There was a time when I shoved my dog’s crate into a corner and threw a throw blanket over it, hoping guests wouldn’t notice the giant black wire box next to the vintage lamp I found at a flea market. Spoiler: they noticed. Honestly, finding space for a crate—especially if your dog’s not tiny—is a full-on design dilemma. Like… how do you make something that looks like a mini jail feel like it belongs in your living room?
That’s where dog kennel furniture ideas come in. These aren’t the plastic crates from the pet store. We’re talking pieces that actually match your home—coffee tables, window seats, benches, cabinets, even bookcases. Some are DIY dreams (hello, weekend project), others you can just buy and slide into your space like it was always meant to be there.
Whether you live in a studio apartment or a full house with a “dog nook” dream, there’s a way to keep your home looking intentional and still give your pup a safe, cozy space of their own. These ideas mix practical with pretty—and a few are honestly better looking than my actual furniture.
Double Dog Crate Dresser That Works in a Bedroom
If you’ve got two pups and not a lot of floor space, a double dog crate that doubles as a dresser is basically magic. I’ve seen these built with side-by-side kennels tucked under a wide wood top—perfect for a bedroom or hallway. The crates get proper airflow, your dogs can nap side-by-side without drama, and you still get a surface to toss a lamp or folded laundry you never put away (guilty).
You can paint it to match your walls or go with natural wood for that warm, modern-rustic vibe. Add matching baskets underneath or label each side with your dogs’ names if you’re feeling extra. Just make sure to use durable hardware and comfy beds inside. One of my friends added soft curtains on the front that she ties open during the day and lets down at night—it’s like a boutique hotel for her spaniels.
Window Seat Dog Kennel That Looks Built-In
This one’s for the corner of your living room you’re not quite sure what to do with. If you’ve got a window with a view, turn the space underneath into a cozy kennel that also works as a bench. It’s great for small-to-medium dogs, especially the ones who like to supervise the neighborhood squirrels.
You can build it custom with cabinet-style doors and a solid bench seat on top, or use an existing window bench and modify the lower space. Paint it the same color as your trim or walls so it blends right in, and throw a couple of cushions on top. My friend uses hers as a reading nook—with her dog curled up underneath like a little café companion.
IKEA Hack Crate Built Into a Bookshelf
There are entire Pinterest boards dedicated to IKEA dog crate hacks—and for good reason. One of the best ones I’ve seen is using the BESTÅ or KALLAX shelving units to create a built-in crate beneath open shelving. It looks like a modern bookcase with a cozy kennel tucked right in.
You’ll need to reinforce the inside (especially for large dogs) and add a secure front panel—some use slatted wood doors, others use decorative mesh. I’ve even seen people put LED lighting on the shelves above for extra “design magazine” energy. Fill the shelves with books, plants, or a vintage mug collection and no one will even realize your dog’s crate is in there… until they pop their head out mid-Zoom call.
Dog Crate Bench in the Entryway
This is a personal favorite because it solves two problems: where to put your keys and where your dog goes when the doorbell rings. A dog crate bench by the front door means your pup has a place to chill that isn’t under your feet, and you get a place to sit while you wrestle your shoes on.
Go for a wood finish to match your flooring or use matte black hardware for a more industrial look. Add baskets underneath if there’s space, or keep a drawer for poop bags and leashes. If your entryway is narrow, you can even build it long and low so it doubles as a hallway table. Throw a pillow on top and it looks like it was always meant to be there.
Built-In Crate Between Kitchen Cabinets
I didn’t think I’d ever say this, but dog crate furniture in the kitchen? Actually genius. If you’ve got a kitchen island or a weird little lower cabinet space you never use, consider turning it into a built-in kennel. One family I know added one at the end of their kitchen island—right under the overhang where you’d normally pull up a stool.
The dog hangs out close to the action (and crumbs), but they’re not in the way. Just make sure it’s well-ventilated and easy to clean. You can add a removable tray inside, like in standard crates, and even cut out little paw-shaped ventilation holes in the wood if you want to be that person (I support you).
Dog Crate Coffee Table With Hidden Panels
This one’s such a win for apartment dwellers or anyone who’s tired of stepping over wire crates in the middle of the living room. A coffee table that doubles as a dog kennel? Yes please. You can find versions with slatted wooden sides and a removable top—or build your own with furniture-grade plywood and a stain that matches your other living room pieces.
Inside, it’s roomy enough for a small or medium dog, with ventilation on all sides. On top, it’s just your regular coffee table—perfect for books, candles, or your half-drunk tea that’s gone cold again. If you’ve got a larger dog, you can scale it up and make it more of a statement piece. I’ve seen one with a marble-look top and matte black slats and honestly… it looked designer.
Pretty Dog Crate Dresser for the Guest Room
If your pup prefers to sleep near the humans, a crate that looks like a pretty piece of furniture can totally blend into the bedroom—especially in a guest room where you want things to feel extra tidy. A dresser-style kennel with wide drawers up top and a built-in crate below gives you storage and function.
You can paint it in a soft tone (think sage green or creamy beige), or go with wood grain for a more polished look. I’ve seen folks add antique-style knobs or brushed brass handles to dress it up a bit. Add a cute throw and a dog bed with a washable cover inside, and boom—instant pet nook that doesn’t mess with your decor.
Built-In Kennel Under the Stairs
Honestly? This one’s genius if you’ve got a staircase with empty space underneath. Instead of turning it into a clutter cave of holiday boxes, make it your dog’s very own den. A built-in kennel under the stairs can feel custom and cozy without taking up any extra floor space.
You can install a wood-framed door, mesh panels, or even a Dutch door if you’re feeling ambitious (so you can open the top for airflow). One family I know added shiplap to the walls inside and made it look like a mini mudroom-meets-doghouse. It’s great for larger dogs too—tons of space, plus a little privacy when guests get overwhelming.
Dog Crate Nightstand for Small Spaces
This is one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” ideas. A crate that doubles as a nightstand is perfect for tight bedrooms or tiny apartments. You get a safe sleep space for your dog and a place to charge your phone, keep your glasses, or store that book you’ve been fake-reading for two months.
The smaller footprint makes this a good option for dogs under 30 pounds. Look for something with solid sides, or add decorative panels or slats. Keep it styled like any other nightstand—table lamp, mini plant, maybe a framed photo of your dog (no judgment). I love that it looks like furniture, not gear.
Double Crate With Divider for Two Dogs
Two dogs, one space? A double kennel with a divider solves the chaos. Whether your dogs like their own zones or need a break from each other sometimes (same, honestly), this kind of crate lets them stay nearby without sharing beds or bones.
You can build it long and low—like a console table—or tall and narrow if you’re working with vertical space. Add a removable panel between the two crates so they can still see each other when they want to. Label each side, use matching beds, and boom—no more barking standoffs at bedtime. It works great in hallways, mudrooms, or even at the foot of your bed.
Final Thoughts
Okay but really—who decided dog crates had to look sad and temporary? Your home deserves better. And your dog? Definitely deserves a cozy little corner that doesn’t ruin your aesthetic. Whether you DIY it, IKEA-hack it, or buy something that blends in just right, these kennel furniture ideas prove you don’t have to choose between practical and pretty.
Pick a spot that makes sense for your space and your dog’s personality. Add your favorite details—wood tones, cozy cushions, a little plant next to it. And remember: if it ends up covered in fur within five minutes… that just means it’s being used exactly right.