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7 Different Types of Dog Houses for Indoor and Outdoor Use

small white dog sitting beside a modern wooden indoor dog house on a cozy rug.

When choosing a dog house, it’s important to know the different types of dog houses and how they work. Outdoor options are designed to handle weather and provide strong protection, while indoor styles focus on comfort and home-friendly design. Wooden cabins, plastic shelters, and furniture-style crates all offer unique benefits depending on your space and your dog’s personality.

Below is a clear breakdown of the most popular dog house styles, including key features and the best uses for each.

Comparison Table: Best Types of Dog Houses (Outdoor & Indoor)

No.Product NameTypeMaterialDog SizeKey FeatureBest For
1.PawHut Outdoor Cabin Style Dog House Outdoor WoodenFir WoodUp to 53 lbsPorch + living room designGeneral outdoor use
2.PawHut Double-Room Dog House with PorchOutdoor Wooden (Dual Rooms)Fir WoodUp to 33 lbsTwo rooms + openable roofMulti-dog families
3.PawHut Plastic Dog House Outdoor PlasticPP PlasticUp to 44 lbsTool-free snap assemblyRainy/humid climates
4.PawHut Wooden Dog House with Porch Outdoor WoodenFir WoodUp to 66 lbsShutter windows + dual entryWarm/sunny climates
5.PawHut Wooden Cabin Style House Outdoor WoodenFir WoodUp to 44 lbsOpenable roof + raised baseOutdoor comfort & airflow
6.PawHut Indoor Dog Crate Furniture Indoor Furniture CrateSteel + Particle BoardUp to 44 lbsSide table + cushionIndoor décor integration
7.PawHut Decorative Wooden Dog Cage Indoor Decorative CrateFir WoodUp to 22 lbsOpenable top + removable bottomSmall indoor dogs

Outdoor Dog Houses

Outdoor dog houses are built to handle sun, rain, moisture, snow, and year-round backyard use. Made from solid wood or durable plastic, these shelters keep pets protected while offering ventilation and comfort.

1. PawHut Outdoor Cabin Style Dog House 

The PawHut Outdoor Cabin Style Dog House has a cozy wooden look and gives your dog a safe, comfortable place to relax. It includes a small porch for lounging and plenty of airflow and shade. If you want a classic wooden dog house that fits nicely in a backyard or outdoor space, this model is a great choice.

medium dog standing on the porch of a grey wooden outdoor cabin-style dog house.

Key Features

  • Full cabin layout with roomy interior and front deck
  • Raised floor helps reduce dampness and improves insulation
  • Asphalt roof protects against light rain and changing weather
  • Side windows allow breeze flow during warmer months
  • Sturdy fir-wood structure supports medium dogs up to 53 lbs

Pros

  • Attractive wood design that enhances the outdoor look.
  • Porch provides a comfortable extra resting area.
  • Good airflow from the door and side window.

Cons

  • Not suitable for heavy rain or snow.
  • Requires assembly and may take extra time when done alone.

2. PawHut Double-Room Dog House with Porch 

The Porch PawHut Double-Room Dog House creates a private, divided layout that’s perfect for homes with two dogs or pets that prefer their own space. With its porch, openable roof, and removable floor, it’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting a cleaner, more organized outdoor setup.

outdoor double dog house with porch featuring a small dog standing on the deck.

Key Features

  • Two separate rooms with inner door access
  • Curtains on both front doors to reduce wind and rain
  • Elevated floor for dryness and improved comfort
  • Roof opens for quick cleaning and ventilation
  • Porch adds shade and outdoor relaxation area

Pros

  • Private spaces for two dogs, reducing crowding and creating a calmer environment.
  • Easy-clean interior with an openable roof and removable floor panels.
  • Good ventilation and shade thanks to front curtains, openings, and the porch area.

Cons

  • Heavy structure due to the dual-room design, making it harder to move.
  • Suitable only for dogs under 33 lbs, limiting use for larger breeds.

3. PawHut Plastic Dog House

For pet parents in rainy regions or anyone needing a low-maintenance outdoor shelter, the Plastic Dog House is a practical option. It offers easy cleaning, dependable weather resistance, and a tool-free snap-lock design that makes assembly quick and effortless.

beagle lying inside a durable plastic outdoor dog house with decorative windows.

Key Features

  • Slanted water-resistant roof keeps rain away
  • Smooth plastic walls rinse clean easily
  • Large entry improves airflow and visibility
  • Lightweight, portable structure for patios or yards
  • Fully snap-lock assembly, no tools needed

Pros

  • Fast assembly thanks to the snap-lock design that requires no tools.
  • Excellent rain protection with a slanted, water-resistant roof that keeps the interior dry.
  • Easy to clean as the smooth plastic surface can be rinsed or wiped down quickly.

Cons

  • Less insulation than wooden houses, so it may feel cooler during certain seasons.
  • Not ideal for very cold climates since it doesn’t provide enough warmth or protection in freezing temperatures.

