The 10 Best Small Dog Houses
This wiki has been updated 17 times since it was first published in May of 2020. As much as your pets enjoy your company, they also appreciate having a place to retreat to and claim as their own, and these houses for small dogs can serve that purpose. We included a variety of models ranging from soft, plush indoor picks to robust outdoor choices that are ready to withstand some weather. You'll also find both charming, intricate designs as well as more minimalistic selections. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Tangkula Log Cabin
2. Petmate Aspen PetBarn 3
3. Best Pet Supplies Inc Portable Indoor
Editor's Notes
July 15, 2020:
In selecting our small dog houses, we wanted to provide a mix of models that would be good for warm or cold weather, as well as indoor and outdoor use. We also looked for durable construction that would stand the test of time. Since we know that pet owners can sometimes travel, we sought to include some selections that were portable, in addition to the more standard stationary choices.
The Petmate Aspen PetBarn 3 stood out as a smart weather-safe pick, because it's made from plastic that's mold- and bug-resistant, and has an extended roof ridge to divert rain. It also happens to snap together in one quick step, which is another thing we liked about it. With that in mind, we removed the Boomer & George Wooden since it proved very difficult to assemble. The Luckyermore All Weather Shelter is another good house for dogs who might be out in an unpredictable climate, because it's made with waterproof materials and has a roof meant to prevent rain from pooling. As for those seeking a cozy option to keep under your own roof, there is the Best Pet Supplies Inc Portable Indoor, which has an adorable design, plush interior pillow, and polyfoam filling. Plus, it is the only option on our list that includes a dog bed, offering a bit more value for the price.
Dog owners who like to bring Fido along on trips might like the the AmazonBasics Elevated. When disassembled, it can be easily packed without taking up much room. The Lovupet Foldable Kennel is another good travel option as it collapses nearly flat for portability, and has soft carrying straps. Despite that, it remains a surprisingly durable option for one you can transport.
Those looking for something as attractive as it is functional may like the Merry Pet Wood Room With A View. In addition to its attractive latticework and charming cedar construction, it offers both an upper deck for sunning, and a bottom platform where Rex can find shade. Both the Tangkula Log Cabin and the Petsfit Outdoor have roofs that can be propped up, giving the option for sun or shade, when applicable.
Though the Suncast DH350, the Pet Zone Cozy Cottage, and the ecoFLEX Bunkhouse are quality products, they lost their spots because, since they are meant for pets in the 70- to 80-pound range, we felt they take up too much room in the home of those just looking for something for a small dog.
July 10, 2020:
In the Boomer & George Wooden, dog lovers have the opportunity to capture some fabulous photos of their animals without having to compromise sufficient shelter from temperamental and sometimes unpredictable outdoor conditions. With that being said, the Petsfit Outdoor Wooden may combat its cuteness. Other kennels, such as the Aspen Pet Petbarn 3, are a better match for owners considering more affordable yet still reliable alternatives to the flashy homes like the couple mentioned before.
Our final recommendation in this lineup is our Special Honor product—the PawHut House. If this item caught your attention but lies outside of your budget, be sure to review our wooden dog houses ranking for more options like this.
Special Honors
Frontgate Covington Pet Residence With its beautiful hardwood frame, steel mesh panels, and latticework, the Frontgate Covington Pet Residence looks just as much like a sophisticated piece of furniture as it does a haven for Fido. It has a pad inside with a microfiber cover over an orthopedic foam cushion, the fully-ventilated sides should keep your pooch cool, and the raised bottom should protect your floors. frontgate.com
Holyfield Dog House The Holyfield Dog House has triangular cutouts that not only make this look like an art installation piece but also provide airflow and let light in. Also, it has a microfiber cushion and is made of metal, so it should last a long time, however, it's mostly only good for mini and toy breeds, and is very expensive. wayfair.com
4. Luckyermore All Weather Shelter
5. Lovupet Foldable Kennel
6. Furhaven Popup Multipurpose
7. Petsfit Outdoor
8. Merry Pet Room With A View
9. AmazonBasics Elevated
10. Always-Quality Puppy Shelter
A wandering writer who spends as much time on the road as in front of a laptop screen, Brett can either be found hacking away furiously at the keyboard or, perhaps, enjoying a whiskey and coke on some exotic beach, sometimes both simultaneously, usually with a four-legged companion by his side. He has been a professional chef, a dog trainer, and a travel correspondent for a well-known Southeast Asian guidebook. He also holds a business degree and has spent more time than he cares to admit in boring office jobs. He has an odd obsession for playing with the latest gadgets and working on motorcycles and old Jeeps. His expertise, honed over years of experience, is in the areas of computers, electronics, travel gear, pet products, and kitchen, office and automotive equipment.