13 Indoor Dog Kennel Designs for Small Spaces
I live in a small apartment with a medium-sized dog, and for a long time his wire crate took over my living room. It was ugly, it blocked the walkway, and I kept stubbing my toe on it. So I started hunting for indoor dog kennel designs for small spaces that actually look good and work hard.
What I found is that the best small space dog kennel ideas don’t fight your floor plan. They hide inside furniture, tuck under stairs, or turn an awkward corner into a cozy dog den. You just need the right measurements, good ventilation, and a setup your dog feels safe in.
Below are 13 indoor dog kennel designs for small spaces that I would build, buy, or hack again. Some are renter-friendly, some are weekend DIY projects, and all of them help your dog feel at home without making your home feel like a kennel.
1. Under-Desk Dog Den
If you work from home, your desk is prime real estate. I measured the clearance under my desk, removed the middle drawer, and slid my dog’s crate right underneath. Now he naps while I type.
The trick is to leave the sides open for airflow. I added a tension rod and a washable curtain across the front so it looks tidy on video calls. A memory foam pad inside makes it feel like a real den.
This is one of my favorite apartment dog kennel ideas because it uses space I already had. Just keep cords tucked away and make sure your dog can stand up and turn around comfortably.
2. End-of-Counter Kennel Nook
Kitchens always have that weird dead space at the end of a counter. I turned mine into a small space dog kennel with a low cabinet. The crate sits inside, and the cabinet doors match my kitchen.
I added vents on the side and a baby gate instead of a solid door. My dog can see me chopping veggies, but he stays out of the danger zone near the stove.
If you rent, try a freestanding cabinet or a cubby bench instead of built-ins. It gives you the same indoor dog kennel look without losing your deposit.
3. Built-In Window Seat Kennel
A bay window or wide sill is basically begging for a window seat. I built a simple bench with an open kennel below. My dog gets a street view, and I get a reading nook with storage.
Use plywood and paint it the same color as your trim. Add a washable cushion on top and a comfy bed below. Make sure the window isn’t drafty in winter and add a shade for hot afternoons.
This design looks custom, but it’s doable with basic tools. It’s a beautiful indoor dog kennel design for small spaces because it turns an awkward nook into double-duty furniture.
4. Closet Conversion Kennel
Entry closets are underrated. I cleared out my hall closet, removed the door, and added a pet gate. My dog now has a cave-like den that stays out of the main walkway.
I painted the inside a soft color and added a small battery-powered light. Above his crate, I put shelves for leashes, treats, and poop bags. Everything dog-related lives in one spot now.
If you need the closet for coats, cut a pet door into the existing door instead. This is a clever small space dog kennel idea for rentals because you can often swap the door back later.
5. Under-Stair Cubby Kennel
Under-stair space is gold in a small home. I framed a simple opening, lined it with beadboard, and slid a crate inside. It looks like built-in storage, but it’s really a cozy dog bedroom.
I used a magnetic latch and a light barn door so it doesn’t swing into the hallway. The slope of the stairs gives the space a natural den feeling, which most dogs love.
Add a non-slip rug and check for drafts from the foundation. This is one of those indoor dog kennel designs for small spaces that instantly makes your home feel custom.
6. Console Table Kennel
I have a narrow entryway, so I used a slim console table as a dog kennel disguise. I removed the lower shelf and slid a crate underneath. Then I draped a washable fabric skirt around the sides and back.
On top, I keep a tray for keys and a small plant. My dog gets a hallway spot where he can watch the door, and I get a landing zone for my bag.
Measure your crate before you buy the table. This apartment dog kennel idea works best when the crate fits snugly but still has breathing room on all sides.
7. Mudroom Bench with Kennel Below
Even a tiny mudroom can hold a bench with a kennel underneath. I built a simple bench with cubbies above for coats, umbrellas, and dog leashes. My dog waits there while I put on my shoes.
Beadboard on the back makes it easy to wipe down. I added hooks and a washable runner on the floor. The kennel below has a removable bed for muddy paw days.
This setup controls chaos at the door. It’s practical, good-looking, and one of the best indoor dog kennel designs for small spaces if you have a busy entry.
