Dog crates that do double duty as furniture
DenHaus designs four dens to suit all kinds of pooches
The old dog crate. Many dog owners know it both for its beneficial (house training) qualities, but also its esthetically displeasing ones. That’s why DenHaus founders Sarah Pierce and her husband Chris decided to develop a spiffy new one for their adopted redbone coonhound, Amber, in 2005. They dubbed their first model, an attractive wooden den, TownHaus.
DenHaus spokesperson Joe Chanda explains, “The different models of crates were developed as an alternative to the ugly wire crates that were prevalent and the only option when DenHaus was founded 12 years ago.”
The couple is no longer involved with the company, but DenHaus now offers four stylish crates with something for most people’s tastes, from traditional to modern.
These jazzy dens fit into any house, but cannot be used outdoors. They can also accommodate almost any breed or size of dog, up to approximately 160 pounds.
“Most dogs find them very appealing because they afford them a safe and confined space where they can escape and have their own spot. They really appeal to a dog’s natural instinct to inhabit a den-like space,” Chanda says.
They’re also a big hit with owners, who, Chanda says, love them because the dogs enjoy them. The company’s website is chock-full of testimonials raving about how much dogs and owners alike go for the dens. TownHaus The TownHaus is a wooden crate that doesn’t require any tools and takes just a few minutes to assemble.
It has a removable grate so the dog can come and go, or the owner can secure the door when he or she goes out. Dog owners can also order a designer steel grate accessory with a sunburst design in an antique brass finish. Owners can easily slide the grate into the front of the crate. The grate ($99.99 U.S.) is best for medium to extra-large TownHauses. Best suited for: Crate-trained dogs, not prone to destructive chewing. Materials: Tropical wood finished with mahogany and espresso stain, non-toxic. Features antique brass hardware, removable and lockable interior door panel. Care: Can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Dog sizes: Small to extra large Cost: $479.99 RuffHaus This attractive crate is constructed of real wood with a thick wood floor and top. It has thicker wire mesh that is bolted to the inner wood frame, which makes the den sturdy and durable. The wood is kiln-dried, which removes moisture from it, ensuring it doesn’t split, warp, crack or mildew. It might be best for dogs who need to see their surroundings a bit more and ensure they don’t get that “caged in” feeling. Best suited for: Crate-trained dogs that aren’t crazy chewers. Materials: 100-per-cent sustainably harvested pine in mahogany or espresso stain, thick metal wire mesh. Care: Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Dog sizes: Medium to XXLarge Cost: $320 ZenHaus Nothing like that Zen feeling in a home and what better way to get it than to land this little number in a living room, relaxing both owner and pooch. The company says no two models are alike. Artisans handcraft the ZenHaus in fibreglass (owners can choose the colour) and top it off with opaque, shatterproof glass that allows light into the den.
It also features a swing door that can be removed. It’s billed as a light, yet strong and durable den. It has multiple vents on all sides, which makes it easy for the dog to keep an eye on everything and provides great ventilation. Best suited for: Smaller dogs, indoors. Materials: Fibreglass, tempered hard glass. Comes in red, white or black. Care: Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners. Dog sizes: Small, medium Price: $549.99 BowHaus For dog owners who are into design, this cute little structure fits the bill, and may well set fur-kids’ tails wagging. This round den has a starburst design on the sides, which provides furry friends with a view of their surroundings.
This den also features a sliding door so the dog can come and go as it pleases. The BowHaus is a stylish addition to any home and a great place for a dog to relax. Best suited for: Small pets, indoors. Materials: Strong, lightweight fibreglass. Comes in silver, red or black. Care: Smudges can be removed with soap and a damp cloth. Dog sizes: Small, medium Price: $549.99