This definitive guide to the best dog house for hot weather of 2020 explores everything you need to know to buy your next favorite pet house.
Take a look here best wooden, soft and plastic dog house.
Dogs are often seen as more than pets, and more like treasured members of the family. So, buying them everything they could need usually comes as second nature.
If you only have small outdoor space or take your dog out on frequent walks every day, you might think you do not need the best outdoor dog house for hot weather.
Much like humans, a four-legged friend sometimes needs a little time to himself in his own space. Caring owners will get peace of mind knowing that the space is safe and secure, warm and dry, and a place where he can rest away from the damaging heat of the sun.
Read on and look at our picks of the best outdoor dog houses currently available. We do all of the research to help you to make the most informed buying decision.
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Best Dog House for Hot Weather
Looking for the Best dog house for hot weather? Read in-depth unbiased article and choose the right one for your pets.
Precision Pet by Petmate Extreme Weather-Resistant Log Cabin Dog House
Dimensions: 45.5 x 26.6 x 27.5” (medium size)
When the sun is out and your dog needs to get a little respite and find some shade, this dog house is the ideal spot.
It looks like a little log cabin and fresh from the box it smells of gorgeous natural wood.
Assembling it is pretty easy, just follow the clear instructions and it should be ready to use in less than half an hour. We recommend using a power drill, it’s so much less time-consuming than a screwdriver.
Our favorite feature is the 4-adjustable legs. They are raised from the floor so the base doesn’t come into contact with the ground. Each one can be adjusted so that the house sits stable on even ground.
The wood is all pre-treated to increase its life, and the sloped asphalt roof ensures those rain showers just runoff.
This is a well-constructed, hard-wearing, and durable dog house that will keep your dog cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It will also look very stylish in your back yard.
Key Features
- Durable wood and stainless steel construction
- Weatherproof
- Adjustable plastic feet for stability
- Easy assembly
- Available in 4-sizes to fit almost any dog
- Optional insulation kit available
Preview Product Rating 
Petmate Precision Extreme Outback Log Cabin Dog House, Medium CHECK AT AMAZON
Confidence Pet Plastic Dog Kennel Outdoor House
Dimensions: 41.3 x 38 x 38.8” (extra-large size)
If you have a couple of large dogs who love to snuggle, or just a single pet who likes plenty of space, consider this outside doghouse.
It is made of plastic and so is naturally waterproof, the elevated feet and sloped entrance also ensure no water runs in through the doorway. Keeping this doghouse clean is a cinch, a quick wipe over with a sponge will do the trick.
This extra-large dog house has a tall doorway and high ceiling height so there is plenty of room for your pet to stand and turn before he lays down.
It is well constructed and designed to last for a long time. Putting it all together is a 1-person job and shouldn’t take too long as all of the holes are pre-drilled.
We believe that your furry-friends will soon fall in love with this welcome addition to their outdoor space.
Key Features
- Large internal space and door height
- Substantial plastic construction
- Fast assembly
- Room for 2 friendly dogs
- Hygienic
Preview Product Rating Confidence Pet Plastic Dog Kennel Outdoor Winter House (Extra Large) CHECK AT AMAZON
Suncast Outdoor Dog House with Door
Dimensions: 38.5 x 33 x 32” (medium size)
If you’re on the lookout for a summer dog house, you should consider this one. It is constructed from heavy-duty resin, which isn’t the thickest but is surprisingly durable. It is fade resistant so the color won’t alter.
It isn’t insulated and won’t overheat your pooch in hot weather. Better still, the cute house design has added ventilation to encourage airflow and keep the interior temperature down.
The wide front door has vinyl curtains; sometimes dogs feel more secure if they’re enclosed. But they are transparent so you can still see what he’s up to. In cold or wet weather they will help with insulation, but they are easy to remove in summer.
No tools are required for assembly, it simply snaps together.
We love the design of this doghouse, especially the nameplate above the front door.
Key Features
- Holds up to 70 lbs weight
- Fast and simple construction, no tools required
- Easy clean, roof removes to clean inside
- Durable resin construction
- Well-ventilated for hot climates
INDIGO W/MICROBAN – Best Large Dog House
Dimensions: 43.8 x 34 x 25.8” (large size)
Who wouldn’t fall in love with this cute igloo dog house? While it looks like it is solely designed for colder climates, you might be surprised to learn that it will also keep your dogs cool in warm weather.
This is down to the heavy-duty construction as it prevents the sun from overheating the interior. The roof vent supplies lots of air circulation to keep temperatures down.
The tunnel style entrance ensures no water can get in should it start to rain. Instead, they can stay snug in the main body of the house. Raised floors, gutters, and the dome design enable rain to run off. It is a weatherproof dog house for all seasons.
It is delivered in 2-pieces and takes a minute to click them together. It dismantles just as easily should you need to move it, or just for cleaning.
