Your golden retriever’s wire crate sits in your living room like an eyesore, clashing with every Pinterest board you’ve saved. You love Max, but that bulky metal cage doesn’t belong in your carefully styled home.
You’ve seen those gorgeous DIY dog crate furniture ideas online, but building from scratch feels overwhelming. Maybe you’ve tried simple fixes—a blanket thrown over the top—but it still screams “kennel” instead of “home décor.”
Here’s the thing: your dog’s crate doesn’t have to be ugly. These 16 dog crate ideas transform that metal box into something you’ll actually want to show off. From simple toppers that take 30 minutes to elegant furniture pieces, you’ll find options for every skill level and budget.
Whether you’re starting with a basic wire crate or ready to tackle a full DIY project, your dog gets a cozy den while your living room stays Instagram-ready. No more choosing between your pup’s comfort and your home’s style.
#1: Modern Farmhouse Dog Crate Console (Double-Door Design, Matches Your Living Room Furniture)
Your dog needs a crate for training, but you don’t want a metal cage ruining your carefully styled living room. This custom console crate solves both problems—it’s a real piece of furniture that happens to house your dog.
The design features a white shiplap-style cabinet body measuring approximately 42 inches wide by 30 inches tall, topped with a gorgeous stained wood surface. The left side has a hinged door with vertical metal bars painted white, giving your dog ventilation and visibility. The right side stays completely open for easy access. A warm wood-toned cushion inside makes it cozy enough that your dog will actually want to go in there. Place it under your window, against any wall, or use the top surface as an end table.
It blends seamlessly with modern farmhouse décor SO YOU CAN keep your home looking intentional and magazine-worthy WHICH MEANS guests won’t even notice it’s a dog crate until they see your pup relaxing inside. The sturdy wooden top holds lamps, books, or your coffee mug—it’s as functional as any console table you’d buy from a furniture store. If you’re exploring ways to make crates work with your décor, check out these 7 Stylish Dog Crate Furniture Ideas for Your Home for more inspiration.
Start by measuring your dog standing up and add 4 inches to ensure comfortable headroom—this design works best for medium to large breeds up to 70 pounds.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @allamericanreclaim
#2: Farmhouse Furniture Crate with Festive Garland Frame (Custom Wood Cabinet, Living Room Integration)
Your guests won’t know Emma’s cozy hideaway is a dog crate—they’ll think it’s a charming farmhouse accent piece. This custom wooden crate measures approximately 36 inches wide with vertical slat panels that allow airflow while maintaining that shiplap aesthetic you’d find on any HGTV show.
The natural wood cabinet features a bone-shaped chalkboard sign mounted above (perfect for personalizing with your dog’s name) and doubles as a functional entry to what looks like a decorative hutch. The vertical slat door opens wide enough for easy access, while the enclosed sides create that den-like atmosphere dogs instinctively seek. It blends so seamlessly with living room furniture that you can style the garland across the top for holidays without it screaming “pet supplies.”
Here’s what makes this work: the enclosed design provides privacy SO YOU CAN reduce your anxious dog’s stress levels WHICH MEANS fewer separation anxiety incidents when you leave for work. The furniture-grade construction sits at standard end table height, giving you usable surface space for lamps or photo frames. If you’re planning other dog-friendly home upgrades, this crate style coordinates beautifully. Consider this a dual-purpose win for anyone who refuses to sacrifice home aesthetics for pet functionality—and it makes an impressive item on any gift list for dog lovers with design taste.
Pro tip: Add a removable cushion inside that matches your throw pillow fabric, so the interior styling coordinates when the door’s open.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @ladyemmaofashburn
#3: Double Dog Crate Console Table (Farmhouse-Style Multi-Pet Command Center)
Your sister-in-law visited for three hours before noticing the console table against your wall actually housed two sleeping dogs. That’s exactly what happens when you build a furniture-style double crate that looks like custom living room cabinetry instead of pet containment.
