Living in a small home doesn't mean your dog has to miss out on a dedicated space. A kennel table combines a crate with a functional surface, like a side table or desk, so you get both storage and style. These ideas help you reclaim floor space while giving your pup a cozy den.
Whether you're in an apartment or a compact house, a kennel table can blend seamlessly into your decor. Many designs are DIY-friendly or available as ready-made furniture.
The key is choosing one that fits your dog's size and your room's layout. From built-in bookshelf crates to sleek console tables, these 9 ideas prove that small spaces can still offer big comfort for your furry friend.
1. Built-In Bookshelf Kennel Table
Why let a wall niche or awkward alcove go to waste when it can become your dog's personal retreat? A built-in bookshelf kennel table turns unused vertical space into a cozy crate with storage above. The shelves hold books, toys, or decor, making it a multi-purpose piece that saves floor space.
It's a clever way to give your pup a den without sacrificing square footage.
Why It Works
This design maximizes every inch by combining a crate with open shelving. The crate insert sits at a comfortable height for your dog, while the shelves above keep essentials within reach. It also anchors the crate into the wall, making it feel like a permanent, intentional part of your home.
Best For
Perfect for small apartments or homes with an existing alcove, recessed wall, or unused corner. Works well for small to medium breeds that don't need a giant crate. Also great for renters who can't drill into walls—just use a freestanding bookshelf unit instead.
Practical Tip
Choose a crate insert that matches the shelf depth and leave a few inches of clearance above for easy access. Paint the bookshelf the same color as the wall to make it blend in, or go bold with a contrasting hue. Add a soft crate pad and a small curtain for privacy.
Budget-Friendly Option
Skip custom carpentry and buy a ready-made cube storage unit. Remove one cube's back panel and insert a crate. Secure the unit to the wall with furniture straps for safety.
Cost: around $50 for the shelf plus $30 for a crate.
2. Console Table Crate with Sliding Doors
A console table with sliding barn doors hides a wire crate underneath, making it a smart choice for narrow entryways or living rooms. The doors slide open easily for your dog to come and go, while the tabletop holds keys, mail, or decor. It keeps the crate accessible but out of sight, blending function with a clean, modern look.
Why It Works
The sliding doors give your dog a private den without blocking airflow or visibility. The tabletop adds valuable surface space in a small home, and the wire crate inside is easy to clean and ventilated. You get a furniture piece that serves both you and your pup.
Best For
Great for dogs who like a quiet spot near the action, such as small to medium breeds. Works well in tight spaces like hallways, entryways, or living room corners where a full crate would feel bulky.
Practical Tip
Choose a console table with a height that allows your dog to stand up comfortably inside. Add a soft crate mat and a washable cover for comfort. Keep the sliding doors on smooth tracks so they don't squeak or stick.
Budget-Friendly Option
Build your own using a basic console table and attach sliding barn door hardware from a hardware store. Use a standard wire crate underneath and paint the table to match your decor for a custom look under $150.
3. End Table Kennel with Pull-Out Tray
An end table kennel with a pull-out tray is a genius space-saver. It looks like a regular side table, but inside is a cozy crate for your dog. The pull-out tray makes cleanup a breeze—just slide it out, wipe it down, and you're done.
Dog owners love this design because it hides the crate completely while keeping your pup comfortable and close by.
Why It Works
The pull-out tray is the star feature. It catches spills, dirt, and accidents, so you don't have to crawl into the crate to clean. The top surface is perfect for a lamp, coffee mug, or remote, making it a fully functional piece of furniture.
Your dog gets a quiet den, and you get a tidy living space.
Best For
This works great for small apartments or tight living rooms where every inch counts. It's ideal for small to medium dogs who like having a covered space. If your dog is potty-trained but occasionally has accidents, the tray is a lifesaver.
Practical Tip
Place a soft crate mat inside for comfort, and toss in a favorite toy. To keep the pull-out tray working smoothly, wipe it down weekly with a pet-safe cleaner. If your dog is anxious, drape a lightweight blanket over the crate opening to create a darker, cozier den.
Budget-Friendly Option
If you're handy, build your own end table kennel using a wooden crate or repurpose an existing end table with a pull-out drawer. Add a simple latch to secure the door.
