If your dog likes to spend time in their dog house, they need to stay warm and comfortable when sleeping there. Otherwise, they may be in danger of hypothermia.
Aside from choosing a quality dog house and keeping it dry, you also need to keep it warm and comfortable for their convenience by adding some bedding.
If you want to know what to put in a dog house for bedding, here’s a guide on the best bedding material for a dog house.
We also share with you the factors to consider when choosing a dog bed and other things to put in your dog’s dog house.
Best Bedding Materials for a Dog House
Many dog parents use different materials for dog bedding. However, some things are just better than others. Here are some of the best materials for your dog’s bedding in their house.
Rugs
A simple, nice, and fluffy rug which you probably have at home can make excellent bedding for your dog. Rugs often have a rubberized back that can protect your fur baby from moisture.
The only downside to these is their inability to keep your dog as warm as blankets do, so make sure the rug has long individual fibers that offer comfort. They are also not recommended for dogs who chew.
An ordinary indoor-outdoor rug will do as a base layer, but you will need more for your dog’s bedding.
Linens
Linens offer cushioning without causing the same mess and appeal to insects as wood chips and other particulate beddings do.
This can include a good blanket, sheet, or just an old towel. But you don’t want to use your favorite duvet for your dog’s house, do you?
If you don’t have a blanket you can throw away, find one that is durable and made especially for dogs. Take note that blankets can serve as homes for spiders, snakes, and other creepy crawlies, so take it out and shake it vigorously at least once a week.
Try this PetFusion Premium Pet Blanket. Lay it out in your dog’s house and they now have a wide and airy space to stay warm in.
Available in four sizes, this blanket is made of 100% polyester micro plush, suited for all 4 seasons.
Dog Bed
The best yet most expensive option for your dog’s bedding in their house is an actual dog bed. It’s more effective than the rest because of the incomparable comfort it provides, as well as the warmth and security it offers.
But there are also low-quality beds out there. They may quickly fall apart if left exposed to elements and are not a great option for an outdoor dog house.
Go for a durable bed if you plan on your dog using it for several winter seasons in their dog house. Invest in one that is also waterproof.
We recommend this BarkBox Memory Foam Platform Dog Bed! It’s a gel memory foam that comforts your dog by relieving body aches, joint pain, arthritis, and other ailments while also providing them with warmth and security.
This waterproof dog bed can fight off accidents and keep your dog’s bed fresh because it is machine washable. It’s surely worth the price since it will last a lifetime.
Other Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Bed
Now that you know a high-quality, waterproof, and comfortable dog bed is the best choice for your pooch’s dog house, here are some other variables to consider before getting one.
Size
The size of the bed not only depends on your dog’s size but also their weight. Here are some general guidelines:
- Small – For dogs up to 40 lbs.
- Medium – For dogs up to 60 lbs.
- Large – For dogs up to 120 lbs.
- Extra Large – For dogs 120 lbs. and up.
These will vary from brand to brand so make sure you double check the dimensions that indicate the surface area of the bed. You don’t want to buy one that is too big to fit inside the dog house.
Shape
This is not necessarily a vital aspect, but you also want to choose between a round dog bed and a rectangular one. A round dog bed may be good for a dog who walks around in a tight circle before plopping down in a ball.
Design
The design of your dog’s bed may depend on their preference. Do they want walls to stay secure? Or do they want to let it all hang out?
Common dog bed designs include pillow style, bolster, and wraparound.
Other Things to Put in the Dog House
Aside from your dog’s bedding, you also want to include the following in their dog house:
- Food and water. It’s up to you if you want to leave food for your dog, but it’s always better to only feed them on a certain schedule. However, make sure they always have clean and warm water to stay hydrated. To avoid spillage, put your dog’s water in a lick-able water bottle like Poodle Pet’s Water Feeder Bottle Container.
- Toys, unless you want your dog to be bored and destructive in their house. Try stuffed toys like Snuggle Puppy. It’s a comfortable toy that offers warmth and a recorded heartbeat, both of which can help relieve or lessen anxiety and be comforting to a lot of dogs.
Keep Your Pup Comfy Outside!
Even though your dog stays outside, there are plenty of ways for you to keep them warm and cuddly in their dog house.
Avoid dog hypothermia by picking the best bedding material for them. It can be linens, a rug, or a dog bed.
Indeed, a dog bed is the best choice for your dog’s bedding in their dog house. Make sure to consider its size, design, and shape when picking one.
You also want to include some eco-friendly dog toys, water, and a blanket to keep them warm.
