Quick Summary
Choosing the right indoor dog house for your medium-sized furry friend means balancing comfort, safety, and style. This guide offers practical advice for beginners, helping you find the perfect cozy retreat that complements your home décor and meets your dog’s needs. We’ll cover sizing, materials, features, and placement to ensure your pup feels right at home in their new den.
Hello there, fellow home enthusiasts and dog lovers! One of the most rewarding things we can do for our canine companions is to give them a safe, comfortable space of their own. For those with medium-sized dogs, finding the perfect indoor dog house can sometimes feel like a puzzle. You want something that looks good in your home, is easy to clean, and most importantly, makes your dog feel secure and happy. It’s a common quest for many pet parents who want to provide a den-like sanctuary without sacrificing style or space. Don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it might seem! This guide is here to gently walk you through everything you need to know about selecting and setting up an indoor dog house for your medium-sized buddy. We’ll break down the essentials so you can make a confident choice that will have your pup wagging their tail with joy. Let’s get started on finding that perfect cozy corner for your furry family member!
Why Your Medium Dog Needs an Indoor Haven
Think about how you feel when you have your own comfortable chair or a quiet corner to relax in. Our dogs, especially medium-sized breeds that can sometimes feel a bit out of place, absolutely crave that same sense of security and personal space. An indoor dog house isn’t just a cute piece of furniture; it’s a dedicated den that serves many important purposes for your dog’s well-being.
- Security and Comfort: Dogs are naturally den animals. A well-designed indoor house provides them with a safe, enclosed space where they can retreat from household noise, commotion, or even just the daily bustle. This sense of security can significantly reduce anxiety and stress in dogs.
- A Dedicated Space: It’s your dog’s personal territory. This can be especially helpful in multi-pet households or homes with children, giving your dog a place to go where they won’t be bothered.
- Training Aid: An indoor dog house can be an excellent tool for housetraining and crate training. It provides a defined space for your dog to stay when unsupervised, and can also be used for house-training purposes.
- Protection from the Elements (Indoors): While it’s indoors, it can still offer a sense of protection from drafts, air conditioning vents, or overly sunny spots that might be uncomfortable for your dog.
- Aesthetic Integration: Modern indoor dog houses come in various styles, materials, and finishes, allowing you to choose one that seamlessly blends with your home décor, rather than looking like a clunky addition.
Understanding “Medium Dog” Sizing
This is probably the most crucial step! Getting the size right is key to your dog’s comfort and happiness in their new den. A house that’s too small will be cramped and uncomfortable, while one that’s too large might not feel like a cozy den and could even discourage them from using it.
Generally, a “medium dog” falls into a weight range of roughly 15 to 50 pounds (about 7 to 23 kg). Think breeds like Beagles, Border Collies, Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, and Australian Shepherds. However, breed genetics can vary, so measuring your dog is always the best approach.
How to Measure Your Dog for an Indoor House
You’ll need a flexible measuring tape (the kind sewers use is perfect) and a willing (or patient!) dog. This process is quite simple:
- Length: Have your dog stand or lie down in their natural resting position. Measure from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail. Add about 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) to this measurement. This will be the minimum interior length of the dog house.
- Height: Measure your dog from the top of their head to the floor. Add about 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) to this measurement. This ensures they can stand up comfortably inside without bumping their head.
- Width: Measure your dog at their widest point, usually around their shoulders or hips. Add about 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) to this measurement. This ensures they can turn around easily.
Once you have these measurements, compare them to the interior dimensions of the dog houses you are considering. Always err on the side of slightly larger rather than too small, but avoid making it excessively large. A good rule of thumb is that your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling cramped, but it should also feel snug enough to be a den.
Types of Indoor Dog Houses
The world of indoor dog houses for medium dogs is diverse! They range from practical, functional designs to stylish furniture pieces. Understanding the different types will help you narrow down your options based on your needs and your dog’s personality.
1. Traditional Kennel-Style Houses
These often resemble miniature versions of outdoor kennels or crates but are designed for indoor use. They typically feature solid walls, sometimes with decorative cutouts or panels, and often have a sloped roof. They are usually made from wood or durable composite materials.
- Pros: Offer good insulation, feel enclosed and den-like, often durable and easy to clean (especially if they have removable trays).
- Cons: Can be bulkier, might take up more floor space, design options can be more limited.