This dual-crate system measures 48 inches wide by 24 inches deep by 30 inches tall. Each wire crate compartment inside gives your dog 24 inches of personal space—enough room to stand, turn around, and stretch out completely. The white wood frame features decorative X-panel doors that match farmhouse cabinet styles throughout your home. The top surface functions as a legitimate console table where you can display photo frames, fresh tulips, and decorative objects without anyone suspecting dogs rest underneath.
It works because each dog gets their own defined territory, which means less tension during meal times or when guests arrive. You can style the top surface with home décor SO YOU CAN blend pet furniture seamlessly into your aesthetic WHICH MEANS you stop hiding or apologizing for visible dog gear. The wire crate inserts slide out for cleaning in under two minutes. Much like creating designated spaces in your backyard for different activities, separate crates establish boundaries that reduce conflict between multiple dogs.
Pro tip: Add a removable fabric divider curtain between the two crate openings so anxious dogs can’t stare at each other, reducing territorial behavior by 80% during adjustment periods.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @palmesecontracting
#4: Modern White Shiplap Crate Suite (Built-In Boarding Kennel Style, Guest-Proof Design)
Your guests complimented your “beautiful built-in storage” three times before realizing your two dogs were napping inside. This custom shiplap kennel design transforms basic 36-inch wire crates into permanent room fixtures that blend seamlessly with modern farmhouse or coastal decor.
Each crate measures 36″L x 24″W x 27″H—perfectly sized for medium breeds like Border Collies or Cocker Spaniels. The white shiplap exterior features metal gate doors with secure latches, while open wire tops provide ventilation from above. Glass panel dividers separate each unit SO YOU CAN house multiple dogs without tension WHICH MEANS peaceful coexistence even between dogs who resource-guard.
The built-in shelf above displays framed photos and decorative items, making the entire setup look intentional rather than utilitarian. You’ll find yourself styling the top surface just like any console table. If you’re planning your kennel zones while choosing names for new puppies, check out Dog Name Ideas: The Ultimate Guide to Naming Your Pup or browse +55 Best Boy Dog Names – Unique, Classic & Trending Ideas for inspiration that matches your aesthetic vision.
Pro tip: Install this against a blank wall in your mudroom or laundry area where it reads as custom cabinetry rather than dog furniture—your home’s resale value actually benefits from the built-in appearance.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @worldwide_veterinarian
#5: Under-Counter Double Crate With Custom Cabinetry (Built-In Kitchen Design, Completely Hidden From View)
Your guests will never know two large dogs live in your bright white kitchen. These custom-built crates sit perfectly under the countertop between floor cabinets, with black metal doors that match the window frames. The wire construction keeps both dogs visible and ventilated while you’re cooking dinner 3 feet away.
Each crate measures approximately 36 inches wide by 30 inches deep—perfect for medium to large breeds who need their own territory. The dark charcoal countertop creates a functional prep surface above so you can fold laundry or stack groceries without wasting space. White folded towels sit on top like any other kitchen counter, completely disguising the purpose below.
This setup keeps your dogs safe during meal prep so you can chop onions without worrying about sneaky paws. It creates designated rest zones which means less sibling rivalry and more peaceful afternoons. Your kitchen maintains its magazine-worthy aesthetic which means you’ll never scramble to hide crates before company arrives. Just like choosing aesthetic dog names reflects your style, this built-in design proves pet ownership doesn’t require ugly compromises.
The natural light from the window above prevents that dungeon feeling some crates create. Both dogs settle in voluntarily at 2pm for afternoon naps—they’ve claimed these spots as their furniture.
Pro tip: Add weathered gray cushions inside each crate that coordinate with your countertop color for a cohesive look that feels intentional, not improvised.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @ashleigh_james_interiors
#6: Clear Acrylic Panel Crate Divider (Modern Visibility, Zero Visual Clutter)
Your white pup presses her nose against the transparent panel every morning, watching you make coffee. She’s contained but connected—no bars blocking her view, no fabric hiding her face. This clear acrylic divider system transforms a standard wooden crate frame into something that feels less like a cage and more like a thoughtfully designed piece of home architecture.
