Is the Fable Pets Dog Crate Right for My Dog?

Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities — which means there’s no one-size-fits-all dog crate. With so many dog crates on the market, from traditional wire kennels to stylish wooden dog crate furniture, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right fit for both your dog and your home.


If you’re looking for a crate that’s safe, functional, and actually beautiful enough to live in your space, a wooden dog crate like the Fable Pets Dog Crate might be exactly what you need.


Let’s walk through how to decide if it’s right for you and your dog.

Why Use a Dog Crate in the First Place?

When used responsibly and appropriately, a dog crate can be one of the most helpful tools for pet parents.


A crate can:

  • Assist with training and housebreaking
  • Keep your dog safe when you can’t supervise
  • Prevent destructive behaviors
  • Create a predictable routine for anxious dogs

The key words here are responsibly and appropriately.


A crate should never replace exercise, playtime, or enrichment. Instead, think of your dog crate as your dog’s bedroom — a comfortable place to nap and relax, not somewhere they spend the majority of their day.


Many crate-trained dogs continue using their crate long after training ends simply because they love having a safe, private space of their own.

An italian greyhound looks in the camera in the foreground of an image while a Fable Pets dog crate with a light blue dog bed sits in the background

What Makes a Wooden Dog Crate Different?

Traditional wire crates get the job done — but they aren’t always the most attractive addition to your home.

wooden dog crate offers the same safety and functionality while blending seamlessly into your decor. Instead of looking like a kennel, it looks like thoughtfully designed dog crate furniture.

The Fable Dog Crate is designed to:

  • Feel den-like and calming for dogs
  • Look like modern furniture for humans
  • Double as an end table, side table, or console table
  • Support up to 300lbs on top
  • Fit beautifully in small spaces

It’s a crate you won’t feel the need to hide or fold away.



A small tan, short-haired dog with white markings relaxes in a Fable Pets Signature Crate on a light blue Signature Dog Bed. The crate is next to a white sofa.

Who Is the Fable Dog Crate Best For?

1. Puppies

Puppies need structure, naps, and safe boundaries — and a dog crate is perfect for all three.

The enclosed, den-style design of a wooden dog crate can help reduce visual stimulation, making it easier for puppies to settle and sleep. Compared to an open wire crate, the cozy feel often helps puppies relax faster.

Use it for:

  • Housebreaking
  • Overnight sleep
  • Safe downtime
  • Preventing chewing mishaps

Just be sure to review sizing and safety guidance carefully to ensure the best fit.


A tan and white puppy sits in a Fable Pets wooden dog crate that is styled with coffee table books on top and sits next to two potted plants.

2. Adult Dogs

Already crate-trained? Transitioning from a wire crate to dog crate furniture is often seamless. Many dogs quickly prefer the privacy and comfort of a wooden crate.


Tips for switching:

  • Introduce slowly
  • Use treats and positive reinforcement
  • Keep bedding familiar
  • Leave the door open at first

To make your dog's Fable crate extra comfortable, consider pairing with our best-selling signature bed

3. Dogs Who Just Want a Cozy Spot

Not every dog needs confinement — but many still love having a personal den.

Even with the door open, a dog crate end table can serve as:

  • A quiet retreat
  • Nap zone
  • Safe place during busy moments

For dogs who don't require a door, the Fable Pets crate den is a great option to provide that cozy comfort without full enclosure

A border collie relaxes in a Fable Pets wooden dog den. It is like a dog crate but has no gate. He is lying with his head down on a light blue memory foam dog bed.

4. City & Small-Space Pet Parents

If you live in an apartment or smaller home, every inch counts.


Instead of sacrificing square footage for a bulky metal crate, a dog crate that doubles as furniture gives you two functions in one.


Use it as:

  • A bedside table / nightstand
  • Sofa end table
  • Entryway console


Because the Fable dog crate end table supports decor on top, it integrates naturally into your living space — no more “dog stuff” clutter. (We just recommend avoiding candles or electronics on the crate for safety.)



A brown and white dog sleeps in his Fable Pets dog crate that is styled as an end table next to a sofa.

Style-Conscious Homes

Let's be honest: most crates aren't cute.


The Fable wooden dog crate furniture is intentionally minimalist, modern, and designed to complement your home — not clash with it.


Available finishes make it easy to match your aesthetic while still giving your dog a comfortable, secure crate.


Function meets design. Finally.


A black and white Yorkie Poo lays down on a Fable Pets bed inside of a Fable Pets wooden dog crate with the door open.

When a Different Dog Crate Might Be Better

While a Fable Pets wooden furniture dog crate works for most dogs, it’s not ideal for every situation. 


Consider alternatives if your dog:


  • Has a head smaller than the window openings: to provide air flow, Fable dog crate furniture has square windows on each side (see exact dimensions below). It is VERY important that your dog’s head is at least 1-2” wider than the window to ensure your dog cannot stick their head through the window.

  • Is highly destructive or heavy chewer: if your dog demonstrates serious chewing/destructive tendencies, particularly with furniture, our crate may not be the best option for you

  • Is an escape artist: crates can never be fully escape-proof, and if your dog is especially guileful, they may be able to sneak out. We advise looking for a different option if you think your dog may be a natural escape artist

  • Needs a lightweight or travel crate: Fable crates are built for the home and are not intended for use as a travel crate. Your dog should never be confined to a Fable crate during car travel or transport
A dachshund puppy sits inside of a Fable Pets crate with a stuffed toy on top of a light pink memory foam dog bed.

How to Choose the Right Dog Crate Size

We are frequently asked for sizing recommendations based on a dog’s weight. Since dogs come in many shapes and sizes, we have found that weight is not a reliable measurement to determine appropriate crate size. Instead, we recommend measuring:


  • Length (nose to base of tail)
  • Height (floor to top of head/ears when standing)

Use their measurements to choose a crate that is sufficiently longer/taller than your dog.


Your dog should be able to:

  • Stand fully
  • Turn around comfortably
  • Lie down stretched out

If you're adding a bed, remember it reduces headroom slightly.


Fable Signature Dog Crate Dimensions

Small

  • External: 26" deep x 20" wide x 23" high
  • Internal: 24.5" deep x 18" wide x 20.5" high (18.6” of headroom)
  • Crate windows: 2" x 2" (50.8x50.8mm)
  • Perfectly fits S bed, please note bed removes about 4" of headroom

Medium

  • External: 34" deep x 24" wide x 25" high
  • Internal: 32" deep x 22.5" wide x 23.5" high ( 21.2” of headroom)
  • Crate windows: 2.5" x 2.5" (65x65mm)
  • Perfectly fits M bed, please note bed removes about 5" of headroom

Large

  • External: 42" deep x 29.5" wide x 34.4" high
  • Internal: 40.2" deep x 28" wide x 29.2" high (29.6” of headroom)
  • Crate windows: 3.3" x 3.3"
  • Perfectly fits L bed, please note bed removes about 5" of headroom

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Dog Crate for You?

If you're looking for: 


  • A safe, comfortable crate
  • Furniture that looks beautiful in your home
  • A long-term solution beyond puppy training
  • A stylish dog crate end table that saves space

Then the Fable Pets Dog Crate is the perfect fit!