A furniture-style dog crate can provide a dedicated space for your dog while fitting into a living room or bedroom. Before choosing one for its appearance, make sure its dimensions, ventilation, access and construction suit your dog.

Measure your dog and the crate

Measure your dog while standing and lying down. Compare those measurements with the crate's interior dimensions, allowing room to stand naturally, turn around and rest comfortably. Exterior dimensions matter too, especially when placing a furniture-style crate beside a sofa or bed.

What to check in furniture-style dog crates

• Ventilation: Review the opening and panel design. Avoid blocking airflow when placing the crate near furniture or walls.
• Doors and latches: Check how the door opens, whether it can be accessed easily and whether the closure is appropriate for your dog.
• Materials: Review the manufacturer's construction details and cleaning instructions, particularly if your dog chews or scratches.
• Placement: Choose a stable location away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Follow any manufacturer instructions about weight limits for the top surface.
• Cleaning: Look for accessible surfaces and confirm whether any included tray or cushion can be removed.

Is a furniture crate right for every dog?

Not necessarily. A dog that persistently chews, paws at or tries to escape confinement may need a different setup and help with gradual, positive crate training. Never assume a decorative crate is escape-proof or suitable for unsupervised use without reviewing its specifications and your dog's behavior.

Choosing the finishing touches

Once you have confirmed the fit and safety details, compare the crate's color, finish and footprint with your room. If you add a pad, make sure it leaves adequate space and is appropriate for your dog's chewing habits.

Explore Dog Crates and Dog Beds at HT Animal Supply. For choosing a resting surface, see our dog bed buying guide.