8. Floating Nightstand Kennel
In a small bedroom, floor space is precious. I mounted a floating nightstand above my dog’s crate, so the crate acts like the base of the bedside table. My dog sleeps right next to me without taking over the room.
Use heavy-duty wall anchors and keep the nightstand light. A small lamp, a book, and a glass of water are all it needs to hold. The crate stays low and easy to access.
This works best for dogs who don’t chew furniture. If your pup is a chewer, choose a solid wood crate or skip the floating shelf for safety.
9. Laundry Room Kennel Station
My laundry room had a dead corner behind the door. I added a kennel there plus a drying rack above it. Now my dog hangs out while I fold clothes, and the space feels intentional.
A tile-friendly mat catches water and fur. I added hooks for the leash and a small bin for treats. When I need him contained, I just close the laundry door.
Some dogs find laundry machines scary, so introduce this spot slowly with treats and short stays. Once they’re comfortable, it’s a smart small space dog kennel for busy homes.
10. Cube Shelving Kennel
Cube organizers are everywhere, and they make a surprisingly good budget dog kennel. I removed the bottom cubes, slid a crate into the opening, and used the top cubes for baskets and dog gear.
Secure the shelving unit to the wall so it can’t tip. Choose a crate that fits the cube dimensions, or build a simple frame around the shelves for extra support.
This is renter-friendly and easy to move. It looks like a normal shelf from across the room, which is exactly what I want from indoor dog kennel designs for small spaces.
11. Sliding Door Kennel Cabinet
I found an old TV cabinet and turned it into a sliding door dog kennel. I removed the back panel, added vents, and installed sliding barn doors on a track. The crate fits inside with a washable bed.
Sliding doors save swing space, which is huge in a narrow room. I added a magnetic latch so it stays closed but opens easily. My dog runs to it when he’s tired.
If you don’t want to DIY, look for a used armoire and add a pet gate inside. It’s a furniture-style indoor dog kennel that hides all the wire and bedding.
12. Corner Crate with Curtain
Corners are usually wasted space. I angled my dog’s crate into a corner, then added a tension rod and a curtain across the front. It instantly looked softer and more intentional.
Choose a washable curtain that matches your room. Leave it open during the day so your dog can peek out, and close it at night for a cozy den feel.
This is the easiest weekend project on the list. No tools, no measuring, and it works in any rental. It’s my go-to small space dog kennel hack when I need a quick fix.
13. Vertical Kennel & Storage Tower
When floor space is gone, go up. I built a vertical tower with the kennel at the bottom and shelves above for dog food, toys, and towels. It uses one small footprint but gives me tons of storage.
Use a sturdy wood frame and secure it to the wall. Keep heavy items low and light items up high. Closed cabinets hide the messy dog stuff, and the kennel stays open and airy.
This is my favorite indoor dog kennel design for tiny apartments. It turns a single corner into a full dog station that looks like built-in furniture.
Conclusion
Small spaces don’t have to mean big ugly crates. The best indoor dog kennel designs for small spaces are the ones that use furniture you already need, like desks, benches, consoles, and cabinets. They give your dog a safe den and give you your floor back.
Start by measuring your dog and your space. Then pick one idea that fits your budget and DIY comfort level. Add good ventilation, a washable bed, and a little patience while your dog adjusts. You’ll both love the result.
FAQ
Q: What is the best indoor dog kennel design for a tiny apartment?
A: I’d choose a vertical kennel and storage tower or an under-desk dog den. Both use space you already have and keep the floor clear.
Q: How do I keep an indoor dog kennel from smelling in a small space?
A: Use a washable bed, wipe the crate weekly, and add a small air purifier nearby. Keep the kennel ventilated and never cover it completely.
Q: Can I use furniture as a dog kennel if I rent?
A: Yes. Freestanding cabinets, console tables, cube shelves, and curtained corners are all rental-friendly. Just secure anything that could tip.
Q: How much space does my dog need inside a small space kennel?
A: Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Measure length and height, then add a couple of inches for bedding.
Q: Are indoor dog kennel designs safe for dogs with anxiety?
A: They can be, if the kennel feels like a safe den and not a punishment. Leave the door open during happy times, feed treats inside, and let your dog choose to go in.
