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6 Best Dog Crates For Kennel Training Your Pup, According To An Expert

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Practice patience with your dog: "Your dog may not immediately fall in love with their new crate, so follow your dog's cues and gradually introduce them to it prior to any prolonged time within the crate. You can start by sitting by the crate with your dog comfortably inside and do an activity that doesn't involve you paying too much attention to them, such as reading a book or watching TV."

Don't use the crate as a punishment: "Pet parents should never use the crate as a consequence for their behavior and/or force a dog to be in the crate for longer than they can handle. It should always be a space where dogs can go to feel safe and secure"

Start soon, but not too soon: "When house training a puppy, crate and house training should start sooner than later, though they likely won't be developed enough physically to control their bladder until they are at least four months old."

But, better late than never: "Crate training can be useful no matter your pet's life stage. Regardless of age, many pets can benefit from the mental health benefits of providing a safe, calm space away from external stimulation."

Choose the right crate size: "

Crates should have enough room for your dog to stand up, turn around, stretch out and lie down. Any more space than that may encourage your pet to sleep on one side of their crate and relieve themselves on the other, which defeats the purpose of using your crate as a house training tool."

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The Internet (and Our Staff) Is Obsessed With This Genius Collapsible Dog Crate

TikTok Loves This Genius Collapsible Dog CrateDiggs/Lindsey Murray

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

Dog crates are notoriously cumbersome, especially if your fur baby is a larger breed. But since social media caused this genius collapsible dog crate to go viral, traveling with your pet is easier than ever.

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Revol Collapsible Dog Crate

$356.25

diggs.Pet

Diggs' Revol Dog Crate features an innovative collapsible design that makes set-up, transport, and storage a breeze. Only one hand is required to raise or lower the metal mesh walls and click them securely, leaving the other one free to maintain a firm grip on the leash. Equipped with a carrying handle and wheels, you can haul everything to or from the car in just one trip.

The metal crate's space-saving capabilities make it a popular choice for apartment dwellers, van lifers and pet parents who bring their dogs to the office. Between uses, turn the collapsed crate sideways and slip it behind a large piece of furniture to free up floor space.

Diggs

Diggs believes your fur baby's crate should be held to the same standards as an infant's crib. Inspired by baby industry quality standards, the company's best-seller incorporates premium materials and ergonomic design features that benefit both pup and parent. The diamond-shaped metal mesh and solid, single-piece frame were thoughtfully designed to help keep jaws and paws safe while looking stylish enough to post on the 'Gram.

"We wanted the best for our first dog, and when I say this is made of the highest quality, I mean it. The best crate money can buy," writes one reviewer. "It is the Mercedes Benz of crates," writes another.

But Diggs' cult following of city-dwelling dog parents and TikTok pet-fluencers aren't the only ones who adore the portable crate. Lindsey Murray, dog mom and Commerce Director at Hearst Magazines, gave Diggs' Revol Dog Crate— and other aesthetically pleasing pet products from the brand, including the Groov Crate Training Aid and Snooz Crate Pad— two thumbs up.

"This is our go-to crate for both home and travel. We've had it since my dog was a puppy, and it was so great for crate training," said Murray. "We just adjusted the wall divider as she grew."

Commerce Director Lindsey Murray's puppy Lady Bear lounges in her collapsible Diggs crateLindsey Murray

"Now, we primarily use it for travel. The collapsible feature makes it so easy to put in and out of the car. I will say it's a little heavy—but the wheels help— and does take up a bit of space in our car," adds Murray. "But honestly, we've tried more portable fabric crates, and my dog always chewed them up, so this definitely wins the durability category."

Hate having to crawl inside your dog's kennel to wipe it down thoroughly? A fully removable plastic floor panel makes cleaning a breeze. In addition to creating a more open, comfortable environment, the crate's garage-style doors also provide owners easy access to every inch— whether it's to grab a clump of pet hair from the corner or a stray sock from their pet's mouth.

The top-rated collapsible dog crate is available at Diggs in three size and color options to accommodate any size dog and compliment any decor scheme. Save 15% off when you upgrade to the Complete Crate Set, which includes a crate pad, water bowl, and other companion products your pet will love.

