National Dog House Repair Month

July is National Dog House Repair Month and it’s important to maintain the quality of your dog house through adequate updates and repairs. When built properly, outdoor dog houses should shelter your furry friends from the extreme temperatures during both summer and winter months. These structures endure all types of weather throughout the year and require occasional care to keep it fit for your loved ones.

Start with a thorough inspection of the structure. If you observe any warped, rotted, or chewed material, replace it with new material and use nontoxic staining to waterproof any wood. During the inspection, ensure all nails are hammered in to avoid harming your dog. If the dog house has any fifthly or torn up carpeting or bedding, be sure to replace it.

After you observe the structure of the dog house, ensure the house is properly insulated and waterproof. It’s important that the dog house is sound and appropriately protects your furry friends from the weather. Also, your dog should be able to stand, sit, and turn around in your dog house. It’s possible your dog has grown since you last checked the structure. If there’s no room for your furry friend to move, it might be time to build or purchase a larger dog house.

In addition to the size and function of the dog house, it’s imperative to make sure it has proper ventilation—especially in summer. If the base beneath the dog house is raised several inches off the ground, air will easily flow in and out. The raised base will also prevent water from entering and flooding the structure.

July is the perfect month to check the location of the dog house. If the wind or rain enters through the door, it might be time to build a wind block or change the direction of the structure. Avoid placing the dog house in direct sunlight during summer—place the dog house in shade to keep the interior cooler on warm days. Small changes like the direction of the structure will make your furry friends feel better in the long run.

It’s easy to forget about updating and repairing your dog house, especially if your dogs stay indoors. Having a dog house gives your loved ones a comfortable place to retreat to year-round. This month, use these tips to repair your dog house and give your furry friends the best home away from home.