Best wooden dog crates to buy | Best dog crate furniture

As we saw in our earlier articles on best plastic dog crates and wire dog crates, a dog crate can help in providing a safe, secluded and comfortable habitat to your pet and also help in handling some behavioral issues. There are different types of dog crates available in the market, each type with their own advantages and disadvantages. Of all the different types, wooden dog crates are the most aesthetically pleasing and fashionable types of dog crates and can double up as home décor or end table furniture.

But which are the best wooden dog crates and dog crate furniture available in the market?

In this article, we will look at answering exactly the same question and share some of the best wooden dog crates available in the market. Our primary focus would be on the best dog crate furniture that can be used indoors or in the backyard. Outdoor wooden dog kennels and cages would be a topic of discussion in another article. We will also list the factors to consider before picking the best wooden dog crates for everyday use and share our top picks.

Do check out our article on the best plastic dog crates and best wire dog crates if you are looking for alternative types of dog crates for everyday use and travel.

Best wooden dog crate list

Some of the best wooden dog crates and dog crate furniture for everyday use are listed below:
PictureProductSize
Crown Pet Products Wooden Dog Crate and End TableM: 30" x 21" x 24"
L: 40" x 27" x 27"
Single Door
Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate n GateM: 33" x 24" x 23"
L: 40" x 28" x 32"
Single Door
Configurable


Internet's Best Wood & Wire Dog CrateM: 23" x 32" x 26"
L: 25" x 36" x 28"
Double Door
Casual Home Wooden Pet CrateS: 20" x 23" x 23"
M: 20" x 28" x 24"
L: 24" x 37" x 28"
XL: 32" x 45" x 30"
Single Door
Orvis Wooden End Table CrateM: 25" x 31" x 24"
L: 30" x 41" x 30"
Single Door
DenHaus Townhaus Wooden Dog CrateS: 23" x 20" x 23"
M: 30" x 25" x 27"
Other sizes available
Single Door
Richell Wooden End Table Dog CrateS: 18" x 24" x 21"
M: 25" x 31" x 24"
L: 30" x 41" x 30"
Single Door
ZooVilla Medium Slide Aside Crate and End Table35" x 22" x 24"
Single Sliding Door
Newport Wooden Dog Crate37" x 24" x 29"
Single Door
BarkWood Pet Crate and End TableM: 30" x 21" x 24"
L: 36" x 24" x 28"
Single Door
Merry Pet Wood Room-with-a-view Pet House29" x 22" x 25"
Open Door, Balcony and Stairs


** The size mentioned above are based on exterior dimensions. Since wooden frames are thick, interior dimensions would be about 4-6 inches less. Check the product details for exact interior dimensions before picking the right size of crate.

What is a wooden dog crate and how is it different from other dog crates?

Wooden dog crates are specially-designed hard-case dog cages made of wood or any other wood-based products. The wooden dog crates are one of the many canine containment products that include plastic dog crates, wire dog crates, soft-case dog carriers and outdoor dog kennels. These types of dog crates are also sometimes referred to as “dog crate furniture”

Wooden dog crates are primarily meant for indoor use. They are generally made of solid wood like Rubberwood, Cedar, Maple, Mahogany or Cherrywood or Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF plywood). Solid wood dog crate furniture is more durable, heavier and eclectic. MDF plywood dog crates tend to be lighter but are considerably cheaper. Almost all wooden dog crates have a Microban coating and special moisture-resistant paint or polish to provide weather protection. They have one or more wire-frame doors with a latch lock.

Wooden dog crates are the most fashionable types of dog crates. They can be used as living room furniture or end table and add to the home décor. And because of their enclosed design, they offer more privacy to the pet and hence help in controlling separation anxiety.

However, wooden dog crates require more care and can only be used with mild-mannered dogs weighing less than 100-110 lbs. Moreover, they tend to be costlier than most wire and plastic dog crates (with exception of heavy-duty metal dog cages).