2. Furniture-Style Dog Houses (End Tables/Cabinets)
These are ingeniously designed to double as functional furniture, such as end tables, sideboards, or entertainment centers. The dog house section is integrated within the unit, providing a cozy spot for your pet while the rest of the unit serves a practical purpose.
- Pros: Multi-functional, excellent space-savers, can be very aesthetically pleasing and blend seamlessly with home décor, often have a solid top surface for lamps, books, etc.
- Cons: Can be more expensive, might offer less ventilation depending on the design, access might be more restricted.
3. Open-Concept or Raised Beds with Walls
These are more like elevated beds or enclosed platform beds with three or four low walls, rather than a fully enclosed structure. They offer a sense of boundary without being fully enclosed, which can be great for dogs who don’t like feeling completely shut in.
- Pros: Good ventilation, easy access for the dog, can be less imposing in a room, easier to clean.
- Cons: Less den-like, may not offer the same sense of security for anxious dogs, can be less effective at blocking drafts.
4. Fabric or Soft-Sided “Crates”
These are typically made from durable fabric stretched over a metal frame. While often used for travel, some are designed for more permanent indoor use. They often have mesh windows and doors.
- Pros: Lightweight, portable, often foldable for storage, can be very comfortable.
- Cons: Less durable if your dog is a chewer, offer less insulation, might not be as aesthetically pleasing for some homes, can be harder to deep clean.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an indoor dog house for your medium dog, consider these important features:
- Durability: Look for sturdy construction. If your dog is a chewer or likes to scratch, select materials that can withstand this. Solid wood, durable plastics, or metal frames with strong fabric are good options.
- Ventilation: Proper airflow is crucial. Ensure there are openings or vents to prevent the space from becoming stuffy or too warm. Mesh windows or well-placed gaps can help.
- Ease of Cleaning: This is a big one! Look for designs with removable floor mats, waterproof interiors, or a design that allows easy access for vacuuming and wiping down.
- Comfort: The interior should be spacious enough for your dog to move freely. For many dogs, adding a comfortable cushion or bed inside enhances the coziness.
- Safety: Ensure there are no small, detachable parts that could be chewed off and swallowed. Edges should be smooth, and materials should be non-toxic.
- Aesthetics: Choose a style and color that complements your home’s interior design. Many options mimic wooden furniture, offering a stylish integration.
Materials Matter: What to Choose
The material of your indoor dog house will impact its durability, insulation, ease of cleaning, and overall look.
- Wood: A popular choice for its natural look and durability. Pine, cedar, and plywood are common. For indoor use, ensure it’s sealed or painted with non-toxic, pet-safe finishes. Solid wood offers good insulation from temperature fluctuations.
- Plastic/Resin: Very durable, lightweight, and extremely easy to clean. Often molded into specific shapes. Can sometimes feel less “cozy” than wood, and some may trap odors if not cleaned regularly.
- Composite Materials: These can mimic the look of wood but offer enhanced durability and resistance to moisture and rot. Often a good balance of aesthetics and practicality.
- Fabric and Metal Frame: As mentioned with soft-sided crates. Lightweight and often foldable, but less durable for determined chewers.
Material Considerations for Your Dog
Consider if your dog has any allergies or sensitivities. Natural wood is generally safe, but ensure no harsh chemicals were used in its treatment. For dogs who tend to overheat, plastic might be less ideal unless it has excellent ventilation. For dogs who get cold easily, insulated options like solid wood are preferable.
Dimensions and Design: A Perfect Fit
We’ve touched on measuring, but let’s reiterate the importance of interior versus exterior dimensions, and how the design affects usability.
Always check the interior dimensions provided by the manufacturer. Some furniture-style houses might have smaller interior spaces than a comparable kennel-style house due to the outer furniture structure. Ensure the door opening is large enough for your dog to enter and exit easily without having to push or squeeze.
Consider the roof design. A sloped roof can help with ventilation and drainage if any “accidents” happen. A flat-top furniture style allows for extra surface space, which can be convenient.
