Imagine this: your furry best friend is home alone, and you worry about their comfort and safety. Or maybe you’re welcoming a new puppy and need a secure space for them to adjust. Choosing the right indoor dog kennel can feel overwhelming. There are so many sizes, styles, and features to consider, and you want the very best for your dog.
Finding that perfect kennel isn’t just about picking something pretty. It’s about creating a safe haven, a cozy den where your dog can relax, feel secure, and even learn good habits. But with so many choices, how do you know which one is truly the best fit for your dog’s needs and your home? It’s a common puzzle for dog owners, and we understand the struggle.
In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about indoor dog kennels. We’ll explore different types, what to look for, and how to pick a kennel that makes both you and your dog happy. Get ready to discover how to create a perfect indoor retreat for your canine companion!
Our Top 5 Indoor Dog Kennel Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Indoor Dog Kennel Detailed Reviews
1. Hzuaneri 31.5” Wooden Dog Crate Furniture
Rating: 8.5/10
The Hzuaneri 31.5” Wooden Dog Crate Furniture is a stylish and safe haven for your small to medium-sized dog. It’s not just a kennel; it’s a piece of furniture that fits right into your home decor. This heavy-duty crate offers excellent security and comfort for your furry friend while also serving as a functional end table or TV stand.
What We Like:
- Anti-Chew & Anti-Escape: Built with strong iron pipes and thick engineered wood, this crate keeps your dog secure. Double welding and two locks on each door prevent escapes.
- Decorative and Versatile: This crate looks great as a TV stand, coffee table, or nightstand. It blends seamlessly with your home’s style.
- Perfect Size for Small/Medium Dogs: The inside measures 29.3″L x 19.8″W x 22.4″H, fitting breeds like Chihuahuas, Pugs, and Poodles.
- Easy Access with 3 Doors: The three doors make it simple to get your dog in and out from the front or sides.
- Unique Arch Door Design: The stylish arch door adds a modern touch and creates a pleasant space for your dog.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product is designed for small to medium dogs, so larger breeds won’t fit.
- Assembly instructions could be clearer for some users.
This Hzuaneri dog crate furniture is a fantastic option for pet owners who want both safety and style. It provides a secure and attractive space for your dog while enhancing your living area.
2. DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion
Rating: 8.9/10
The DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion, Wooden Kennel Table with Double Doors, Indoor Dog House in Rustic Brown is a stylish and practical addition to any home. This piece of furniture does more than just house your furry friend; it doubles as a charming side table or nightstand. You can place plants, books, or family photos on its sturdy top, blending pet care with home decor seamlessly.
What We Like:
- This crate is super versatile. It’s a cozy den for your dog and a functional piece of furniture for your home.
- The double doors make it easy for your dog to get in and out.
- Adjustable feet help keep the table steady, even on uneven floors.
- The chew-resistant construction ensures it lasts a long time and is safe for your pet.
- A soft cushion is included for your dog’s comfort, and the wooden bottom prevents paws from getting stuck.
- You can choose from different sizes to find the perfect fit for your dog.
What Could Be Improved:
- Assembly might take a little time and effort.
- While durable, the particleboard and wire might not withstand very aggressive chewers.
This DWANTON dog crate furniture offers a great blend of style and functionality for pet owners. It provides a safe and comfortable space for your dog while enhancing your home’s look.
3. Amazon Basics Durable
Rating: 9.4/10
The Amazon Basics Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate offers a secure and convenient space for your furry friend. This 36-inch crate is designed for dogs up to 32 inches long and 21 inches high, making it a good fit for breeds like Corgis, Brittany Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, and French Bulldogs. Its sturdy metal wire construction ensures durability, and the double-door design provides easy access. Setting up and folding this crate is a breeze, and it collapses flat for simple storage or transport. A handy top handle makes carrying it comfortable.
What We Like:
- The durable metal wire construction keeps your dog safe and secure.
- It sets up and folds down quickly, which is great for travel or storage.
- Two doors (front and side) offer flexible access.
- The included divider lets you adjust the crate’s size as your puppy grows.
