Plastic vs Wooden Dog Kennels: Which is the Right Choice for Your Pet?

Choosing the right kennel is an important decision for any dog owner. The right shelter provides your pet with a safe, comfortable space to rest and escape the elements.

At Somerzby, we sell both wooden and plastic dog kennels, each with its own benefits and disadvantages. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both to help you decide which type best suits your dog, home and lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

• Plastic kennels are lightweight, easy to clean, chew-resistant, and ideal for wetter or shaded yards. They are ideal for renters, dogs prone to chewing or owners who need portability.
• Wooden kennels provide superior natural insulation, better aesthetics and sustainability. They are ideal for pet owners in areas with extreme temperatures or those wanting a stylish, eco-friendly option.

Feature	Plastic Dog Kennels	Wooden Dog Kennels
Weight & Portability	Lightweight and easy to move—ideal for renters	Heavy and best kept in one spot; not suited for frequent moving
Maintenance & Cleaning	Simple to clean with a damp cloth; no regular upkeep required	Requires annual restaining; harder to clean due to moisture absorption
Durability & Weather Resistance	Highly durable and suitable for wet areas	Naturally rot-resistant fir wood with protective coatings; better insulation in extreme weather
Insulation & Comfort	Double-wall insulation but less temperature regulation; may need extra bedding	Superior natural insulation keeps dogs warm in winter and cool in summer
Chew Resistance	More chew-resistant, ideal for dogs prone to chewing	More vulnerable to chewing damage; may require repair or replacement sooner
Aesthetic Appeal	Limited design options; cannot be painted or customised	Stylish, natural look that can be painted to match home and garden
Environmental Impact	Made from durable HDPE plastic; less eco-friendly	Made from FSC-certified, sustainably sourced timber; biodegradable and renewable
Best For	Pet owners seeking low maintenance, portability, durability and chew resistance	Owners wanting style, natural insulation, eco-conscious materials and long-term investment

Plastic Dog Houses: Pros and Cons

Benefits of Plastic Dog Kennels

Lightweight and Portable Design

Plastic kennels typically weigh less than timber kennels, making them easier to lift and transport. This is a good option if you plan to move the kennel regularly (e.g. inside overnight, into the sun during cold days) or if you are a renter likely to move house.

Easy to Clean and Maintain

Plastic kennels are easier to clean. Their smooth plastic surface can easily be wiped down with a damp cloth, making them great for dogs that love getting muddy. The plastic doesn’t absorb odour and there is no regular maintenance needed.

Long Lasting Outdoors

Plastic dog houses last a long time outdoors as their natural durability means they won’t rot or break down over time when exposed to the elements. This makes them ideal for wet climates or shaded outdoor areas.

Chew-Resistant

Plastic kennels are harder for dogs to chew, making them a better option for pups prone to chewing and destroying their kennels. This makes plastic kennels better value long term, as they won’t need to be replaced as often.

Cons of Plastic Dog Kennels

Limited Aesthetic Appeal

Many people think plastic kennels are not as attractive as wooden dog houses. They also cannot be painted or customised in any way. If you value the aesthetic appeal of your home or garden, a wooden dog kennel may be a better option for you.

Limited Insulation and Ventilation

While Somerzby’s plastic kennels do have double-wall insulation, plastic does not regulate temperature as much as timber. In extreme heat or cold, your plastic kennel may require extra shade or bedding to keep your dog comfortable.

Is a Plastic Dog Kennel Ideal For You?

Plastic kennels are ideal for renters who move frequently, as they’re lightweight and easy to relocate. They’re also a great choice for dogs that love getting muddy or tend to chew their shelter, as they are low-maintenance and chew-resistant compared to other dog kennel materials. If your kennel will be placed in a shaded or wet outdoor area, plastic may be a better option for the above reasons.

Wooden Dog Houses: Pros and Cons

Benefits of Wooden Dog Kennels

Superior Insulation

Timber is a natural insulator, meaning your wooden kennel will keep your dog warm in winter and cooler in summer. This makes them ideal for pets living in areas with seasonal temperature changes or extreme weather.

Designed to Suit Any Backyard

Wooden dog houses are more stylish and aesthetically appealing, making them a great choice for those who want their dog’s shelter to complement their home’s decor.  In fact, many of our customers paint their timber kennels to match the colour of their house.

Environmentally Friendly and Sustainable Materials

Somerzby wooden kennels are made from sustainably grown timber sourced from commercial plantations. Timber is more environmentally friendly than plastic as it’s biodegradable, renewable and requires less energy to produce. We only use FSC-certified wood, ensuring it’s ethically sourced and not harvested illegally.