Check out Firstfinds to shop more of the internet's favorite products, including viral hits, home hacks, fashion essentials and so much more.

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These Stylish Dog Crates Double As Home Decor

These Stylish Dog Crate Furniture Options Double as Home Decor [2024]

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1 / 6

The "Venice" Crate Credenza from Frisco offers elegance in this bonus-size doggy dwelling. Recommended for small to medium size dogs weighing less than 40 pounds, this crate provides plenty of airy space, and goes beyond just being an end table (you'll want to feature it as a main focal point of your home!). Built on a metal frame, the exterior wood boasts a gorgeous removable top lid, and the sturdy locks keep your pet safe. While your dog dozes in style or enjoys his lick mat, you can use the credenza as a media center, computer island or whatever your heart desires (it holds up to 100 lbs. Of weight). Added bonus: The credenza includes two crate mats.

Pros

Beautiful and stylish, with side grating instead of bars

Metal material provides durability and makes cleaning easier

Large front double door

Top comes off for easy cleaning and open-air aesthetic

Open and airy

Comes with crate pads

Collapsible for storage

Easy to assemble

Cons

Weighs 100 lbs., requires two to move once assembled

More costly (but reviewers noted the long-lasting material made it worth the price)

Not designed for large dog breeds

2 / 6

The unipaws Dog Crate End Table comes in two colors: white or a dark brown espresso color. And with small, medium and large size options, it's a good choice for nearly any size dog. It has a side door, plus a front double-door, for easy pup access and cleaning. Featuring three locking latches, it's designed to keep your dog safe and secure, and the open grillwork provides great ventilation on all four sides. Added bonus: This dog crate furniture comes with its own dog bed.

Pros

Comes in two colors and three sizes (up to 70 lbs.)

Ample ventilation

Two accessible, lockable doors

Comes with pet bed

Table top holds items (up to 120-200 lbs., based on size)

Reasonably priced

Easy to assemble

Cons

Not chew-proof (recommended for trained dogs only)

3 / 6

The ecoFlex Pet Crate End Table is our most budget-friendly choice. It features recycled polymer/wood composite that won't warp or crack, has stainless steel tubing spindles and comes in a neutral gray color to fit seamlessly with your decor. Choose from size small, medium, large or extra-large (for dogs up to 100 pounds), and use it as a sophisticated end table in any space. It assembles easily without tools, and the removable table top makes cleaning easy.

Pros

Affordable

Eco-friendly, made from recycled materials

Neutral color to fit any decor (can be painted)

Comes in four sizes to accommodate dogs up to 100 lbs.

Secure latches (one on the smaller sizes, two on larger sizes)

Top removes for easy cleaning

10,000+ Amazon ratings

Easy assembly (no tools required)

Cons

Only one door

Chewing dogs may easily remove bars

4 / 6

This beautiful crate from Fable Pets doubles as a side table and offers minimalist design with clean lines, blond wood and a modern vibe. It comes in two sizes to fit dogs up to 50 pounds. While you'll be paying more for style and comfort, both your pup and home aesthetic will benefit from this piece. The bent wood design has open vents on three sides, and the fourth side can remain open or close off with a sliding white metal or clear acrylic front-grill gate.

Pros

Fits small spaces with enough room for little dogs

Beautiful, simple design

Handmade, one-of-a-kind piece

No swinging gate (it slides into top)

Easy to assemble

Cons

On the pricier end (but a handmade, one-of-kind piece might be worth the splurge)

Shipping takes 4-6 weeks and product is non-refundable

Not designed for larger dogs

5 / 6

Made from particle board, steel frame and metal wire, this dog crate from Feandrea stands up to chewing better than many other dog crate furniture choices (please be aware that no crate prevents chewing altogether). This rustic option offers two finish choices: rustic brown or gray. It features a front and a side door—which you can mount on either end to open in the direction that best suits your space. This dog crate also has a wire floor to allow mess (dog kibble, dust, hair) to drop through to a heavy duty pan beneath for easy cleaning. Alternatively, the pan fits inside for a more comfortable resting spot for your dog. The crate comes in four sizes, priced depending on which suits Fido best.

