7 Clever DIY Crate Ideas to Hide Your Dog’s Kennel

You ever look at pet furniture prices and think, “Wait… why does this tiny thing cost more than my entire monthly grocery bill?” Because same.

That’s exactly why I started building crate projects at home, and honestly, I never looked back. If you love quick wins, cute results, and happy pets, you’re about to have some fun.

Today I’ll walk you through seven DIY crate projects you can build fast, even if your toolbox is basically a screwdriver and whatever Allen keys you’ve collected from years of flat-pack furniture.

These are practical, beginner-friendly, and super satisfying to make. And trust me, your pet will love them even more than you do.

DIY Crate Bed With Plush Padding

If your pet acts like the current bed you bought is a “temporary suggestion” and not a cozy spot, this project will finally give them a real reason to settle down.

Ever wondered why pets love soft, enclosed spaces so much? Because it makes them feel secure and pampered, which is exactly what this crate bed delivers.

Materials You Need

• Wooden crate
  
• Foam padding or thick cushion
  
• Fabric (something durable but soft)
  
• Scissors
  
• Staple gun
  
• Measuring tape
  

Why This Project Works

This crate bed combines structure with comfort, which helps pets feel like they have their own den. I made one for my own dog, and she started guarding it like royalty before I even finished smoothing the fabric. Typical pet behavior, right?

How to Make It

Measure your crate’s interior.
Cut the foam so it fits snugly.
Wrap the foam with your fabric.
Staple the fabric under the board or cushion backing to keep the top smooth.
Slide it into the crate and let your pet claim their new throne.

You can finish this whole thing faster than you can heat up a frozen dinner. And yes, that’s from personal experience.

Crate Toy Storage Box

If you’re tired of stepping on squeaky toys at 2 a.m. and nearly having a heart attack, this one’s for you.

Ever noticed how pets scatter toys like they’re trying to make a point? This crate toy box pulls everything back into a neat, stylish corner.

What You Need

• Wooden crate
  
• Paint or wood stain
  
• Four small casters (wheels)
  
• Screws
  
• Drill or screwdriver
  

Why This Storage Helps

You create a rolling toy bin that keeps everything contained. IMO, any project that reduces daily chaos gets an automatic gold star. And when guests come over, you can roll the toy cart away like magic.

How to Build

Paint or stain the crate to match your home.
Attach casters underneath each corner.
Flip it over and test the wheels.
Add labels if your pet has more toys than a toddler.

This crate project looks chic and works hard, which is kind of the dream combo.

Elevated Crate Feeder

If your dog or cat practically inhales their food or slides the bowls all over the kitchen floor, this elevated feeder solves everything instantly.

Ever noticed how many pets eat like someone’s going to steal their food? This feeder slows down the chaos.

Supplies

• Crate
  
• Metal or ceramic bowls
  
• Jigsaw or cutter
  
• Sandpaper
  
• Marker
  
• Measuring tape
  

Why This Helps Pets

An elevated feeder aligns your pet’s neck and stomach, which makes eating more comfortable. It also stops bowls from drifting around like they’re competing in some kitchen Olympics.

Steps

Flip your crate upside down.
Trace the tops of the bowls onto the bottom wooden slats.
Cut out circular holes slightly smaller than the rim.
Sand everything smooth.
Drop the bowls in.
Watch your pet investigate like a professional food critic.

You’ll love how clean this keeps feeding time.

Crate Side Table

This is one of my absolute favorite DIYs because it pulls double duty. You get a decorative side table, and your pet gets a cozy hideaway. It’s basically functional magic.

Ever thought, “My pet’s crate ruins my room’s vibe”? This fixes that instantly.

Tools & Materials

• Large crate
  
• A smooth wood board (for the table top)
  
• Wood glue
  
• Nails or screws
  
• Paint or stain
  

Why This Project Shines

You upgrade your furniture while giving your pet a personal suite. The crate becomes part of your home instead of something you try to hide. And FYI, your guests won’t even notice it’s a crate unless your pet peeks out dramatically.

Building Steps

Sand and paint the crate.
Glue the wooden board on top.
Secure it with nails or screws for durability.
Decorate the top with books, plants, or simple decor.
Place a soft bed inside for your pet.

This transforms your living room without spending big bucks.

Crate Shoe Rack for Muddy-Paw Days

If your pet loves running outside, then happily tracking dirt inside, this shoe rack becomes your new best friend. It’s simple but ridiculously effective.

