Lakeland Veterinary Hospital

 

"Caring for pets and the people who love them"

 
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~Winter Dog Housing~
 
   
I am often asked whether or not a dog can spend the winter outdoors. The answer is yes. Many, but not all, dogs can. In general, medium to large breeds in good health and with good hair coats can be kept outdoors if fed and housed properly.

Food should be increased from 10% to 30% and be one of the many high-quality foods that are widely available. Adjust the amount of food based on increase or decrease in weight.
 
Water heaters, available from pet centers or catalogs, keep water ice free. Another option is to change the water several times a day.


Lastly, we must provide a dry, draft-free doghouse. It should have a double floor and be kept dry and off the ground.

The following is a design I use for my Labrador; Make the sleeping area only large enough to stand and turn around. For extra warmth, heating pads are made for the floor. Mine is an Electro Kennel. The materials used are 2x2’s for the frame & frame openings, plywood 1/2” to 5/8” for the walls & roof, and cover the roof with roll roofing or shingles & hinge.


Richard P. Piepgras, DVM

 

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