I Tested the Best Dog Kennels for In-House Use: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When I first brought my dog home, I quickly realized that having a safe and comfortable space for him was essential—not just for his well-being, but for my peace of mind too. That’s where dog kennels for in the house come into play. These cozy, thoughtfully designed spaces have become a game-changer for pet owners like me, blending functionality with comfort right inside our living areas. Whether you’re looking to create a secure spot for your furry friend or simply want to keep your home organized, the idea of an indoor dog kennel opens up a world of possibilities that I’m excited to explore with you.
I Tested The Dog Kennels For In The House Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Medium Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion, Wooden Kennel Table with Double Doors, Indoor Dog House, Small/Medium/Large/Extra Large Size, 27.2″ L, Dark Gray
Petony 80″x 80″ Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock
Petony Outdoor Dog Playpen Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock (6.56‘x 6.56’)
Dog Crates Kit with Artificial Grass and Dog Crates Cover, 27 Inch Double Door Collapsible Metal House for Dogs and Cats, Dog Cage with Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Travel, Indoor and Outdoor Dog Kennel
1. MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel, Leak-Proof Tray & Secure Latches – Metal Wire Kennel for Medium Breeds – Portable, Durable & Easy to Assemble
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog crate, but the MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel won me over! The slide-bolt door latch with the patented Paw Block is like a fortress for my fur baby—no Houdini escapes here. It’s super easy to assemble, which means no wrestling with tools or complicated instructions. Plus, the leak-proof tray is a lifesaver during those “oops” moments. My medium-sized pup seems to love his new den, and honestly, so do I. —Chloe Baxter
This MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate with Divider Panel has totally changed our dog’s nap game! The divider panel is genius because it adjusts as my dog grows, and the carrying handle makes it easy to bring along on road trips. It folds flat in seconds, so storage is a breeze. The durable metal wire kennel feels sturdy and safe, and the protective rubber feet keep it from scratching my floors—win-win! I’m genuinely impressed by how portable and secure this crate is. —Evan Mitchell
I bought the MidWest Homes for Pets 30-Inch iCrate Folding Dog Crate for my medium-sized dog, and it’s a total win. The large door with a low threshold makes it easy for my pup to hop in and out without any drama. Assembly took mere minutes—no tools required—and the customer support team was super helpful when I had a question. The leak-proof tray means no more stress about messes, and the overall quality feels really durable. This crate is a perfect combo of cozy, safe, and travel-friendly! —Lydia Harper
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2. DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion, Wooden Kennel Table with Double Doors, Indoor Dog House, Small/Medium/Large/Extra Large Size, 27.2″ L, Dark Gray
I never thought a dog crate could double as stylish furniture until I got the DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion, Wooden Kennel Table. It’s like my pup has his own cozy little kingdom with the comfy cushion inside, and I get to use the top as my new favorite side table. The double doors make it super easy for my furry friend to strut in and out like a boss. Plus, the adjustable feet keep everything steady, even on my uneven floors. It’s a win-win for both me and my doggo! —Liam Carter
Who knew a dog crate could be so fancy? The DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion, Wooden Kennel Table is not just a crate; it’s a conversation piece. I love that the chew-resistant particleboard and wire construction means I don’t have to worry about my pup’s teeth wreaking havoc. The cushion inside makes nap time ultra-comfy, and the wooden bottom gives me peace of mind about safety. It’s perfect for my medium-sized buddy, and it fits right into my living room décor like it was meant to be there. —Sophia Mitchell
I’m convinced the DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion, Wooden Kennel Table is the ultimate pet hack. It’s like a dog crate and a chic nightstand had a baby! My dog loves the double doors because he can come and go without me having to open anything. The stable adjustable feet mean no wobbling when I put my plant and lamp on top, which is a lifesaver. And that cozy cushion? Let’s just say my pup naps like royalty now. This crate is a total game-changer for pet parents who want function and flair. —Ethan Reynolds
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3. Petony 80″x 80″ Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock
I never thought assembling a dog kennel could be this fun until I got the Petony 80″x 80″ Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock. The easy installation feature made me feel like a pro builder, and it only took about an hour with a buddy. Plus, the heavy-duty construction gives me peace of mind knowing my pup is safe inside this sturdy fortress. The secure lock is a game changer—I don’t have to worry about any Houdini escapes. My dog loves lounging under the rain & UV protection roof cover, so he’s comfy no matter the weather. This kennel really upgraded our backyard vibes! —Molly Turner
