Free dog house plans -> For dogs that stay outdoors for any length of time in the the heat and cold, a solid dog house and dog house design are a must.

Deciding On Which Free Dog House Plans To Use

The first thing to do when figuring out "how to build a dog house" is to decide on a dog house design that includes the best layout possible to protect your dog from the elements.

Keep These Important Tips In Mind When Building A Dog House!

•  Any free dog house plans should indicate that all dog houses must be raised and built off of the ground so that water can't get in on rainy days. This also keeps it warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and keeps insects and other pests from invading his home.

•  For any water run-off, the floor should be slightly slanted towards the entrance way.

•  We do not recommend installing carpet in your dog's house. Although this sounds like a great idea to humans, unfortunately your best friend will track water in during rain/snow and the carpet will remain wet and harbor bacteria. Straw is the best thing that you can put into a dog house to keep him warm and dry and should be changed every couple of weeks.

•  The roof should be slanted, water will not run off of a flat roof.

•  It's a good idea to have the entrance to the side vs in the center.

•  We suggest a removable flap made of burlap or canvas approx. 3/4" in length of the dog house entrance as a doggie door for additional protection in the winter and open in the warmer months.

•  In colder climates, insulating the floor is very important, insulating the walls and ceiling is also recommended.

•  DO NOT PAINT THE INSIDE OF THE DOG HOUSE and keep everything non-toxic to your best friend.

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The Right Size Is Very Important

Your dog's home should be large enough to allow your pet to stand and turn around easily which is something to take into consideration if your dog is not full grown yet.

•  Remember though, don't make it so large and wide that the house cannot be easily heated by your dog's natural body heat which is very important during the winter months.

•  Using your dog's height once he is full grown, make the ceiling one third taller than your full grown dog to allow him comfort to stand.

Ventilation Is A Must In Any Dog House Design

Any free dog house plans should include instructions for proper ventilation which is critical for your dogs good health and again to keep other pests from settling in his home.

•  Professionals suggest using a nickel as a guide and install a few holes in the walls for ventilation.

Placement and Protection From The Elements

•  When looking for free dog house plans or a particular dog house design, it's a good idea to look for one that includes a wind blocker or barrier that is added inside the dog house. This barrier acts as a wall inside and creates a separate room for your dog.

•  Direction and placement for your dog's house is also very important. Most free dog house plans or "how to build a dog house" instructions indicate that proper placement includes facing the dog house door to the east, protecting him from the northern winds.

Roofing

•  The materials used for the roof of the dog house are just as important as what is used on the roof of any home. It is equally as important to include shingles or tile in your dog house design.

Think Of Your Dog As Family, Not Property

We encourage everyone to allow their dog to live indoors and be a true part of the family. There are plenty of free dog house blueprints available with the right dog house design to provide a warm, dry and safe place for your dog, but an outdoor dog house should be temporary shelter only. Again, we strongly recommend that every pet be socialized with people and other dogs. Do not chain or pen your dog, instead provide him with a fenced yard, tall enough that he can't jump over.

His outdoor home should be for limited periods of time only. He should be taken in out of the heat and cold. He should have access to fresh water at all times. A dog should learn and grow with his family and his family should learn and grow with him.

To tether him to a dog house in the back yard is to strip him of his spirit. Mans best friend is a gift. This gift if given the right opportunity will provide love and protection for his family, his pack. Don't deny him this opportunity.

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