Dog Crate Ideas

There is no reason that a dog crate should look like a dog crate or kennel. Not when there is this fantastic collection of decorative dog crates and kennels available. You love your dog and you want them to be safe but you do not want them to feel like they are in jail. Show your dog some kindness and give them a decorative dog crate.

Dog Crate Ideas

Buying Guide

Peyton Robinson Interior Design Expert

Peyton is a New York–based interior designer with an extensive background in creating pet-friendly homes that still look refined and cohesive. Drawing on many years of residential and commercial work, she integrates feeding stations, crate furniture, and other practical pieces seamlessly into carefully planned rooms so readers can keep animals comfortable without sacrificing a calm, stylish home.

With so many decorative dog crate and kennel choices, it is not always quick and easy to determine the best-suited product to little Fido’s needs. Lots of factors require consideration as they’ll influence you and the dog’s satisfaction of the crate or kennel like your aesthetic requirements, the dog’s breed, the crate’s intended use, and, of course, the price.

With that in mind, we’ve compiled all tips and essential info we believe will aid you in making an informed purchasing decision. Check them out below!

What size dog crate should you get?

Each dog breed has a chart for crate/kennel size recommendations. Look up the chart that’s applicable for your dog. Remember that charts contain general guidelines that are based on the adult sizes of dogs. As a general rule, the pet has to have enough room for it to move around its enclosure comfortably. Also, the crate must be 6 inches longer than its body length, as well as 6 inches higher than the adult dog’s shoulder height.

If you will be crate training a puppy, it’s recommended that you get a crate that’s appropriate for its adult size and strength. As it’s still small, get a divider panel so it doesn’t soil or feel unsafe inside its massive crate. There are decorative dog crates and kennels that come with divider panels. If your chosen crate doesn't come with such, you can purchase the panels separately.

How durable are different types of dog crates?

Light-duty wire dog crates and kennels are great for crate-training new puppies. If your dog is crate-trained and it’s well-behaved, then you can opt for a light duty wire crate as well. A decorative light-duty wire kennel is made of a lighter gauge wire with wide spacing in between the wires. This is the reason why the product is lightweight and more economical.

As you shop, you’ll also find medium-duty decorative dog crates and kennels, which are appropriate for puppies and adult dogs with mild or average temperament. Unlike light-duty products, medium-duty crates contain heavier gauge wire with a closer spacing in between the wires. Medium-duty is the best-selling strength as it offers a wide range of door options and finishes. The cost varies from one product to another as well.

As for the strongest, which is the heavy-duty type, it’s appropriate for an adult dog that’s never been trained to use a crate. It's also best for aggressive or active breeds. Unlike the medium-duty type, a heavy-duty decorative crate or kennel contains a large quantity of heavy gauge wire with the closest spacing in between the heavy-duty wires. Professional dog handlers and breeders’ most common choice is this type as it’s sturdy, strong, and durable. You'll also have lots of options in terms of the crate’s finish, door, and price.

How to decorate with dog crates?

Getting a crate or kennel that offers decorative value is a priority to some. Wire finish choices that are common for decorative dog crates include white, black, gold, and chrome. You'll also have the option of getting a crate that’s made of beautiful wood. This type of decorative dog crate offers several purposes: a dog crate and a side table for your living room; it’s sure to complement every interior décor.