A dog house lets your pet relax in the yard, keeping them safe and close to home. Build a DIY version to suit your style, or find a pre-assembled kit with all the features you want. Insulation, ventilation, and weatherproofing help keep your dog warm in winter and cool in summer. A hinged roof gives you easy access for cleaning, allowing you to sweep out hair or retrieve sticks or toys Fido might have hidden inside. Choose a durable polypropylene or metal material that resists rust and can stand up to rain.
If you live in a cooler region, add fiberglass insulation to your dog house to help maintain a stable temperature. In warmer areas, use a light-colored exterior to reflect sunlight and reduce the interior heat. Pick a waterproof and fade-resistant paint to help your project last longer and resist the elements.
Consider a porch-style dog house to let your pet hang out while you’re working in the garden or relaxing on the patio. A porch also keeps food and water bowls out of direct sun or rain so they don’t spoil. If you build a covered porch, plan to include an opening in the side for air flow and a door with a screen to keep out bugs.
While some Home Depot locations allow dogs on leashes in outdoor garden centers, others may have rules that prohibit them from entering the main store. The reason for this varies by location, but it can be due to safety or health concerns, such as a dog attacking a customer or damaging store products.