A large dog can be just as vulnerable to weather elements as a small dog. So, even if your Great Dane or Mastiff is over 100 pounds, he’s not immune to being uncomfortable or cold outside. He should have a house that should be warm and dry. Furthermore, it should be roomy enough to enable your pup to stand, sleep, and turn around comfortably.
Hundreds of large dog houses are on sale today, which may leave you spoilt for choice. This piece will help you select one of the best dog houses for large dogs that meets your needs and offers value for money.
Variables To Weigh When Purchasing A House For Large Dogs
A good dog house should keep your pet comfortable all year round. Here are the things to be cautious about when choosing the perfect place for your dog to call home.
1. Size
The house should have sufficient space for your canine to move around. A small doghouse will be cramped and uncomfortable for your dog. Whereas one that is too large will be difficult to keep clean and may be drafty. The best doghouse for a large dog is just the right balance- not overly big or small.
2. Climate
If you reside in a location with normal temperatures all year long, you only need a simple dog house with a standard door flap and walls.
To supply shade or protection from the heat in a hot environment, look for something similar to a gazebo. You’ll need a waterproof and insulated house if you reside in very cold areas.
3. Insulation
If you reside in an area with extremes of temperature, ensure your dog’s house insulation will supply warmth in the winter and some coolness in the summer. In addition, the insulation should help reduce noise levels inside the house, which can be helpful if you have a large dog prone to barking.
4. Material
Some materials, like wood, are durable to withstand a large dog’s energy. If you live in an area with much rainfall, consider a waterproof material like plastic for your dog house. It is light and easy to work with, making it manageable to clean.
For flooring, consider vinyl and rubber, as large dogs are likely to scratch and damage carpets.
5. Ventilation
Good ventilation will help to keep your dogs cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Moreover, it can help reduce odors. A poorly ventilated house can be very stuffy and uncomfortable for your doggie. The house must have plenty of air vents so your dog can breathe easily.
6. Assembly
Some dog houses come fabricated, while others require assembling. Purchase an easy-to-assemble enclosure to save time and make the procedure more fun. It will also be cheaper as you will not have to hire an expert to do it for you.
7. Location
Where you put the dog house is essential. You don’t want it too close to your house because your dog might bark and make disruptive noises. You also don’t want it to be too far away because the dog might feel isolated and lonely. Finding a good balance is key to keeping your dog happy and healthy.
8. Price
Most times, perfect dog houses come with a hefty price tag. You’ll need to compromise on quality or some features if you have a limited budget. On the contrary, if you’re willing to spend more, you are likely to get a high-quality dog house with all the features you want.
What Material Is Good For A Dog House?
There are three common materials used for dog houses:
- Wood – Wooden dog houses are the most traditional but always a great option. They are sturdy and provide good insulation against the weather. Nevertheless, they could be pricey and might not be the best option if your dog is a chewer.
- Plastic – Kennels made of plastic are less expensive than wooden ones and are often easier to clean. However, they’re not as durable as wooden dog houses and may not provide as much insulation.
- Metal – These houses are the most durable option but could also be costly. Moreover, they are not quite effective at insulating against weather elements such as wooden or plastic dog houses.
Which Dog House Style Is The Best?
Consider these designs for your furry friend:
- Classic – These dog houses are a good option for all-around use. Classic models have conventional features, including a slanted roof, a removable and raised floor made of plastic or wood, removable windows, and more.
- Igloo – If you live in extreme weather areas, an igloo-style house may be better suited to keep your dog warm or cool. These homes have a unique ventilation system that enables improved airflow to regulate the temperature.
- Canopy – They are a good choice if you want to provide your dog with some extra shade in the summer months. They are built to give adequate ventilation while providing shade from the sweltering sun.
The Perfect Dog Houses For Large Dogs
Having put into consideration the factors mentioned above, our top selections include:
- Best Overall– BestPet Large Dog House
- Best Insulation– Pets Imperial Insulated Wooden Dog House
- Best for Outdoor– Pukami Dog House
- Best for Large Dogs– Aspen Pet Petbarn Iii Plastic Dog House
- Best Value– Frisco Dome Dog House
- Best Prefabricated– Starplast Large Dog Kennel
- Easiest to Assemble– Suncast Outdoor Dog House With Door
- Best to Maintain–LEMBERI Durable Waterproof Plastic Dog House
1. Best Overall- BestPet Large Dog House
The house has a raised floor and enclosed walls to shield your canine from harsh weather elements. The materials used to make the house are heat-insulating, so your dog can feel warmer during winter. Two air vents help circulate air and keep your pup cool during the hot months.
To assure the stability of the entire structure, use screws and snaps to fasten it. An adult weighing 160 pounds can sit comfortably on the roof without damaging it. You can then utilize the two nails in the box to secure the dog’s home to the ground.
The assembling will take thirty minutes because of its straightforward screw fixation, clasp design, and complete parts. Moreover, the kennel is effortless to wash because it has a removable roof.
You can place this plastic kennel on the deck, patio, or backyard.
Pros
- Ease in assembling
- Removable door
- Lightweight
- Sturdy
- Three colors and sizes
- Flexible stands for leveling
Con
- Over time, the plastic may turn brittle from too much sunlight exposure.
