Yes, you can create a cozy and safe indoor dog house to give your furry friend their own special retreat! Indoor dog houses are fantastic for providing comfort, security, and a designated space for your dog to relax, especially in busy households. They can help with training, reduce anxiety, and blend seamlessly with your home decor.
Having a dog is such a joy! They bring so much love and laughter into our lives. But sometimes, our energetic companions need their own little sanctuary, a place where they can feel completely safe and unwind. That’s where indoor dog houses come in! You might be wondering if bringing a “dog house” inside makes sense. Absolutely! It’s not about a miniature version of an outdoor shed, but rather a thoughtfully designed den that offers your dog the ultimate comfort and personal space. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose or create the perfect indoor dog haven.
Why Your Dog Needs an Indoor Den
Think about it: your dog looks to you for security and comfort. An indoor dog house acts as a visual and physical barrier, signaling to your dog that this is their special spot. It’s a place they can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed, tired, or just want some quiet alone time. This is especially important for dogs who might experience separation anxiety or are sensitive to loud noises.
An indoor dog house provides a sense of security, much like a den in the wild. It helps dogs feel safe and reduces stress. For puppies learning house training, it can reinforce the idea of a designated “potty” spot (though not a substitute for proper training!). For older dogs, it offers a familiar and comfortable resting place. Plus, it can help keep your home tidy by providing a dedicated space for their toys and bedding.
Types of Indoor Dog Houses
The world of indoor dog houses is surprisingly diverse! They range from simple fabric crates to elaborate wooden structures that look like miniature homes. Here are some of the most common types:
1. Fabric Dog Crates/Kennels
These are lightweight, often foldable, and perfect for temporary use or for small to medium dogs.
- Pros: Portable, easy to set up and take down, often budget-friendly, good for training.
- Cons: Not as durable as solid options, can be chewed through by determined dogs, may not provide much insulation.
2. Wire Dog Crates
A classic for a reason! Wire crates offer good ventilation and visibility. You can easily cover them with a blanket to create a cozier den-like feel.
- Pros: Excellent ventilation, allows you to see your dog, durable, easy to clean, often come with dividers for growing puppies.
- Cons: Can feel a bit exposed for some dogs, might not fit seamlessly into decor without customization.
3. Wooden Indoor Dog Houses/End Tables
These are more permanent fixtures and often double as furniture, like an end table or a bench. They offer a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing option.
- Pros: Very durable, can blend beautifully with home decor, provides a sturdy structure.
- Cons: Heavy, less portable, can be more expensive, require assembly.
Here’s a quick look at how they compare:
| Feature | Fabric Crate | Wire Crate | Wooden House |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portability | High | Medium (collapsible) | Low |
| Durability | Medium | High | Very High |
| Aesthetics | Varies (can look like a tent) | Utilitarian (can be dressed up) | High (can resemble furniture) |
| Cost | Low to Medium | Medium | Medium to High |
| Ventilation | Good | Excellent | Good (depending on design) |
4. Soft-Sided or Fabric Dens/Tents
These are plush, enclosed spaces that offer a snug and cozy feel. They’re great for smaller dogs or those who love to burrow.
- Pros: Very soft and comfortable, provide a sense of security, attractive for dogs who like enclosed spaces.
- Cons: May not be suitable for heavy chewers, can be harder to clean if soiled.
5. Multi-Purpose Furniture Dog Houses
These are ingeniously designed pieces of furniture that incorporate a dog den. Think of an end table with a cubbyhole for your dog, or a media console with a built-in dog bed.
- Pros: Space-saving, integrates seamlessly into your home, stylish.
- Cons: Can be pricey, often require significant assembly, may be less customizable for your dog’s specific needs.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Dog
This is crucial! An indoor dog house that’s too small will be uncomfortable, and one that’s too large might not provide the cozy, den-like security your dog craves. Here’s how to get the right fit:
- Measure your dog from nose to the base of their tail. Add about 4-6 inches to this measurement for length.
- Measure your dog from the top of their head to the floor. Add about 4-6 inches to their height.
- Measure your dog’s widest point. Add about 4-6 inches to this measurement for width.
The interior dimensions of the dog house should accommodate these measurements comfortably, allowing your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down without feeling cramped. If you’re buying a crate that’s meant to be a den (like a wire crate), you can add soft bedding and a cover to make it feel more enclosed and secure.