Key Features
- Suitable for 50-90 lbs weight
- Easy assembly
- Insulated to keep dogs cool in summer and warm in winter
- Antimicrobial protection to prevent harmful bacteria
- Door and floor pad available separately
Best Wooden Dog Houses
Need help finding the best wooden dog house? We have narrowed it down to these particular options and here is why.
Petsfit Dog House – Best Dog House for Small Dogs
Dimensions: 33 x 25 x 23” (small size)
Made from pre-treated cedarwood, this gorgeous dog house has a wonderful smell as you open the package. Cedar naturally repels ticks and fleas and is, therefore, the ideal material for your outside dog house.
The 4-feet are adjustable so the house doesn’t sit on the ground and can be made steady even if the surface is a little uneven.
We love the little porch, your small pooch can sit and keep a watchful eye over his backyard r he can go indoors where it is light and airy due to the small window.
All of the holes are pre-drilled so assembly is relatively simple. It is just a matter of lining up the holes and tightening the screws.
This isn’t the most insulated dog house, but you can buy an insulation kit for colder weather.
Keeping it clean is a cinch, the hinged roof lifts and the floor lifts out so it remains hygienic.
Key Features
- Ideal for small dogs up to 15 lbs
- Pre-treated wood for longevity
- All cedar paint is water-based and pet-friendly
- Adjustable feet
- Added window ventilation
Preview Product Rating Petsfit Outdoor Wooden Dog House for Small Dogs CHECK AT AMAZON
A4Pet Outdoor Wooden Dog House – Best Large Dog House for Outside
Dimensions: 45.5 x 31 x33” ( large size)
If you have previously owned a large dog house for outside, you will know what a struggle it is to get beds and bedding in and out. It is also a pain when your pup won’t settle until you’ve retrieved a particular toy.
This A4Pet dog house considers that and has a hinged roof. It simply lifts and gives you great access when it’s cleaning time. The roof is heavy-duty and has a shingle lining, this is great at keeping the rain out and inside warm and dry.
It is made from fir wood and each of the slatted panels has pre-drilled holes to make build it easier. Fir is notable lightweight whilst remaining durable and hard-wearing.
When it is assembled you will notice tiny gaps in the base, this is added ventilation to keep your pet cool in hot weather. When it turns chilly, their bedding will naturally cover these vents. The raised feet also protect the base from any moisture
This is a great dog house for larger dogs, it has a big doorway and plenty of fidgeting room inside.
Key Features
- Withstands 130 lbs weight
- Waterproof, sloped roof design
- Raised feet to protect the base
- Hinged roof
- Pre-drilled holes for fast assembly
Best Choice Products Wooden Log Cabin Dog House – Perfect Small Dog House
Dimensions: 25 x 34 x 22.25” (small size)
If you’re looking for a small wooden dog house for your smaller pets, read on. We love the design as it looks like a little holiday home for dogs, a log cabin that will enhance any backyard!
Made from solid fir with an asphalt roof, it is tough enough to hold up to almost anything the weather can throw at it. The roof slants so nothing can settle on it, instead, it runs off before it can cause any damage.
Our favorite part is the locking hinges on the roof. This allows it to fully open up whilst you clean the interior and change the bedding. It is also ideal for letting air circulate to freshen the place up.
As the main entrance isn’t in the center, there is plenty of space for your pets to get away from wet and windy conditions. This is a great looking dog house that will give your pets a place to chill and get away from it all.
Key Features
- Raised legs eliminate drafts and damp floors
- Solid, heavy-duty construction
- Large off-center doorway
- Hinged roof
- Interior capacity for 2 small dogs
Best Soft Dog Houses
Pet Tent Soft Bed for Dog and Cat by Best Pet Supplies
Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 19”
This pet tent is ideal for nervous new pups that want to shy away, or small old dogs who just need a little privacy.
They come in a variety of fabrics and colors and will enhance any space you choose to place them in.
They are designed to be soft and cozy and to give your pet the comfiest place to rest. They arrive with an extra poly-foam cushion to increase the comfort level.
Although they are made from soft fabrics, each pet tent is sturdy and will hold its shape perfectly, even after it has gone through a gentle machine wash cycle.
Place your dog’s tent on any flooring and it will stay put, thanks to its anti-skid base. It doesn’t matter how much he stretches and turns, it is guaranteed not to slide.
This is a lovely, inexpensive gift to give to the pup in your life!
Key Features
- Various colors, fabrics, and sizes available
- Large interior space for small dogs to stretch
- Bonus pillow for an added comfort level
- Machine washable
- Folds to become compact and portable
Best Portable Indoor Pet House
These charming little pet houses are ideal if your dog has stay-overs at other houses. With one pull of a zipper, it can be folded up or opened out, and ready to use. This is a lightweight, compact, and portable dog house.
