Dog houses have been a traditional shelter for outdoor dogs for many years. But with the increasing number of pet owners keeping their animals indoors, you may wonder if dogs still live in dog houses. The answer is yes, they do.
While many pet owners prefer to keep their dogs indoors, there are still many reasons why dogs might live in dog houses. Some dogs are better suited to outdoor living than others, and having a dog house can provide a warm and safe place for them to stay. However, it’s important to make sure the dog house is properly insulated and has ample bedding to keep your pet comfortable.
Despite the shift towards indoor living, dog houses are still a popular choice for many pet owners. They offer a way for dogs to enjoy the outdoors while still having a safe and comfortable place to rest. And with the right preparation, certain breeds of dog can spend much of the winter in their outdoor dog house.
Table of Contents
- History of Dog Houses
- Current Trends
- Factors Affecting Dog House Usage
- Alternatives to Dog Houses
- FAQ
- Do Dogs Still Live in Dog Houses?
- Are dog houses bad for dogs?
- Do dogs stay warm in a dog house?
- Can a dog sleep in a dog house?
- Do dogs like a dog house?
- Is it cruel for dogs to sleep outside?
- How cold is too cold for dogs?
- What is the warmest dog house?
- What breed of dog can stay outside?
- Can dogs survive winter outside?
History of Dog Houses
Ancient Times
Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years and were often kept as working animals, guarding homes and livestock or hunting with their owners. Ancient Egyptians were known to keep dogs in kennels, while ancient Greeks and Romans allowed their dogs to live indoors. In ancient China, dogs were kept in kennels made of bamboo or wood.
Medieval Period
During the medieval period, dogs were still kept for work and hunting, but they were also kept as pets. Dog houses were often made of wood, with thatched roofs and raised off the ground to protect the dogs from dampness and pests. In Europe, dogs were often kept in the same room as their owners, but in separate beds.
Modern Era
Today, dog houses are still used for outdoor dogs, but they have evolved to include a variety of materials and designs. Plastic dog houses are lightweight and easy to clean, while wooden dog houses offer a classic look and can be customized to match the owner’s home. Insulated dog houses are available for colder climates, and some dog houses even come with air conditioning or heating.
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Current Trends
Indoor Living
Many dog owners are now opting to keep their pets indoors, especially during extreme weather conditions. According to AKC, indoor living is becoming more popular as owners want their dogs to be part of the family. This trend has led to the creation of indoor dog houses that can blend in with the home decor. Indoor dog houses provide a cozy and comfortable space for your dog to rest and relax.
Outdoor Living
Despite the trend of indoor living, many dogs still spend a significant amount of time outdoors. Outdoor dog houses are still popular, especially for dogs that spend most of their time outside. According to The Spruce Pets, outdoor dog houses come in different sizes and materials, including plastic, wood, and metal. They are designed to provide shelter and protection from the elements. Outdoor dog houses can be customized to suit your dog’s needs, such as insulation for colder climates.
Custom Dog Houses
Custom dog houses are becoming more popular as owners want to provide their dogs with unique and personalized spaces. According to HGTV, custom dog houses can range from simple to extravagant, depending on the owner’s budget and preferences. Some custom dog houses come with features such as air conditioning, heating, and even television.
Custom dog houses can also be designed to match the owner’s home or reflect the dog’s personality. Overall, the trend of dog houses is evolving, with more emphasis on indoor living, outdoor living, and custom designs. As a dog owner, you have the option to choose the type of dog house that best suits your dog’s needs and your preferences. Remember to consider factors such as size, material, and climate when selecting a dog house.

Factors Affecting Dog House Usage
When it comes to dog houses, there are several factors that can affect whether your pet will use it or not. Here are some of the key factors to consider:
Climate
The climate in which you live can play a major role in whether or not your dog will use their dog house. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, such as very hot summers or very cold winters, your dog may be more likely to seek shelter in their dog house. However, if you live in a more moderate climate, your dog may be perfectly content spending most of their time outdoors without a dog house.
Breed
The breed of your dog can also play a role in whether or not they will use a dog house. Dogs with thicker coats, such as Huskies or Malamutes, may be more comfortable spending time outdoors in colder temperatures, while dogs with thinner coats, such as Greyhounds or Whippets, may need more protection from the cold. Additionally, some breeds, such as Pugs or Bulldogs, may have more difficulty regulating their body temperature and may benefit from a dog house in extreme temperatures.
Lifestyle
Your dog’s lifestyle can also affect whether or not they will use a dog house. If your dog spends most of their time indoors with you, they may not feel the need for a dog house. However, if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, they may appreciate having a sheltered spot to rest and relax. Additionally, if your dog is particularly active and enjoys spending time outside, they may be more likely to use a dog house as a place to rest and recover.
