How to Kennel Your Dog in Comfort

There are many reasons to kennel a dog, ranging from bedtime routines to behavioral needs, and from training to travel. However, the traditional plastic kennel doesn’t have to be your best friend’s only home away from home. They are great for the back of the truck on the way to camp or a hunt, but not the best for inside use. If you kennel your dog in the home at night, take a look at a few of these options before buying.

Collapsible Kennels

A collapsible kennel is light, easy to set up, and offers you and your dog a sense of security when you're away from home. (AmazonBasics/)

Available in a variety of sizes and wire gauges for any dog, the collapsible wire kennel offers a sense of security for your dog at night. It's light weight for easily moving around the house, and best of all, will fold flat for transport. The slide-out plastic pan in the bottom helps you keep quarters clean and works perfectly with your dog's favorite bedding or blanket.

Heavy Duty

A metal lightweight kennel can last a lifetime. (LUCKUP/)

If you want a little more security and durability, look for a metal cage with vertical bars (or anti-bite wire for anxious or aggressive dogs). Anti-rust coatings on heavy duty steel mean it will last a lifetime. A slide-out pan catches dropped food or accidents, and while it's not exactly portable, the sturdy casters make it easy to move from room to room.

Furniture Crates

A furniture-grade kennel not only keeps your pet safe, it looks good wherever your dog beds down. (Internet's Best/)

For the ultimate in domestic quarters, there are plenty of furniture-grade kennels that will blend in with any home furnishing. Made of a combination of wood and metal, they have all the traits of other reliable kennels but are easier on the eye. Some are even sold with custom cushions, so you won't have to shop around for additional padding to fit the space.