Furniture Dog Crates: Are They Worth It?

A dog crate can provide a comfortable, defined space where your dog can rest and relax. But traditional wire crates do not always fit naturally into a living room, bedroom or home office.

That is where furniture-style dog crates offer an alternative.

Designed to combine a practical dog crate with the appearance of household furniture, these crates can provide your dog with a dedicated resting space while also functioning as an end table or side table.

But are furniture dog crates really worth it?

In this guide, we look at the advantages and potential considerations, explain how to choose the correct size and compare two furniture-style dog crates available from Kingswell Pets.

If you are already comparing different designs, you can also explore the full Dog Crates & Kennels collection at Kingswell Pets.

What Is a Furniture Dog Crate?

A furniture dog crate combines an enclosed resting area for your dog with an outer design intended to blend more naturally with household furniture.

Instead of looking like a traditional metal cage, furniture-style crates often use wood-effect panels, neutral finishes and flat tabletops.

Depending on the design, they may function as:

• an end table

• a side table

• a bedside table

• additional surface space in a living room

• a dedicated resting area for your dog

The idea is simple: rather than trying to hide a large dog crate in your home, the crate becomes part of the room.

Are Furniture Dog Crates Worth It?

For the right dog and home, they can be.

A furniture dog crate can be particularly useful if you want your dog to have a defined resting space but do not like the appearance of a traditional wire crate in your living area.

They can also make better use of floor space because the top of the crate may provide a practical surface for lightweight household items.

However, appearance should never be the only reason to choose a crate.

The most important considerations are still:

• correct internal dimensions

• ventilation

• secure doors

• suitable materials

• your dog's size and weight

• enough room to stand and turn around

• suitable placement within the home

A beautiful crate is not useful if it is too small or uncomfortable for your dog.

The Main Advantages of Furniture Dog Crates

1. They Blend More Naturally Into the Home

One of the biggest reasons owners consider furniture-style crates is appearance.

A traditional wire crate can be practical, but it can also become one of the most visually dominant objects in a living room.

Furniture-style crates are designed to look more like part of the room.

Neutral colours such as grey, white, walnut and natural wood effects can work particularly well with modern interiors.

This means you can create a dedicated space for your dog without making the room feel as though it has been arranged around pet equipment.

2. They Can Double as Useful Furniture

Many furniture dog crates include a flat tabletop that can be used as additional surface space.

Depending on the individual model and its stated weight limit, this may provide somewhere for items such as:

• books

• decorative accessories

• small baskets

• lightweight lamps

• everyday household items

Always check the maximum tabletop weight stated on the individual product page.

Avoid placing unstable, hot, heavy or valuable objects on top of a dog crate, particularly anything that could fall and frighten or injure your dog.

3. They Create a Defined Resting Space

Some dogs enjoy having their own quiet place where they can relax away from busy household activity.

A correctly sized and positively introduced crate can provide a familiar resting area while still allowing your dog to remain close to the family.

Furniture-style crates can work particularly well in living rooms because they can be positioned as part of the room rather than being moved into a separate area.

For more advice about creating comfortable spaces around the home, read our guide: How to Create a Dog-Friendly Home.

4. Different Door Positions Can Make Placement Easier

The position of a crate door can make a surprisingly large difference.

If a crate only opens from one side, you may have limited options for where it can be positioned.

Some furniture-style crates have multiple doors or side entrances, giving you more flexibility when arranging the room.

Before buying, think about:

• where the crate will sit

• which direction the doors need to open

• whether furniture will block an entrance

• how easily you can reach inside for cleaning

• whether your dog has enough room to enter comfortably

This is especially important in smaller living rooms and bedrooms.

Are There Any Disadvantages?

Furniture dog crates are not automatically the best choice for every dog.

There are several things to consider before purchasing one.

They Are Usually Heavier

Furniture-style crates are generally more substantial than foldable wire crates.

That can be an advantage when the crate is intended to stay permanently in one place, but it makes them less suitable if you plan to move the crate regularly.

They Require Assembly

Many furniture-style dog crates arrive flat-packed and require home assembly.

Check the product information before ordering and make sure all fittings, hinges and locks are installed securely before your dog uses the crate.

They May Not Suit Heavy Chewers

If your dog regularly chews furniture, doors or crate panels, a furniture-style crate may not be the best option.

Inspect the crate regularly and stop using it if any part becomes damaged or unstable.

Correct Sizing Is Essential

A furniture crate may look perfect in a particular corner of your room, but your dog's comfort must come first.

Always choose according to the internal dimensions, not simply the external dimensions or the space available in your home.

How Big Should a Furniture Dog Crate Be?

Your dog should have enough space inside the crate to:

• stand naturally

• sit comfortably

• turn around

• lie down fully

• change resting position

Measure your dog before ordering.

A useful starting point is to measure from the base of the tail to the tip of the nose and from the floor to the top of the head while your dog is standing naturally.

Then compare these measurements with the internal dimensions shown on the product page.

Do not rely only on breed descriptions such as “small”, “medium” or “large”.

