Are Wooden Dog Crates Safe?
If you’ve ever looked at a traditional wire crate and thought, "This looks like a jail cell", you’re not alone. More and more dog owners are turning to wooden dog crates—especially ones that blend into home décor. But before you make the switch, you might be wondering:
Are wooden dog crates actually safe for your pup?
Let’s break it down.
The Safety Basics
A well-built wooden crate can be just as safe (and often more comfortable) than metal wire crates—if it’s designed the right way. Here are the key factors that make a wooden crate safe:
✅ 1. Proper Ventilation
Your dog should get plenty of airflow on all sides. Look for slatted or barred sides that allow air to move freely while still creating a cozy, den-like space.
✅ 2. Chew-Resistant Design
Some dogs chew—especially puppies and anxious pups. High-quality crates use reinforced chew guards around the inside edges, metal bars instead of wood slats, and durable finishes that resist bite marks and moisture.
At Dog & Crate, every crate comes with built-in chew guards and a waterproof vinyl floor—because we’ve met more than a few tough chewers.
✅ 3. Strong, Furniture-Grade Materials
Unlike flimsy pressed board or DIY projects, premium wooden crates should be built from solid wood or heavy-duty hardwood plywood, with reinforced corners and strong joinery. In fact, we are one of the only dog crate builders that use joinery versus pocket holes and screws for its frame joints.
✅ 4. Secure Latches and Doors
Safety starts with reliability. Whether you’re using the crate during the day or overnight, a strong latch and stable door prevent escapes and injuries.
Bonus: Comfort and Behavior Benefits
A wooden dog crate offers more than just safety—it provides comfort and calm.
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Den-like feel: Dogs instinctively seek out small, secure spaces.
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Less rattling and noise: No loud metal clanging when your dog moves.
Better for home routines: Many dogs rest more peacefully in a crate that feels like part of the home—not a temporary holding pen.
When a Wooden Crate Might Not Be Ideal
There are only a few cases where a wooden crate might not be the best fit:
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If your dog is a severe destructive chewer, even reinforced wood might not be enough. You may need to crate train first with a heavy-duty metal crate, then transition.
If your dog isn’t crate trained yet and has accidents, you’ll want a waterproof floor (which we include) to prevent damage. Luckily all our crates include a water proof and scratch proof luxury vinyl planks for easy clean up.
So—Are Wooden Dog Crates Safe?
Yes, if they’re well-made. Look for reinforced construction, proper airflow, chew resistance, and secure hardware. At Dog & Crate, we’ve taken all these safety concerns into account—so you can have a crate that’s beautiful, functional, and built to last. Read more about our story and why we set out to make a safe and stylish dog crate our mission.
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