Your laundry room can do double duty as your dog's cozy retreat without sacrificing storage. A well-planned kennel setup keeps muddy paws contained and leashes, toys, and supplies neatly out of sight.
These nine ideas blend comfort for your pup with clever hidden storage that makes your laundry routine smoother. From built-in benches to rolling carts, each option is designed for real homes and real dogs.
You'll find practical solutions that work with your existing space and budget. Let's explore how to create a kennel that both you and your dog will love.
1. Built-In Bench With Under-Seat Storage
A built-in bench that doubles as a kennel is a smart way to carve out a dedicated dog space without losing precious floor area. The bench top serves as a folding station for laundry, while the kennel underneath gives your pup a den-like hideaway. Pull-out drawers or bins tuck away dog food, treats, and laundry supplies, keeping everything tidy and within arm's reach.
Why It Works
This setup maximizes vertical space and turns an often-wasted corner into a functional hub. Your dog gets a cozy, cave-like spot that feels secure, and you get a place to fold clothes or sort laundry without clutter.
Best For
Medium to large breed dogs who enjoy a cozy den, and owners with a dedicated laundry room or mudroom where a custom bench can be built. It's ideal for those who want a permanent, furniture-quality kennel that blends with the room's decor.
Practical Tip
Add a soft, washable bed inside the kennel and a curtain or door that your dog can push open for privacy. Use the under-seat drawers for heavy items like dog food bags and laundry detergent to keep the weight low and stable.
Budget-Friendly Option
Skip the custom build and repurpose a sturdy IKEA Kallax unit on its side, with a crate insert inside one cubby. Add a cushion on top for a bench effect.
2. Overhead Cabinet Kennel With Pull-Out Drawers
Think vertical. This setup tucks a kennel right under your upper cabinets, freeing up floor space for deep pull-out drawers below. The drawers handle bulk dog food, leashes, and cleaning supplies, so everything has a home.
A low platform lifts the kennel to a comfortable height and doubles as a step for small or senior dogs.
Why It Works
It maximizes unused wall space and keeps dog gear organized out of sight. The drawers slide out for easy access, and the platform makes the kennel feel like a built-in feature rather than an afterthought. Your dog gets a cozy den, and you get a clutter-free laundry room.
Best For
Homes with limited floor space where every inch counts. Ideal for small to medium dogs that don't need a giant crate, and for owners who want a streamlined, furniture-like look. Works well in laundry rooms with standard-height upper cabinets.
Practical Tip
Use a heavy-duty kennel with a removable tray for easy cleaning. Add a soft bed or mat on the platform for comfort. Install a small hook inside the cabinet above to hang leashes or a treat pouch.
Budget-Friendly Option
Skip custom cabinetry and use a ready-made base cabinet with pull-out drawers. Place a wire crate on top and secure it to the wall with brackets for safety.
3. Side-by-Side Kennel and Laundry Hamper
A divided cabinet with a kennel on one side and a pull-out laundry hamper on the other keeps your dog's space tidy and your laundry organized. The shared countertop above is perfect for folding or setting down supplies. It's a clever way to separate dog bedding and towels from people laundry without taking up extra floor space.
Why It Works
This setup streamlines your laundry routine by keeping dog-related items right where you need them. The hamper slides out easily for tossing in dirty dog towels, while the kennel provides a cozy den for your pup. The countertop gives you a handy surface for folding or storing detergent, so everything stays within arm's reach.
Best For
Dog owners who do laundry frequently and want to keep pet messes contained. It's ideal for medium to large breeds that need a kennel, and works well in laundry rooms with at least 4 feet of wall space for the cabinet.
Practical Tip
Install a pull-out hamper with a lid to contain odors and keep the room looking neat. Use a washable, plush bed inside the kennel that can be tossed in the washer when needed. Add a small hook on the side of the cabinet to hang leashes or a drying towel.
Budget-Friendly Option
Skip the custom cabinet and use two separate IKEA units: a KALLAX shelf on its side as a kennel (add a gate) and a HÅLLBAR hamper next to it. Top with a plywood counter cut to size.
4. Rolling Cart Kennel With Hidden Bins
A kennel built into a rolling cart slides neatly under a counter, saving floor space and keeping your pup close. The cart features hidden bins that store dog toys, grooming tools, and laundry pods. It's easy to move around for cleaning or rearranging, making it a flexible option for any laundry room.
Why It Works
The rolling cart design gives you the freedom to reposition the kennel as needed, whether you're mopping the floor or changing the room layout. Hidden bins keep dog supplies and laundry essentials organized and out of sight, reducing clutter. Your dog gets a cozy, enclosed space that feels secure, while you get a multifunctional storage solution.