- The removable plastic tray makes cleaning up accidents very easy.
- A metal hook keeps the plastic tray securely in place.
- The overall design is practical and user-friendly for everyday use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The manual door locking mechanism is basic and might not be enough for escape artists.
- The plastic tray, while easy to clean, could be more robust.
- Users need to be careful to properly lock the tray hook each time.
This crate is a solid choice for pet owners seeking a reliable and easy-to-manage enclosure. It balances functionality with affordability, making it a smart buy for many dog owners.
4. 48″/38″ Dog Crates for Large Dogs
Rating: 9.2/10
This 48″/38″ Dog Crate is built tough for your large or medium-sized furry friend. It offers a safe and spacious haven, perfect for indoor use and designed to withstand even the most energetic dogs. With its smart features, keeping your dog comfortable and your home clean becomes a breeze.
What We Like:
- It’s very strong and safe, made from thick steel with a protective coating.
- All four wheels lock, so it stays put. You can even adjust the wheels to keep it steady on bumpy floors.
- Moving it is easy, whether you’re inside or outside.
- The top door opens wide for easy access to your dog.
- The front door can be taken off, turning the crate into a cozy den.
- Four strong locks make sure your dog can’t escape, even if they’re a clever one.
- Cleaning is super simple thanks to the removable waterproof tray.
- The design is great for big breeds like German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size guide mentions inner and outer dimensions, which can be a little confusing to pick the right one.
- While the tray locks are upgraded, it’s still worth watching how your dog interacts with it.
This crate is a fantastic choice for keeping your large dog secure and comfortable. It balances durability, safety, and convenience for both you and your pet.
5. PETIME Foldable Metal Dog Exercise Pen/Pet Puppy Playpen Kennels Yard Fence Indoor/Outdoor 8 Panel 24″ W x 24″ H with Bottom Pad (with Bottom pad
Rating: 8.7/10
The PETIME Foldable Metal Dog Exercise Pen is a versatile and practical solution for giving your pets a safe and contained space. This 8-panel playpen, standing 24 inches high and 24 inches wide per panel, is designed for both indoor and outdoor use. It comes with a durable 600D Oxford fabric bottom pad, making cleanup a breeze and protecting your floors.
What We Like:
- The 600D Oxford fabric bottom pad is strong and waterproof, which is great for containing messes and protecting your floors.
- It’s easy to set up and fold down flat, making storage and travel very convenient. No tools are needed for assembly.
- The playpen provides a happy and safe floor time for your pets, preventing them from making messes everywhere.
- This pen is fantastic for small to medium animals like rabbits, ducks, turtles, and guinea pigs, not just dogs.
- It’s built to withstand different weather conditions and includes ground stakes for outdoor stability, allowing for various configurations.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cleaning instructions suggest hand washing only, which might be a bit inconvenient for some users.
- While great for small animals, it might not be sturdy enough for larger, more rambunctious dogs who are prone to climbing or jumping.
This PETIME playpen offers a convenient and secure space for your small pets. It’s a solid choice for managing your pet’s environment both inside and outside your home.
Choosing the Right Indoor Dog Kennel: Your Guide to a Happy Pup
Finding the perfect indoor dog kennel for your furry friend can make a big difference. It’s not just a cage; it’s a safe space, a den, and a place for your dog to relax. This guide will help you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a kennel, keep these important features in mind.
1. Size and Space
- Room to Stand and Turn: Your dog needs enough space to stand up without their head touching the top. They should also be able to turn around easily.
- Length and Width: Measure your dog from nose to tail and from the top of their head to the floor. Add a few inches to these measurements for comfort.
- For Puppies: Consider a kennel that can grow with your puppy. Many have dividers so you can make the space smaller initially and then enlarge it as they get bigger.
2. Durability and Safety
- Sturdy Construction: The kennel should be strong and not wobbly. Your dog shouldn’t be able to easily push it over or break it.
- Secure Latches: The doors and any latches need to be secure. You don’t want your dog escaping!
- No Sharp Edges: Check for any sharp points or edges that could hurt your dog.