Individual dogs of the same breed can vary considerably.

For more detailed guidance, see How to Choose the Right Resting Space for Your Dog.

Option 1: Grey Furniture-Style Dog Crate End Table with Three Doors

If flexibility of access is important, the Grey Furniture-Style Dog Crate End Table with Three Doors is worth considering.

This design combines a dog crate with the appearance and practicality of a modern end table.

Its neutral grey finish allows it to fit naturally into living rooms, bedrooms and home offices without looking like a conventional metal crate.

Three-Door Access

One of the most useful features is its three-door design.

Two lockable doors open at the front, while an additional entrance can be positioned on either the left or right side during assembly.

This gives you considerably more flexibility when deciding where to place the crate.

For example, you can position the front doors facing into the room while keeping the side entrance accessible beside a sofa or other piece of furniture.

The wider front opening can also make it easier to:

• add bedding

• clean inside the crate

• arrange your dog's resting area

• access the interior when required

Furniture-Style Tabletop

The top of the crate can function as a practical end-table surface.

Its maximum stated tabletop load is 30 kg when weight is safely distributed.

That means the crate can provide useful surface space while occupying an area of the room that would otherwise be used only by your dog's crate.

Ventilation and Visibility

Steel bars around the crate provide airflow while allowing your dog to see what is happening around them.

This can help the crate feel less enclosed while still creating a clearly defined resting area.

Dimensions

The overall dimensions are approximately:

• 80.5 cm wide

• 59.5 cm deep

• 62.5 cm high

The internal dimensions are approximately:

• 75 cm wide

• 53.5 cm deep

• 59.5 cm high

The crate is recommended for medium-sized dogs weighing up to 20 kg and measuring up to approximately 50 cm in body length.

Always measure your individual dog before ordering.

Who Might Prefer This Crate?

The Grey Furniture-Style Dog Crate End Table with Three Doors may be a good choice if you:

• want flexible front and side access

• plan to use the crate in a living room or bedroom

• want the crate to double as an end table

• prefer a neutral grey furniture-style finish

• need flexibility when positioning the crate

• have a suitably sized medium dog

View the Grey Furniture-Style Dog Crate End Table with Three Doors

Option 2: Furniture-Style Dog Crate with Washable Cushion – Grey

If comfort and an included sleeping surface are higher priorities, consider the Furniture-Style Dog Crate with Washable Cushion – Grey.

This model combines a grey furniture-style crate with a padded polyester cushion designed to cover the floor of the resting area.

Washable Cushion Included

Unlike many crates that require bedding to be purchased separately, this design includes a soft cushion.

The cushion measures approximately:

• 76 cm long

• 50 cm wide

• 5 cm deep

It can be washed, making it easier to keep your dog's resting area clean and fresh.

For owners looking for a ready-to-use setup, having a correctly sized cushion included can be a useful advantage.

Side-Table Design

The crate also doubles as a practical side table.

Its tabletop supports items weighing up to 20 kg, providing additional surface space in a living room, bedroom or home office.

The grey wood-effect finish helps the crate blend more naturally with household furniture.

Lockable Front Entrance

A wide front entrance provides access to the crate and includes a secure locking mechanism.

Steel bars around the structure allow airflow and visibility while maintaining an enclosed resting space.

Adjustable Feet

The crate stands approximately 4.7 cm above the floor.

Adjustable feet help keep the unit stable on slightly uneven flooring while also raising the base away from direct floor contact.

Dimensions

The overall dimensions are approximately:

• 80 cm long

• 56 cm wide

• 63 cm high

The internal dimensions are approximately:

• 75 cm long

• 50.5 cm wide

• 55.3 cm high

It is recommended for medium-sized dogs weighing up to 20 kg and measuring up to approximately 50 cm in body length.

Again, always compare your dog's individual measurements with the internal crate dimensions before ordering.

Who Might Prefer This Crate?

The Furniture-Style Dog Crate with Washable Cushion may be a good option if you:

• want a cushion included

• prefer a simple front-door design

• want a crate that doubles as a side table

• want an elevated base

• prefer a neutral grey finish

• have a suitably sized medium dog

View the Furniture-Style Dog Crate with Washable Cushion – Grey

Which of These Two Furniture Dog Crates Should You Choose?

Although the two crates are similar in overall size and suitability, they offer different advantages.

Choose the Three-Door Crate If:

You want more flexibility when positioning the crate.

Its two front doors and reversible side entrance give you several ways to arrange access according to the layout of your room.

The higher tabletop weight capacity may also be useful if you plan to use the top as a practical end-table surface.

View the Three-Door Furniture Dog Crate.

Choose the Crate With Washable Cushion If:

You want a softer resting surface included from the start.

The washable cushion can make everyday maintenance easier and means you do not necessarily need to find separate bedding immediately.

View the Furniture Dog Crate with Washable Cushion.

Where Should You Put a Furniture Dog Crate?

One of the benefits of a furniture-style crate is that it can fit naturally into areas where your family spends time.

