I'm Suzi (Suzer on epinions) and I am sniff, a petaholic, particularly having a love of dogs and cats. I have 3 cats (Siamese-3, half-Siamese-her illegitimate son-4, and my Mainecoon-9) and 2 dogs (Chow Chow-15 years, lab mix-1), all are rescues.

My cats are all inside cats though I live on a quiet street. I think it is safer and healthier for them, and I want them around a long, long time. My dogs however, are inside and outside. I have two doghouses for them, one is a traditional wood doghouse given to me by a neighbor who moved away, and it is okay. It was free, so no complaints! The other doghouse is a Doskocil Dogloo in the Eskimo style. I have had it so long I can't remember exactly how long it has been. I would guesstimate 7-10 years. In all that time, it has one tiny hole on the front of it, that is of no consequence whatsoever. It has faded a little bit from its original taupe color, but again, not a big deal. So, you'd like some data. First of all some history from the manufacturer:

History of Doskocil/Petmate from their website:

From its beginning in Ben Doskocil’s garage in 1961, Doskocil Manufacturing Company, Inc. has expanded to 1.5 million square feet of office, manufacturing, and distribution facilities. Doskocil, manufacturer of Petmate® pet products, is located in Arlington, Texas, USA. Logistically, the company is ideally situated in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. A stalwart in the pet industry, Doskocil initially pioneered the production of plastic pet carriers for the American airline industry. Today, the company is the nation’s leading manufacturer and marketer of both plastic pet carriers and structural foam doghouses, as well as a leading supplier of cat products, soft pet bedding, and feeding and watering systems.

In 1997, Doskocil merged with California-based Dogloo, Inc., maker of the popular igloo-shaped doghouse. At the time of the merger Doskocil was the leading manufacturer of pet carriers while Dogloo lead in the production of doghouses. Combined, the company now has a leading market share in both the pet carrier and doghouse categories.

In an effort to increase its international presence, Doskocil also began manufacturing in Belgium in 1999. The company is expanding production of its pet carriers and doghouses under the Petmate® brand in Europe. The principal ingredient to Doskocil’s continued success is a sincere desire to satisfy its customers. Worldwide, Doskocil stands behind its commitment to service its customers with innovative and quality pet products for safe and happy pets and Petmate® “Happier Pets By Design”! assures just that.

Manufacturer Claims:

Finally, a Dog House that is more than just a "dog house". No eskimo igloo was ever built better.

Features noted by manufacturer:

*Kuma's dogloo is considered medium size, and made for dogs up to 75# (Kuma is 65#) 33.75 X 33.25 X 25.75

*Insulated walls (three layers of construction)

*Structural foam insulation for energy efficiency.

*Non-climb igloo shape gives extra room and provides wind resistance so won't blow over. (they're right; it has never blown over in all these years)

*Adjustable ventilation reduces condensation and improves air circulation when needed.

*Top lifts off of round base for easy cleaning.

*Foam pad (optional) has heavy-duty, moisture-resistant, zippered cover and fits inside for comfort.

*Doors (optional) available for added warmth.

Our experience:

We live in the Southern California area so I can't speak to how this doghouse would stand up to snow, hurricanes, heavy hail, etc., but I am near the beach, so we have a lot of fog, eh hem, smog, rain, wind, and as noted above I have had this doghouse for many many years for Kuma, and it will be used by Lacy, the lab mix too (I've just had her a couple of months). I hope there aren't any hassles over who gets the plusher doghouse when the rains begin.

When I first got the Dogloo Kuma was reticent to enter it. You know, the unknown, but putting some of his favorite toys, and of course treats, helped get him acclimated and turned on to it. I unfortunately didn't purchase a pad or door for it way back then, but after researching this, I plan on getting at least the foam pad. I had been using a blanket and washing it as needed, but it wasn't ideal to say the least. I have been very comfortable with my purchase of the Doskocil Dogloo, and will purchase another if this ever requires replacement. While they offer a 5 year warranty, I think it will outlive my original dog :(

Cleaning:

It is very easy to clean. I think I have sprayed it with Sun And Earth kid and pet safe cleaning spray, for a couple of years now once in a while, but it requires very very little upkeep or cleaning. It also detracts infestations of any insects.

Other options:

If you prefer you can purchase a more traditional dog house by Doskocil, but you will lose out on height (or the dog will). They are a little less expensive.

The dogloos (traditional and igloo type come in sizes noted below:

Note:

Information consolidated from the Petmate website so you will have an idea what is available, and what might be best for you, and your dog. Of course the dimensions and prices are all approximate.

Small (up to 45 pounds) dimensions starting at 26 X 25.25 X 18.5 ($60.99 and up)

Medium (up to 75 pounds) dimensions starting at 24 X 31.5 X 25.5 ($67.00 and up)

large (up to 100 pounds) dimensions starting at 36 X 75 X 31.25 X 30 ($83.00 and up)

X-large (up to 150 pounds) dimensions starting at 46 X 35.25 X 35.25 (approx $184 and up)

Giant (up to 175 pounds) dimensions starting at 48.5 X 47 X 37 (around $244.)

Where to buy:

There are many online sites available to purchase a Doskocil Dogloo and the extra, pads and doors. You can also find them at various local petstores but that may require some running around to find what you want.

Final thoughts:

Pardon my wordiness. Ah, yes, that is nothing new with me, but I am trying to share what I know about Kuma's doghouse, and other options available to save you some time and trouble. I highly recommend these dog houses for durability, cool igloo appearance, comfort for your pet during inclement weather, their 5 year warranty (thought we've gone way past that. As always, please feel free to leave comments, or email me your questions or comments. Now off to buy a pad as summer is almost over!

Thanks for reading!]

Suzi







Recommended: Yes