How I Keep My Dog’s Kennel Warm During the Winter

As dog owners, we all want the same thing — for our dogs to be comfortable, safe and warm, especially during the colder winter months. Over the years, I’ve tried different ways of keeping outdoor kennels cosy, and I’ve learned that a few simple, well-thought-out choices can make a big difference.

This is what works for me, and why.

Why Heat From the Ground Up Matters

In my humble opinion, the most effective way to heat any space — whether it’s a home or a dog kennel — is from the ground up. That’s why underfloor heating systems are so popular indoors. Heat naturally rises, creating an even, comfortable warmth rather than hot and cold spots.

In an ideal world, an underfloor heating system would be the perfect solution for a dog kennel too. The warmth starts at paw level, gently heating the entire space and keeping the kennel consistently snug.

However, reality often steps in.

Why Underfloor Heating Isn’t Always Practical

For a standalone dog kennel in a garden, underfloor heating usually isn’t the most cost-effective option. The systems themselves can be expensive, and installation often involves lifting flooring, adding insulation layers and running electrics safely — all of which quickly adds up.

For many dog owners, especially those with a single kennel, it’s simply more than is needed. I wanted something that was safe, affordable, reliable and easy to maintain, without compromising my dog’s comfort.

My Practical Heating Solution

After weighing up the options, I settled on a 120-watt, 2-foot tubular heater, mounted securely on the back wall of the kennel.

Tubular heaters are commonly used in places like greenhouses, sheds and garages. They provide a gentle, steady heat, rather than blasting out hot air, which makes them well suited to enclosed spaces.

To keep things safe, I covered the heater with a metal heater guard, preventing my dog from being able to chew or damage it. Safety is always the top priority.

Cost & Longevity

One of the reasons I like this setup is that it’s budget friendly:
Tubular heater: around £30
Metal heater guard: around £20

Tubular heaters don’t last forever, but if you keep them clean, dry and free from bedding or dust, you can expect a lifespan of around 4–6 years before they naturally fail. For the price, that’s very reasonable.

Why I Didn’t Install It on the Floor

In theory, fixing the heater to the floor would be more efficient, allowing heat to rise naturally from the ground up — just like underfloor heating.

In practice, though, this would be far too tempting for a dog. Even the most well-behaved dog will eventually paw at, nudge or chew something placed at ground level. Over time, that would almost certainly lead to damage.

Mounting the heater on the wall keeps it:
Out of reach
Safer
Longer lasting

And importantly, it still works extremely well.

Working With Your Dog’s Natural Body Heat

Dogs generate a surprising amount of warmth on their own. When you combine a gentle background heat source with your dog’s natural body heat, the kennel quickly becomes a comfortable, snug space.

Even when outside temperatures drop below –1°C, the kennel stays warm enough for my dog to rest comfortably without overheating.

This balance is important — the goal isn’t to make the kennel hot, but to remove the chill and create a stable, cosy environment.

Simple Cheap and it Works

There’s no single “perfect” solution for every dog or every setup, but this approach has worked extremely well for me. It’s safe, affordable, easy to manage and, most importantly, keeps my dog warm and comfortable throughout the winter.

A warm dog is a happy dog — and that peace of mind is worth every bit of effort.

UK Nationwide & Europe Luxury Dog Transport

Telephone: +44 (0)20 3951 3030