The Best Indoor Dog Kennels
If you've decided to crate train your dog, picking the right indoor kennel for them is a must. Your pup's kennel is a safe place where they can rest during the day and sleep at night on a thick, cozy mat. And many kennels are portable, so you can take them with you when you travel with your dog. We've rounded up a few of our favorite indoor dog kennels to help you pick one to fit your pet's lifestyle.
What to Look For
After researching indoor dog kennels, we found the best ones are durable, easy to assemble, and secure. Based on these requirements, our top pick is the MidWest Homes for Pets metal wire kennel. This design is available in multiple sizes and locks securely into place. There are two doors with latches to keep your pup from escaping. And the thick plastic tray catches messes and accidents your pet may make along the way. We also love Unipaws’ kennel because it is made from heavy-duty wood and features a lock on the door for safety. The mesh windows provide ample airflow for your pet. And it doubles as a piece of furniture to spruce up your home. Keep reading to discover your new favorite indoor dog kennel.
MidWest Homes for Pets Double Door Crate
Comfortable crate
When picking an indoor kennel for your dog, it is important to consider its size and where you will keep it. MidWest Homes for Pets offers a wide range of sturdy metal crates, ensuring you get the most comfortable size for your pup. Plus, this kennel has doors on two sides, each with secure latches, so you can set it up anywhere in your home. The thick plastic tray in the base protects your floors from accidents and makes them easy to clean up. And the best part is that you can fold down this kennel to store it or take it with you when traveling.
Pros:
- Breathable design
- Included divider panel to customize the kennel size
- Strong metal won’t bend or break
Cons:
- A cloth cover isn’t included
Iris USA Exercise Pet Playpen with Door
Puppy playtime
When you first bring a new puppy home, it can be exhausting to try and keep up with them throughout the day. This plastic kennel from Iris USA is the perfect size for small pups, giving them a space to play and sleep while you take a break from puppy-sitting. The walls on this durable plastic kennel are close to 24 inches tall, and there’s a large door on one side that locks shut. And the open top allows you to pick up your puppy, give them toys, and refill their bowls while they’re in the play area.
Pros:
- Locking side panels are customizable to fit your needs
- Easy to assemble
- It sits comfortably on any flooring
Cons:
- Large dogs may be able to escape
Casual Home Wooden Pet Crate
Modern convenience
If you live in a small house or don’t want your dog’s kennel to stand out, Casual Home is here to help. This wooden dog kennel has a classic design and can double as an end table in your living room or bedroom. The kennel features a single door to let your dog in and out and sections on the upper half to provide airflow. And the tabletop is sturdy enough to keep a lamp and other decorative items on the kennel without harming your pet.
Pros:
- Multiple color options
- Made from solid wood
- Easy to wipe clean
Cons:
- Material isn’t chew-proof
Donoro Portable Soft-Sided Dog Kennel
Take it anywhere
Lightweight and perfect for traveling, Donoro’s dog kennel ensures your dog always feels at home, even when you’re away traveling. Available in two sizes, the kennel has a thin wire frame and breathable polyester walls. There are handles on the sides to set it in place, and it folds flat, so you can pack the kennel in your suitcase or car. Plus, the ventilated panels on the top and front prevent your pup from overheating.
Pros:
- Soft mat included
- Waterproof material
- Built-in pockets for snacks and toys
- Adjustable car seat buckle
Cons:
- Not sturdy enough to carry with a dog inside
Unipaws Corner Dog Crate with Cushion
Stylish and secure
We have a feeling you won’t have a hard time finding the perfect spot for Unipaws’ gorgeous dog kennel. This wooden kennel fits into any corner, so you can tuck your dog’s cozy cave out of the way. The mesh panels slotted into the sides ensure your pup stays comfortable and cool inside. And a soft custom mat is included for the kennel. But the best part is that the sturdy top doubles as a table or bench seat, so it won’t take up unnecessary space in your home.
Pros:
- Multiple color and size options
- Safety magnet on the door
- The top can support up to 180 pounds
Cons:
- Not as affordable as other kennels
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dogs need an indoor kennel?
Whether it’s a comfy bed or a cozy crate, dogs benefit from having a space they can call their own. And setting up an indoor kennel will also simplify your life if you need to keep your pet out of the way when hosting parties or working on renovation projects. While putting your pup in a kennel may seem like a punishment, it really isn’t. This special place smells like them and allows your dog to fully relax, which is especially important if they’re feeling overwhelmed with new sights and sounds.
Where should I keep my dog’s indoor kennel?
Depending on your preference and space, there are plenty of places to keep your dog’s kennel. Many people choose to set them up in their bedrooms to keep their dogs nearby. But others put them in the basement or family room so that the kennel doesn’t clutter more formal living areas. If you pick a decorative kennel, you can keep it in a more central location since it will blend in like a piece of furniture.
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