dog houses. They can also be prone to rotting. This can be prevented by applying a suitable wood stain to your liking.
Environmental considerations
When choosing materials, it is crucial to consider the ecological aspect. Plastics are a burden on the environment, so prefer recycled options. For wooden structures, look for suppliers with an emphasis on sustainability. If your wooden dog house will require a surface treatment, choose environmentally friendly products.
Safety precautions
Keeping a dog outdoors brings with it a number of risks that a domestic pet would not be exposed to.
Having a safe and sturdy dog kennel or pen helps protect against the risks of inclement weather, dog injuries, etc. It is important that a wooden dog kennel has proper thermal insulation for the winter, as well as ventilation and shade to prevent sunlight. The possibility of easy closing and opening of the kennel door and quality materials.
It is also important to consider your dog's temperament when placing them outside. Some breeds, as well as older or sick dogs, are not suited to being outdoors. If your dog prefers to sleep outside, then it is essential that this is balanced by the right choice of kennel.
Dog breeds suitable for outdoor living
Dog breeds that will certainly benefit from a wooden dog house include huskies, German shepherds, Rottweilers, Bernese mountain dogs, Australian shepherds, border collies, foxhounds, etc. It is always recommended to consider your dog's individual personality and temperament before placing them outside, regardless of breed.
Do you want a wooden dog house with the right parameters and need advice on choosing? Do not hesitate to contact us.
TEXAS CONNECTION – Your partner in choosing a dog kennel and kennel
In our online store Texas Connection we bring you a proven and functional range of dog kennels and pens for your dogs. If you prefer high-quality wooden dog kennels, you will find ideal options at Texas Connection. Do you have any questions or suggestions?
Not sure which product is right for your dog? Contact us by email or phone. We are here for you and look forward to your questions to help you find the ideal solution for the comfort and safety of dog breeding.
