Types Of Dog Houses

Dog houses are meant to give your dog a cozy and comfortable atmosphere and resting place. Not only does it protect your pet from unfavorable climatic conditions, it also provides him with his personal space. Dog houses or Dog kennels are designed in such a way that your pet feels safe and protected in its shelter. There are several kinds of dog shelters available depending upon your pet's necessities as well as your budget. However, the best quality dog shelters are the one which are designed keeping in view your dogs breed and necessities.

Types Of Dog Houses

Wood Dog Houses
Wood has been the best choice for building dog houses and it is still the most popular option. Compared to other kinds of materials it is durable and inexpensive.

Plastic Dog Houses
Plastic dog houses have gained popularity these days. They are competitively priced, light-weight, and require less maintenance. They come in several shapes and designs.

Metal Dog Houses
Metal are not often used for dog houses. However, they are characteristically rectangular, made from stainless steel or aluminum, and deeply insulated. They are best resistant as they can't be chewed by dog. Most of the time they are used by vendors who deal in hunting dog varieties.

Fiberglass Cave Dog House
Fiberglass Cave Dog Houses are made of 100% heavy-duty fiberglass that generally never rots or leaks. Though it may not be appealing to everybody, it is a good option if you are looking for a comfortable and spacious dog house.

Dog Tents
A dog tent is a soft portable shelter, generally made up of waterproof materials. They are lightweight and can be assembled as well as dismantled. They are good if you are taking your dog for camping or any outdoor pursuits. However they are not meant for aggressive dogs which may feel anxiety once they are zipped or packed.

Soft Dog Crate
A soft dog crate is a rectangular dog tent made up of nylon mesh instead of metal or plastic grating. As it is light weight, it is easily portable. However, such crates are not apt for diggers, chewers, aggressive dogs which "freak out" while crated.

Tips For Selecting A Dog House

• Type of dog house you are going to buy depends on the kind of dog you have, his personality, the style of the house, size of the dog and the budget.
• The dog house should be big enough to allow the dog to turn around and stretch its limbs fully while lying inside it.
• The dog homes that are too large may leave a dog feeling lonely. Dogs love cozier space. Large dog houses, also allow more cold air to pass through the kennel in the winters, which might cause discomfort to your dog.
• While beige-colored plastic dog houses are lighter and do not have splinters, wood dog houses can be repainted to give them a fresh look year after year.
• Doghouses can come in any creative shape and design from igloo-shaped to rectangular to Arabian tent-like. Dogs are sure to like them as long as they fit in it cozily.
• Doghouses must have venting at the top for proper air circulation and ventilation. .
• An insulated plastic doghouse will keep your dog warmer during winters.
• Doghouses with doors give better protection to dogs from weather conditions.
• You may also build a dog house on your own to give that designer look you always wanted for cheaper rates.
• Don't forget to buy a dog bed to fit inside the doghouse.
• Fresh water in the dog house for the dog to lap up and shade for summers will make your dog wag his tail with sheer delight.
• Type of dog house you are going to buy depends on the kind of dog you have, his personality, the style of the house, size of the dog and the budget.
• The dog house should be big enough to allow the dog to turn around and stretch its limbs fully while lying inside it.
• The dog homes that are too large may leave a dog feeling lonely. Dogs love cozier space. Large dog houses, also allow more cold air to pass through the kennel in the winters, which might cause discomfort to your dog.
• While beige-colored plastic dog houses are lighter and do not have splinters, wood dog houses can be repainted to give them a fresh look year after year.
• Doghouses can come in any creative shape and design from igloo-shaped to rectangular to Arabian tent-like. Dogs are sure to like them as long as they fit in it cozily.
• Doghouses must have venting at the top for proper air circulation and ventilation. .
• An insulated plastic doghouse will keep your dog warmer during winters.
• Doghouses with doors give better protection to dogs from weather conditions.
• You may also build a dog house on your own to give that designer look you always wanted for cheaper rates.
• Don't forget to buy a dog bed to fit inside the doghouse.
• Fresh water in the dog house for the dog to lap up and shade for summers will make your dog wag his tail with sheer delight.

 source: http://pets.iloveindia.com/dogs/dog-house.html

Bathing Your Dog

As the myth goes, it is not healthy to bathe a dog frequently. A part of it is true and other part is not. While swimming in natural water is a good exercise for a dog and can be permitted according to its tastes and climate, using soaps or shampoos on dogs regularly can be hazardous. Especially human shampoos can cause an imbalance of sweat on dog's skin and may make its skin dry and itchy, though, mild human shampoos can be used once a month. However, dog-specific shampoos are much better and are recommended to be used only once every several weeks. The medicated shampoos meant to cure particular skin-disorders are different and the frequency of their use depends on the condition of the dog.

It is best to bathe the dog only when its coat becomes greasy or you are about to have a company. Dog odor is also a sign that your dog needs a bath. Mud tends to dry up and fall off the dog's coat by itself as it rubs it on. To bathe the dog, lay a blanket or the floor and keep two towels, dog shampoo, dog conditioner and a washcloth ready by the bathtub. Keep the dog's brush, comb and trash bag on the blanket. Special super-absorbent towels are quite helpful in drying the dog quickly. If the dog's coat is matted, brush him first to untangle the knots and then bathe him. The dogs that get too scared in the tub and keep jumping around, you might try to give him the shower with the hand-held showerheads. Being able to stand on firm ground, will keep him feeling safe.

Inside the tub, you can put a non-slippery rubber bath mat to keep your pooch from slipping. Large dogs can be bathed in the garden using a hose and a bucket, especially when the weather is hot. Don't dump water on dog's face and use a washcloth instead, for the ears of the dog shouldn't get too wet inside and he generally gets too scared when doused over the head and may get aggressive. A good dog shampoo is the best choice but a baby shampoo or a mild herbal shampoo can also be used occasionally. Conditioner helps to prevent tangles, in the dogs with long hair. Good shampooing, rinsing and condition of the dog's skin and coat keep lice and fleas away from dogs. Deodorants can be used to keep off the body odor and keep your dog smelling fresh and healthy.

There are shampoos that claim to be gentle yet effective, perform antibacterial action, have pearlescent whiteners for that shiny sparkling whiteness in the coat and gentle aloe Vera and tea tree oil to keep the skin healthy. Dogs with black and dark colored coats can use special shampoos with them that enhance their natural shine. After lathering and cleaning the dog, rinsing is very important for any shampoo residue may cause skin irritation. Shampoos mild for eyes are recommended. Dogs often give a good shake, soaking you and the room. You can dry your pet using one end of a first towel over his head and drying him with the other end. The second towel is used to pick him up. After drying, lay your dog on the blanket and keep him there until he dries completely.

source: http://pets.iloveindia.com/dogs/dog-bath.html