The Dog House: A Unique Boat Experience

The term doghouse is used to refer to the aft-facing cabin on a boat. It is characterised by its partial openness to the elements, offering good visibility of the winch and tow, as well as protection from the weather. The doghouse is typically situated above the deck level and can vary in style, size, and location.

Doghouse vs. Pilot House

A doghouse and a pilot house are not the same things, although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably. The doghouse is the section of the cabin that rises above the deck level, and it is partially open to the elements. It may cover the inboard engine. The term doghouse is flexible and can refer to anything from a cockpit covering to a fully enclosed deckhouse.

On the other hand, a pilot house, or wheelhouse, has a helm station and the visibility required to safely navigate the boat. It is more challenging to cool a pilot house in warmer climates due to increased surface area and larger volume. Additionally, the presence of a pilot house may obstruct visibility from other parts of the boat and impact the aesthetics of the boat's design.

Some disadvantages of a pilot house include:

• More challenging to maintain a comfortable temperature, especially in warmer climates.
• Obstructed visibility from other parts of the boat.
• Reduced aesthetics due to the box-like appearance of the cabin.
• Smaller cockpit size.
• More complex steering systems with dual helm controls.

However, a pilot house offers several benefits, such as:

• The ability to pilot the boat from inside, providing protection from inclement weather.
• Excellent visibility due to large windows.
• Increased space below deck, making it suitable for liveaboards or extended cruising.
• Enhanced safety with dual helm stations.

Doghouse design and construction

The doghouse is a feature of a boat that is distinct from the pilot house or wheelhouse. It is an aft-facing cabin that rises above the deck level and is partially open to the elements, providing a space that covers the inboard engine. The doghouse is a flexible term, referring to a range of structures from a cockpit covering to a fully enclosed deckhouse.

When designing and constructing a doghouse, it is important to consider its functionality and how it fits within the overall design of the boat. The doghouse should ideally be offset to one side, allowing the captain or mate to see forward and up the side of the boat for navigation purposes. This also enables them to monitor crew activities, such as handling lines, and take immediate action if someone is in danger, such as getting caught in a winch line.

The size, style, and location of the doghouse can vary depending on the boat's requirements and the preferences of the builder. Some doghouses feature additional elements like roof-mounted spotlights, satellite TV antennas, or steel lattice glass protection.

In terms of construction, one example provided by a boat builder includes using fiberglass angle pieces and epoxy to attach the doghouse to the boat. This method was also used for roof supports, with fiberglass angles added to prevent a boxy appearance and create a more streamlined design.

The doghouse is a key feature of a boat, offering protection from the weather and providing good visibility of the winch, tow, and other important components. By considering the design and construction guidelines outlined above, builders can create a functional and aesthetically pleasing doghouse that meets their specific needs.

Doghouse location on a boat

The doghouse on a boat is the section of the cabin that rises above the deck level. It is usually located at the back of the boat, providing good visibility of the winch and tow, as well as protection from the elements. The doghouse is typically partially open to the weather, with some featuring a roof-mounted spotlight or AC.

On larger boats, the doghouse may be used as a location to display the boat's identification number. It is also known as the after control station when it is enclosed and the aft-facing cabin. The ideal placement for the doghouse is offset to one side, allowing the captain to see forward along the side of the boat and to monitor the crew handling the lines. This strategic positioning helps prevent accidents and ensures the safe navigation of the vessel.

In comparison to a pilot house or wheelhouse, the doghouse does not have helm controls. The pilot house, also known as the wheelhouse, has the visibility and controls necessary for navigating the boat. It is worth noting that the terminology may vary depending on the type of boat, such as sailboats or powerboats.

The doghouse is a versatile term, encompassing a range of structures from a cockpit covering to a fully enclosed deckhouse. The specific design and features of a doghouse can vary, with some having satellite TV antennas, spotlights, or AC units. The doghouse provides a protected space for the captain or crew to oversee operations and take shelter from inclement weather conditions.

