Dogs should always have access to a shelter that protects them from the elements (heat, sun, rain, cold, or other bad weather).
Shelters should be large enough for the dog to turn around but not so large that they can’t be warmed by body heat.
Shelters should have a good roof and be high enough off the ground to keep the dog dry in heavy rain or snow.
Shelters that have flexible working doors can help keep the elements out, while allowing dogs to go in and out at will.
Nutritional Requirements
In cold weather, outside dogs need twice as many calories as usual to produce enough body heat to keep themselves warm. They should be fed double their regular amount of high-quality dog food, split into several feedings to prevent digestive problems from eating meals that are too large.
Companionship Requirements
Outside dogs need companionship, which can be provided by housing outside dogs together and by frequent human contact.
Dogs that are housed together require a shelter large enough to accommodate more than one dog, or multiple smaller shelters should be available.