It is lightweight but that doesn’t mean it isn’t durable, it is. High-quality stitching and a frame that just won’t collapse, ensure your pet’s home will last them for their lifetime.
Choose the nylon design which has an added water-resistance, or the fleece design that offers ultra-softness.
Every house comes with a little pillow for those pups that like to burrow and hide. The pillow and the house are both washing machine friendly and can withstand a gentle cycle without losing their shape. This ensures that they remain clean and hygienic in your home.
With a choice of designs that mimic solid outside dog houses, these pet beds are an inexpensive way of making your four-legged friend feel safe and secure.
Key Features
- Available in 3 designs and colors
- Water-repellent
- Machine washable
- Won’t collapse, retains its shape
- Anti-skid base
Best Plastic Dog Houses
Aspen Pet PetBarn
Dimensions: 29 x 22 21” (small size)
This is more of a dog barn than it is a dog house, with its quirky design that will make everyone in your backyard smile.
It is made from thick plastic and will keep your small dog at a comfortable temperature year-round.
In the summer he will benefit from lots of fresh air blowing from the rear vents.
In the winter he will be glad of the raised floor as it prevents the base from feeling the cold. The roof is angled to let the rain runoff and we love the little canopy over the entrance. This guides rain and snow away from the house ensuring your furry friend stays warm and cozy.
Building it is a cinch, it is supplied in 2-parts, the roof, and the base, and they quick-snap together securely.
It is lightweight and therefore easy to move around the yard to find the sunnier or shadier spots.
Key Features
- Durable plastic construction repels ticks and fleas
- Won’t rot, grow mold, fade, or need repainting. Ever.
- Rapid assembly
- Sloping door canopy keeps interior dry
- Easy to clean
Suncast Outdoor Dog House with Door
Dimensions: 38.5 x 33 x 32”
This is an ideal dog house to keep a large dog cool during the summertime. It has no insulation, unless you put a mat and blanket inside, and is therefore cooler. This is assisted by the rear vent that ensures a constant air-flow to keep your pet cool.
It has a gorgeous house-like design complete with green ‘slate’ resin roof tiles that would blend into the prettiest backyards.
It snaps together simply and is ready for use within minutes. The floor is slightly raised. This prevents it from becoming too hot or cold on the base, which in turn passes on to the dog.
The entrance has a pair of clear vinyl curtains covering it. Not only does this provide your dog’s haven with a little added security, but it also keeps unwanted bugs out and prevents any rain from getting in. If your dog isn’t a fan of the curtains, not all dogs are, they can be unclipped from their hooks easily.
We love the fade-resistant plastic as it won’t rust or rot and is easy to clean. The roof lifts off easily to make bedding changes and interior cleaning a breeze!
Key Features
- Suitable for dogs weighing up to 70 lbs
- Robust, rot-free resin construction
- Fast, no tools required, assembly
- Extra ventilation for hot climates
- Crowned floor for insulation
Pet Zone Cozy Cottage Durable Plastic Dog House
Some dogs just love being outdoors, no matter what the weather is doing. This chunky, cute cottage-style dog house will ensure they are comfortable in all climates.
The dual wall construction is what keeps them warm when it’s cold out, and cool on hot days. It is a proper safe-haven for dogs of up to 75 lbs.
In winter, if your pet insists on spending time in the yard, you can make it warmer with a cozy pet bed and optional door flap.
Both of the vents are fully-adjustable for warmer days, this enables plenty of cool air-flow to keep his temperature regulated.
It comes in 5 segments that simply clip together, with a little brute force. There are no awkward instructions to follow and you won’t need any specialist tools.
This simple clip-style system enables the roof to be taken off whenever you need to give the inside a freshen up. It also makes putting clean bedding in a much easier task.
This is an adorable dog house for your small and medium-size pets, they will love the privacy and you will love the way it looks in your back yard.
Key Features
- Double-wall design for 4-season insulation
- Sturdy, durable construction
- Fade-free paint
- Simple to assemble and clean
- Ports for staking down on lawned areas (stakes separately available)
Preview Product Rating Pet Zone Cozy Cottage Weather-Resistant Dog House. (Durable, Double Walled Plastic Dog House)... CHECK AT AMAZON
Who Should Buy an Outdoor Dog House?
If you own a dog and have available outdoor space, then you should own a rainproof dog house.
If you enjoy the outdoor life, you can bet your pup enjoys being out there with you. You’re a sun-worshiper that likes to lay in the sun, you will understand the need for a parasol to get some much-needed shade to cool off.
Your dog, you know, the one with the thick fur coat, feels just the same way. He will need somewhere to rest and cool off.
A summer dog house is an ideal place for him to get some cool air to prevent him from overheating.
When you have chosen the best dog house for hot climates, remember to keep it in a shaded area if possible and have a constant supply of freshwater near to it.