The geometric cutout pattern provides ventilation through every hexagonal opening while maintaining structural integrity. Each panel slides into the wooden frame grooves, creating a 36-inch crate that holds a medium-sized dog comfortably. The yellow towel at the bottom pulls out through the front opening for weekly washing. You’ll notice the wood grain finish matches mid-century modern furniture—walnut stain coordinates with existing pieces so your crate doesn’t scream “dog gear.” It functions as a room divider between your entryway and living space, measuring roughly 38 inches tall.
Here’s what makes this design brilliant: transparent walls let anxious dogs observe household activity so you can reduce separation stress, which means she stays calm when you’re cooking dinner ten feet away. The geometric panels filter her view without complete exposure—partial privacy when she needs rest. Similar to how cute dog accessories enhance daily life, this crate upgrade serves dual aesthetic and functional purposes.
Style the top surface with a small plant and books. Guests think it’s decorative storage, not a dog crate, until they spot the sleeping pup inside.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @fablepets
#7: Rustic Workshop Dog Crate (Industrial Metal Bars, Workshop-Chic Aesthetic)
Your garage workshop doesn’t need to look like a pet store exploded. This custom-built crate features natural wood framing with dark metal vertical bars that match your tool chest’s industrial vibe. The 36x24x30-inch structure sits on a workbench, perfectly sized for a medium breed like a Beagle or Cocker Spaniel.
The reclaimed lumber frame gives it that authentic workshop character you’ve already got going. Dark metal bars provide visibility and airflow from three sides so your dog can watch you work without getting underfoot near power tools. The slatted bar design prevents escape attempts while letting air circulate freely—critical when you’re running a table saw and can’t constantly check on them.
It blends with your existing workshop decor so you can keep your dog nearby during projects, which means no more whining from inside the house or scratching at the door. You’ll find more ways to integrate your pup’s needs with your space at Cute Dog Stuff Ideas: Adorable Must-Haves for Your Pup. The open bar construction makes cleaning simple—just pull out the mat and wipe down wooden surfaces with a damp cloth every Saturday.
Pro tip: Stain the wood with the same finish you’ve used on your workbench to create a cohesive look that doesn’t scream “temporary dog solution.”
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @kencofurniture
#8: Built-In Mudroom Dog Crate (Cabinet-Style Design Guests Mistake for Actual Furniture)
Your guests walked past Sadie’s crate twelve times before asking, “Wait, your dog lives in there?” This built-in mudroom crate looks exactly like your gray shaker-style cabinets because it’s constructed with matching materials. The 36-inch wide unit sits underneath a wall cabinet, with wire mesh doors that provide ventilation while maintaining the clean-lined aesthetic.
The construction uses shaker-panel doors on a wooden frame surrounding a standard wire crate insert. Gray painted finish matches surrounding cabinetry perfectly. Wire mesh sections replace solid panels on the lower doors so you can check on your pup without opening anything. Above the crate, a shallow drawer stores leashes, poop bags, and training treats within arm’s reach of the door.
It creates a den-like space your dog naturally seeks SO YOU CAN eliminate the eyesore of a basic wire cage WHICH MEANS your entryway looks intentionally designed, not like a pet store exploded. The elevated position (8 inches off the floor) keeps your dog away from cold drafts and muddy boots. Much like coordinating your dog’s grooming with your home style using creative teddy bear haircuts, this design proves pet care doesn’t require sacrificing aesthetics.
Measure your wire crate first (length, width, height), then build the cabinet frame 2 inches larger in each dimension. Paint or stain before installing mesh panels. Your dog gets a cozy retreat, you get functional mudroom storage, and visitors see seamless design integration.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @marcicarlsonhomes
#9: Wire Crate-to-Farmhouse End Table Transformation (Striped Bedding Insert, Display-Ready Top)
Your guests lean their drinks against the black-framed end table all evening. Nobody realizes Luna’s curled up inside until she pokes her head through the wire door at 10pm. That’s the magic of covering a basic wire crate with a coordinated setup that looks intentional.
This design uses a standard 36-inch wire crate with a striped cushion insert and a black serving tray on top. The gold-and-white striped bedding creates a cozy den feel inside while the tray holds your coffee, books, and a “HUGS” canister. Total cost: around $85 for the crate, $22 for a washable striped mat, and $15 for a decorative tray. You’ll assemble it in 10 minutes flat.
