Many dogs, especially larger breeds, prefer spending the vast majority of their time outdoors. But while they might enjoy playing, eating, and sleeping outside, that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy a little bit of comfort along the way.
Whether your dog has a designated doghouse or just a fenced-in yard, the right outdoor bedding ensures they’re always comfortable. However, shopping for outdoor-friendly bedding isn’t as simple as buying something for your home. Along with standing up to your dog, it also needs to survive the elements.
Shavings can help make a dirt floor more comfortable for your dog. Avoid shavings that are extremely dusty, as these can irritate your dogs respiratory system and cause allergic reactions. Change the shavings whenever they are soiled.
The downside of dirt flooring is that the kennel can become muddy with rain, is difficult to adequately clean or sterilize and your dog can dig his way out of the kennel if he decides to do so. If you are going to use dirt flooring, place the kennel on high ground which is unlikely to flood.
Dirt flooring is easily accessible and very inexpensive. Dirt is also soft and cool enough to be comfortable when your dog lies on it for long periods of time.
The floor of your dog kennel can be more important than you initially might think. Choosing the wrong type of flooring for your kennel can make your dog uncomfortable or even lead to him developing health problems. A dirt floor covered with shavings can be adequate in your dogs kennel, but it must be maintained properly or problems can occur.
Jen Davis has been writing since 2004. She has served as a newspaper reporter and her freelance articles have appeared in magazines such as “Horses Incorporated,” “The Paisley Pony” and “Alabama Living.” Davis earned her Bachelor of Arts in communication with a concentration in journalism from Berry College in Rome, Ga.
What Are Cedar Chips?
Cedar chips are wood shavings derived from cedar trees. The chips are produced from different trees.
In the United States, the wood of the Eastern Red cedar is used. The tree releases natural oils with a pleasant smell.
It is believed that cedar also possesses certain chemical properties that inhibit the growth of certain weeds.
As a result, cedar chips make for great weed inhibitors in many gardens.
They are also used as mulch since they can fertilize the soil.
In the canine world, cedar chips are used to deter insects and mask any unpleasant pet odor.
Are cedar chips safe for dogs?
Most dogs have zero problems with cedar. After all, it is a natural, biodegradable material with no added chemicals.
However, the pleasantly-smelling bedding can also pose health risks for some canines.
The shavings have phenols that have been known to irritate some dogs’ lungs causing bacteria to enter in the process.
They also contain plicatic acid and oils – both of which can cause allergic reactions to canines and even human beings.
Some of the symptoms of irritation include redness of the skin. If the infection is in the lungs, the dog will have signs and symptoms of asthma such as discharge from the nose.
Ideally, stay away from cedar chips if you have a sick or old dog until you talk to your vet about it.
Also, pay attention to your pup in case he comes down with an infection or an allergic reaction from the cedar.
Safety, or lack thereof, also depends on the size of the chips. The smaller they are the better.
In the event that your dog chews on them, a big piece can spell more trouble than a smaller one.
FAQ
What bedding do you use for dog kennels?
Cedar and pine chips have insect-repelling qualities, which will help prevent fleas and other bugs from setting up shop in your dog’s house, and they provide great insulation and comfort for your dog too. Cedar and pine chips also smell pretty good.
What is the best thing to put on the ground of a dog kennel?
Are shavings safe for dogs?