Ever wondered why muddy pawprints seem to follow you everywhere? Because your pet waits for the exact moment you clean to start sprinting around again.

What You Need

• Two matching crates
  
• Screws
  
• Paint (optional)
  
• Drill
  

Why This Helps

You get a designated landing zone for shoes, boots, leashes, and anything else that normally piles up near the door. Plus, the rustic crate look works in almost any entryway.

Steps

Stack two crates vertically.
Secure them together with screws.
Paint or stain them if you want a styled finish.
Place a small mat on top for extra storage.

I use mine to keep leashes, harnesses, and quick-grab items organized so I’m not scrambling every time my dog gives me that “Walk. Now.” stare.

Crate Pet Ramp

Small pets, seniors, or pets with joint issues will love this ramp. And honestly, you’ll love it too once you stop lifting your pet onto the couch like a personal elevator.

Ever watched your pet attempt a jump and immediately regretted letting them try? Yeah… this helps prevent that.

Materials

• Crate
  
• Plywood board
  
• Hinges
  
• Nonslip mat or rug
  
• Screws
  
• Screwdriver or drill
  

Why This Matters

A simple ramp keeps your pet safe and reduces strain on their joints. It also makes your sofa or bed instantly more accessible without looking bulky.

How to Build

Attach the plywood board to one open side of the crate using hinges.
Cover the board with a nonslip mat so your pet doesn’t slide down like a cartoon character.
Secure everything tightly.
Place it beside your couch or bed.
Encourage your pet to test it with treats.

My small dog pretended to ignore it at first, then started using it nonstop after realizing the couch life was finally within reach.

Crate Grooming Station

If grooming turns into a wrestling match or some sort of wild circus act, this crate grooming station will make life MUCH easier.

Ever wondered why pets act like nail clippers are weapons of mass destruction? I ask myself that every week.

Supplies

• Crate
  
• Rubber mat
  
• Metal hooks
  
• Grooming tools (clippers, files, brushes)
  
• Zip ties
  

Why This Project Helps

This creates a designated, secure grooming zone that reduces sliding, squirming, and chaos. You won’t eliminate drama completely—let’s be realistic—but you’ll reduce it.

Steps

Place a rubber mat inside the crate for grip.
Attach hooks to the side to hang brushes, scissors, and clippers.
Use zip ties to secure any loose items.
Keep treats nearby for motivation.
Trim nails, brush fur, and handle grooming without chasing your pet across the house.

This setup makes grooming day feel much more manageable.

Extra Tips to Boost Every Crate Project

Since you’re building these yourself, you can tailor every detail to match your pet’s personality and your home’s style.

Customize Your Finishes

Use paint colors that blend with your décor.
Add stencils if you’re feeling artsy.
Use wood stains for a rustic look.

Add Pet-Friendly Touches

Always sand rough edges.
Use non-toxic paints.
Add soft bedding to increase comfort.
Keep sharp hardware on the outside.

Make It Multi-Functional

Crates work amazingly as:

• End tables
  
• Nightstands
  
• Storage units
  
• Bedside cubbies
  
• Mudroom organizers
  

Don’t hesitate to combine functionality. Your pet will appreciate the effort even if they pretend not to.

Common Questions You Might Have

“Are these projects beginner-friendly?”

Absolutely. If you can assemble basic furniture or follow simple instructions, you can do all of these.

“Will these save me money?”

Yes. Some store-bought pet furniture is wildly overpriced, and you can build better versions at a fraction of the cost.

“What if my pet doesn’t use it?”

Introduce the new item slowly.
Add treats and toys inside.
Place familiar fabric or bedding in it.
Pets love comfort and routine, so they warm up fast.

“How long do these projects take?”

Most take under an hour.
A few may take two hours max if you paint or stain them.

“Do crates really look good in a modern home?”

When styled well, absolutely.
Wood crates match farmhouse, rustic, boho, Scandinavian, and modern minimalist vibes.

Final Thoughts

Building any of these crate projects gives you a huge win as a pet parent. You save money, personalize your home, and create something your pet will actually use.

I love these projects because they don’t require fancy tools or expert skills—just a little time and a bit of creativity. And honestly, the best part is watching your pet explore something you made just for them.

It feels good, it looks good, and it works beautifully. So pick one project from the list, grab a crate, and start building today. Your fur baby will thank you in their own dramatic, adorable way.