It transforms basic wire into farmhouse chic SO YOU CAN keep your dog close without sacrificing your living room aesthetic WHICH MEANS you don’t hide the crate in the basement where your anxious pup feels isolated. The open wire provides airflow from three sides while the coordinated bedding makes it look curated, not chaotic. For more personalized touches, check out Dog Custom Ideas: Unique and Personalized Items for Your Pup.
Place the tray off-center so you can access the crate door quickly. Swap the cushion for one that complements your pillows—farmhouse stripes, neutral linen, or geometric patterns all work. If you’re feeling crafty, explore 10 Creative DIY Dog Bed Ideas for Your Furry Friend to create a custom insert that fits perfectly inside.
Pro tip: Add a small potted faux plant to the tray’s back corner. It draws the eye upward and makes the whole setup look deliberately styled, not just functional.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @platinumleash
#10: Farmhouse Dog Crate End Table (Wooden Top Meets Wire Cage, Doubles Your Furniture)
Your guests set their drinks on it without realizing your dog’s napping inside. This farmhouse-style dog crate transforms a basic 36-inch wire cage into functional furniture with a rustic wooden top. The white painted name “HAAS” adds personalized charm that makes it feel like custom-built decor, not pet gear.
The wooden platform measures approximately 38×26 inches, creating a stable side table surface for lamps, books, or your morning coffee. It sits on a standard wire crate (around $45 from Amazon Basics), with the wooden topper costing $30-50 in materials if you DIY, or $120-200 pre-made from Etsy sellers. The natural wood grain finish with beveled edges matches modern farmhouse aesthetics—think shiplap walls and barn doors. It blends so seamlessly that you’ll forget it’s even a dog crate. This dual-purpose design saves floor space SO YOU CAN eliminate dedicated “dog areas” WHICH MEANS your home looks cohesive instead of cluttered with pet supplies.
The wire cage beneath provides three-sided ventilation while the wooden top blocks drafts from above. Your dog gets proper airflow and visibility, you get a functional end table. The design works perfectly in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices where your dog stays close during work-from-home days. Pair it with a comfortable pallet dog bed inside for ultimate coziness.
Pro tip: Seal the wood with polyurethane so you can wipe off paw prints and drool marks without damaging the finish—it’ll look showroom-ready for years.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @stumpscustomwood
#11: Black Farmhouse Credenza Crate (Slatted Doors Hide Your Dog’s Den in Plain Sight)
Your guests won’t even realize it’s a dog crate. This 48-inch black credenza features vertical slat doors across the front and sides, with a rich walnut-brown top surface styled with photo frames, candles, and a decorative plant. The entire piece sits along your living room wall like intentional furniture, not a bulky wire cage.
The slatted design provides three-sided ventilation through narrow gaps between each vertical board, so your dog gets constant airflow while feeling safely enclosed. The double-door front opens to reveal a spacious interior that fits a large dog bed—around 42 inches wide by 28 inches deep. You can stack decorative items on top (that lamp weighs 8 pounds with zero wobbling), add framed photos, or use it as a bar cart surface during parties. The dark finish matches modern farmhouse or industrial decor without screaming “pet furniture.”
It creates a den-like atmosphere dogs naturally crave, so you can skip the anxious whining at bedtime, which means everyone sleeps better. The enclosed sides block visual stimulation from three directions, which means your reactive dog stays calmer when company visits. For more ideas on creating cozy dog spaces that blend with your home, check out these 11 Creative Dog Nook Ideas for Your Furry Friend. If you’re also planning outdoor containment, these 17 Creative DIY Dog Run Ideas for Your Furry Friend offer perfect solutions.
Pro tip: Add a removable washable cushion inside (measure interior first—you’ll need approximately 40×26 inches) and toss a decorative throw blanket over one corner for that lived-in furniture look.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @exquisiteitemsmall
#12: Double-Door Farmhouse Bar Cabinet Crate (Built-In Storage, Hotel-Worthy Styling)
Your guests have complimented this piece six times already—and none of them realized it’s a dog crate. This white shiplap cabinet with dark countertop measures approximately 48 inches long by 24 inches deep by 36 inches high. It features vertical slat doors on both sides so your dog can enter from either direction.
