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5 amazing DIY dog crate ideas you can build this weekend

Gabrielle LaFrank
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It may sound daunting to build your own dog crate, but this project can be totally doable in just one weekend. Even novice woodworkers can do this! Each specific build will have a shopping list and timeline that are completely unique, so you’re sure to find a DIY dog crate that’s perfect for you and your schedule.

With your four-legged helper by your side (except not actually next to you when there are power tools involved), this weekend’s project will be both successful and helpful! Trust us, your dog will love it. If he could say “thank you,” he would!

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a dog sleeps on a bed in his crate

DIY Dog Kennel Cover

This tutorial from DesignCompany puts a time-saving spin on this project. Instead of building a whole crate, you can build an attractive, dog-friendly cover for any wire crate you already have. The cover has the look and function of an end table, so it’ll be perfect for any home. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

  • 1-by 2-inch wooden boards
  • 1- by-4-inch wooden boards (optional, can use more 1 by 2s instead)
  • Hammer and nails
  • Sander
  • Wood stain
  • Tape measure

Yep, that’s it! Heather of Heather’s Handmade Life finished this entire project in one day, so you should have no trouble completing it over a weekend. By this time on Monday, your home could be one end table cuter!

Basic One-Day Dog Crate

For another straightforward DIY that you can create in a weekend — or even a day — check out this geometric dog crate build from My Outdoor Plans. These woodworkers recommend using a high-quality material like cedar or redwood to ensure safety for your dog. Once you adjust the measurements to the needs of your dog, you’re ready to go!

What you need:

  • For the sides: 1-by-3-inch boards, 29½ inches long (4 pieces); 1-by-3-inch boards, 26 inches long (4 pieces); 1-by-2-inch boards, 29½ inches long (12 pieces)
  • For the faces: 1-by-3-inch boards, 19 inches long (4 pieces); 1-by-3-inch boards, 26 inches long (4 pieces); 1-by-2-inch boards, 19 inches long (6 pieces)
  • For the top and bottom: ½-inch plywood sheets, 24 by 36 inches (2 pieces)
  • For the door: 1-by-2-inch boards, 20½ inches long (2 pieces); 1-by-2-inch boards, 17½ inches long (4 pieces); 1-by-2-inch boards, 15½ inches long (2 pieces)
  • ½-inch screws (2)
  • ¼-inch screw (1)
  • Wood stain
  • Wood filler
  • Wood glue
  • Metal hinge for door

This project takes advantage of more materials and tools, so you may need to spend a little part of your weekend gathering everything you need. Once you’re ready, it won’t take long to assemble the dog crate you never knew you needed.

DIY Barn Door Dog Crate

Although this cute crate has the basic shape and purpose of the others on this list, it has an aesthetic appeal all its own. The last steps of this project include building and attaching the rustic barn door that makes this crate so unique, though experienced crafters may want to get creative with this piece of the process.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2-by-6-inch boards, 96 inches long (6 pieces)
  • 2-by-4-inch boards, 96 inches (4 pieces)
  • 1-by-2-inch board, 96 inches (1 piece)
  • ¾-inch plywood sheet, 48 inches (1 piece)
  • ½-inch plywood sheet, 24 inches (1 piece)
  • Pocket hole jig
  • Barn door hardware (the tutorial uses wooden planks)

It’s going to be a productive weekend — ready to get started?

a Corgi puppy lies in her crate surrounded by blankets and toys

DIY Square Dog Kennel

This adorable DIY has both written and video instructions, so you can get all the info you need to get started. Since one of the very first steps is to treat the wood with a preserving stain, it can be used both indoors or outdoors.

The shopping list for this project is rather long, so you’ll want to visit the written instructions for a full roundup. Here are the essentials:

  • Clout nails
  • Wood preserver
  • Roof felt
  • 1/3-inch plywood sheets (2 pieces)
  • C16 CLS treated wood for base, 3 pieces
  • And more

Large Wood Kennel End Table

This is another fashionable crate that doubles as a table, though this one needs to be built from scratch (unlike the crate cover DIY). Thankfully, this project also has a shorter shopping list, so you can get started right away! You’ll want to be on the lookout for products like these:

  • 24-by-36-inch pine project panel or ¾-inch plywood or MDF (1 piece)
  • 1-by-3-inch boards, 8 feet long (5 pieces)
  • ¼-inch plywood sheet (1)
  • 1-by-2-inch boards, 8 feet long (4 pieces)
  • Set of hinges (1)
  • Latch (1)
  • 1¼-inch pocket hole screw
  • Wood glue
  • ¾-inch brad nails

The measurements on this project plan will build a crate for a medium-size dog. This kennel features a solid frame and walls to keep your pup secure in addition to a cute, modern look for you. What else could you possibly want in a crate?

Ready for an awesome weekend? With these simple DIY project ideas up your sleeve, you can build a new space for your furry friend faster than you can binge your favorite Netflix show. Plus, how good will it feel to bond with your dog over his perfect new crate?

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One of the most lovable things about dogs is their attachment to you, their pet parent. They want to be wherever you are -- no ifs, ands, or buts. Although you, of course, adore spending time with your four-legged friend, there are times when you might want your space — for instance, when it's time to go to sleep. Dogs don't always understand these boundaries at first, but it is possible to train them to sleep in their crate, a dog bed, or anywhere else you prefer that's not your sleeping spot. With these five tips and tricks, you can learn how to keep your dog off your bed and in their own in no time.