3. Ease of Cleaning
- Removable Trays: Many kennels have plastic trays at the bottom. These are great for catching messes and are usually easy to pull out and wash.
- Smooth Surfaces: Materials that are easy to wipe down will save you a lot of time and effort.
4. Ventilation
- Good Airflow: Your dog needs fresh air. Look for kennels with plenty of open space, like wire crates, or those with good ventilation holes.
Important Materials
The materials used in a kennel affect its strength, safety, and how easy it is to clean.
- Metal (Steel or Wire): This is a very common and durable material. Wire kennels offer excellent visibility and airflow. Steel is strong and can be used for more solid-sided crates.
- Plastic: Plastic kennels are often lightweight and easy to clean. They can provide a more enclosed and den-like feel, which some dogs prefer. They are good for travel.
- Wood: Wooden kennels can look very nice and blend in with home decor. They offer a more furniture-like appearance. However, they can be harder to clean if your dog has accidents.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things make a kennel great, while others can make it less ideal.
Quality Boosters:
- Reinforced Corners: Stronger corners add to the overall durability.
- Non-Toxic Finishes: Paints or coatings should be safe for your dog to chew on or lick.
- Easy Assembly: A kennel that is simple to put together is a big plus.
- Multiple Doors: Some kennels have doors on the front and side, offering more flexibility.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Construction: If the kennel feels cheap or bends easily, it won’t last long.
- Poorly Fitting Parts: Gaps or misaligned pieces can be a safety hazard and make the kennel look bad.
- Difficult Latches: Latches that are hard to open or close securely are a problem.
- Materials That Rust or Corrode: Especially important for metal kennels.
User Experience and Use Cases
How people use kennels and what they experience is important.
- Training Aid: Kennels are excellent for potty training and crate training. Dogs naturally want to keep their sleeping area clean, so they’ll often hold it until they are let out. This makes housebreaking much faster.
- Safe Haven: When you can’t supervise your dog, a kennel provides a safe place. It prevents them from chewing on things they shouldn’t or getting into trouble.
- Travel Companion: Many kennels are designed to be portable and secure for car rides or trips to the vet.
- Reducing Anxiety: For dogs who get anxious when left alone, a familiar and comfortable kennel can be a source of security.
- For Multi-Dog Homes: Kennels can help manage space and prevent arguments between dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Indoor Dog Kennels
Here are some common questions people have when buying an indoor dog kennel.
Q: What is the most important thing to consider when buying a kennel?
A: The most important thing is the size. Your dog must have enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Q: Are wire kennels better than plastic ones?
A: It depends on your needs. Wire kennels offer great visibility and airflow. Plastic kennels are often more portable and can feel more like a den, which some dogs prefer.
Q: How do I know if the kennel is the right size for my dog?
A: Measure your dog from nose to tail and from the top of their head to the floor. The kennel should be a few inches longer and taller than these measurements.
Q: Can a kennel be too big for my dog?
A: Yes, a kennel that is too big can make potty training harder. Your dog might use one end as a bathroom and the other as a bed. Using dividers can help with this.
Q: How do I introduce my dog to the kennel?
A: Make it a positive experience. Put treats and toys inside. Never force your dog into the kennel. Let them explore it on their own terms.
Q: Is it okay to leave my dog in a kennel all day?
A: No, dogs are social animals and need exercise and interaction. Kennels are best for short periods, like during training or when you can’t supervise them.
Q: What if my dog tries to chew through the kennel?
A: Look for kennels made of strong, chew-resistant materials. For persistent chewers, a metal crate is usually the best option.
Q: How do I clean a dog kennel?
A: Most kennels can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Removable trays make this much easier. Always make sure the kennel is dry before your dog goes back in.
Q: Can I use a kennel for a very old or sick dog?
A: Yes, a comfortable kennel can provide a safe and quiet space for older or sick dogs to rest without being disturbed.
Q: What is a “den-like” kennel?
A: A den-like kennel is usually more enclosed, like a plastic crate or a wooden dog house. Many dogs feel secure in these because they mimic natural dens.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!