A reader recently asked for help making a dog crate blend with home décor, so we gathered a few clever solutions — a DIY idea we tried ourselves and a selection of attractive ready-made crates we found online.
First, our own small-space solution: we tucked our pup’s crate inside an unused guest-room closet. The door stays open when Hamburger is lounging, and closes only when we have guests. It’s a simple way to hide the crate without sacrificing the dog’s comfort or access.
For homes without a spare closet or for larger crates, consider a skirted crate that doubles as a side table. Fabric slipcovers are readily available, but this is also an approachable DIY project. Choose a fabric that coordinates with your living room, bedroom, or wherever the crate lives, and sew or attach a skirt that hides the crate frame while leaving an entry flap or open side for your dog.
If sewing isn’t your thing, a tailor can easily customize a cover to fit. Add a matching pillow inside the crate for a polished look. To create useful surface space, top the crate with a stained or painted piece of plywood cut to size; this transforms the crate into a functional side table for a lamp or decorative items while disguising the pet furniture. You can design the fabric with a discreet entry flap or leave one side partially open so the crate looks like a cohesive piece of furniture rather than a pet enclosure.
For people who prefer buying finished pieces, there are many stylish crates that look like furniture rather than utility items. They can be more expensive than basic metal crates, but they offer long-term value: a thoughtfully designed crate can remain part of your décor for years. Consider the cost relative to repeatedly trying to mask an unattractive plastic or metal crate when planning a long-term solution.
Whether you make a custom cover, repurpose a closet, or invest in a furniture-style crate, there are plenty of options to help your dog’s space complement your home. We hope these ideas inspire a few pooch-friendly upgrades. If you try one, we’d love to see before-and-after photos — especially with your dog posing in the new setup.