Why should you consider insulated dog houses when shopping for your furry friends? There are two main advantages that insulated dog houses have over the plainer varieties. The insulated structure keeps the temperature inside more comfortable. It also allows you to use less energy if you decide to integrate a heating and air conditioning unit into the house for extreme temperatures. Think of what insulation in your home does; these are the same things it does for your pet.
Heat transfer occurs in one of three ways: conduction, convection, or radiation. Conduction occurs through objects (hot tea to handle of spoon), convection through currents of air or water (forced air furnace), and radiation through light travel (the sun). Heat transfer will occur; you cannot stop it. However, you can slow the rate at which it occurs. Insulation is the tool you need to slow heat transfer.
Insulated dog houses may combat more than one type of heat transfer. For instance, the insulation may reflect heat and trap air at the same time. Reflecting the heat in the summer means the warm air stays outside the dog house. Reflecting the heat in the winter, of course, means warm air remains inside the dog house. Trapped air pockets reduce the speed of conduction because air is a slower conductor than other materials, such as metal.
Of course, a cooler environment in the summer and a warmer environment in the winter equal a more comfortable setting for your pup. If temperatures become too extreme, you might need to bring your dog inside until the weather returns to normal. Puppies and old dogs are most susceptible to problems caused by temperature, such as freezing and heat stroke.
A second advantage applies to owners who intend to use a heating and air conditioning unit in the dog house. Insulated dog houses conserve energy by slowing the rate of heat transfer. As a result, you have to spend less energy heating and cooling the house. Spending less energy is becoming more popular today for those who like the idea of ?greener? living. And spending less energy has always been popular with people who keep an eye on their dollars.
If you like the idea of a heating and air conditioning unit, but you have doubted its feasibility, start looking for insulated dog houses. As you shop, check for insulation with higher R-values. The R-value is a number assigned to the insulation based on several factors. These factors determine how effective the insulation will be in slowing heat transfer. The R-value increases with the level of effectiveness. The higher the assigned R-value, the more effective you should find the insulation to be.
Insulated dog houses slow conduction, convection, or radiation'or a combination of these processes. By slowing the speed of heat transfer, the insulation increases your pet's comfort. It also conserves energy if you use a heating and air conditioning unit. When shopping for dog houses, check R-values. The R-values will help you understand how effective you should expect the insulation to be. Comparing R-values will help you identify which dog houses will be the best for you.
Insulated dog houses keep pets warm during cold weather. But insulation is not the only factor that affects a dog's warmth. Choosing a house of the right size for your dog is also important. Before you purchase a new dog house, measure your dog. Use the measurements to select a house that will keep your pet comfortable. Even if you aren't shopping for insulated dog houses, you should still measure. Your dog's size is an important factor, no matter what type of dog house you want.
Measure your pet's length and width in a variety of positions. Have the dog sit, stand, lie down, and stretch out. Since he probably won't stay in one position while inside the house, you want to make sure that the house will fit, no matter the dog's posture. After you obtain the measurements, compare them with the specifications of the houses you see. If you cannot find any specifications, measure the house yourself or request measurements from a customer service member. Don't eyeball it.
Add a few inches to the dog's body measurements. The inside of the house should be large enough that your dog can stand up, turn around, lie down, and stretch out. If the house is too small, your dog will feel cramped and uncomfortable. However, you do not want to purchase the biggest house you can find. Although you might think a doggie mansion expresses your fondness, pets will be more comfortable in insulated dog houses that are the right size for them.
Especially during colder weather, your dog may not be comfortable if the house is too big. Dogs can warm up small spaces with their body heat. When you select a house that is slightly larger than your dog's measurements, the dog can heat up the space more quickly and stay warm through a cool night. But if you purchase a house that is too large for your pet, she won't be able to keep warm. Insulated dog houses of the right size should help to conserve your dog's body heat even more efficiently.
Another measurement you will want to consider for your dog's comfort is the width and height of the door. Obviously, the door must be wide enough for your pet to enter the house without squeezing through. The height of the opening is important, too. Use the measurement of your dog in a standing position to choose a dog house with a proper door. Your dog should not have to crouch or duck his head to enter; he should be able to walk right into the house pretty easily.
Measure your dog. Compare the measurements with the specifications of the dog houses you consider. You want to choose one slightly larger than the dog's measurements. Rule out those that are too small or too large. Consider insulated dog houses for extra help in regulating the temperature. Check the height and width of the door so that your dog can come and go easily from the house. Your dog is much more likely to enjoy and actually use the house if you select one that is the perfect size for him.
Rachel Dawson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Home Management, Gardening and Pets. Rachel Dawson is a freelance writer who has known several special dogs. She writes about and. Rachel Dawson's top article generates over 6600 views. to your Favourites.