Best Insulation- Pets Imperial Insulated Wooden Dog House
Related: 
The kennel can support up to 154 pounds of weight thanks to its two supporting rails. It has a detachable floor for simple maintenance, cleaning, and insect management. Two locking arms allow the roof to open.
The plywood, styrofoam, and wood insulate the shelter. The walls are 150% thicker compared to other kennels to keep your pet warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
The house has flexible plastic cap feet that are rot-free. You can adjust the kennel’s legs to level on uneven ground. It is made from treated wood that is kind to animals and lasts long.
Air can circulate underneath the raised floor, which has a 2″ ground clearance, keeping the area under the kennel dry.
Pros
- Easy to maintain and clean
- Suits any location
- Three insulations
Con
- Wood is too soft
Best For Outdoors- Pukami Dog House
The house is made using high-quality materials, fastened with screws and clips. It is solid, stable, and resistant to rust. Furthermore, it effectively protects your pet from snow, rain, and dirt while leaving the cabin cozy and dry thanks to its airtight protective construction.
There are vents in the back and front to maintain airflow and a 3.1″ high base and slanted waterproofed roof to stop dirty water from leaking inside. Moreover, it is convenient to wipe down this dog house as it has a removable roof.
The dog house’s manufacturer provides every accessory you’ll need for a simple installation.
Pros
- 30 days refund policy
- Spacious design
- Easy installation
- Durable
Con
- Not firm enough for dogs over 120 pounds
Best For Large Dogs- Aspen Pet Petbarn 3 Plastic Dog House
This house model is the most practical dog house for big dogs. It features plastic construction, a back air ventilation system, and durable flea protection. The kennel is suitable for animals weighing 50 to 90 pounds.
The rear-air vents provide a lot of fresh air for your dog. The quick-snaps latches facilitate quick and simple assembling without requiring any tools. The expanded roof-guard rim aids in keeping your pet dry from the rainfall outside. The raised floor protects your dog from the frozen ground beneath.
This construction will last for many years and won’t have any fleas hiding places, thanks to its all-plastic construction.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Simple assembling
- Weatherproof
- Pretty sturdy
- Durable
Con
- Some dogs may find it too dark inside.
Best Value- Frisco Dome Dog House
Compared to the old square dog houses, these structures have a genius domed igloo framework design for greater weight power. Furthermore, their stiff, sturdy structural foam can easily be assembled using a screwdriver.
The leak-proof construction and offset entrance protect your pet from weather elements. There is also a back vent to circulate air and a raised floor to keep your companion off the earth while keeping them comfortable.
The structure is made in the USA from at least 90% post-industrial recycled materials and comprises 98% American-made products.
Pros
- Protected molded foam
- Dome shape that adds to its solidity
- Relatively roomy
- Over 90% of recycled materials
Con
- Only one size is available
Best Prefabricated- Starplast Large Dog Kennel
This durable large dog house is both fashionable and functional. It has an ultrahigh UV-stabilized polypropylene plastic that is sturdy and free of BPA and phthalates. The materials are resistant to fading, tearing, warping, and deformation. They’re also waterproof and rust-proof.
The house has a wide entrance that can accommodate animals weighing up to 50 pounds and provides a warm and dry area to relax. You can click the six parts together without needing any equipment to assemble the dog house.
It weighs only 22 pounds, making it lightweight and simple to clean. Just dampen a cloth, wipe it, and let it air dry. The dog house comes in two non-fading color choices: brown and beige.
Pros
- Quick and easy assembly
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to clean
- Weatherproof
Con
- Made using thin material
Easiest To Assemble- Suncast Outdoor Dog House With Door
It is a lovely home ideal for dogs up to 70 pounds. The house has a crowned floor and heavy-duty resin to protect your companion from all weather conditions.
Your dog will immediately utilize its new home because the dog house snaps together so quickly. The vents supply ample ventilation, and the modern kennel will blend perfectly with most outdoor decor.
The house is fade-resistant, simple to clean, and dependable for a lengthy time. The vinyl door gives your pet insulation and security without blocking entry or exit.
Pros
- Simple, snap-together construction
- Waterproof
- Crowned flooring for added toughness
- Suitable for heavy-weight dogs
Con
- Not sturdy enough for a playful dog.
Best To Maintain- LEMBERI Durable Waterproof Plastic Dog House
The kennel is weather resistant and anticorrosive, with a raised floor to avoid flooding. Its sloping roof prevents water build-up, and a ground nail holds it firmly in your yard in case of heavy winds.
Its innovative thermal balancing components shield your dog from the cold and keep them cool in the heat. An integrated airflow at the top of the kennel circulates fresh air. Moreover, the doghouse contains exceptionally safe, non-toxic, and odorless PP substances.
You can assemble the dog kennel in 20 minutes by executing the step-by-step instructions and using the correct supplies.
Pros
- High-quality components
- Easy to assemble
- Raised base
Con
- Not sturdy enough for playful dogs or very windy areas.
Final Word
There are many benefits to having your pet live in a house instead of letting them roam freely. Just to mention a few, it lowers their stress levels, provides warmth, and keeps them safer. However, finding the right dog house for large dogs can be challenging due to the many options on the market.
We hope you utilize the above information to find a suitable kennel for your canine.
Further Reading:
- Ten of the Best Dog Houses | Our Pick for Dogs of All Sizes