Key Features to Look For
When selecting an indoor dog house, consider these important features to ensure it’s a perfect fit for your pup and your home:
- Ventilation: Especially important for wooden or enclosed structures. Ensure there are adequate openings for air circulation. Wire crates excel here.
- Ease of Cleaning: Accidents happen! Look for materials that are easy to wipe down or machine-washable bedding. Removable trays are a big plus for crates.
- Comfort: Does it have a comfortable floor? Is there space for your dog’s favorite bed or blankets? Soft, supportive bedding is essential.
- Durability: Choose materials that can withstand your dog’s chewing habits, if applicable. For heavier dogs, a sturdy frame is a must.
- Safety: Ensure there are no sharp edges, toxic materials, or small parts that could be a choking hazard.
- Aesthetics: Since it’s indoors, you’ll want it to complement your home decor! Many wooden and furniture-style houses are designed with this in mind.
Setting Up Your Dog’s Indoor Den: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve chosen the perfect indoor dog house, it’s time to make it a welcoming haven for your furry friend. This process is straightforward and all about creating positive associations.
Step 1: Assemble and Position
- If your dog house requires assembly, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. For furniture-style houses, ensure all screws are tight and the structure is stable.
- Choose a quiet, low-traffic area of your home. A corner of the living room, a quiet bedroom, or even a den (the room!) can work. Avoid placing it near a drafty window or a noisy appliance.
Step 2: Add Comforts
- Line the bottom with soft, comfortable bedding. This could be a plush dog bed, a thick blanket, or a few cozy cushions. Make sure the bedding fits well and doesn’t bunch up.
- Consider adding a familiar scent, like an old t-shirt of yours, which can be very reassuring for your dog.
- If your dog has favorite toys, place one or two inside.
Step 3: Introduce Your Dog Positively
- Never force your dog into the house. This should be a positive experience!
- Start by leaving the door open and letting your dog explore it on their own.
- Toss a few high-value treats or a favorite toy into the entrance. Encourage them to go in to retrieve it.
- Offer praise and gentle petting when they enter.
- Gradually, as your dog becomes more comfortable, toss treats further inside.
Step 4: Gradual Introduction to Closing the Door
- Once your dog is willingly entering the house, try closing the door for very short periods (just a few seconds).
- As soon as they are calm inside, open the door and reward them.
- Slowly increase the duration the door is closed. If your dog shows any signs of distress (whining, scratching, barking), you’ve gone too fast. Go back to a shorter duration.
- The goal is for your dog to feel relaxed and safe with the door closed.
Step 5: Establish Routine and Positive Reinforcement
- Encourage your dog to use their den when they seem tired or want to rest.
- Praise them when they settle down inside.
- You can feed them meals inside their den sometimes, or give them a stuffed Kong toy to work on inside. This reinforces the den as a place of good things.
- Never use the dog house as a punishment. It must always be a positive, safe space.
DIY Indoor Dog House Ideas: Simple and Stylish
For the DIY enthusiast, creating a custom indoor dog house can be a rewarding project. You can tailor it exactly to your dog’s needs and your home’s aesthetic.
Idea 1: The Crate Cover Transformation
This is one of the easiest DIYs. If you have a wire crate, you can make it look like a charming piece of furniture with a simple cover.
- Materials: Fabric (cotton, linen, or a sturdy upholstery fabric), scissors, sewing machine (optional: ribbon, trim).
- Instructions:
- Measure your wire crate’s dimensions: length, width, and height.
- Cut your fabric to create a simple box shape with enough overlap for seams. You’ll need a front panel with an opening.
- Hem the edges of your fabric pieces.
- Sew the panels together to create a snug cover for the crate. Leave the front panel open or create a flap that can be tied back.
- Optional: Add trim, ribbon, or even a small pocket to the outside for extra charm.
This instantly makes a wire crate look more like a cozy den and less like, well, a crate!
Idea 2: The Upcycled Cabinet Dog House
An old TV cabinet, an unused sideboard, or even a sturdy toy chest can be transformed.
- Materials: An old cabinet/sideboard, sandpaper, pet-safe paint or stain, jigsaw or multi-tool, ruler, pencil, screws (if needed for stability), comfortable bedding.
- Instructions:
- Clean the cabinet thoroughly.
- If the cabinet has doors, remove them. If it’s a solid front, measure and mark out an entrance that’s appropriately sized for your dog.