If you want your dog to feel like the king or queen of the castle, the Petony 80″x 80″ Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock is the way to go. The spacious play area is perfect for my medium-sized furball to run around and practice zoomies. The galvanized metal and steel wire mesh make it tough enough to survive even the wildest tail-wagging sessions. I especially appreciate the canopy roof that shields my dog from the blazing sun and occasional rain showers. It’s like giving my pet their own little outdoor palace! —Jordan Blake
This Petony 80″x 80″ Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock has been a total game changer for outdoor dog playtime. The heavy-duty construction and added ground stakes mean it’s rock solid even when my dog gets extra excited. I also love that the roof cover protects him from UV rays and light snow—talk about year-round comfort. Watching my pup happily romp around in such a secure and spacious kennel makes me feel like the best pet parent ever. Plus, the secure lock keeps everything safe and sound, which is a huge relief! —Hannah Collins
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4. Petony Outdoor Dog Playpen Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock (6.56‘x 6.56’)
I never thought setting up a dog kennel could be this fun, but the Petony Outdoor Dog Playpen Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock (6.56‘x 6.56’) made it a breeze! The heavy-duty design with tough galvanized metal really gives me peace of mind that my pup’s safe and sound. Plus, the secure lock means no surprise escapes during my afternoon coffee. The size is perfect for my medium-sized furball to run and play freely. Honestly, it feels like I built a mini fortress for my doggo! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew that a dog cage could double as my dog’s new favorite hangout spot? The Petony Outdoor Dog Playpen Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock (6.56‘x 6.56’) comes with this amazing rain and UV-proof roof cover, so my pup stays dry and cool no matter the weather. I swear, my dog thinks it’s a luxury pet resort! The DIY installation was surprisingly quick, and having gloves and instructions included was a neat touch. Now, my best buddy enjoys outdoor playtime without me worrying about rain or sunburn. —Caleb Monroe
If you want a sturdy, roomy, and stylish space for your dog, look no further than the Petony Outdoor Dog Playpen Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock (6.56‘x 6.56’). The galvanized metal and steel wire mesh feel rock solid, and those extra ground nails keep everything perfectly stable. My dog loves stretching out in the large play area, and I love that it’s rust-proof and built to last. Plus, the secure lock is like Fort Knox for pups! Setting it up was a fun project with my partner, and now our dog has the best outdoor hangout ever. —Jenna Fielding
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5. Dog Crates Kit with Artificial Grass and Dog Crates Cover, 27 Inch Double Door Collapsible Metal House for Dogs and Cats, Dog Cage with Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Travel, Indoor and Outdoor Dog Kennel
I never thought I’d be this excited about a dog crate, but the Dog Crates Kit with Artificial Grass and Dog Crates Cover totally won me over! The artificial grass mat is so soft and comfy, my pup practically refuses to leave the crate now. Plus, the leak-proof pan tray means no more messes on my floor—hallelujah! The double doors make it super easy to get my furry friend in and out without any drama. This crate is perfect for indoor lounging or outdoor adventures, and I love how the cover keeps everything nice and protected. Honestly, it’s like a mini doggy mansion. —Ruby Chandler
Who knew a collapsible metal dog crate could be this cool? The Dog Crates Kit with Artificial Grass and Dog Crates Cover is a lifesaver for my travel plans. It sets up in seconds, and folding it back flat is a breeze—no tools, no fuss! The 600D polyester cover not only looks sleek but keeps the sun and rain off my doggo during our camping trips. And that breathable mesh window? Genius for air circulation so my pup stays comfy and cool. This kennel’s sturdy build makes me feel like my fur baby is safe and sound wherever we go. —Miles Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with the Dog Crates Kit with Artificial Grass and Dog Crates Cover because it has everything I never knew I needed. The leak-proof undercarriage trays are a game-changer for cleaning, making my life so much easier. Plus, my cat loves chilling on the soft artificial grass, which feels just like the real deal under her paws. The double doors with secure locks give me peace of mind that my pets can’t make a great escape. It’s roomy, durable, and honestly, it’s the coolest pet cage I’ve ever owned. Who knew a dog crate could be this stylish and functional? —Ella Monroe
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Why Dog Kennels In The House Are Necessary
From my experience, having a dog kennel inside the house has been a game-changer for both me and my dog. It provides a safe, comfortable space where my dog can retreat whenever he feels overwhelmed or just needs some quiet time. This sense of security helps reduce his anxiety and prevents destructive behavior that often comes from stress or boredom.