To summarize, the major pros and cons of wooden dog crates over other types of dog crates, especially plastic dog crates, are listed below:

Pros
  • Wooden dog crates offer an excellent combination of elegance and functionality. They are fashionable and can easily double up as end-table or living room furniture, without looking awkward like a metal or plastic cage.
  • Since your dog stays in the thick of action indoors, such crates can help in controlling separation anxiety. An enclosed design with natural sound-absorbing properties of wood can help in managing anxiety and related behavioral problems.
  • Since wooden dog crates can be used as end-tables to hold home décor, magazines, lamps etc. they can help you save some space. This is especially useful if you live in a small apartment or studio.
  • Closed design and natural wood insulation properties mean that wooden dog crates provide better insulation against the weather during winter season. An indoor setup also helps in maintaining the crate temperature.
Cons
  • Wooden dog crates are only suitable for gentle, mild-mannered dogs that weigh not more than 100-110 lbs. Aggressive and bigger dogs can chew and scratch the wooden surfaces. Moreover, they should only be used with dogs which have already been crate trained.
  • Wooden dog crates are primarily meant for indoor use only within the household. These dog crates cannot be used as airline pet carriers or for travel. They are not collapsible and cannot be disassembled easily.
  • Wooden dog crates do not come with divider panels and hence are not resizable for a growing puppy.
  • Wood requires more maintenance and care as exposure to moisture can cause it to expand. Moreover, because of the enclosed design of wooden dog crates, they can trap odors and hence must be cleaned regularly.
  • Wooden dog crates tend to be costlier than wire dog crates in the long run. They may not last as long as the metal dog crates, though many of them can last over a couple of years with proper care.

To summarize. wooden dog crates can be used to provide an elegant and fashionable indoor home to your pet that can also double up as a living room table.

In the next sections, we will look at some of the best dog crate furniture and wooden dog crates available in the market and buying advice on how to pick the best wooden dog crate for your pooch.

Which are the best wooden dog crates and cages for everyday use?

Crown Pet Products Wooden Dog Crate and End TableCrown Pet Products Pet Crate Wood Dog Crate Furniture End Table, Medium Size with Mahogany Finish

Material:  Kiln-dried tropical Rubberwood frame finished with multi-layered wood protector paint.
Design: Single swing-through door that can rotate outwards or inward. Wooden door and window slats. Waterproof melamine-covered MDF floor panel.
Size:

  • M: 30″ x 21″ x 24″
  • L: 40″ x 27″ x 27″

Price: $$ to $$$ depending upon the size.
Features:

  • Best-selling solid wood dog crate featuring a solid Rubberwood construction with waterproof melamine-covered MDF crate floor. Beautiful stained and lacquered finish. Made in China.
  • Multiple window-sized vents on all sides provide a well-ventilated environment to the pet. The crate has about 1.5-inches of space between wooden slats with rounded corners that greatly reduce possible sharp-points.
  • Versatile swing-through door rotates inwards or outwards, so as to be out of the way. Equipped with a standard stainless-steel door latch.
  • Waterproof melamine-covered MDF floor is easy to clean and eliminates absorption of liquids and odors.
  • Available in two sizes and two elegant furniture finishes – Mahogany and Espresso. Suitable for dogs up to 80-90 lbs. in size.
  • Backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.

Details:

If you are looking for an elegant yet durable dog crate furniture, then the best-selling Crown Pet Products Wooden Dog Crate and End Table is an excellent option to consider. This versatile crate offers a perfect combination of aesthetic looks combined with full functionality.

The Crown Pets wooden dog crate is made of kiln-dried tropical Rubberwood with a waterproof melamine-coated MDF floor panel. Rubberwood is one of the most sustainable and eco-friendly types of wood and is fairly durable. The crate is made in China. Each crate is coated with a beautiful lacquered finish in Mahogany or Espresso color to give it an excellent furniture look.

The wooden dog crate has window-sized vents on three sides with wooden slats. There is about 1.5-inches of space between wooden slats and the corners are rounded to greatly reduce possible sharp-points. The door has full-sized wooden slats. This design means that the crate provides excellent ventilation, while still providing the required privacy to the pet.

One of the best design features of the Crown Pets wooden dog crate is its versatile swing-through door design. The door can swing open both inwards or outwards to provide an unrestricted access to the pet. The door is equipped with a standard stainless-steel latch which is, unfortunately, not escape proof and a Houdini dog can easily learn to open it.

The waterproof melamine-covered MDF floor of the crate is designed to minimize absorption of liquids and odors and is easy to clean. You may still want to use a plastic crate tray for extra convenience and protection.

The Crown Pet Products Wooden Dog Crate and End Table is available in two sizes – medium for dogs weighing up to 45 lbs. and large for dogs weighing up to 80-90 lbs. And the crate is backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment and a one-year manufacturer warranty.