Best For
This idea works great for small or medium dogs that don't need a massive kennel. It's perfect for renters or anyone who likes to rearrange their space often, since the cart is portable and doesn't require permanent installation.
Practical Tip
Choose a cart with locking wheels so it stays put when your dog is inside. Add a soft crate mat or a folded blanket for comfort. For easy cleaning, use a removable plastic liner under the bedding.
Budget-Friendly Option
If a pre-made rolling cart kennel is too pricey, you can DIY one by attaching casters to a sturdy wire crate and adding a rolling utility cart underneath for storage. Use stackable bins or baskets to keep things organized.
5. Corner Kennel With L-Shaped Storage
Corners often go unused, but they're prime real estate for a kennel that tucks neatly out of the main traffic flow. An L-shaped design wraps around a wall or post, creating a cozy den for your dog while the other leg holds cabinets or open cubbies. It's a two-in-one solution that makes the most of an awkward space.
Dog owners love how this setup keeps supplies like towels, coats, and extra leashes within arm's reach without cluttering the room. The kennel feels private and secure, and the storage leg can double as a landing spot for folded laundry or a place to stash your dog's gear after a rainy walk.
Why It Works
The L-shape turns a dead corner into a functional zone that serves both your dog and your storage needs. Your pup gets a defined, den-like space that feels safe, while you gain organized storage that's hidden from view. It's especially handy in laundry rooms where every inch counts, and the separation between kennel and storage keeps wet or dirty items contained.
Best For
This idea is perfect for laundry rooms with an awkward corner, a support post, or an unused nook. It works well for medium to large dogs who need a bit more floor space, and it's great for owners who have a lot of dog gear—like coats, towels, and grooming supplies—that needs a dedicated home.
Practical Tip
Use the storage leg for items you grab often: hang leashes and collars on hooks inside a cabinet door, and use open cubbies for baskets of toys or clean towels. Add a washable dog bed or mat inside the kennel, and consider a low-profile gate or door that matches your cabinet fronts for a built-in look. Keep the kennel area easy to clean by choosing a floor that can handle mud and spills.
Budget-Friendly Option
If custom cabinetry isn't in the budget, look for a freestanding L-shaped shelving unit or a corner cabinet from a big-box store. You can convert the lower section into a kennel by adding a removable gate or a tension rod with a curtain. Paint or stain it to match your existing laundry room furniture for a cohesive look.
6. Stackable Washer/Dryer Kennel With Drawers
If you have a stacked washer and dryer, the space beside it often becomes an awkward gap. Turn that dead zone into a custom kennel with built-in drawers underneath and a flat top that doubles as a folding station. Your dog gets a quiet den, and you gain organized storage for laundry supplies and dog care essentials.
This setup uses every inch of vertical space wisely. The kennel sits at floor level where most dogs feel secure, while the drawers above hold detergents, stain removers, dog shampoo, and grooming tools. The top surface is perfect for folding warm towels or laying out your dog's clean bedding.
Dog owners love how this idea reduces clutter and keeps everything within arm's reach. No more hunting for the leash or digging through cabinets for a brush. Plus, your pup has a dedicated spot that's part of your daily routine.
Why It Works
Stacked washers and dryers create a natural column of space that's often wasted. By building a kennel into that nook, you turn an unused gap into a functional zone. The drawers keep laundry and dog supplies organized and hidden, while the kennel gives your dog a cozy, cave-like retreat near the family activity.
Best For
This works best for homes with stacked laundry units in a closet, alcove, or laundry room. It's ideal for small to medium dogs who enjoy enclosed spaces. Owners who want a seamless, built-in look and need to maximize every square foot will find this especially useful.
Practical Tip
Match the kennel and drawer fronts to your existing cabinetry or washer panels for a cohesive look. Add a soft, washable bed inside the kennel and a tension rod with a curtain for privacy if your dog likes a darker space. Keep the top clear of clutter so it stays usable as a folding station.
Budget-Friendly Option
If custom cabinetry isn't in the budget, use a ready-made wire crate and place it on a low, deep storage cart with drawers. Secure the crate to the wall and top the cart with a wooden board for a folding surface. It's a fraction of the cost and still functional.
7. Mudroom-Style Kennel With Hooks and Baskets
A row of sturdy hooks above the kennel gives every leash, collar, and dog jacket a designated spot. Wire baskets tucked underneath keep toys and treats organized but easy to grab. This setup turns a basic kennel into a mini mudroom that streamlines your daily dog routine.
