The Importance of Providing Proper Shelter
Providing an appropriate shelter is a legal requirement under Alberta’s Animal Protection Act. Caregivers must take reasonable steps to ensure their animals are safe and protected from conditions that cause distress, including exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Dogs that live outside, or spend time outdoors unsupervised, require a suitable shelter, such as a doghouse. A well-built doghouse should keep your dog safe, warm, and comfortable year-round. Even if your dog doesn’t regularly use a dog house, appropriate shelter must still be provided.
What Makes a Proper Doghouse?
Insulation
· All walls, roof, and floor should be insulated.
· Proper insulation helps retain body heat and protect against cold temperatures.
Correct Size
· Not too small: Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably.
· Not too big: Dogs can struggle to warm up or retain heat if the shelter is oversized.
Weather Protection
· A door flap or strategic placement of the door to block wind, rain and snow.
Dry Bedding
· Bedding helps retain warmth and provides comfort
· Straw is best, as it repels moisture and provides insulation.
· Avoid using blankets or towels, which absorb moisture and can freeze.
Things to Consider When Housing Dogs Outdoors
Not every dog is suited to being housed outdoors. Before deciding to keep your dog outside, consider the following:
· Dogs should be gradually acclimatized to outdoor living, starting when the weather is warm.
· Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with medical conditions should not be kept outdoors in extreme temperatures.
· Dogs with short coats may struggle in Alberta’s extreme winters, even with an insulated shelter.
· Bedding needs to be kept dry and checked often.
· In severe weather, dogs should be brought inside the home or another heated, safe space.
· Outdoor dogs need more food in the winter to maintain their body temperature.
· Fresh, unfrozen water must be available at all times.
· Outdoor living does not replace exercise or socialization. Daily walks, playtime, and enrichment (e.g. toys, treat puzzles, or peanut butter-filled Kongs) are essential for mental stimulation and overall well-being.
Doghouse Plans
The Alberta SPCA provides free plans to help you build a safe, insulated doghouse. These are guidelines only – adjust them as needed to best suit your dog’s needs.
Large Breed Doghouse
Materials:
- 5 sheets – 1/2″ plywood (inside & outside walls)
- 1 sheet – 4′ x 8′ rigid insulation
- 1 package – roofing shingles
- 2 pieces – 8′ 2″ x 4″ lumber
- 4 pieces – 8′ 2″ x 2″ lumber
- 8 – 3″ screws (base)
- 1 1/4″ screws for rest of the house
- Roofing nails (shingles)
Download Large Breed Doghouse Plans (PDF)
Medium Breed Doghouse
Materials:
- 2 sheets – 1/2″ plywood (inside & outside walls)
- 1 sheet – 4′ x 8′ rigid insulation
- 1 package – roofing shingles
- 2 pieces – 8′ 2″ x 4″ lumber
- 4 pieces – 8′ 2″ x 2″ lumber
- 8 – 3″ screws (base)
- 1 1/4″ screws for rest of the house
- Roofing nails