For its high-quality construction and decent quality, the Crown Pet Products Wooden Dog Crate and End Table is our Editor’s pick for the best wooden dog crate for everyday use. This crate is a perfect choice for pet owners who are looking for an elegant-looking solid wood dog crate furniture for their pets.
Pros
  • High-quality, durable solid wood dog crate made of sustainable Rubberwood with elegant furniture finish.
  • Features a versatile swing-through door that can rotate both inwards or outwards to provide unrestricted access.
  • Multiple window-sized vents provide ample ventilation while restricting a full view and minimizing the outdoor noise.
  • Comes with a waterproof melamine-covered MDF floor that minimizes odors and is easy to clean.
  • Available in two sizes and two elegant furniture finishes – Mahogany and Espresso. Backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.
Cons
  • Only suitable for dogs weighing up to 80 lbs. Not available in extra-large sizes for bigger pets.
  • Not the easiest dog crate to assemble. Requires tools to assemble the crate.

Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate n Gate – Value Pick for the best wooden dog crateMerry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate and Gate, Medium

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Material: Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) body with solid wood veneer and stain-resistant brown protector paint. Metal rod tubes on windows and doors.
Design: Single door that can hinge or slide into the side.  Standard steel latch lock.
Size:

  • M: 33″ x 24″ x 23″
  • L: 40″ x 28″ x 32″

Price: $.
Features:

  • 2-In-1 configurable wooden pet crate and gate featuring an MDF body with stain-resistant brown finishing color. Has a solid wood veneer and metal slats. Made in China or Vietnam.
  • Lightweight and durable, with solid wood top and bottom panels with 200+ lbs. tabletop capacity.
  • Easy tool-free assembly and conversion to a wooden gate that can be used to close off doorways and/or open spaces.
  • Full-sized windows on all sides provide a 360-degree view and a well-ventilated environment to the pet. The crate has about 1.4-inches of space between the metal slats. The door has a standard latch lock.
  • Comes with a leak-proof sliding plastic crate tray. The dog tray is removable for cleaning and is replaceable if damaged.
  • Available in two sizes and a single standard brown furniture look and backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.

Details:

Merry Pets is the most popular wooden dog crate brand. Marketed by ZooVilla and made in either China or Vietnam under the strict quality control processes, Merry Pet dog crates are what MidWest Pets for home is for wire dog crates or Petmate is for plastic dog crates – a line of decent-quality, affordable dog crates available in multiple shapes and designs.

So, if you are looking for a multi-purpose, value-for-money wooden dog crate for a mild-mannered, crate-trained dog weighing less than 90 lbs., then the Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate n Gate is the best option to consider. Priced well under 200 dollars (for the largest model), this configurable crate-and-gate wooden dog crate offers excellent a return on investment.

The Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate is made of high-quality Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) plywood frame with a solid wood veneer panels on the top and bottom to support up to 200 lbs. of weight. The frame is coated with multiple-layer of wood protector varnish and provided an elegant looking brown furniture finishing.

The window and the door panels of the crates have stainless steel wire slats coated with a black, rust-resistant paint. The crate is available in two sizes and suitable for pets weighing under 90-95 lbs. Make sure you size-up your dog before picking the dog crate of right size.

The Merry Pet Dog Crate is extremely easy to assemble and disassemble without tools. It includes four panels and can be easily converted into a wooden pet gate and can be used to close off doorways and/or open spaces. Each panel is easily removable to accommodate smaller openings.

When used as a dog crate furniture, the crate doubles up as an end table with a generously sized top panel to place magazines, lighting or décor. The crate has approximately 1.5-inches or space between wire tubes and the corners are rounded to prevent any accidental pet injury. The crate has a single door with a latch lock. While the latch lock does act as an escape deterrent, it is not escape-proof.

One of the best parts with the Merry Pet dog crate is that it comes a removable plastic crate pan that is leak-proof and can be replaced if required.  And like all other Merry Pet dog crates, the Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate n Gate is backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.

For its decent quality, multi-purpose design and great value-for-money, the Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate n Gate is our value pick for the best wooden dog crate. If you are looking for a well-ventilated, easy-to-assemble and convenient-to-maintain wooden dog crate for everyday use and do not want to spend a fortune, then you should definitely check out one of the Merry Pet Wooden Dog Crate models.
Pros
  • Smartly-designed, 2-in-1 wooden dog crate with MDF wooden panels, solid wood veneer and stainless steel slats with a rust-resistant paint coating.
  • Easy tool-free assembly and can be converted to a wooden gate with 2, 3 or all 4 panels
  • Full-sized windows on all sides provide a 360-degree view and a well-ventilated environment to the pet. The door has a standard latch lock.
  • Comes with a leak-proof sliding plastic crate tray. The dog tray is removable for cleaning and is replaceable if damaged.
  • Competitively priced and backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty. Available in two sizes.
Cons
  • Not as sturdy or durable as solid-wood dog crates.
  • Available in only a single brown color finish.
  • Not fully escape proof as a determined dog can easily open the door latch.