The location of the doghouse on a boat is crucial for both functionality and safety. By being positioned at the back of the boat, it offers a clear view of the winch and tow operations while also allowing the captain to monitor the movement of the boat. The doghouse's elevation above the deck level enhances visibility and provides a strategic vantage point for navigation and oversight.

Doghouse visibility and navigation

The visibility and navigability of a boat's doghouse are crucial aspects of its design. The doghouse, also known as the after control station when exposed to the elements, is ideally positioned offset to one side to allow the captain or mate to see forward and up the side of the boat for navigation purposes. This positioning also enables them to monitor crew activities, such as handling lines, and quickly respond in case of any issues.

The doghouse is an aft-facing cabin that provides good visibility of the winch and tow, as well as protection from the weather and parted wire. It is important that the design of the doghouse does not obstruct the captain's view, as this could hinder navigation and pose safety risks. In some cases, the doghouse may be equipped with additional features such as a roof-mounted spotlight or satellite TV antennae.

The visibility offered by the doghouse is a key differentiator between it and a pilothouse or wheelhouse. While a pilothouse has the visibility required for safe navigation, the doghouse's position and design allow for a clear view of specific operations on the boat, such as winch and tow activities. This visibility is essential for the captain or mate to effectively oversee and respond to any situations that may arise during these operations.

The doghouse's design can vary in terms of size, style, and location. Some doghouses are partially open to the elements, while others are fully enclosed. The specific needs and requirements of the boat and its operations will dictate the optimal design and features of the doghouse.

Overall, the visibility and navigability of the doghouse are critical factors in its functionality and safety. The design and positioning of the doghouse play a crucial role in ensuring that the captain or mate has a clear view of the boat's operations and can effectively navigate and respond to any situations that may arise.

Doghouse protection from weather

A doghouse is a section of the cabin that rises above the deck level, and it is partially open to the elements. It is important to protect your dog from the weather by providing a safe and comfortable space for them to rest. Here are some tips to ensure your dog's house is weather-protected:

Location and Size:

Place the dog house in a safe, dry, and sheltered spot, away from direct sunlight, strong winds, and flooding. Ensure the dog house is elevated from the ground to prevent water from seeping through and allow air circulation. The size of the dog house should be relative to the size of the dog. It should be big enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, with enough insulation to prevent heat loss.

Materials:

Use durable, waterproof, and easy-to-work-with materials. Plywood, for example, is strong and sturdy but needs to be sealed with paint, stain, or varnish and covered with tar paper, shingles, or vinyl siding to make it waterproof. Tar paper is flexible and easy to apply, making it a good material for the roof and walls when covered with another layer of protection. Roofing shingles provide extra insulation and protection, and vinyl siding provides an extra layer of protection and insulation over plywood and tar paper.

Ventilation and Insulation:

Design the dog house with good ventilation and insulation. Cut an opening for the door that is 6 inches above the floor and wider than the dog to allow easy entry and exit and prevent water and snow from entering. Cut holes near the top of the back wall to allow warm air to escape and cool air to enter. A hole in the roof can also provide ventilation and natural light, but ensure it is covered to prevent water from entering. Add insulation to the floor, walls, and roof to keep the dog warm.

Additional Features:

Consider adding a heated mat or pad to provide extra warmth. Include a water bowl or dispenser for fresh water and a food bowl or dispenser. Ensure these are regularly refilled and cleaned.

Maintenance and Cleaning:

Regularly check the dog house for any signs of damage, cracks, holes, leaks, or mold, and repair or replace parts as needed. Clean the dog house by removing any dirt, debris, or waste and using a mild, non-toxic detergent and water to cleanse. Dry the dog house completely before putting back any bedding or toys. Repeat the cleaning process as needed, and consider using a dog house cover to protect from rain, snow, dust, and UV rays.

Frequently asked questions