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Have you ever wondered about getting your dog a heat lamp? Are heat lamps even recommended for dogs? These are a couple of the questions we’ll review in this article.
If you’re considering a heat lamp for your fur baby, there are some things to consider. It’s also essential to only buy heat lamps that are safe for dogs.
With these things in mind, we’ve put together some information to help you find the right heat lamp for your dog! Let’s get started!
What is a Heat Lamp for Dogs?
A heat lamp for dogs is a lamp that uses an infrared bulb for the light. The lamps are used to keep dogs and puppies warm and are usually used in kennels or dog houses. The lamps work to heat the area so the dog stays warm and comfortable when it’s cold and damp outside.
However, dog kennel lamps are most often used during the winter. The lamps are also helpful for dog breeds and puppies that are sensitive to the cold or dogs that are recovering from an illness.
What to Look for in a Dog Heat Lamp
When you’re searching for the right heat lamp, there are some essentials to consider. Let’s take a look!
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Ask a Vet Live NowAmount of Heat the Lamp Puts Off
The amount of heat a dog heat lamp puts off should be enough to keep a dog warm. Standard heat lamps use a 150-watt lamp to increase the heat in a dog kennel between 5F to 30F. The ideal heat lamp depends on where it will be installed and the other conditions in the kennel or dog house. A 100-watt lamp is usually enough to heat a 4 to 5 cubic foot space.
Safety Features to Consider
When searching for the right heat lamp for your fur baby, it’s best to find one that has the right safety features. The goal is to keep your dog warm, not buy a lamp that could hurt him. So, look for lamps that offer grid and auto-shutoff.
Grid is a feature that keeps your dog from coming into direct contact with the lamp. Auto shutoff features turn the lamp off once it’s reached the optimal temperature for the space.
In addition, if the lamp has a cord, be sure to mount the cord so your dog can’t roll on it or be touched by the dog. The same applies if the lamp is used in a dog house. The cord should be out of your dog’s reach. It’s also a good idea to test the lamp before using it in your dog’s house or kennel.
Cordless or Corded
Another feature to check is whether the lamp is cordless or has a cord. Some pet parents prefer lamps that are cordless for their dogs. These are usually safer. However, corded heat lamps for dogs are easier to install and you can find these more easily than cordless versions. And remember, if you choose a corded lamp, the cord must be placed where your dog can’t touch it or gain access to the cord (to chew it, and more).
It’s best to install heat lamps high to keep cords away from your fur baby. And the cords should be covered and protected. The last thing you want is for your dog to chew the cord. Covering the cord also protects it from the elements.
Anti-Chew Cord
Some heat lamps for dogs do come with an anti-chew cord. This may be the best choice if your dog has a tendency to chew on things. Anti-chew cords eliminate the electrical danger that can occur when dogs chew an electrical cord. However, all cords, including anti-chew cords, should be covered to keep your dog from chewing on them.
The Best Heat Lamps For Dogs
Now that you know what to look for in a heat lamp for dogs, we’re ready to share our list of the best heat lamps for dogs!
1. Fluker’s Deluxe Clamp Lamp
Fluker’s Deluxe Clamp Lamp is a great choice for a dog heat lamp. While the lamp can be used for lizards, it’s also beneficial for dogs. This lamp is rated up to 150 watts and also comes equipped with a dimmer, so you can control the amount of heat and light from the lamp.
The lamp has a circular design that can be helpful for warming up a good-sized space. However, the lamp should not be placed too close to your canine companion, otherwise, the lamp could burn him. The lamp fastens with a clamp and does have a cord. So, it’s essential to ensure the cord is placed where your fur baby can’t gain access to it.
In addition, the lamp should not come in contact with fabric or carpeting. And do not cover the lamp with carpet, blankets, or other materials.
This heat lamp is affordably priced and is a great option to keep your canine companion warm on cool nights.
2. Exo Terra Desert UVB Lamp
Next on our list of best heat lamps for dogs is the Exo Terra Desert UVB Lamp. This lamp is available in 13 or 26-watt bulbs. Not many pet parents realize their dogs also need UVB light, just like lizards. This kind of light can help your dog more easily absorb calcium and create plenty of Vitamin D.
While the Exo Terra lamp is designed for lizards, it’s also a beneficial heat lamp for dogs. The light can be even more helpful for puppies and senior dogs.
This lamp can be used to provide heat for dog beds and crates. However, it should be placed the correct distance away from the dog. And the dog should not be able to access the light or its power cord. What’s more, this bulb is safe to use 24 hours a day. And it’s affordably priced, making this one of the top lamps on our list!
3. Zoo Med Avian Sun Compact Fluorescent Lamp
The Zoo Med Avian Sun Compact Fluorescent Lamp is another great heat lamp that can be used for dogs. This is a full-spectrum lamp that’s been developed for birds. UVB can be a great option for dogs, too, and ensure they are able to absorb all the calcium their bodies need. The lamp also features UVA rays that are more like the light of the sun in the later afternoon, while UVB rays are similar to the stronger rays during the middle of the day.
This lamp provides the right mix of light to keep your dog healthy and warm. The 26-watt bulb keeps the space warm and mimics natural sunlight to use in dog crates and dog beds.
4. Woods 165 Brooder Lamp with Bulb Guard
The Woods clamp lamp is another great way to add heat to your dog’s crate or dog house. This lamp design makes it easy to secure the lamp and ensure it’s out of your fur baby’s reach. The lamp is also easy to move around in case it’s necessary to rearrange your dog’s space.
The lamp includes a 6-ft cord that also makes it easy to place the lamp right where it is needed. When the clamp is positioned, just aim the light to warm up your dog’s space.
One downside of this lamp, however, is that it should not be left on for long periods. The lamp also doesn’t have a non-emitting feature, which means the light stays bright at all times. This can make it difficult for dogs and puppies to have normal sleep.
5. Infrared Heat Lamp Basking Spot Light
This is an infrared heat lamp made especially for reptiles; however, it can also be used to keep a dog warm. The basking light keeps the dog warm and is easy to install. It screws easily into a standard E26 or E27 screw socket.
The bulb’s surface temperature is high when working, so it’s imperative to install the light where your dog can’t reach it. The lamp should also not be used continuously. In addition, the bulb should never come in contact with water as it will break.
6. Vivosun Infrared Ceramic Heat Lamp
The Vivosun Infrared Ceramic Heat Lamp is the last recommended heat lamp for dogs. This a light originally designed for reptiles; however, it can also be a good choice to use in certain areas to keep your dog more comfortable. We don’t recommend using this lamp in a doghouse or whelping area, however. The reason is that these lamps can become very hot, and there’s no way to keep them from becoming too warm for your fur baby.
The lamp is designed to work for 10,000 to 12,000 hours and is safe to use continuously (24 hours). What’s more, the lamp is not expensive and may make a good choice if you’re on a budget.
However, this lamp does not come with safety features like the other lamps on our list. So, if possible, you may want to choose one of the other lamps on the list that offers more safety features for your canine companion.
Summing It Up
So, there you have it! These are our choices for some of the best heat lamps for dogs. We hope you were able to find the right lamp to keep your dog warmer and more comfortable!
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Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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