Internet’s Best Wood & Wire Dog CrateInternet's Best Decorative Dog Kennel with Pet Bed | Double Door | Wooden Wire Dog House | Large Indoor Pet Crate Side Table | White

Material: Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) body with solid wood veneer and stain-resistant white finish. Metal rod tubes on windows and doors.
Design: Double Door design – one two-sided main door and one side door. Standard steel latch lock. Removable full-sized crate cushion bed.
Size:

Price: $$.
Features:

  • Mid-range wooden dog crate and end table combo with MDF board construction. Features a solid wood veneer on top and bottom. Imported.
  • Lightweight and durable, with solid wood top and bottom panels for 200+ lbs. tabletop capacity.
  • Equipped with two doors – one double-sided main door and one side door for easy accessibility. The door has satin nickel hardware latch locks.
  • Has rust-free painted round metal slats on doors and windows with about 1.5-inches of space between them.
  • Comes with a full-size, 2.75″ thick padded, removable dog bed.
  • Easy to assemble and disassemble and comes with the required hardware and instructions. Raised floor panel keeps the floor clean and dry.
  • Available in two sizes and colors – white and expresso and backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty. Suitable for dogs up to 90 lbs.

Casual Home Wooden Pet CrateCasual Home 600-41 Wooden Pet Crate, White, 24

Material: 100% tropical Hevea wood body with multi-layer, stain-resistant wood protector paint.
Design: Single door with wooden slats. Standard steel latch lock. Removable plastic crate tray.
Size:

  • S: 20″ x 23″ x 23″
  • M: 20″ x 28″ x 24″
  • L: 24″ x 37″ x 28″
  • XL: 32″ x 45″ x 30″

Price: $.
Features:

  • Budget wooden end table dog crate with a solid Hevea wood (Rubberwood) construction and stain-resistant finish. Imported.
  • Window-sized vents on all sides provide a 360-degree view and a well-ventilated environment to the pet. The crate has about 1.5-inches of space between the wooden slats.
  • Large fully expanded removable door provides with a side-stopper to keep the door fully open if desired. Equipped with an I-shaped door latch. Largest XL size crate has a double-sided door.
  • Comes with a leak-proof sliding plastic crate tray. The dog tray is removable for cleaning and is replaceable if damaged.
  • Available in four sizes and four elegant furniture colors. Suitable for dogs weighing up to 90 lbs.
  • Backed by a 5-year warranty by the manufacturer.

Orvis Wooden End Table CrateOrvis Wooden End Table Crate, Large

Material: Kiln-dried tropical wood finished with stain-resistant dark brown paint.
Design: Single door with wooden slats. Standard steel latch lock. Removable plastic crate tray.
Size:

  • M: 25″ x 31″ x 24″
  • L: 30″ x 41″ x 30″

Price: $$ to $$$ depending upon size.
Features:

  • High-quality wooden end table dog crate with an all wood construction and stain-resistant finish. Imported under US-based Orvis quality restrictions.
  • Full-sized slats on the door and all sides provide a 360-degree view and a well-ventilated environment to the pet. The crate has about 1.4-inches of space between the wooden slats.
  • Large fully expanded removable door provides with a side-stopper to keep the door fully open if desired. Equipped with an I-shaped door latch.
  • Comes with a removable sliding plastic crate tray. The dog tray is removable for cleaning and is replaceable if damaged.
  • Available in two sizes and elegant dark brown finish. Suitable for dogs weighing up to 88 lbs.
  • Backed by a 100% satisfaction guaranteed commitment throughout the lifetime of the product.

DenHaus Townhaus Wooden Dog CrateDenHaus TownHaus Indoor Dog House and End Table, Mahogany, Medium

Material: Kiln-dried tropical wood finished with multiple coats of mahogany or espresso stain.
Design: Single door with wooden grates that are removable. Antique brass hardware and bolt lock.
Size:

Price: $$$$.
Features:

  • High-end, premium dog crate furniture and end table with a patented design. Made in the USA.
  • Features a Kiln-dried tropical wood crate body with MDF reinforcements at corners. Coated with multi-layer sealer and wood protector paint having mahogany or espresso stain.
  • Solid construction with aggregate weight ranging from 70 lbs. for small and 180 lbs. for XLarge crate.
  • Equipped with a wooden crate door with removable and lockable interior door panel. Open window slits on two sides provide additional ventilation.
  • Features an all-brass hardware and a heavy-duty bolt lock that is virtually escape proof.
  • Available in two color combinations and four sizes for dogs weighing up to 150 lbs.
  • Backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.