4. Desk and Kennel Combo
A desk with an integrated crate underneath turns your home office into a dual-purpose zone. You can work while your dog naps safely in their den, and the vertical setup saves precious floor space. It's a practical solution that keeps both you and your pup happy without sacrificing square footage.
Why It Works
By combining a desk with a crate, you eliminate the need for separate furniture pieces. Your dog gets a cozy, familiar spot right under your workspace, which can help reduce anxiety. You also reclaim floor space, making the room feel larger and more organized.
Best For
Remote workers, home office users, and anyone who spends long hours at a desk. Ideal for small apartments or rooms where every inch counts. Works well for calm, medium to large dogs that enjoy napping near their owners.
Practical Tip
Choose a desk with slatted sides or a mesh front to ensure airflow inside the crate. Add a soft crate mat and a chew toy to keep your dog comfortable. Position the desk near a window for natural light, but avoid direct drafts.
Budget-Friendly Option
If you're handy, build your own using a sturdy desktop and a standalone wire crate. Attach the crate to the underside of the desk with brackets or screws. This DIY option can cost under $100 and lets you customize the size and finish.
5. Bench-Style Kennel with Storage
A bench that doubles as a kennel and storage unit is a triple threat for tight spaces. The hinged top lifts to reveal room for leashes, bowls, and treats, while the enclosed base gives your dog a quiet retreat. It works perfectly in a mudroom or hallway, offering seating for you and a den for your pup.
Why It Works
This setup saves floor space by combining three functions into one piece of furniture. The storage compartment keeps dog supplies organized and out of sight, and the bench provides a convenient spot to sit while putting on shoes. Your dog gets a cozy, enclosed space that feels secure.
Best For
Ideal for small entryways, mudrooms, or hallways where every inch counts. Great for medium to large dogs that need a kennel but you don't want a bulky crate taking over the room. Also works for homes with limited closet space for dog gear.
Practical Tip
Add a washable cushion on the bench seat for comfort, and line the kennel interior with a soft bed or mat. Use the storage for items you grab daily, like leashes and poop bags. Keep the hinged top easy to lift by not overfilling it.
Budget-Friendly Option
Repurpose an old wooden bench by adding a crate underneath. Simply build a simple frame to hold a wire crate, then attach the bench top with hinges. This costs under $50 if you have the bench already.
6. Rolling Cart Kennel Table
Need flexibility in a small space? A rolling cart kennel table gives you a sturdy surface and a mobile crate that can follow you from room to room. The top works as a side table or plant stand, while the crate slides out for easy cleaning or transport.
It's a practical solution for dog owners who want to adapt their setup throughout the day.
Why It Works
The casters let you roll the kennel out of the way when you need floor space, or into your home office so your dog can be near you while you work. The removable crate makes cleanup a breeze—just slide it out, wipe it down, or take it on car trips. This design keeps your dog comfortable while giving you a useful surface.
Best For
This idea is perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone who needs to reconfigure their space often. It's also great for small breeds or medium dogs that don't mind a slightly elevated crate. If you like to rearrange furniture or want your dog to have a spot in multiple rooms, a rolling cart is a smart choice.
Practical Tip
Choose a cart with locking casters so the kennel stays put when your dog is inside. Add a cushion or mat to the crate floor for extra comfort, and use the top surface for a lamp, books, or a small plant. For easy cleaning, line the crate tray with a washable pad or towel.
Budget-Friendly Option
If you're handy, repurpose an old utility cart or metal shelving unit by adding a crate that fits the shelf space. Just make sure the cart is sturdy and the crate is secure. You can also buy a rolling cart frame and attach a wire crate with zip ties or brackets.
7. Corner Kennel Table
Corners often go unused in small homes, but they’re perfect for a triangular kennel table. This design fits snugly into a corner, turning dead space into a functional dog zone. The top surface can hold a plant, lamp, or books, while the crate below gives your pup a quiet retreat.
It’s a smart way to add both storage and comfort without taking up extra floor space.
Why It Works
A corner kennel table maximizes an often-overlooked area, freeing up the center of the room for other uses. The triangular shape feels less bulky than a square crate, and the elevated top keeps your essentials within reach. Dogs love the cozy, den-like feel of a corner crate, making it a win-win for tight quarters.