Methods for keeping your dog off your bed
There are a lot of great approaches and tips you can follow to keep your dog in their own comfy bed. The most important thing to remember is that you’re not being “mean,” you are simply being firm. Read on to learn about the best ways to achieve this bedtime goal:
1. Consistency is key
When it comes to training your dog to do something, it is important to always remain consistent and firm. Always use the same commands such as “off” to get them off your bed, or “place” to get them into their bed. By using the same commands over and over again, your dog will begin to react almost instantly. You can always use rewards like affection, praise, their favorite toy, or small treats to reinforce the good behavior. This type of training can take weeks or months to fully click with your dog, so it is important to be patient.
2. Get your dog a bed they can’t refuse
If your dog has the comfiest bed on the market, they may not even miss sleeping next to their favorite person. There are so many amazing beds available online and in pet stores. You can do some research and read reviews to see what beds are loved the most.
3. Keep them close by
Just because you are kicking your dog off the bed doesn’t mean you need to keep them out of the room. A setup near your bed or right outside of your bedroom will promote a sense of security for your dog and will help them accept this new sleeping arrangement.
4. Reinforce with the “off” command
One of the best commands you can use for this type of training is “off.” This word is short and easy to say. It is important to say it firmly and point to the floor to give your pup some direction. Whenever you find your dog on your bed, immediately command “off” and then reward the behavior once they hop off.
5. Utilize placement training
Just like “off,” you can utilize another short word like “place” to give your dog some direction. The word “place” can be used to describe their very own bed. By telling them to go to their place, they have a sense of direction. You can use both “off” and “place” consecutively to let them know it is bedtime.

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Inbreeding, or the act of deliberately breeding two related animals together, is a controversial topic. Sadly, inbreeding is all too common in the world of our canine companions. According to a veterinary study conducted by the University of California at Davis, scientists discovered an inbreeding level of roughly 25% — the same amount of genetic similarity between siblings. Many dog breeders intentionally choose to inbreed dogs to strengthen certain physical and behavioral traits, as well as to keep the breed's bloodline pure. But this pure bloodline comes at a cost. We'll go over the five most common signs of inbred dogs and discus why each is potentially dangerous for these unfortunate pups. 

What does an inbred dog look like? 
Certain dog breeds are renowned for possessing specific traits. From the French bulldog's precious face to the German shepherd's trademark stance, dog breeders have relied on selective breeding for centuries. Unfortunately, some physical signs of inbreeding aren't as endearing as the Frenchie's stunted snout. Inbreeding not only results in reduced litter size, but it also leaves inbred pups smaller than non-inbred dogs of the same breed. In some cases, inbred dogs have asymmetrical features, ranging from eyes of different sizes to misaligned jaws. Inbreeding also makes dogs much more likely to develop a genetically predisposed disorder at some point during their life.  
Can a vet tell if a dog is inbred? 
When it comes to determining the degree of inbreeding in a given pup, the experts use a method of calculation called "the coefficient of inbreeding," or COI, developed by Sewall Wright in 1922. The most inbred dog breeds on record are Norwegian Lundehunds, pugs, English bulldogs, basset hounds, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, and boxers. Vets know the likelihood of inbreeding is high when they encounter these breeds, but genetic testing, such as this genetic COI kit, is the only way to know conclusively just how inbred your dog is. However, as we mentioned earlier, inbreeding can leave behind physical clues. If a dog from a breed known for being inbred is small for his breed, has congenital birth defects, or shows symptoms of having special intellectual needs, it's highly likely that inbreeding is a contributing factor.  
What problems do inbred dogs have?
Not only does inbreeding cause health issues, but inbred dogs are also more likely to display behavioral problems than outbred dogs. Here are the five major signs of inbreeding you should look out for in your pooch.

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Waterproof dog boots are easy to make at home (Yes, really!)
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As the winter months approach, it's time to start upgrading your dog's winter wardrobe to combat frigid weather, ice, and snow. Not even northern breeds like Siberian huskies and Alaskan malamutes are impervious to the cold. But finding the perfect waterproof boots isn't always easy, which has many pet parents turning to DIY solutions. Not only will you be able to ensure the perfect fit, but you'll also save some money. Have you ever wondered how to make waterproof dog boots? We'll walk you through it step by step.  

Why your dog needs waterproof boots
Waterproof dog boots are designed to keep your pup's feet warm, dry, and protected. According to the American Kennel Club, you should take precautions against "snow, ice, salt, and ice melt chemicals." Chemicals used to deice wintry roads are toxic, as are road salts. And chemicals aren't the only danger to your pup's paws. Snow and ice can form compact lumps between the toes, which may cut into her feet. Boots also give your pooch extra traction on slippery surfaces, a must-have in rainy or icy weather. Cooler weather goes hand in hand with dry, itchy skin, but a good pair of waterproof bootees will help prevent your pooch from dealing with uncomfortable, cracked paws. Best of all, you can remove your pup's boots at the door, so she won't track rain and ice through the house. Stay with us if you're ready to try your hand at making your own waterproof dog boots. 
Make Chloe Mackintosh's waterproof dog boots
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