- Use a jigsaw to carefully cut out the entrance, ensuring smooth edges. Sand all raw edges, inside and out, until they are perfectly smooth.
- Paint or stain the cabinet using pet-safe products. Allow ample drying time and ensure there are no lingering fumes before your dog uses it.
- Add comfortable bedding inside.
This creates a robust, stylish, and integrated dog house that can even provide storage space above.
Idea 3: Simple Wooden Frame with Fabric Walls
This is a step up in complexity but offers a great deal of customization.
- Materials: 1×2 or 2×2 lumber, screws, saw, drill, measuring tape, sturdy fabric (like canvas or denim), heavy-duty Velcro strips or snaps.
- Instructions:
- Build a simple rectangular frame from the lumber to your desired dimensions.
- Cut fabric panels for the sides, back, and top. Cut a larger opening for the front.
- Securely attach the fabric to the wooden frame using screws and washers (ensure no sharp points are exposed) or by creating a snug fabric sleeve that slides over the frame. For a more professional look, you might use a staple gun on the inside of the frame before covering.
- Consider using heavy-duty Velcro on the fabric edges and the wooden frame so the fabric can be removed for washing.
- Add bedding inside.
This design is open, airy, and easy to adapt. You can find detailed plans and inspiration on sites like Lowe’s Project Guides or instructables.com.
Dog House Placement: Where to Put It
Where you place your dog’s indoor den is as important as the den itself. Think about your dog’s personality and your home’s layout.
- Common Areas: Many dogs like to be where the action is. Placing the den in a corner of the living room or family room allows your dog to be part of the household while still having their safe space.
- Quiet Zones: If your dog is easily startled or prefers solitude, a quieter corner of a bedroom or a less-used hallway might be better.
- Avoid High-Traffic Areas: Don’t put the den where people are constantly walking by or where there’s a lot of noise. This defeats the purpose of a calm retreat.
- Temperature Considerations: Keep the den away from direct heat sources (radiators, fireplaces) and cold drafts (windows, doors).
Introducing Guests to Your Dog’s Den Etiquette
When friends or family visit, it’s important to help them understand the role of your dog’s indoor house.
- Educate Your Guests: Before guests arrive, let them know that the indoor dog house is your dog’s personal space.
- Discourage Entry: Ask guests not to bother your dog if they retreat into their den. This is especially important if your dog is using it to de-stress.
- Supervise Interactions: If your dog willingly comes out to greet people, that’s great! But if they seem anxious, a gentle reminder to guests to give your dog space is crucial.
- No “Forced” Interactions: Guests should never try to pull your dog out of their den or tease them while they are inside.
This helps your dog feel secure knowing their space is respected.
Addressing Common Concerns
It’s natural to have questions when introducing new elements into your dog’s life!
FAQ Section
Q1: Will my dog actually use an indoor dog house?
Most dogs will, especially if introduced positively. They often see it as their own safe den. The key is patience and making it a comfortable, rewarding place.
Q2: Is an indoor dog house the same as a crate?
They can be very similar! Many indoor dog houses are designed like crates (fabric, wire) or built to accommodate a crate. The goal is the same: to provide a secure, den-like space. A wooden “house” might be more permanent furniture-like than a typical portable crate.
Q3: My dog chews everything. How can I dog-proof an indoor dog house?
For chewers, opt for the most durable materials possible – sturdy wood or heavy-duty wire are best. Always supervise initially. Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys inside the den to redirect their energy. For fabric options, ensure they are made of tough, rip-resistant material, though very determined chewers can still get through.
Q4: Can I use an indoor dog house for potty training?
Yes, indirectly! Crate training, which an indoor dog house can facilitate, is a valuable tool for potty training. Dogs are reluctant to soil their sleeping area. However, it doesn’t replace the need for frequent potty breaks and consistent training. The den should always be a positive space, never used for punishment during accidents.
Q5: How often should I clean my dog’s indoor house?
For fabric linings and bedding, aim for weekly washing, or more often if soiled. Wipe down the interior of solid structures as needed. Regular cleaning prevents odors and keeps the space hygienic.
Q6: My dog seems anxious when I close the door. What should I do?
This indicates they aren’t ready for the door closed yet. Go back to shorter durations and more immediate rewards when the door is closed. Ensure they have positive associations with the den, like treats and toys. Never force them. If anxiety persists, consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
Q7: What kind of bedding is best?
Comfort is key! Look for supportive, washable bedding. Memory foam options offer great support for