Similarly, your pet will still need to go outdoors in cold and wet weather. Sometimes it is unavoidable, even though it seems a little harsh.
To ensure your fur friend stays warm and dry, you should invest in an insulated outdoor dog house that has sufficient room for him to stand and lay down in. He should have enough room to get comfortable without fear of getting wet.
If your chosen dog house is made of wood, you should reseal it annually to keep the moisture out through the winter.
Dogs need to be outdoors, it is their natural habitat. A little wind and rain won’t harm them and often excites them. Just as in adults, fresh air and sunshine are good for canine’s minds and bodies.
If you don’t have any outdoor space of your own, you could still consider a portable dog house. These are foldable, lightweight ‘pet tents’ that you can carry around and transport easily.
A picnic by the river, a day at the beach, or a family get-together are ideal opportunities to get your pooch out of the house.
Taking his home-from-home with you will give him somewhere to rest if he gets tired or somewhere to hide if the occasion gets too much for him.
Portable dog houses are perfect resting spots for over-heated dogs to chill out and cool off.
There are many reasons to buy an outdoor dog house, but none is more important than to give your four-legged friend somewhere safe and secure to retreat to whenever he needs some time alone.
Buyer’s Guide of the Best Dog House for Hot Weather
SIZE
Always consider the body size and weight of your dog before making a purchase. He will need a doorway large enough to enter, and enough interior room for him to be able to stand, turn, and lie.
MATERIALS
Decide whether you prefer a wooden, resin, or soft dog house.
Plastic and resin dog houses are ideally suited to rainy climates, due to their natural waterproof properties.
Wooden dog houses offer great ventilation, have fabulous designs, and are durable. They do however need to be treated regularly to protect the wood from sun and rain. Fabric dog houses are mainly suited for indoor use and for transporting.
INSULATION
The best insulated outdoor dog houses are capable of keeping dogs warm and dry in winter and cool and refreshed in summer. Some dog houses have separate insulation kits designed to slot snugly into the body of the dog house. These can be removed in the warmer months and machine washed.
ASSEMBLY
No one enjoys struggling with flat-packed furniture, do they? Look for wooden dog houses with pre-drilled holes and panels that simply bolt together. Plastic dog houses are usually a breeze to build as they feature 2 or 3 parts that click into place.
CLEANING
The ability to easily access the inside of the dog house to change bedding or to clean the flooring is critical. Some brands have lift-up or lift-off roofs to make this a simple process.
The dog’s bedding must be regularly washed to prevent harmful bacteria from spreading.
PET-FRIENDLY DESIGN
This may seem obvious but you need any paints or treatments on the dog-house to be 100% to your pet.
If you have a ‘chewer’ who loves biting table legs and sticks, maybe don’t buy an expensive wooden house until he’s grown out of that stage.
DESIGN
Many shapes and sizes of outdoor dog houses are currently available. Some resemble miniature houses and others look like adorable igloos. If design, colors, and style are important to you, there is a wide array of choices in our best outdoor dog house review.
FAQ of Best Dog House for Hot Weather
Which wood is best in the construction of a dog house, cedar or fir?
The best dog houses for hot weather are usually built from cedar lumber. It is very resistant to rotting, which is something that happens anywhere that the weather is hot and humid, due to the moisture in the atmosphere. It is also great for keeping the bugs away as it is a natural insect repellent. Although it is more expensive than fir or pine, it is more durable.
Are dog houses meant for only 1 dog?
It depends on the size of the house and the size and temperament of the dogs! If the dogs enjoy cuddling up and getting snug then there is nothing to stop 2 or 3 of them heading for a rest in 1-house. You certainly don’t have to invest in separate houses for all of your pets, just ensure it has a sufficient load capacity to withstand their combined weights.
Can the best outdoor dog houses be used indoors?
Yes! If you have space, all of our featured dog houses are designed for in and outdoor use, they are more ideally suited to outside use. You should remember that once they are assembled indoors they may have to be taken to pieces to move outside.
How do you clean a dog house?
A solution made from 1 part bleach and 32 parts water is the most effective way to clean and sanitize your dog’s kennel. Both the ASPCA and the Humane Society have stated that this is safe.
If, however, your dog sinuses get irritated by the faint bleach odor, we find a 50:50 solution of white vinegar and water gives equally satisfying results.
Once everything is cleaned, we like to hose it down with a blast of water from the hose pipe. Ensure the house is thoroughly dry before you let your pup use it.
Final words
Giving your four-legged friend a place of his own to retreat to after a hard day of chasing his tail and playing fetch, is good for his mental health and physical well-being.
We hope that our reviews of the best outdoor dog houses have helped you to find the most suitable new home for your pet.
And finally, don’t forget to give it a regular clean, otherwise, you’ll be, well, you know, in the dog house!!!
Last update on 2020-04-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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