Richell Wooden End Table Dog CrateRichell Wooden End Table Crate, Large, Dark Brown

Material: Kiln-dried tropical wood finished with stain-resistant dark brown paint.
Design: Single door with wooden slats. Standard steel latch lock. Removable plastic crate tray.
Size:

  • S: 18″ x 24″ x 21″
  • M: 25″ x 31″ x 24″
  • L: 30″ x 41″ x 30″

Price: $$ to $$$ depending upon the size.
Features:

  • Stylish wooden end table dog crate with an all wood construction and stain-resistant finish. Designed in Japan and made in Vietnam.
  • Multiple vents on all sides provide a 360-degree view and a well-ventilated environment to the pet.
  • The crate has about 1.36-inches of space between wooden slats with patented rounded corners that greatly reduce possible sharp-points.
  • Large fully expanded removable door provides unrestricted access. Equipped with a standard door latch with a side-stopper to keep the door open.
  • Comes with a removable sliding plastic crate tray. The dog tray is removable for cleaning and is replaceable if damaged.
  • Available in three sizes and elegant dark brown finish. Suitable for dogs weighing up to 88 lbs.
  • Backed by a 90-day hassle-free manufacturer warranty.
  • An expandable wooden dog crate is also available from the same manufacturer for small puppies and dogs.

ZooVilla Medium Slide Aside Crate and End Tablezoovilla Medium Slide Aside Crate and End Table

Material: Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) body with solid wood veneer and stain-resistant black or white protector paint. Metal rod tubes on windows and doors.
Design: Single door that can hinge or slide into the side.  Standard steel latch lock.
Size: 37″ x 24″ x 29″.
Price: $.
Features:

  • Mid-range wooden dog crate and end table combo with MDF board construction. Features a solid wood veneer on top and bottom. Made in China or Vietnam.
  • Lightweight and durable, with solid wood top and bottom panels for 200+ lbs. tabletop capacity.
  • Features a patent-pending design with a door that can retract and slide into the cage or stay hinged. The door has a single bolt-latch lock.
  • Has rust-free painted round metal bars on doors and windows with about 1.5-inches of space between them.
  • Easy to assemble and disassemble and comes with the required hardware and instructions. Raised floor panel keeps the floor clean and dry.
  • Available in two colors – black and white and backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.

Newport Wooden Dog CrateDog Crate Kennel Cage Bed Night Stand End Table Wood Furniture Cave House Room Large size / Black.

Material: 100% particle wood body with multi-layer, stain-resistant wood protector paint.
Design: Single door with wooden slats. Standard steel latch lock.
Size: 37″ x 24″ x 29″.
Price: $.
Features:

  • Budget, standard end table wooden dog crate made of particle wood with multiple layers of satin-black or dark brown finish. Made in China for a brand owned by Walmart.
  • 360-degree ventilation with half-window slats on the door and each side. Slats are about 1.6-inches apart and rectangular in shape with rounded edges.
  • The crate door is equipped with a standard steel latch lock. Not escape-proof.
  • Easy installation with provided hardware and tools. Can be installed without the door.
  • Available in a single size suitable for medium dog breeds and backed by a one-year warranty. Also available in dark-brown furniture color.

BarkWood Pet Crate and End TableBarkWood Pet Crate End Table - Grey Finish

Material: 100% Solid tropical wood body finished with multi-layered wood protector paint.
Design: Single door with wooden slats. Standard steel latch lock. Rubberized inner flooring.
Size:

  • M: 30″ x 21″ x 24″
  • L: 36″ x 24″ x 28″

Price: $$ to $$$ depending upon the size.
Features:

  • Decent-quality wooden dog crate made of solid wood with multi-layer protection paint. Made in China.
  • Features a wrap-around door with two hinges and a steel door latch. The door can be attached on either side (left or right) of the crate.
  • The crate floor has a rubberized coating to minimize moisture absorption and ensure easy cleanup.
  • Comes with four floor-protectors to lift the crate off the floor and prevent scratches.
  • Available in four distinct decorative finishes and larger size. Check BarkWood Pet Crates
  • Backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.

