How To

How to Winterize Your Family Dog's Outdoor Kennel in 5 Simple Steps

Keep your family dog warm and protected this winter with five easy steps, including how a rugged kennel cover blocks wind and moisture.

30 Sep 2026 Editorial Team 2 min read

Why Winterizing Your Dog's Kennel Matters

For busy families, the backyard kennel is often the dog's home base. Cold wind, rain, and snow can turn that space uncomfortable fast. The good news: a few simple steps, anchored by a weatherproof cover, make a big difference.

Step 1: Measure Your Kennel First

Before buying anything, measure your kennel's length, width, and height. The ArcticShield Uninsulated Kennel Cover comes in Medium (33.5" x 22.5" x 24.75"), Large (38" x 25" x 28"), and X-Large (41" x 27.5" x 30.25"), so pick the closest match to your crate dimensions.

Step 2: Choose a Weatherproof Cover

A proper cover is the core of winter prep. The ArcticShield Uninsulated Kennel Cover is built from rugged 500D polyester with a PVC backing and a water-resistant exterior, so it stands up to rain, sleet, and wind.

Step 3: Secure the Fit to Stop Wind Flap

Loose covers flap in the wind, which scares dogs and wears out fabric quickly. Follow this checklist when installing:

Slide the cover over the kennel, keeping the open bottom aligned with the crate base.
Tighten the adjustable web straps and elastic shock-cord closure for a snug fit.
Use the interior web strap for additional fit improvement.
Open or close the vented windows and door with toggle closures as weather changes.

Step 4: Manage Ventilation

Don't seal everything shut. The vented windows on the ArcticShield Uninsulated Kennel Cover let you balance airflow and warmth, and the toggle-closure door makes access easy without removing the whole cover.

Step 5: Do a Weekly Winter Check

Once installed, check the cover weekly: re-tighten straps after storms, wipe off snow buildup, and confirm the door toggles still close securely.

Verdict

The ArcticShield Uninsulated Kennel Cover is a solid mid-range pick with a 4.3 out of 5 rating from over 140 buyers. Its rugged, water-resistant build and adjustable, wind-resistant fit make winterizing straightforward. The trade-off: it is uninsulated, so in extreme cold you may want to add a separate insulating layer or heated pad.

Who It Suits

Families with outdoor or crate-trained dogs in windy, wet climates.
Owners of standard-size wire kennels who want quick, tool-free installation.

Who Should Skip It

Anyone needing heavy insulation for sub-zero conditions.
Owners of non-standard or custom-sized kennels.

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Ready to winterize? Grab the ArcticShield Kennel Cover and check winter prep off your family list.