Best For
This idea is ideal for small apartments, condos, or rooms with awkward corner layouts. It works well for small to medium dog breeds like French Bulldogs, Corgis, or Beagles who enjoy a snug sleeping spot. Owners who want to keep their floor plan open while giving their dog a dedicated space will appreciate this design.
Practical Tip
Choose a corner table with a removable crate insert for easy cleaning. Add a soft bed or mat inside to make it extra inviting. To keep the area looking tidy, use the top surface for a low-maintenance plant or a decorative basket that hides leashes and toys.
Budget-Friendly Option
If you’re handy, build your own corner kennel table using plywood and a wire crate. There are plenty of free plans online for a simple triangular frame. This DIY approach can save you hundreds while still looking custom.
8. Nightstand Kennel for Bedrooms
A nightstand with a built-in crate lets your dog sleep right beside you without taking up extra floor space. The top surface holds your phone, book, and water glass, making it a seamless addition to any small bedroom. It’s a cozy setup that strengthens the bond between you and your pup while keeping the room clutter-free.
Why It Works
Dogs are pack animals and often feel more secure sleeping near their humans. A nightstand kennel gives them that closeness while keeping the crate hidden as furniture. Plus, it eliminates the need for a separate dog bed or crate taking up valuable floor space.
Best For
This idea is perfect for small master bedrooms or studio apartments where every inch counts. It works especially well for small to medium breeds that fit comfortably in a crate of nightstand size. Great for dogs that suffer from anxiety and prefer sleeping close to you.
Practical Tip
Choose a nightstand kennel with a removable top or front door for easy cleaning. Add a soft crate mat and a familiar toy to make it inviting. Ensure proper ventilation by checking that the crate has mesh panels or slatted sides.
Budget-Friendly Option
DIY a nightstand kennel by removing the drawer fronts from an old nightstand and adding a crate insert. Paint it to match your decor. This can cost under $50 if you already have the nightstand.
9. DIY Pallet Kennel Table
Pallet projects are everywhere, and for good reason—they're cheap, sturdy, and have that rustic farmhouse look. This DIY pallet kennel table gives your dog a cozy crate while offering you a functional tabletop. It's a weekend project that doesn't require fancy tools or a big budget.
Why It Works
The open slatted design allows plenty of airflow, which keeps the crate from feeling stuffy. Plus, the top surface is perfect for a plant, lamp, or your morning coffee—so it earns its keep in a small room.
Best For
This idea fits well in casual, rustic, or industrial-style homes. It's great for medium to large dogs since you can customize the size. If you enjoy building things and want a low-cost solution, this is for you.
Practical Tip
Sand the pallets well to avoid splinters, and consider adding a waterproof sealant if you plan to use the top as a plant stand. Add a soft bed inside for comfort, and maybe a small curtain for a den-like feel.
Budget-Friendly Option
Can't find pallets? Check local hardware stores for scrap wood or use inexpensive pine boards. You can often get them cut to size for free.
FAQ
What size kennel table do I need for my dog?
Measure your dog's height and length while standing and lying down. The crate should be tall enough for them to stand without hitting their head, and long enough to stretch out. Add a few inches for comfort.
Can I use a kennel table for a large dog in a small space?
Yes, but choose a design that maximizes vertical space, like a tall console or desk combo. Ensure the crate is sturdy and large enough for your dog, and place it in a low-traffic area.
Are kennel tables safe for dogs?
Yes, as long as the crate is well-ventilated, has a secure door, and is made of non-toxic materials. Avoid sharp edges and ensure the table is stable so it won't tip over.
How do I clean a kennel table?
Most have removable crates or pull-out trays for easy cleaning. Wipe down surfaces with pet-safe cleaner, and wash bedding regularly. For wood tables, use a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals.
Can I build a kennel table myself?
Absolutely. Many DIY plans are available online using materials like plywood or pallets. Ensure the crate is securely attached and the table is stable.
Basic woodworking skills are helpful.
Conclusion
A kennel table is a smart solution for small-space dog owners who want both function and style. By combining a crate with furniture, you save square footage while giving your dog a cozy spot of their own.
Whether you buy or build, choose a design that fits your home and your dog's needs. With a little creativity, you can create a space that works for both of you—no matter how small your home is.
I’m Pallab Kishore, the owner of Little Pets Realm — an animal lover and pet care enthusiast sharing easy tips, healthy recipes, and honest advice to help every small pet live a happy, healthy, tail-wagging life.