Merry Pet Wood Room-with-a-view Pet HouseMerry Pet MPS002 Wood Room with a View Pet House

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Material: Kiln-dried cedar wood treated with natural color stains.
Design: Open door with balcony, latticework, and side steps. Raised floor panel. Removable top roof and bottom panels.
Size:  35″ x 22″ x 24″.
Price: $.
Features:

  • Uniquely designed wooden pet condo, suitable for small dogs and cats up to 25 lbs. Made in China or Vietnam and marketed by ZooVilla.
  • Lightweight yet durable construction. Made of kiln-dried cedar wood treated with natural color stains. Detailed design that includes a main house, latticed balcony and stairs.
  • Removable roof and bottom panels make cleaning easy. Raised floor panel keeps the floor clean and dry.
  • Easy to assemble and disassemble and comes with the required hardware and instructions.
  • Available in a single standard wooden look and backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.

Additional options for dog crate furniture

ecoFLEX Pet Crate/End Table

All the options that we listed above are made of solid wood or wooden fiberboards (MDF). The wooden construction gives these crates an elegant furniture look, but generally means more maintenance and care.

If you are looking for something that is easier to clean and maintain, then you can also look at ecoFlex dog crate furniture or end tables. ecoFlex is a wood-based polymer that is made by combining reclaimed wood by-products with ABS or any other type of plastic. ecoFlex is waterproof and can be cleaned simply by wiping with a wet cloth. It is durable, insect-proof and does not expand or contract like natural wood.  Furthermore, ecoFlex wooden dog crates are generally cheaper than natural wood or MDF board dog crates.

If you are fine with ecoFlex wooden dog crates, then we recommend that you pick one of the following two options:

  • New Age Pet ecoFlex Pet Crate and End Table: Popular ecoFlex dog crate furniture made of wood by-products sourced from the US and Western Europe. Available in four colors and sizes for dogs up to 100 lbs. Backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.
  • ModHaus Living ecoFlex Pet Crate: A newly released product line of contemporary looking end table dog crates. Available in five colors and six sizes.

Mr. Herzher's Small Pet Residence, Dark Brown

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Another lightweight dog crate furniture option is the PetSafe Mr. Herzher’s Indoor Pet Home. It is essentially a wire dog crate which has Wicker panels covering the wire frame. This wicker dog crate furniture is available in available in brown furniture color and available in four sizes for puppies and dogs weighing between 10 – 100 lbs. And it is portable too!

How to pick the best wooden dog crate for everyday use?

You need a wooden dog crate or dog crate furniture that is elegant-looking, durable, and requires less maintenance. But with so many different options available in the market, including different models from the same manufacturer, picking the best wooden dog crate can be a challenging task.

Before picking the best dog crate furniture for your pooch, you need to look at the following major factors:

  • Construction material
  • Crate design
  • Crate Size
  • Cleaning and Maintenance
  • Additional Factors and Considerations

Construction material

You should always look at the manufacturing material of the dog crate to ascertain its build quality, finishing and durability. After all, wooden dog crates and end tables are costly items and you must look for a crate that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also easy to maintain and built to last.

The wooden dog crates are generally made of kiln-dried solid wood or Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) plywood and coated with stain-resistant furniture paint for water protection and elegant looks. MDF crates are the cheapest and lightest, though they are not the most durable and can chip around the edges. To improve their durability a solid wood veneer is often attached on the top and bottom panels. Our top pick – the Merry Pet 2-in-1 Configurable Pet Crate n Gate and other variants by ZooVilla are the best MDF wooden dog crates in the market.

The cheapest solid wood dog crates use a tropical wood like the Rubberwood. Rubberwood is considered the most sustainable type of wood and is reasonably durable and easy to maintain. Better quality wooden dog crates use Cherry wood, Maple, Cedar or Mahogany. These are high-density wood types and such dog crate furniture are heavier and more durable. Moreover, solid wood has natural noise-reduction properties, thereby making the crate more secluded and disturbance-free. They may, however, require more care and re-painting in three or more years. Crown Pet Products Wooden Dog Crate and DenHaus Townhaus Wooden Dog Crate have probably the best heavy-duty construction among solid wood crates.

The window and door slats of the wooden dog crates are made of either wood or metal. Wooden slats look more elegant and provide better ventilation and have a spacing of over 1.6-inches between the slats. But they can be damaged more easily by an aggressive chewer. Metal tubes or slats are more closely bound and are relatively chew-proof, though they do not look as elegant as the wooden slats.

