How to Keep Your Outside Dog Warm in the Winter

1). Get a doghouse that is the right size. It should be just large enough for your dog to stand up in and turn around. Doghouses that are too big allow body heat to escape.
2). Place warm, dry bedding into the doghouse. Straw and wood shavings are inexpensive options if rodents aren't a problem. Otherwise use a good dog bed that you replace every year. Don't use old blankets -- they can get damp and not dry out.
3). Keep the doghouse dry. Elevate the floor several inches so moisture does not collect inside. Frozen moisture can melt when your dog lies down and later freeze to his fur, lowering his body temperature.
4). Position the doghouse so cold winds do not blow inside. South facing is best for most locations. Or put a flap over the door.
5). Choose a sunny location. Under a deciduous tree is one of the best places. In winter the bare branches will allow sunlight to warm the doghouse, while leaves will shade the area during summer.
6). Fill your dog's bowl with fresh, room-temperature water several times a day. Very cold water will lower your dog's body temperature and make him more prone to hypothermia. Make sure your dog's water doesn't freeze. He can get dehydrated when the weather is cold just as he can when it's hot outside.