When it comes to choosing the perfect crate for your dog, you're faced with two main options: the classic wire crate or a more modern, stylish wooden dog crate (also known as furniture-style or designer dog crates). But which one is actually better for your dog—and your home?
Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you make the best decision for both form and function.
What Is a Wire Crate?
Wire dog crates have been the go-to choice for decades. They’re simple, collapsible, and often inexpensive. You’ve probably seen them at pet stores or in shelters.
Pros of Wire Crates:
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Easy to fold and transport
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Typically affordable
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Well-ventilated and visible
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Often come with dividers for growing puppies
Cons of Wire Crates:
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Not attractive in your home
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Can be noisy (rattling metal and latches)
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Can rust, bend, or break over time
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Dogs may injure themselves chewing on bars or getting collars caught
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Plastic tray bottoms can crack or absorb odors
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Often feel more like a “cage” than a cozy den
Wire crates are practical—but they’re not exactly stylish or durable in the long run.
What Is a Wooden Dog Crate?
Wooden or furniture-style dog crates are built to blend into your home décor. They often double as side tables or consoles and offer a more elevated look—literally and figuratively.
At Dog & Crate, we handcraft luxury wooden crates that function as beautiful furniture pieces while giving your pup a cozy, safe space.
Pros of Wooden Dog Crates:
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Designed to complement your home’s style
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Sturdy and built to last
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Quieter than wire crates
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Can be customized with features like drawers, barn doors, or metal chew guards
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Waterproof floors and better insulation for comfort
Cons of Wooden Dog Crates:
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Higher upfront investment
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Not ideal for destructive chewers unless built with chew guards
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Heavier and not easily portable
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Requires some care to maintain the finish
Not all wooden crates are created equal—quality matters. Cheap versions may look good online but fall apart fast.
Which Crate Is Better for Your Dog?
It depends on your dog’s needs, your lifestyle, and your home. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Wire Crate | Wooden Crate (Dog & Crate) |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | Industrial, cage-like | Home-friendly, stylish |
| Durability | Moderate | High |
| Chew Resistance | Low | High (with chew guards) |
| Portability | Easy to move/fold | Heavy, not portable |
| Noise Level | High (metal on metal) | Low |
| Comfort & Den Feel | Minimal | Cozy and inviting |
| Cost Over Time | Lower initially, often replaced |
Higher initially, lasts years |
When a Wire Crate Makes Sense
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You need a temporary or portable option
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You’re crate training a young puppy who may outgrow it
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You’re on a very tight budget
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Your dog is calm and already crate trained
When a Wooden Crate Is Worth the Upgrade
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You want something that looks great in your home
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You value quiet, sturdy construction
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You’re tired of replacing cheap crates every year
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Your dog is a well-behaved adult who enjoys their crate
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You want to give your dog a comfortable, permanent den
Why Our Customers Are Ditching Wire Crates
Many of our customers tried wire crates first—only to find they didn’t last, didn’t look good, or didn’t feel like a loving solution for their pet.
Dog & Crate offers:
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Chew-resistant construction
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Waterproof, easy-to-clean floors
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Multiple sizes (M, L, XL) with premium finishes
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Crates that blend in with your lifestyle, not disrupt it
When you think long-term, a furniture-style crate isn’t just better for your home—it’s better for your dog too.
Final Thoughts
While wire crates might work in a pinch, wooden dog crates offer long-term comfort, safety, and style. If you're ready to upgrade from a rattling cage to a crate that feels like home, it might be time to invest in one that’s built with care—for both your space and your furry best friend.
Explore our handcrafted Dog & Crate furniture-style crates, or reach out for help finding the perfect fit for your home and your pup.