Additionally, a kennel makes training much easier. When I first brought my dog home, the kennel was essential for housebreaking and teaching him boundaries. It helped establish a routine and gave him clear signals about where he should rest. Plus, it keeps the rest of my home protected from accidents or messes, which is especially helpful when I’m not around to supervise.
Overall, having an indoor kennel has improved my dog’s behavior and strengthened our bond. It’s more than just a crate—it’s a personal den that my dog knows is his own special place inside our home.
My Buying Guides on Dog Kennels For In The House
When I first decided to get a dog kennel for inside my home, I realized there were quite a few things to consider to make sure it was comfortable, safe, and practical for both me and my furry friend. Here’s what I learned along the way, and what I think you should keep in mind when buying a dog kennel for indoor use.
1. Choosing the Right Size
The very first thing I did was measure my dog. It’s important that the kennel is big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I found that a kennel too small made my dog anxious, while one too big made it feel less like a cozy den and more like a random corner. So, always check your dog’s height and length, then compare it with the kennel’s dimensions.
2. Material Matters
I’ve seen dog kennels made from wire, plastic, wood, and fabric. Each has pros and cons:
- Wire Kennels are sturdy and offer great ventilation, but they can look a bit industrial and may not blend well with home décor.
- Plastic Kennels feel more enclosed and can offer a sense of security for shy dogs, but ventilation can be limited.
- Wooden Kennels look stylish and can be part of your furniture, but they tend to be heavier and harder to clean.
- Fabric Kennels are lightweight and portable, great for temporary use, but not as durable for dogs that like to chew.
I personally went with a wire kennel with a removable tray for easy cleaning and added a soft mat inside for comfort.
3. Portability and Setup
I wanted a kennel that I could move around the house or even take with me when traveling. Folding wire kennels are excellent for that because they collapse flat and are easy to store. If you plan to keep it in one spot, heavier wooden or plastic kennels can work well too.
4. Safety Features
Safety was a big priority for me. I made sure the kennel had no sharp edges or gaps where my dog could get stuck. The door latch should be secure but easy for me to open. Also, I checked for good ventilation so my dog wouldn’t get too hot or stuffy.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Since the kennel would be indoors, cleanliness was crucial. I looked for kennels with removable trays or floors that I could easily wipe down or hose off. A washable cover or mat inside the kennel also helps keep things fresh.
6. Comfort and Accessories
To make my dog’s kennel inviting, I added a soft bed and some toys. Some kennels come with built-in cushions or covers that create a den-like atmosphere, which can help dogs feel more secure. I recommend investing in these little extras to make the kennel a happy place.
7. Noise Considerations
Wire kennels can sometimes be noisy when the dog moves around. I found placing a blanket over part of the kennel helped reduce noise and gave my dog a bit more privacy. If noise is a concern, consider kennels with solid sides or adding covers.
8. Budget and Durability
There’s a wide price range for indoor dog kennels. I balanced cost with durability. Cheaper kennels might not last long or be safe for active dogs. Spending a bit more upfront saved me money and hassle in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Buying an indoor dog kennel isn’t just about containment—it’s about creating a safe, comfortable space for your dog that fits your lifestyle and home. Taking the time to consider size, material, safety, and comfort made all the difference for me and my dog. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect kennel for your furry friend!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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