How to Decorate a Dog Crate: Make It Look Less Like a Cage
Let's be honest — most dog crates aren't winning any design awards. They're practical, sure, but when you set one in your living room or bedroom, it can look more like a mini jail cell than a cozy corner for your pup. And no one wants to feel like they've brought a cage into their home. The good news? Learning how to decorate a dog crate can change the whole vibe with just a few small tweaks. You don't need to spend a fortune or buy a bulky piece of "crate furniture." With the right setup, you can make that wire box look intentional — maybe even stylish. Here's how to decorate a dog crate so it blends beautifully with your home.
Start With the Spot
The easiest way to change the way a crate feels is to move it. A crate plopped in the middle of the room is going to scream “utility.” But if you slide it into a corner, tuck it by a window, or even line it up next to your sofa, it suddenly feels like it belongs.
Natural light helps too — dogs love it, and it makes everything softer. Think of it like putting a plant in a sunny spot; same object, but the mood changes. Once you’ve found that sweet spot, you can add little touches to make the crate part of the room instead of something you’re trying to hide.
Make the Inside Inviting
If the inside looks bare and cold, the whole crate feels cage-like. Layer in some comfort — a soft mat, a washable cushion, or even a blanket (just make sure it’s safe for your pup). Matching the bedding to your home colors works wonders. A navy throw in a navy-toned living room makes the crate blend right in, almost like it was designed for the space.
And don’t forget toys. A couple of neatly placed chew toys or a stuffed animal can take it from “steel cage” to “dog’s den.” Puppies especially love that cozy, tucked-in feeling.
How to Decorate a Dog Crate: Tidy Up the Outside
Covers are the quickest way to dress up a crate. You can buy fabric ones in neutral shades, or just use a lightweight blanket that matches your décor. Suddenly, you don’t see bars — you see texture.
If you want to go further, furniture-style crates are an option, but they’re pricey. A simpler hack? Place a basket with rolled-up throws or a tall plant next to the crate. Little things like that make it part of the room instead of a distraction.
And then there are decorations. Snapping on something playful to the outside changes the whole feel. It’s like putting a fun magnet on your fridge — still the same appliance, but now it makes you smile.
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Add Personality
At the end of the day, your dog’s crate is their space. Why not make it feel personal? One easy way is by adding charms. You can spell out your pup’s name, add a paw print, or change things up for holidays. It’s kind of like swapping out throw pillows — small change, big difference.
The best part? They snap on and off in seconds. So if you’re throwing a birthday party for your dog (don’t laugh, people really do this), you can decorate the crate to match.
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Wrapping It Up
A crate doesn’t have to stick out like an eyesore. Pick the right spot, cozy up the inside, style the outside, and add those personal touches. It’s still the safe, functional crate your pup needs, but now it feels like part of your home instead of something you’re trying to ignore.
And if you’re ready to give yours a little makeover, start simple — a couple of charms go a long way.