The genius lies in what you can’t see. Metal vertical bars create secure ventilation while blocking escape attempts. Your dog gets airflow from three sides but feels protected by the enclosed back wall. The dark wood top functions as a proper serving station—those silver pitchers, vases, and utensil holders aren’t just decoration. They’re proof this piece works as furniture first, crate second.
Notice the round porthole mirror mounted on the wall? It draws your eye up and away from the crate’s true purpose. The mint-green walls provide the perfect backdrop. This setup works because you’re integrating containment into your entertaining space SO YOU CAN host dinner parties without moving your dog WHICH MEANS less stress and more freedom to enjoy your home. If you’re planning outdoor containment too, check out these 18 Creative DIY Dog Fence Ideas for Your Yard for seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.
Place a washable cushion inside that matches your kitchen textiles. Add a latch hook on each door (mounted 4 inches from top) that your dog can’t reach from inside. Style the top with fresh flowers weekly—it reinforces that this is premium furniture, not temporary pet gear.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @platinumleash
#13: Geometric Plant Stand Dog Crate (Modern Minimalist Design That Doubles as Living Room Décor)
Your guests won’t believe there’s a dog crate underneath those succulents. This design transforms a basic wire crate into a stunning plant display table with a hand-painted geometric pattern on the wooden topper—it looks like a $300 West Elm console piece.
Build it by placing a 36-inch wire crate in your living room corner and topping it with a 1-inch thick pine board (roughly $18 at Home Depot). Paint bold black chevron or triangle patterns across the surface using painter’s tape for clean lines. The wire crate provides three-sided ventilation so your dog stays comfortable, while the decorative top completely transforms the look. Add textured pots with low-maintenance plants like cacti or snake plants—they need minimal watering so you’re not constantly moving everything around.
This setup gives your dog a cozy den and gives you 24×36 inches of functional display space. Your decor-loving friends see intentional design, not pet furniture. If you’re looking for more ways to blend pet spaces into your home design, check out these 12 Creative Ideas for Designing a Dog Run in Your Side Yard or explore 12 Creative Outdoor Dog Kennel Ideas for Your Furry Friend for outdoor inspiration.
Pro tip: Use a removable washable crate pad inside so you can maintain the styled look on top while keeping the interior fresh—slide it out for weekly cleaning without disturbing your carefully arranged plant display.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @platinumleash
#14: Modern Farmhouse Double-Door Cabinet Crate (Seamless Living Room Integration, Zero Visual Clutter)
Your German Shepherd walks into his crate every evening at 8pm without being asked—because it looks and feels like actual furniture, not a prison. This charcoal gray cabinet-style crate measures approximately 42 inches wide by 30 inches deep, featuring vertical slatted doors on dual sides for ventilation and a sturdy flat top that functions as an end table. The matte black hardware and painted wood finish blend with farmhouse decor so seamlessly that guests often mistake it for a console cabinet.
The dual-door design lets you access your dog from either side, which means you can position it against walls or in corners without blocking entry. Vertical slats provide airflow from multiple angles while creating that den-like atmosphere dogs instinctively seek. It transforms basic crate training into premium furniture placement, so you can style the top with decorative items exactly like you would any side table. Similar concepts work beautifully in dedicated spaces—check out these 13 Inspirational Dog Mud Room Ideas for Pet Owners for coordinated entryway solutions.
The solid construction prevents escape artists from pushing through flimsy wire, which means anxious dogs feel secure and you avoid middle-of-the-night breakouts. One owner reported her reactive rescue stopped barking during doorbell rings once she felt safely enclosed in her “furniture cave.” If you’re managing multiple dogs in larger facilities, these principles scale up—explore 12 Must Have Dog Boarding Facility Ideas to Elevate Pet Care for commercial applications.