Pros

Chew-resistant

Two door opening with adjustable mounting

Wire mesh floor and pan for easy cleaning

Four sizes for small, medium, large and extra-large dogs

More than 1,000 five-star Amazon ratings

Easy to assemble

Cons

Dimensions are external size of crate, not the internal dog space (may need to size up)

6 / 6

For dog lovers who want to go the extra mile for jumbo size canines, consider this Gabled Modern Dog Crate from WLOWood. Rather than serving as an end table, the design mirrors human homes, with the gabled design a sure conversation starter. It comes in four sizes, including a jumbo design that can accommodate dogs up to 149 pounds. The custom design costs more, but includes your choice of bed cover material and the option to have your dog's name inscribed on a bone name panel. This product has a nearly-perfect 4.9-star rating—like these Amazon pet products with nearly-perfect reviews. The cute design will have his tail wagging—and guests' tongues talking.

Pros

Four sizes, including for jumbo dogs

Cute and clever design

Custom cushion and personalization included

Vertical slat openings on sides and floor for ventilation

Wood finish available in walnut, white, gray, black and green

Thousands of five-star Etsy reviews

Easy assembly

Cons

On the pricier side (but custom bed and personalized name plate are included in cost of this handmade piece)

Not chew-proof or escape-proof

What to look for when buying dog crate furniture

Consider the following factors when selecting the best dog crate furniture for your pup:

Size: A tiny pup grows up, so choose a product that will fit his adult size. For puppy training purposes, the crate shouldn't have extra space where the pup can potty in one side and sleep in the other. Adult dogs need enough room to stand up, turn around and sleep without crowding. While your dog is standing, measure his length from nose to base of tail (do not measure all the way to tip of tail or the crate will be too large). While your pup is sitting, measure his height from floor to top of head. Add another five inches to your dog's length and height measurements to get general dimensions. His weight may also be a consideration.

Material: Dog crate furniture implies sturdy construction, but that can include plastic, metal, wood or other material. Consider what fits your style.

Safety: Remember that dogs may do the unexpected. Chewing not only damages dog crate furniture, but it can also hurt canine teeth (and if swallowed, could cause internal injuries). Upset dogs may destroy the bed padding, tip over the crate or destroy the catch tray trying to escape. There are dog treats on the market to help prevent chewing and calm your dog. Dog crate furniture should have good airflow and visibility for you and your dog to see each other, not wobble if your dog turns around and shouldn't accidentally catch a paw or tail.

Assembly: Smaller dog crate furniture may come fully assembled, but for large dogs, find out ahead of time what tools are required.

Movability: Consider if you'll need to move the crate once in place. Some collapse for convenient movement or storage. But since others are meant to function as furniture, they may not be as transportable.

Clean-up: Also take note of cleaning access, especially if you must confine your dog for potty training or illness (be sure to stock up on puppy pads and diapers for these instances). Most dog crate furniture uses wood, which takes extra care to keep tidy from messes or water bowl spills. (Speaking of, you may want to check out one of these no-spill water bowls).

Accessibility: Dog crate furniture with more than one entry—front and back, or front and sides, for instance—offers more flexibility for placement in the home, and for ventilation for the dog's comfort. It also makes placing a comfy dog bed in the bottom easier.

How we found the best dog furniture

As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we're only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product's quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.

FAQ What room should a dog crate be in?

Dogs thrive when treated as part of the family. Place the crate beside your bed if that's where the dog will sleep at night. Or, since dog crate furniture fits into your existing decor, place it in the family room where you spend most of your time.

Can you put things on top of a dog crate?

If designed to serve as dog crate furniture, the top usually can hold the same type of items as a side table or credenza. Check the specifications of the individual product first. Also, consider if having items you need to interact with (like a computer or media system) would disrupt your dog's resting place. It's your dog's safe den and happy retreat, so choose wisely.

   

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