Cons of Wooden Dog Kennels

Weight and Portability

Wooden dog kennels are usually quite heavy. We don’t recommend moving our timber kennels once assembled, as it can strain the wood and crack. This can be inconvenient for owners needing to regularly relocate their kennel in their yard or for those who relocate often.

Cleaning and Extra Care

Wood is more difficult to clean compared to plastic kennels, as it can absorb moisture and odours. We don’t recommend hosing out timber kennels as if they don’t fully dry then they may rot over time.

Higher Cost

Wooden dog houses are typically more expensive than plastic dog kennels of the same size. However, we believe their higher upfront price is justified by their benefits as a long-term investment in your pet.

Is a Wooden Dog Kennel Ideal For You?

Wooden kennels are ideal for pet owners living in areas with seasonal or extreme weather, due to timber’s natural insulating properties. In addition to this, they’re a great choice for those who want a kennel that blends in with their yard, especially if style and customisation are important to you. If you’re looking for an eco-conscious option, timber is a more sustainable material.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Kennel Material

Choosing the best dog kennel means thinking carefully about which material will suit your pet’s needs and lifestyle.

Climate, Comfort and Insulation

Consider what the weather is like year-round in your area.

Wooden dog houses offer superior insulation, making them better for climates that get very warm in summer or very cool in winter. Your dog will be more comfortable plus you won’t need to worry as much if the weather changes suddenly.

Whether you choose timber or plastic, you will need to add comfortable bedding to the kennel for your dog.

Durability and Longevity

Consider how damp your yard gets. Plastic kennels are more resistant to moisture and rot, meaning they will last longer. Somerzby plastic dog houses are made from UV-stabilised HDPE plastic, meaning they will handle the harsh Australian sun too.

Also, consider if your dog is likely to chew its kennel. Timber is easier for pets to damage while plastic will resist chewing better.

Portability and Setup

Consider if you plan to move the kennel regularly or if you will need to move house and relocate it within the near future.

Plastic kennels are usually lighter and easier to transport. Wooden kennels are designed to be permanently located – they are heavier and may need to be disassembled then reassembled if you move house.

Aesthetic and Style

Consider how much you care about the appearance of the kennel.

Wooden kennels offer a more natural, visually appealing design that may blend into your outdoor decor. They also offer more customisation and can be painted to match your yard’s colour scheme.

FAQ

Are plastic kennels safe for dogs?

Yes, plastic kennels are generally safe for dogs, as long as they’re made from high-quality, non-toxic materials like HDPE plastic. It is non-toxic, BPA-free and highly durable, meaning it is less likely to break off if your dog chews it. All Somerzby’s plastic kennels are made from HDPE, offering a safe and sturdy option for your pet.

How long do wooden kennels typically last?

Customers report that dog kennels typically last between 5-10 years. Keeping the kennel in a dry, sunny spot and re-staining it yearly can help the wood last longer.

Can wooden kennels withstand harsh weather and rain?

Yes, wooden kennels can withstand rain, especially when made from quality timber that is stained. If your kennel is in an area exposed to strong winds, we recommend anchoring it down to the ground.

How do I maintain and clean each type of kennel?

Plastic kennels can easily be wiped down with a damp cloth. There is no regular maintenance required. Wooden kennels on the other hand should not be soaked. Sweep out any dirt with a dry brush. If you do wet the kennel, allow it to dry fully in the sun to prevent rot. Also remember to restain your timber kennel annually. Both types should be inspected regularly for any damage.

How do I introduce my dog to a new dog house?

To introduce your dog to a new kennel, let them explore it at their own pace and avoid forcing them inside. Create a positive association by placing familiar bedding, toys and treats inside, and reward them with praise when they go in on their own. It is important that you always use positive reinforcement and avoid punishment to help your dog feel safe and comfortable in their new home.

How do I stop my dog from chewing on their dog house?

To stop your dog from chewing their kennel, first understand why they’re doing it. Common causes include boredom, anxiety or teething. Provide plenty of chew-friendly toys, exercise them daily to reduce excess energy, and use positive reinforcement to redirect their behaviour. You can also try safe bitter sprays as a deterrent.

Toni’s Wrap

Choosing between a plastic and wooden dog kennel ultimately depends on your lifestyle, your dog’s needs, and your outdoor environment.

Plastic kennels are generally more practical. They appeal to pet owners who need a lightweight, low-maintenance option that’s durable, chew-resistant and ideal for wetter yards.

On the other hand, wooden kennels offer superior insulation and a stylish, natural look, making them a great choice for those in climates with extreme temperatures or who want a kennel that complements their backyard aesthetics.

Whichever you choose, you can trust that all of Somerzby’s kennels are designed to provide comfort and quality for your beloved pet.