Quote Originally Posted by CA Jack View Post
The reason why the dog lies on wood, is because it is softer than concrete or metal. A mat is a step in the right direction, but I don't think it really is a "soft spot" for the animal. (Would you like to sleep on your carpet or a welcome mat?)

I do agree straw would be too warm for summer, which is why I suggested cedar shavings instead. Fresh cedar shavings also repel fleas, ticks, flies, etc.
The dog on that set up kept sleeping on the wood in the entrance of the doghouse, he never went in to sleep on the mat. even when i put multiple on top of eachother. I think he didnt enter the "accual sleeping part" of his doghouse for a month since i removed the straw. So i decided to put back the straw in today, if it will be warm soon he can lay in the entrance and outside anyway. Guess what, within an hour he disappeared to sleep inside the house Regret i removed it now.