Hearing of this new sports-related product - the Helmutt House - one can't help but think of the old Reese's Peanut Butter Cup advertising campaign about two great things being joined together.

Sure, this isn't peanut butter and chocolate, but your dog and your favorite college football team can't be far behind, right? Well, that's where Helmutt Houses come into play. They are a new line of doghouses shaped like authentic sports team helmets. As the manufacturer says, they are designed for the fan's best friend.

With more than 43 million U.S. households owning at least one dog, you can imagine where the makers of Helmutt Houses see greener pastures. And at $399.95 (plus shipping), those pastures could be stacked with a lot of green.

"They are a perfect addition to any man cave," says Lana Kentner, the chief financial officer at Fan's Best Friend. "Yet they are tough and durable enough to provide protection from the elements outside."

And this from the company's news release: "There is a Helmutt House suitable for every pooch and his or her owner. Helmutt Houses come in a standard size for dogs up to 25 inches tall and will be available soon for larger dogs up to 31 inches tall. Helmutt Houses ship from the factory directly to fans in four to six easy-to-assemble parts. There is a front face plate that can be added for cold-weather climates."

Colleges that are among the initial Helmutt House offerings include UCLA, USC, Missouri, Missouri State, Georgia, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Arizona State, Texas A&M, Mississippi State and, yes, Iowa and Iowa State. Additional team Helmutt Houses will be available in the coming months, among them Michigan State, Indiana and Tennessee.

You can check them out at www.helmutthouse.com.