The door locks of such crates are generally latched or bolt locks and made of steel. Since wooden dog crates are only recommended for pets who have already been crate trained, such crates only have one latch lock per door and are not escape-proof.

The flooring of wooden dog crates are sometimes rubberized to reduce the impact of any “accidents” your pet might have. Still, it would be a good idea to get a removable plastic or metal crate tray, if your crate does not come with one.

Check the construction material of the crate body, top and bottom panels, windows, doors and other additional parts before picking the best wooden dog crate for your pet.

Crate design

In addition to a sturdy build and proper size, there are quite a few design features that can make a specific wooden dog crate a better choice over other models.

An important design feature that you will have to think about is the design of the door of these crates. Crate doors that are swing-through and can open fully are the best options. Some of them even have sliders or side stoppers to turn the crate into an open den. The DenHaus Townhaus Wooden Dog Crate probably has the best door design as it has a door which has a provision of removing the door slats/grates if desired.

As discussed above, wooden dog crates have an open or closed design. A closed design may be suitable for a pet with separation anxiety, while some canines like to see what is going around them and prefer a more open crate. Open dog crates have big windows with slats made of wood or metal. You would also need to ensure that these bars or tubes are rounded off and the distance between the slats is not big enough for the pet to hurt its snout by scratching it against the openings.  You can always limit the view from a crate by getting a crate cover.

Since wooden dog crates are generally meant for mild-mannered pets weighing no more than 100 lbs. and placed in the living rooms, they generally do not have heavy-duty crate locks. Most of the crates have standard bolt or latch locks that do offer some resistance but are not fully escape proof. So, you would need to keep that in mind before picking the best wooden dog crate.

Keep these design features in mind before picking the best wooden dog crate or den for your beloved pet.

Crate Size

Once you have zeroed in on a specific model, it is important that you pick the dog crate of the right size. Most of the options that we listed are available in multiple sizes, so you can pick one as per your dog’s breed, measured size and weight.

In order to pick the right size of crate, you would need to measure the length and height of your pet. Based on your pet’s length and height, you would need to add 4-6 inches of additional space to give enough wriggle room to the pet. Most manufacturers provide their own sizing charts like the one below, to help you pick the best wooden dog crate size. It is important to remember that the interior dimensions of the crate would be at least 4-5 inches less than the advertised exterior dimensions, because of the thicker wooden frame.

Typical wooden dog crate sizing chart (Source: DenHaus, Amazon.com)
Typical wooden dog crate sizing chart (Source: DenHaus, Amazon.com)

Always measure up your pet and pick the crate of the most appropriate size. When in doubt, pick a crate that is one size up.

Cleaning and maintenance

As mentioned above, wooden dog crates require more maintenance than wire dog crates.

Thankfully, the wooden frame of most dog furniture crate is coated with Microban-based stain-resistant paint to provide protection against termites and moisture. To clean, you can simply wipe the crate with a moist soft cloth.

Cleaning the interiors and bottom of the wooden dog crates is another matter. To prevent any soiling or odor build-up due to an “accident”, you would need to clean the dog crate more frequently.

While almost all the options we listed are easy to clean, our top picks – the Crown Pet Products Wooden Dog Crate and End Table is our favorite because it comes with a waterproof melamine-covered MDF floor that is extremely easy to clean.

Based on your preferences, pick a wooden dog crate that is easy to assemble/disassemble, clean and maintain. A crate that has a rubberized floor or comes with removable crate tray or pan is generally a more suitable choice.

Additional factors and miscellaneous considerations

In addition to the major factors discussed above, there are some other miscellaneous considerations that can make a particular wooden dog crate a better choice over other products.

One of the most important additional factors is the styles and looks of the crate. After all, it must be the main reason why you would be going for a wooden crate to begin with. Most of the options that we listed are available in multiple furniture color combinations, so you can pick one as per your preference.  Casual Home Wooden Pet Crate scores big in this category as it is available in a maximum of four elegant furniture color combinations.

Another consideration is the accessories, if any, that come with the crate. While it should not be a deal-breaker, check out the additional accessories included with the crate before picking the best wooden dog crate for your needs.  Closely related to the included accessories is the availability of replacement parts. Availability of replacement locks, plastic trays and covers is an important factor to look out for before picking the best option.

Finally, one of the most important additional consideration is the warranty and post-purchase customer service support offered on the crate by the manufacturer.  While there is nothing like an indestructible wooden dog crate, the longer the warranty period, the more durable the dog crate would be.  Most travel dog crates that we listed are backed by excellent post-purchase support and warranties ranging from one year to the lifetime of the product, so you can use such products for a long time without worrying about their durability. Just make sure you make your purchase only from authorized re-sellers and register your product after purchasing if required.

