A wire crate does its job, but it rarely looks good in a living room. A furniture style dog crate gives your dog the same safe, den-like space while working as an end table, nightstand or console. The catch is that it has to fit two things at once: your dog and your room. This guide walks through how to get both right.
Why choose a furniture-style dog crate?
Most dogs settle better when they have a small, enclosed spot that is theirs. A crate gives them that, and it also helps with house training, keeps a young dog out of trouble when you are out, and gives an older dog a quiet place to rest.
The trouble is that a standard wire crate takes up floor space and does nothing else. A furniture-style crate earns its spot: the top holds a lamp, books or a plant, and the cabinet blends in with the rest of your furniture. Because it looks like it belongs, you are more likely to keep it in the room where your family spends time, which is where most dogs want to be.
Start with your dog's size, not the room
It is tempting to pick the crate that matches your sofa, but size comes first. A crate that is too small is uncomfortable, and one that is far too big can feel less secure to some dogs.
Measure your dog before you shop:
- Length: from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, while standing.
- Height: from the floor to the top of the head (or the tips of the ears if they stand up), while sitting.
Add roughly 2 to 4 inches to each number. That gives you the minimum interior space you want. Your dog should be able to stand without ducking, turn around easily and lie down fully stretched out.
Always compare your measurements to the interior dimensions, not the exterior ones. Wood panels, frames and drawers take up space, so a crate that looks large from the outside can be several inches smaller inside. Also check the weight range the maker lists for each model. Weight alone is not enough, since a long, lean dog and a short, stocky dog of the same weight need different shapes, but it is a useful second check.
If you have a puppy, size for the adult dog. You can block off part of the interior with a divider or a firm cushion until your puppy grows into it.
Measure the spot where it will go
Once you know the interior size you need, look at the room. Measure the width, depth and height of the space, and leave a few inches around the crate for air flow and for cleaning. Then check:
- Door swing: Make sure the door can open fully without hitting a wall, sofa or vent. A crate with a side door gives you more placement options.
- Height next to other furniture: If the crate will double as an end table, a top that sits close to the height of your sofa arm looks more natural and is easier to use.
- Light and temperature: Keep it away from heating vents, radiators and spots that get strong afternoon sun.
- Traffic: A spot near the family but out of the main walkway lets your dog watch what is going on without being stepped around all day.
Corners are often wasted space, which makes them a good fit. A corner crate such as our Corner Dog Crate Furniture with Fluted Drawer, designed for medium dogs of about 26 to 40 lbs, sits flush against two walls and adds a drawer for leashes, treats or grooming supplies.
Materials: wood, MDF, metal and wire
Furniture-style crates usually combine a wood or wood-based cabinet with metal bars or wire panels. Each material has trade-offs:
- Solid wood feels sturdy and looks warm, but it can show scratches and needs a little care.
- MDF and particle board take paint and finishes well and keep the price reasonable. They do not like standing water, so wipe up spills quickly.
- Wrought iron or steel bars are strong and give good visibility, which helps if your dog likes to see you.
- Iron wire panels allow plenty of air flow while still feeling like part of a piece of furniture.
For a dog that chews or tests the door, focus on metal bars and a solid latch rather than the look of the panels. For a calm adult dog, the finish matters more, and you can choose by style.
Features worth paying attention to
- Secure latch: Look for a metal latch that closes firmly. Test it a few times after assembly.
- Top load capacity: If you plan to use the top as a table, check how much weight it is rated for. Ratings vary a lot between models.
- Locking wheels: Casters make cleaning and moving much easier. Lockable ones keep the crate from rolling when your dog shifts inside.
- Ventilation and visibility: Open bars or wire on at least two sides keep air moving and let your dog see out.
- Storage: A built-in drawer or shelf keeps dog gear in one place.
For larger medium dogs, our Furniture-Style Dog Crate with Wrought Iron Door has front and side doors, 360° wheels with two locking casters and an interior of about 35.8 by 21.7 by 23.2 inches, made for dogs up to 70 lbs. If you prefer a warmer wood look, the Furniture-Style Dog Crate End Table – 39 Inch pairs a solid wood frame in a sorrel finish with iron wire panels and locking casters, with a 35-inch interior length.
Making the crate comfortable
A good crate is only half the setup. Add a bed or cushion that fits the floor of the crate without bunching up, so your dog can lie flat. A bed with a removable, washable cover is the easiest to keep fresh. Browse our Luxury Dog & Cat Beds for options, and measure the interior floor before you order.
A few habits help your dog accept the crate:
- Leave the door open at first and let your dog explore on their own.
- Feed meals or give a chew inside the crate so it becomes a good place.
- Start with short periods with the door closed while you are home, then build up.
- Never use the crate as punishment.
Quick checklist before you buy
- Your dog's length and height, plus 2 to 4 inches each
- Interior dimensions and weight range of the crate
- Exterior size compared with the spot in your room
- Door position and swing
- Latch, wheels and top load rating
- A bed that fits the interior floor
Get the size right first, then choose the finish you will be happy to look at every day. You can compare all of our current models in the Furniture-Style Dog Crates collection.
Every order from Better Pet Club ships free anywhere in the United States.