Overall, there are many factors to consider when deciding whether or not your dog needs a dog house. By taking into account your dog’s breed, lifestyle, and the climate in which you live, you can make an informed decision about whether or not a dog house is right for your pet.
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Alternatives to Dog Houses
If you’re looking for alternatives to a traditional dog house, there are several options to consider:
Crate Training
One alternative to a dog house is crate training. A crate can provide a safe and comfortable space for your dog to rest and relax. When properly introduced, a crate can become your dog’s home within your home. Make sure to choose the right size crate for your dog and provide comfortable bedding.
Co-sleeping
Another alternative to a dog house is co-sleeping with your dog. Many dogs enjoy sleeping close to their owners, and it can strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Make sure to set boundaries and establish rules for your dog’s behavior in your bed.
Dog Beds
A dog bed can be a comfortable and portable alternative to a dog house. There are many different types of dog beds available, including orthopedic beds for dogs with joint issues and heated beds for dogs who get cold easily. Make sure to choose a bed that is the right size for your dog and provides adequate support.
Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one dog may not work for another. Consider your dog’s individual needs and preferences when choosing an alternative to a dog house.
Sources: AKC, Humane Society, PetMD, AKC
FAQ
Do Dogs Still Live in Dog Houses?
Yes! Outside dogs are not uncommon and a dog house is the home of choice for these dogs. The trick is to make sure that there are no cracks where water may leak inside and to ensure that there is ample bedding for the dog to stay comfortable. After that, just give plenty of love and your dog will be happy.
Are dog houses bad for dogs?
If a dog house is well-made, with adequate insulation, and provided that there is comfortable bedding inside, then there is nothing bad about it.
Dogs are den animals and they love having a space of their own, so if you have a backyard then adding a dog house is a good idea and your dog is going to love it!
Do dogs stay warm in a dog house?
Typically, a dog house is going to be about 10 degrees warmer on the inside than it is outside. This number can vary, however, depending on how much and what type of insulation is used, as well as the type of bedding that is inside for your dog.
Be sure to fill up the excess space inside with extra bedding and this will help to maximize the warmth inside of your dog’s house.
Can a dog sleep in a dog house?
If you want your dog to be an outside dog then they can sleep in their dog house outside. You’ll want to make sure that there is plenty of bedding and no cracks in the house where water may leak in and you should place the dog house close to the home – if it’s too far, your dog won’t want to sleep there!
Do dogs like a dog house?
Dogs love having a space of their own and a dog house is rather like a den, which dogs are naturally attracted to. Just be sure if you make or purchase a house for your dog that it has plenty of bedding, such as blankets, hay, or cedar chips.
Also, you should put some toys inside that they can chew on to pass the time. Provided that you have these things, your dog will love their dog house.
Is it cruel for dogs to sleep outside?
Provided that you have a larger breed dog and a nice dog house, there is nothing wrong with letting your dog sleep outside. You will want to pay attention to the weather, of course, so that you may being them in when it is too hot or too cold, but aside from these concerns, most dogs will happily live outside.
Just be sure to give them plenty of love and they’ll do just fine.
How cold is too cold for dogs?
That will depend on the breed. Dogs with thinner coats, for instance, should not be out on their own in the yard when the temperature gets down to 45 or below. Winter-breed dogs, such as Huskies and Shepherds, should not be out when it’s 32 degrees or below.
When in doubt, the best practice is to bring your dog inside, as they can get hypothermia just like we can!
What is the warmest dog house?
The warmest dog houses are the ones that come with electric heaters built-in into the design. These heaters may also be purchased separately and installed if you like, and they are a good idea if you have an outside dog and it’s about to get chilly.
Aside from the heated dog houses, Igloo-shaped dog houses are appreciably warmer than the standard box-shaped ones, so they are well worth considering if the winter is coming and you are looking at dog houses.
What breed of dog can stay outside?
Certain breeds of dog are better suited for being outside, such as German Shepherds, Beagles, and Siberian Huskies, but just about any large dog may live outside, provided that they are getting plenty of love, have their own dog house, and that they weather is not tending to temperature extremes.
Can dogs survive winter outside?
Mild winters, where the temperature doesn’t drop below 32 degrees, should be fine for thick-furred larger breeds, but anything colder is not a good idea. Dogs can get frostbite and hypothermia just like humans can and they get cold.
If you have an outside dog, be sure to watch for behavioral changes in the winter – if you see any, bring your dog inside immediately.
My name is Ken and I’m one of the staff writers at Petloverguy.com. I’ve cared for pets most of my life starting with hamsters, turtles, and snakes. Then moving up to parakeets, guinea pigs, and even ducks.
I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix.