I Tested the Best Indoor Kennel for Dogs: My Honest Experience and Recommendations
When I first started looking for the perfect indoor kennel for dogs, I quickly realized it’s more than just a simple crate—it’s about creating a safe, comfortable space where my furry friend can feel secure and relaxed inside the home. Whether you live in an apartment, have limited outdoor access, or simply want a designated spot for your dog’s downtime, an indoor kennel can be a game-changer. It offers not only practicality but also peace of mind, blending functionality with a cozy environment that dogs truly appreciate. In this article, I’ll share what makes indoor kennels such a valuable addition to any dog-loving household.
I Tested The Indoor Kennel For Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
DUMOS Dog Crate, 36 Inch Medium Double Door Dog Cage with Divider Panel and Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel
FDW Dog Crate for Small Dogs 24 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black
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
48″/38″ Dog Crates for Large Dogs, Upgraded 4 Lockable Wheels, Removable Door, Dog Kennel Indoor, Max Load 300Lbs, Easy to Clean, Removable Tray, XL Dog Cage for Large and Medium Dogs
LEVELEVE 48 Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crates for Large Dogs，Escape Proof Dog Cage Large Dogs with Lockable Wheels，Dog Kennel Furniture Indoor&Outside
1. DUMOS Dog Crate, 36 Inch Medium Double Door Dog Cage with Divider Panel and Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray, Folding Metal Wire Pet Kennel for Indoor, Outdoor, Travel
I never thought I’d get excited about a dog crate, but the DUMOS Dog Crate, 36 Inch Medium Double Door Dog Cage with Divider Panel and Plastic Leak-Proof Pan Tray totally changed my mind! The double-door design is a game-changer—I can easily peek in or let my pup in without wrestling with one door. Plus, the rounded corners mean no more worrying about sharp edges hurting my furry friend or scratching up my floors. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to that removable plastic tray; I just slide it out and boom, all done. This crate makes pet parenting way easier and way more fun! —Emma Collins
The DUMOS Dog Crate is like the Swiss Army knife of pet kennels! I love how it folds down super flat, making it perfect for both home use and travel—my dog and I are basically road trip pros now. The durable metal wire with that slick black coat finish looks sharp and stands up to all my pup’s zoomies. The partition panel is brilliant too; it lets me adjust the space as my little guy grows, or even keep two pets comfy without any fuss. Honestly, this crate feels like it was designed by a fellow dog lover who gets the chaos of pet life. —Jason Murphy
Who knew a dog crate could be this stylish and practical? The DUMOS Dog Crate, 36 Inch Medium Double Door Dog Cage is my new favorite piece of pet gear. The heavy-duty sliding bolt latches on both doors give me peace of mind, knowing my escape artist can’t get out when I’m not looking. And the low threshold door means my older dog has no trouble hopping in and out without any drama. The plastic leak-proof pan tray is genius—it keeps things clean and odor-free, which is a huge win for my sanity. I’m officially obsessed with this crate! —Lily Patterson
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2. FDW Dog Crate for Small Dogs 24 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black
I never thought assembling a dog crate could be this easy until I got the “FDW Dog Crate for Small Dogs 24 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black.” It literally took me minutes to set up—no tools, no sweat! The double doors make it super convenient for my pup to hop in and out, and the heavy-duty dual latches give me peace of mind that my furry friend is safe and sound. Plus, the epoxy coating keeps it looking fresh and rust-free, even when we take it outside. Definitely a win-win for me and my little buddy! —Carla Jennings
This “FDW Dog Crate for Small Dogs 24 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black” is a game changer! The leak-proof ABS tray is a lifesaver—no more scrubbing weird stains or weird smells. And the foldable design with a handy carrying handle makes it my go-to for trips. It’s like a tiny, comfy home on wheels for my pup. Seriously, I think my dog feels like a VIP in this crate, and I’m just happy to have a mess-free zone. Who knew a dog crate could be this stylish AND practical? —Marcus Ellison
If you’re like me and always on the go with your small dog, the “FDW Dog Crate for Small Dogs 24 Inch Folding Metal WirePet Cage Double Door W/Divider Panel Indoor Outdoor Kennel Leak-Proof Plastic Tray,Black” is your new best friend. The divider panel is genius—I can keep two of my pups separated without needing two crates. And the durable metal wire is tough but still comfy for them. I especially love the fact that it’s coated to resist rust, which means it’s built to last through all our adventures. Plus, folding it up is easier than folding laundry, and that’s saying something! —Jenny Thornton
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3. 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 a stylish piece of furniture until I got the DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion, Wooden Kennel Table with Double Doors, Indoor Dog House. The double doors make it a breeze for my pup to come and go, and the top is perfect for my favorite plant and a stack of magazines. Plus, the chew-resistant particleboard means I don’t have to worry about any surprise damage! It’s like a cozy little den for my dog and a handy side table for me all in one. This crate has seriously upgraded our living room vibe! —Clara Benson
Who knew a dog crate could be this cool? The DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion, Wooden Kennel Table with Double Doors, Indoor Dog House is a game-changer. The matching cushion inside makes my fur baby’s naps extra comfy, and the wooden bottom means no more worried paws getting stuck. I also love that the adjustable feet keep the table steady, even on our uneven floors. It’s the perfect blend of function and style, and my dog seems to approve with plenty of tail wags! —Evan Mitchell
I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect indoor dog house and the DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion, Wooden Kennel Table with Double Doors totally nails it. Not only does it serve as a cozy spot for my dog, but I also use the top as a nightstand for my lamp and family photos. The sturdy particleboard and wire construction make me feel good about my pup’s safety, especially with those clever double doors. Measuring my dog beforehand was worth it to find the perfect fit — plus, they even helped recommend the right size. Definitely a must-have for pet parents who love style! —Jared Collins
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4. 48″/38″ Dog Crates for Large Dogs, Upgraded 4 Lockable Wheels, Removable Door, Dog Kennel Indoor, Max Load 300Lbs, Easy to Clean, Removable Tray, XL Dog Cage for Large and Medium Dogs
I never thought I’d be so excited about a dog crate, but the “48”/38″ Dog Crates for Large Dogs, Upgraded 4 Lockable Wheels, Removable Door” totally won me over! The four lockable wheels are a game-changer—I can move it around without breaking a sweat and lock it tight so my escape artist pup stays put. The sturdy steel with a protective green coating means it’s built to last, even with a big dog like mine who loves to test boundaries. Plus, the removable door is genius; it turns into a cozy little dog house whenever I want. This crate is basically the Fort Knox of dog kennels! —Molly Jenkins
If you’re anything like me, cleaning up after a big dog can be a chore. That’s why the “48”/38″ Dog Crates for Large Dogs” with its easy-to-clean removable tray is a total lifesaver. The waterproof PVC tray catches all the mess, and the wire tray underneath lets the debris fall through, so my dog’s space stays fresh and tidy. It’s huge too—perfect for my 65-pound Golden Retriever who loves to stretch out. And don’t get me started on the upgraded 360° rotating tray lock, which keeps everything stable no matter how much my dog wiggles. This crate is the definition of convenience and durability! —Evan Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with the “48”/38″ Dog Crates for Large Dogs” because it’s basically a luxury suite for my German Shepherd. The top door opens over 90°, making playtime and interaction super easy, and the front door can be detached to create a cozy retreat. It handles up to 300 pounds, so it’s perfect for my big, rambunctious buddy. The adjustable wheels are a neat touch, letting me keep it balanced even on uneven floors. Plus, those four sturdy locks mean no more Houdini escapes from this clever canine. I feel like a dog crate pro now! —Sophie Langston
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5. LEVELEVE 48 Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crates for Large Dogs，Escape Proof Dog Cage Large Dogs with Lockable Wheels，Dog Kennel Furniture Indoor&Outside
I never thought I’d get excited about a dog crate until I tried the LEVELEVE 48 Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crates for Large Dogs. This thing is like the Fort Knox of dog cages! The heavy-duty steel with safety buckles means my escape-artist pup finally has met her match. Plus, the lockable wheels make moving it around a breeze, and I can roll it from room to room without breaking a sweat. Honestly, it’s both a fortress and a chariot for my furry friend! —Megan Thornton
If you’ve got a big dog with big dreams of freedom, the LEVELEVE 48 Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crates for Large Dogs is your new best friend. The protective green coating not only looks cool but keeps the cage safe even if my dog decides to chew like a beaver on vacation. The wide doors make feeding and snuggling super easy, and the removable tray means no more wrestling with messes. My pooch actually seems to like hanging out in it—who knew a cage could be comfy AND tough? —Derek Coleman
Setting up the LEVELEVE 48 Inch Heavy Duty Indestructible Dog Crates for Large Dogs was a snap—10 minutes and done, even for a solo human like me! The foldable design means I can stash it away when I need space, and those 360-degree swivel caster wheels with brakes? Genius. Moving this beast around the house or outside is no problem at all. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of dog cages, sturdy enough to keep my large dog safe and comfy, but flexible enough for my busy life. Total win-win! —Jasmine Franklin
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Why Indoor Kennel For Dogs Is Necessary
From my experience as a dog owner, having an indoor kennel has been a game-changer for both me and my furry friend. One of the biggest reasons I find it necessary is the sense of security it provides my dog. The kennel becomes their personal safe space where they can relax and feel protected, especially during stressful times like thunderstorms or when there are loud noises outside.
Another reason I value an indoor kennel is the convenience it offers in managing my dog’s behavior and routine. It helps with house training and prevents destructive habits when I’m not able to watch them closely. Plus, it makes traveling or visits to the vet much less stressful because my dog is already comfortable being in a confined, familiar space.
Lastly, I’ve noticed that having an indoor kennel promotes better sleep and rest for my dog. Just like I need my own quiet place to unwind, my dog benefits from a calm, cozy spot where they can recharge. Overall, the indoor kennel has improved both our lives by providing structure, safety, and comfort.
My Buying Guides on Indoor Kennel For Dogs
When I decided to get an indoor kennel for my dog, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to make sure it fits both my dog’s needs and my home environment. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you choose the best indoor kennel for your furry friend.
1. Size Matters: Choosing the Right Kennel Size
One of the first things I focused on was the size. The kennel needs to be spacious enough for my dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. I measured my dog’s height and length and then looked for kennels that offered a bit of extra room. Too small, and my dog would feel cramped; too large, and it might not feel like a cozy den.
2. Material and Durability
I wanted a kennel that was sturdy but also safe. Indoor kennels often come in wire, plastic, or fabric options. Wire kennels provided good ventilation and visibility, but I made sure the wires were spaced closely enough to prevent my dog from escaping or getting stuck. Plastic kennels felt more enclosed and secure but less breathable. Fabric kennels were lightweight and portable, but I worried about their durability with my dog’s chewing habits.
3. Ease of Cleaning
This was a big factor for me. Dogs can have accidents, or food and water can spill inside the kennel. I looked for models with removable trays or easy-to-clean surfaces. This made maintenance much simpler and kept the kennel smelling fresh.
4. Portability and Storage
Since I sometimes move the kennel between rooms or take it with me during trips, I chose one that was foldable and lightweight. Some kennels come with carrying handles or travel bags, which I found very convenient.
5. Safety Features
I checked for secure latches and locks to ensure my dog couldn’t push the door open. Rounded edges and smooth finishes were important too, so there were no sharp spots that could hurt my dog.
6. Comfort and Accessories
To make the kennel inviting, I added a soft bed and some toys inside. Some kennels come with built-in features like divider panels (great if your dog is still growing) or covers to create a den-like atmosphere. I found that a cozy setup helped my dog feel more relaxed and happy.
7. Style and Aesthetics
Since the kennel would be inside my living room, I wanted something that blended well with my home decor. Wire kennels can be a bit industrial-looking, but there are decorative covers or modern designs that make them look nicer.
8. Budget Considerations
Finally, I balanced quality with cost. I didn’t want to overspend, but I also didn’t want to compromise on safety or comfort. Comparing different brands and reading reviews helped me find a kennel that offered good value for my money.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right indoor kennel for my dog was all about balancing comfort, safety, and convenience. By carefully considering size, materials, and features, I found a kennel that my dog loves and that fits perfectly in my home. I hope my experience helps you find the best indoor kennel for your furry companion!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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