Possible locations include:

• beside a sofa

• against a living-room wall

• beside a desk in a home office

• in a quiet part of a bedroom

• in another calm family area

Try to choose a place where your dog can remain close to normal household activity without being constantly disturbed.

Avoid positioning the crate:

• directly beside a radiator or strong heat source

• in a strong draught

• in a busy doorway

• where doors cannot open fully

• where your dog will be repeatedly disturbed

• on an unstable or uneven surface

Your dog should be able to enter and leave comfortably.

How to Introduce Your Dog to a Furniture Crate

A new crate should be introduced gradually.

Do not simply place your dog inside and close the door.

Start by allowing your dog to explore the crate at their own pace.

You can:

1. Leave the crate door open.

2. Place familiar bedding or a favourite blanket inside.

3. Use treats to create positive associations.

4. Allow your dog to enter and leave freely.

5. Reward calm behaviour around the crate.

6. Gradually increase the time your dog spends inside.

Only begin closing the door once your dog appears comfortable resting inside.

The crate should never be used as punishment.

The goal is for your dog to see it as a familiar, comfortable place to relax.

Can a Furniture Dog Crate Replace a Dog Bed?

Not necessarily.

Some dogs enjoy sleeping in their crate, while others prefer having both a crate and a separate open dog bed.

Your dog might use a crate when they want a quieter, more enclosed space and a sofa-style or open bed when they want to stretch out closer to the family.

There is no requirement to choose one or the other.

The best arrangement depends on your dog's normal sleeping habits and preferences.

If you are also looking for a separate resting area, explore our Elegant Dog Beds & Sofas.

What Should You Look for Before Buying a Furniture Dog Crate?

Before choosing a crate, check the following carefully.

Internal Dimensions

These matter more than the external measurements.

Your dog needs enough usable space inside.

Maximum Recommended Dog Size

Use this as guidance, but always measure your individual dog.

Door Position

Make sure the entrance will remain accessible wherever you plan to position the crate.

Ventilation

The crate should allow appropriate airflow.

Locking Mechanism

Doors and locks should close securely and should be checked regularly.

Materials

Consider your dog's behaviour as well as appearance.

A dog that regularly chews furniture may require a different solution.

Cushion or Bedding

Check whether bedding is included or needs to be purchased separately.

Tabletop Weight Limit

If you plan to use the top as furniture, never exceed the stated maximum load.

Overall Floor Space

Measure the space in your room as well as your dog.

Remember to allow additional room for doors to open.

Are Furniture Dog Crates Good for Living Rooms?

This is one of the areas where furniture-style crates make the most sense.

A dog crate can take up a significant amount of floor space, particularly for a medium or larger dog.

Using a design that doubles as an end table can help the crate become a more integrated part of the room.

Grey, white, wood-effect and walnut-style finishes can also coordinate more naturally with existing furniture.

However, the priority should always remain your dog's comfort and correct sizing.

Choose the crate for your dog first and for your interior second.

Are Furniture Dog Crates Suitable for Bedrooms?

They can be, provided there is enough space and the crate can be positioned safely.

A furniture-style crate beside a bed or against a wall may work particularly well because the top can also provide useful surface space.

Before ordering, measure:

• the available floor area

• the height of the crate

• the space needed for doors to open

• the distance from radiators or heaters

• your dog's dimensions

Do not squeeze the crate into a location where ventilation or access is restricted simply because it fits the furniture layout.

Furniture Dog Crate vs Traditional Wire Crate

Neither style is automatically better.

A traditional wire crate can be:

• lighter

• easier to move

• easier to fold on some models

• practical for temporary use

• suitable for dogs requiring a more durable metal structure

A furniture-style dog crate can be:

• more attractive in living spaces

• easier to integrate with home furniture

• useful as an additional tabletop

• suitable as a permanent indoor resting area

The better option depends on your dog and how you intend to use the crate.

If portability is important, a furniture crate may not be the best solution.

If the crate will stay permanently in your living room, the furniture-style design may be worth considering.

So, Are Furniture Dog Crates Worth the Money?

For owners who want a permanent indoor crate that works with the appearance of their home, a furniture dog crate can offer good practical value.

Instead of dedicating floor space to a crate alone, you gain a defined resting area for your dog and a piece of furniture that can provide additional surface space.

The most important thing is to avoid choosing based on appearance alone.

Before buying, make sure:

• the internal dimensions suit your dog

• the maximum recommended weight is appropriate

• there is enough room to stand and turn around

• the doors suit the layout of your room

• the crate has suitable ventilation

• your dog's behaviour is appropriate for a furniture-style structure

When those requirements are met, a furniture dog crate can be a practical way to create a comfortable dog-friendly space without compromising the look of your home.

Explore Furniture Dog Crates at Kingswell Pets

At Kingswell Pets, we offer a carefully selected range of furniture-style dog crates, traditional crates and kennels designed for different dogs, homes and everyday needs.

You can compare different sizes, door configurations, colours and practical features to find a crate that works for both your dog and your living space.

Before ordering, always check the internal dimensions and measure your dog carefully.

Shop Dog Crates & Kennels at Kingswell Pets