Top Indoor Dog House Options for Medium Dogs
Here’s a look at some popular categories and what to expect:
| Type | Typical Materials | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Furniture End Table/Cabinet Dog House | Primarily wood, engineered wood, MDF | Style-conscious owners, smaller living spaces | Verify interior dimensions, ensure good ventilation, can be heavy. Example: New Age Pet ecoFLEX “Hut” Rustic, Lodge, Outdoor Dog House (though this example is outdoor, the style is relevant to indoor furniture pieces) |
| Wooden Kennel-Style House | Solid wood (pine, cedar), plywood | Dogs who need a defined, den-like space, cooler climates | Can be bulky, ensure non-toxic finishes, look for easy-to-clean interiors. Example: Merry Products Wooden Dog House for Medium Dogs |
| Plastic Kennel/Crate (Indoor Conversion) | Durable plastic | Ease of cleaning, durability, travel portability | May feel less cozy, ensure adequate ventilation, can sometimes trap odors. Example: Petmate Vari Kennel (often used indoors with modifications) |
| Elevated Bed with Walls | Wood, metal frame with fabric/wood panels | Dogs preferring open air, good for warmer climates | Less den-like, ensure walls are high enough to provide a sense of enclosure. Example: Wayfair Basics Dog Bed (look for models with raised sides) |
When searching, remember that many “outdoor” dog houses can be adapted for indoor use if they are made from safe, non-toxic materials and don’t have features specifically designed for weather exposure (like overly steep roofs or insulation inappropriate for indoor temperatures). The key is to ensure it’s clean, safe, and well-ventilated for indoor living.
Placement is Key: Where to Put It
Once you’ve chosen the perfect indoor dog house, deciding where to place it is the next important step. Think about your dog’s habits and preferences.
- Quiet Area: Place the house in a relatively quiet part of the house, away from high-traffic areas, loud appliances, or constant activity. This helps your dog feel secure and undisturbed.
- Near Family: While it should be quiet, it shouldn’t be isolating. Dogs are social creatures. Placing it in a room where the family spends time (like the living room or a family room) allows your dog to be near you without being in the middle of everything. Avoid placing it in a spare, unused room where they’ll feel cut off.
- Temperature Control: Ensure the spot isn’t too hot or too cold. Avoid placing it directly in front of heating vents, air conditioners, or in direct, harsh sunlight that can overheat the space.
- Draft-Free: Protect your dog from drafts. A corner by a wall is often a good choice, as it provides natural windbreaks.
- Viewpoint: Some dogs like to keep an eye on things. If your dog is like this, a spot that allows them to see the main living area but still feel tucked away can be ideal.
Introducing Your Dog to Their New Den
Transitioning your dog to their new indoor house should be a positive experience. Never force them inside. Here’s a gentle approach:
- Make it Appealing: Place a favorite blanket, toy, or a few tasty treats inside the house. Let your dog explore it at their own pace.
- Positive Reinforcement: When your dog shows interest, or even just goes near it, reward them with praise and a small treat.
- Soft Opening: Leave the door open initially. Let them go in and out as they please.
- Short Stays: Once they seem comfortable, try encouraging them to stay inside for short periods while you are present. Use treats and praise.
- Gradual Increase: Slowly increase the duration they spend inside, especially when you leave the room or the house. Always ensure they have access to water and are not left for excessively long periods initially.
- Never Punish: Never use the dog house as a form of punishment. This will make your dog associate it with negative experiences, and they will be reluctant to use it.
It might take a few days or even a couple of weeks for your dog to fully embrace their new space. Be patient and consistent. If your dog seems overly anxious or reluctant, they might not be ready for a fully enclosed space, or the chosen location might not be ideal for them.
Maintaining the Indoor Dog House
Keeping your dog’s indoor house clean and inviting is essential for hygiene and their comfort.
- Daily Quick Clean: Remove any dropped food, toys, or bedding. Check for any accidents.
- Weekly Deep Clean: Depending on the material, wipe down the interior with a pet-safe disinfectant or cleaner. Wash any removable cushions or covers. For wooden houses, ensure they are dried thoroughly to prevent mildew.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically check for any signs of wear and tear, loose parts, or damage that could pose a safety hazard.
- Bedding Maintenance: Wash your dog’s bedding regularly to keep it fresh and free of parasites.
For best practices in pet-safe cleaning, the ASPCA provides excellent resources on pet-safe cleaning, which can be invaluable when choosing disinfectants and cleaners for your dog’s home.
FAQs About Indoor Dog Houses for Medium Dogs
Q1: How big should an indoor dog house be for my medium dog?
Your dog should be able to stand up,