Style the top surface intentionally: Add a textured vase, small succulent planter, and decorative object to complete the illusion that this is just another piece of furniture, not dog equipment taking over your living room.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @dogandcrate
#15: Wooden Dog House Crate with Personalized Sign (Built-In Furniture Style That Fooled Every Single Houseguest)
Your guests walked past Amadeus’s crate eight times before someone finally noticed the fluffy white dog inside. That’s because this wooden dog house crate looks exactly like a charming play structure or decorative furniture piece—not a kennel.
The design features natural wood construction in a warm honey tone, complete with a peaked roof and decorative slat details that mimic real house siding. A personalized bone-shaped sign reading “Amadeus” hangs above the entrance. Inside, there’s room for a 36-inch crate with cozy bedding, rainbow blanket, and favorite toys. The front door cutout provides easy access while slatted sides offer excellent ventilation from three angles.
This approach works because it creates designated dog space without sacrificing your home’s aesthetic. Place it in a living room corner or bedroom nook where you’d put any other furniture piece. The 48-inch footprint houses medium to large dogs comfortably while the sturdy wooden top surface holds books, plants, or decorative items. For more ways to blend pet zones seamlessly into your rooms, check out 12 Dog Spaces in House Design Ideas You’ll Want to Steal!.
The house shape creates den-like appeal dogs instinctively seek, which means your pup walks in voluntarily at bedtime instead of resisting crate time. If you need coordinating solutions for other areas, explore 11 Genius Dog Barrier Ideas Every Pet Owner Needs to Try!.
Style the roof peak with fairy lights for a magical touch that doubles as a calming nightlight during anxiety-prone evenings.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @adventuresofamadeus
#16: Wire Crate with Wooden Table Topper & Fabric Skirt (Coastal-Chic Living Room Blend)
You glance at your living room, and the dog crate looks like a stylish side table you’d find at West Elm—not a kennel. This setup transforms a basic 36-inch wire crate with a wooden platform top (approximately 30 x 22 inches) and a blue-and-white ikat fabric skirt. Your medium-sized dog gets a proper den while you gain functional surface space for books, vases, and air plants.
The wooden topper sits flush on the wire crate frame, creating a stable display surface that holds decorative items without wobbling. The fabric cover (machine-washable cotton) drapes around three sides, leaving the front door accessible while hiding the wire structure. Blue striped patterns coordinate with your throw pillows and wall art—it blends so seamlessly that guests mistake it for intentional furniture. You can style the top like any end table, which means no scrambling to hide the crate when company arrives.
Your dog walks inside voluntarily around 8pm each night because the enclosed sides feel safe and den-like. The fabric skirt blocks visual stimulation from three sides, which reduces anxiety barking when delivery drivers approach. Training took 4 days instead of weeks because she immediately recognized her cozy retreat. For more ideas on creating pet-friendly spaces throughout your home, check out these 15 Gorgeous Dog Grooming Salon Ideas for the Ultimate Pet Spa Vibe. If you’re expanding your family, consider these 17 Creative Pregnancy Announcement Ideas with Your Dog to include your pup in the big reveal.
Pro tip: Measure your wire crate dimensions before ordering a wooden topper—add 2 inches to length and width so it overhangs slightly, creating the illusion of custom furniture rather than an obvious crate cover.
📸 Photo credit: Instagram @dailypaws
Make Your Dog’s Space Instagram-Worthy
You’ve got 16 stylish crate ideas ready to transform your space. Pick your favorite and start planning this weekend.
Want more design inspiration? Check out these 21 Creative DIY Dog House Ideas for Your Dog Friend for outdoor spaces. Browse 11 Creative Dog Bed Ideas Your Pup Will Love for cozy sleeping spots. Or explore 14 Creative DIY Elevated Dog Bed Ideas You’ll Love for elevated comfort.
Your home doesn’t need to look like a pet store. Pin your top three favorites so you’ll remember them when you’re ready to build.
Which dog crate idea matches your home’s vibe?
Hi, I’m Ali Tarek, the founder of Animalsman. I’ve always been passionate about pets, especially dogs and cats, and I created this website to share practical tips, easy recipes, and helpful care advice for fellow pet lovers. My goal is to make pet care simple, enjoyable, and accessible for everyone. When I’m not writing or curating content, you’ll usually find me spending time with my furry friends or learning new ways to keep them happy and healthy.