Why It Works
Hooks eliminate the clutter of tangled leashes and misplaced collars. The elevated bed helps air circulate beneath, keeping your dog cool in summer and warm in winter. Everything your pup needs for walks and play is within arm's reach, so you spend less time searching and more time enjoying your dog.
Best For
Active dog owners with one or two medium to large dogs who go on daily walks or hikes. It's also great for households with muddy pups, as the hooks keep wet gear off the floor and the raised bed stays cleaner than a floor-level crate.
Practical Tip
Use heavy-duty, dog-proof hooks that can hold the weight of wet leashes and thick collars. Place the kennel on a washable rug or mat to catch drips and dirt. Wire baskets with removable liners make cleanup quick—just toss the liner in the washer.
Budget-Friendly Option
Skip the built-in kennel and use a freestanding wire crate. Mount a simple wall-mounted coat rack above it and place a set of stackable wire bins underneath. You'll get the same functionality for a fraction of the cost.
8. Under-Counter Kennel With Sliding Door
A kennel tucked under the counter with a sliding barn door is one of the cleverest ways to hide your dog's den. When the door is closed, it looks like just another cabinet, keeping your laundry room neat and uncluttered. This setup gives your dog a quiet, den-like space that feels secure while blending seamlessly into your home.
Why It Works
The sliding door saves space since it doesn't swing out into the room, making it ideal for tight laundry areas. Behind the door, you can install shelves or a small cabinet to store dog food, treats, and laundry supplies, turning an unused under-counter area into a multifunctional hub.
Best For
This idea works great for small to medium dogs that enjoy cozy, enclosed spaces. It's perfect for homeowners who want a permanent, built-in look without sacrificing valuable floor space or storage.
Practical Tip
Use a barn door with a simple latch or magnetic catch so your dog can't push it open. Add a soft bed inside and consider a washable mat for easy cleanup. Ensure the kennel has good ventilation by leaving a small gap at the top or adding a vent.
Budget-Friendly Option
If a custom build isn't in the budget, repurpose an existing base cabinet by removing the doors and adding a sliding barn door kit from a hardware store. Use a wire crate inside to save money while still getting the hidden look.
9. Multi-Pet Kennel With Divided Storage
When you have more than one dog, sharing a kennel can get messy and stressful. A larger kennel with a built-in divider gives each pup their own space while keeping all their supplies sorted. Separate bins for food, treats, and leashes mean you can grab what each dog needs without digging through a pile.
Why It Works
Divided storage keeps each dog's belongings separate and easy to find. No more mixing up kibble or hunting for the right leash when you're heading out. The kennel itself gives each dog a personal den, reducing squabbles and making them feel secure.
Best For
This setup is perfect for multi-dog households, especially if your dogs are different sizes or have different dietary needs. It also works great for owners who like to keep things hyper-organized and want a clear spot for each pup's stuff.
Practical Tip
Label the bins with each dog's name or photo for quick identification. Use clear, stackable bins so you can see what's inside without opening them. Place the kennel in a quiet corner of the laundry room away from the washer's vibration to keep your dogs calm.
Budget-Friendly Option
Skip the custom built-ins and use a large wire kennel with a tension rod divider. Add plastic storage drawers on casters that slide under the kennel or beside it. This keeps costs low while still giving each dog their own zone.
FAQ
How do I make sure my dog is comfortable in a laundry room kennel?
Add a soft bed or mat, ensure proper ventilation, and keep the room at a comfortable temperature. Place the kennel away from loud appliances during cycles, and consider a white noise machine to muffle sounds.
What size kennel should I get for my dog?
Measure your dog from nose to tail and from floor to the top of their head while sitting. Add a few inches for comfort. The kennel should be large enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down easily.
Can I use a regular crate in a laundry room kennel setup?
Yes, many of these ideas incorporate a standard wire or plastic crate inside a custom cabinet. Just make sure the crate is secure and the cabinet has proper airflow.
How do I clean a laundry room kennel with hidden storage?
Choose materials like sealed wood, laminate, or tile that are easy to wipe down. Use removable, washable crate pads and bins that can be taken out and cleaned. Vacuum or sweep regularly to keep fur and dust under control.
What should I store in the hidden compartments?
Dog food, treats, leashes, collars, grooming tools, poop bags, towels, and laundry supplies like detergent and stain removers. Keep heavy items like food bags in lower drawers for safety.
Conclusion
A laundry room dog kennel with hidden storage is a win-win for you and your pup. Your dog gets a safe, cozy spot that feels like their own, while you gain organized space for all the gear that comes with pet ownership. The best part?
These setups keep everything out of sight, so your laundry room stays clutter-free and functional. Pick the idea that fits your space and your dog's personality, and enjoy a more organized home—and a happier dog.
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.