4. PawHut Wooden Dog House with Porch 

Designed for airflow and comfort, the PawHut Wooden Dog House with Porch features two entry points and shutter-style windows that keep the inside well-ventilated. It’s an excellent choice for dogs who enjoy staying cool and lounging outdoors.

large grey wooden dog house with covered porch and a dog standing at the doorway.

Key Features

  • Roof-covered porch with decorative fencing
  • Two-door entry improves mobility and airflow
  • Shutter windows enhance light and ventilation
  • Raised floor keeps interior dry
  • Fir-wood construction supports dogs up to 66 lbs

Pros

  • Excellent airflow from dual doors and shutter windows.
  • Spacious shaded porch for outdoor lounging.

Cons

  • Not insulated for cold or winter climates.
  • Requires more space because of the wide porch design.

5. PawHut Wooden Cabin Style House

With its padded interior and mesh-panel design, the PawHut Dog Crate Furniture makes a cozy indoor retreat while functioning as a stylish side table, perfect for dogs that love relaxing close to their owners.

grey wooden outdoor dog house with side window and dog sitting beside the entrance.

Key Features

  • Fully functional side table with drawer storage
  • Soft water-resistant cushion included
  • Two-door entry for easy access
  • Steel-mesh panels provide visibility and ventilation
  • Strong tabletop holds up to 66 lbs

Pros

  • Stylish indoor furniture that doubles as an elegant side table.
  • Great ventilation through steel-mesh panels for airflow and visibility.
  • The built-in drawer adds extra storage for toys, treats, and essentials.

Cons

  • Designed only for indoor use and not suitable for outdoor weather.
  • Fits medium dogs only, so larger breeds may not have enough space.

Indoor Dog Houses

Indoor dog houses offer comfort, aesthetics, and practical living-space integration, perfect for apartments or modern homes.

6. PawHut Indoor Dog Crate Furniture 

The PawHut Wooden Decorative Dog Cage provides a cozy indoor space for small dogs and features an openable top and removable bottom for easy cleaning.

white furniture-style indoor dog crate with a dog relaxing inside the mesh-front enclosure.

Key Features

  • Fir wood construction with modern finish
  • Openable top for cleaning and airflow
  • Removable bottom board
  • Wire door with secure latch
  • Elevated base protects from cold floors

Pros

  • Compact and stylish design that fits easily into small indoor spaces.
  • Easy to clean with an openable top and removable bottom board.
  • Lightweight build makes it simple to move around the home.

Cons

  • Suitable only for small dogs, with limited space for medium or large breeds.
  • Not designed for outdoor use and cannot handle moisture or harsh weather.

7. PawHut Decorative Wooden Dog Cage

With its clear acrylic window and open, airy design, the PawHut Large Cabin Dog House provides dogs with comfort and visibility whether placed inside your home, on a patio, or out in the yard.

grey wooden indoor dog crate styled as furniture with a dog resting inside.

Key Features

  • Openable roof for easy cleaning, sunlight, and quick access
  • Large acrylic front window offers full visibility and helps reduce anxiety
  • Two side windows improve airflow whether indoors or outdoors
  • Water-resistant treatment and asphalt roof make it safe for outdoor use
  • Strong wood construction supports large dogs up to 66 lbs

Pros

  • Great visibility for anxious dogs thanks to the large acrylic window and side openings.
  • Durable for indoor and outdoor use with sturdy fir wood and weather-resistant materials.
  • Easy to clean and maintain using the openable roof for quick access.

Cons

  • Less privacy because of the wide clear window, which may not suit dogs that prefer enclosed spaces.
  • Requires assembly, and the larger size may take more time to set up.

Choosing the best Dog House depends on your dog’s needs, your space, and where the house will be used. Outdoor dog houses do well with sturdy wooden cabins, raised bases, and weather-ready roofs, while plastic houses are ideal for rainy or humid climates. 

For indoor use, furniture-style crates and decorative wooden kennels blend comfort with home décor. Each PawHut option offers something unique, from dual rooms to easy-clean roofs, making it easy to find a house that keeps your dog safe, comfortable, and right at home.

FAQs

1. How do I know what size dog house my dog actually needs?

A good rule is to make sure your dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably without feeling cramped. Measure your dog’s height and body length, then choose a house slightly larger than those measurements. Oversized houses may feel drafty outdoors, so aim for a balanced, comfortable fit.

2. Which type of dog house is safest for extreme heat?

For hot weather, choose a dog house with strong airflow, models with dual entry, shutter windows, or raised floors work best. Avoid metal surfaces that retain heat, and stick to well-ventilated wooden or plastic designs. Adding shade or placing the house under a covered area also reduces heat buildup.

3. Can indoor-style dog houses be used outside sometimes?

Hybrid styles can be placed outdoors only in covered or shaded areas, away from rain and direct sunlight. Fully indoor furniture-style crates should stay inside, as moisture can damage wood and rust metal parts. Always check the product description for indoor/outdoor suitability before placing it outside.

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