You can look at all these additional factors before finalizing the best wooden dog crate or den for your beloved canine.

Accessories for wooden dog crates

Replacement Tray for Dog Crate Pans - Large 30 Inch Plastic Bottom Pan Floor Liners for Pet Cages Crates Kennels Dogs Cat Rabbit Ferret Critter Nation Folding Metal Wire Training Cage Liner Trays

Crate tray, beds and water and food bowls are generally the most common accessories you would need with wooden dog crates.

Most wooden dog crates do not come with a crate tray and you will have to purchase one separately. You can look at the following standard options and pick one of the best size. While metallic tray pans are more durable, we recommend that you go with plastic crate trays.

In addition to the crate covers and trays, crate beds are generally the most common accessories you would need with wood dog crates. If you are looking for budget dog crate beds, you can consider the following best-selling options:

For crate food and water bowls, you can consider the following options. These bowls have smart attachments that can allow the bowl to be securely attached to the crate door.

You would also need to consider getting a few dog potty pads, especially if you have a pet prone to accidents. Check out our article on the best puppy and dog training pads for some of the best options available in the market.

Things to remember while using wooden dog crates

The Power of Positive Dog Training

As discussed above, wooden dog crates are fashionable yet functional pet containment products that provide a safe, secluded and comfortable resting place to your pooch right in your living room or indoors.

While covering all the information and advice on crate training is beyond the scope of this article, there are a few tips you can follow. For some more detailed information and tips and tricks, you can check out some additional resources in our article on the best dog training guides. You would find The Power of Positive Dog Training by Pat Miller especially useful.

  • Do consider crate training your pet, especially if you have a multi-pet household. Most dog trainers, vets and behaviorists recommend that every pet owner must at least consider crate training for their pets. The earlier you start the better and easier it would be (but not before 6-8 weeks).
  • Keep in mind that wooden dog crates are only suitable for pets which have already been crate trained. They are generally NOT suitable for pets who are still going through the training process.
  • Wooden dog crates are most suitable for small to medium dog breeds because of their smaller physical build. A bigger dog can easily chew through the window and door slats or scratch the crate badly. Consider a wooden dog crate only if you have a pet that weighs less than 100-110 lbs.
  • Irrespective of the type of crate you opt for, the size of the crate is extremely important. Always measure your dog and pick a crate that gives ample space for the dog to move around the crate. When in doubt, size up to a bigger size. Some of the wooden dog crates also have two-door options available.
  • While dog crates are excellent containment options, you should not leave your dog in it unattended for long hours. Dogs are active animals who need regular exercise and interaction. The general rule of thumb is to keep a dog no more than 6-8 hours at one time during the day. Keeping the dog any longer in the crate can make it depressed or inactive. For night time, leaving the dog in the crate is OK if your pet is comfortable with it.
  • Before putting your dog in the crate, make sure it has done “its business” and does not hold or urinate/defecate in the crate. Most dogs would give you enough indications before getting into the crates. You can also consider using a dog training pad if required.
  • Most airline regulations do not allow carrying wooden dog crates on airlines. You should consider an IATA-approved plastic dog crate to use as airline carriers. The general IATA pet container requirements are listed here.
  • Wooden dog crates require a lot of maintenance. Clean the crate regularly by removing the crate pan and bed and wiping the surface with a wet disinfectant cloth.
  • If the canine shows aggression or is continuously whining in the crate despite being crate trained, consult your vet. It may be a sign of a health or behavioral problem with the pet.
 

Final thoughts on the best wooden dog crates and dog crate furniture

If you are a long-time pet owner, chances are you would have thought about getting a dog crate for your beloved pooch. Dog crates are an essential tool that can provide a secure and secluded personal space to the pet and help in addressing some behavioral issues. There are different types of dog crates, each with their own set of pros and cons.

In this article, we looked at one such type of dog crates – the wooden dog crates. These dog crates can not only provide an indoor home to your pet but can also work as a functional furniture item in your living room.  We listed some of the best wooden dog crates available in the market and shared some factors before picking the best dog crate furniture for your beloved pet.

We hope that you found this article useful and it would help you in picking the best wooden dog crate for your beloved pet. Please provide your feedback by commenting below or contacting us. Till next time, have a blast with your Fido!

Image credits:Amazon.com

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