As more and more households add pets to their families, owners are keeping their dogs in mind when it comes to home remodels. From doggy doors to self-serve food stations, these thoughtful upgrades can enhance our canine’s comfort while improving the functionality of human living spaces. Here are eight renovations—practical, luxurious, or both—that you and your furry friend will appreciate.
Creature Comforts
Most canine construction happens in hardworking kitchens, laundry areas, and mudrooms, addressing dog owners’ three big needs: feeding, storage, and grooming. Here are some of the most in-demand—and ingenious—dog designs.
#1: Dog Cave
Dogs are social creatures that crave both comfort and proximity to their human family members. Built-in sleep nooks offer the perfect solution, providing a cozy retreat while keeping your furry friend close by. These clever designs can be incorporated into various spaces around your home:
- Under benches: Utilize the space beneath a mudroom or entryway bench to create a snug hideaway for your pup.
- In kitchen islands: Transform the base of your kitchen island into a comfortable den for your dog.
- In open cabinet bases: Convert unused cabinet space into a stylish and functional dog nook.
For those with limited space, consider a DIY Murphy bed for your dog. This innovative solution allows you to create a comfortable sleeping area that can be tucked away when not in use. Additionally, if you have an outdoor-loving pooch, you might want to build a shaded outdoor dog bed to keep them cool and comfortable during warm weather. The outdoor dog’s bed should be made with fabrics like canvas that withstand the elements.
#2: Fine Doggy Dining
Mealtime can be a messy for dogs, but with some smart design choices, you can create a tidy and efficient feeding station. Consider incorporating these elements into your pet-friendly kitchen or mudroom.
- Pull-out food storage: Install a large pull-out bin near the feeding area to store bulk kibble, making it easy to refill food bowls.
- Built-in food and water bowls: Create a dedicated space for your dog’s dishes, with the option to tuck them away when not in use.
- Easy-clean surfaces: Choose materials that are resistant to spills and scratches for the area surrounding your dog’s dining spot.
If you prefer a more portable option, you can build a freestanding dog bowl holder. This DIY project allows you to create a custom feeding station that matches your home’s decor while keeping your dog’s meals organized and off the floor.
#3: Getting Your Pup Cleaned Up
A dedicated dog washing station can be a game-changer for pet owners, especially those with active or outdoorsy dogs. Laundry rooms are ideal locations for these grooming areas, as they often have the necessary plumbing and are designed to handle splashes. When planning your dog cleaning station, consider including the following:
- A low-entry shower: Install a shower with a low threshold for easy access, especially for older or smaller dogs.
- Handheld sprayer: A flexible showerhead makes it easier to rinse your dog thoroughly.
- Nonslip flooring: Choose a textured surface to prevent slips and falls during bath time.
- Storage for grooming supplies: Incorporate shelves or cabinets to keep shampoos, towels, and brushes within reach.
- Built-in hair (fur) dryer: Having a dryer within reach will make the drying process quicker and more convenient, ensuring your dog stays warm post-bath
In this example, the homeowners have taken their grooming station a step further by adding a custom drying alcove. This thoughtful addition provides a designated space for your dog to shake off excess water and dry off comfortably after a bath.
#4: Gate Update
Traditional baby gates can be an eyesore and a hassle to navigate. For a more stylish and functional solution, consider incorporating a built-in dog gate into your home’s design. The example pictured above showcases a pocket half-door with a metal rail, offering several benefits:
- Seamless integration: The gate blends in with your home’s architecture when not in use.
- Scratch prevention: The metal rails protect the door’s top and bottom from your dog’s claws.
- Easy operation: Pocket doors slide smoothly, making it simple to open and close the gate.
- Versatility: This design can be used to keep dogs out of certain areas or to create a safe space for them when guests visit.
For a more portable option, you can create a DIY solid-wood dog gate that can be moved from room to room as needed. This allows for flexibility in managing your dog’s access to different areas of your home. Furthermore, using a finish that matches your interior can ensure it looks cohesive no matter where it’s placed.
#5: Easy Treat Access
When it comes to storage solutions for dog accessories, pull-out shelves can be incredibly useful. These compact storage spaces are perfect for organizing the following:
- Grooming tools
- Leashes and collars
- Small toys
- Treats and medications
To maximize your storage efficiency, consider installing full-extension cabinet drawers. These allow you to access items at the back of the drawer without having to reach or search blindly. Additionally, stocking these drawers with clear acrylic bins helps you quickly identify what’s inside.
#6: Get the Hang of Your Dog’s Gear
Vertical storage is an excellent way to keep your dog’s gear organized and easily accessible. A pegboard insert in a kitchen cabinet or mudroom closet offers a versatile solution for hanging the following items.
- Grooming tools
- Leashes and harnesses
- Treat pouches
- Waste bag dispensers
For added convenience, consider installing a wall-mounted pet organizer near your home’s entrance. This keeps all your dog-walking essentials in one place, making it easy to grab what you need before heading out the door. Customizing the pet organizer with hooks, shelves, and even a small chalkboard for reminders can add a personal touch that fits your routine perfectly.
#7: Water Bowl Filling Station
Keeping your dog hydrated is essential, and a built-in water station can make this task more convenient and mess-free. This setup not only looks sleek but also ensures that your dog always has access to fresh water. This clever design features:
- A dedicated spigot: Install a separate faucet specifically for filling your dog’s water bowl.
- Built-in bowl: Create a recessed area for the water bowl to prevent spills and sliding.
- Easy-clean surface: Choose a water-resistant material for the surrounding area to make cleanup a breeze.
However, messes will happen, so if you get the chance, installing dog-friendly flooring can save you a lot of time and effort in cleanup. Also, adding a mat beneath the water station can also help catch any stray droplets, keeping your floors dry and safe.
#8: Take It Outside With a Doggy Door
For dogs that enjoy spending time outdoors, a doggy door can provide easy access. When considering this addition to your home, keep the following in mind:
- Energy efficiency: Select a well-insulated door to minimize heat loss or gain.
- Security features: Look for models with locking mechanisms to ensure your home remains secure.
- Size and placement: Choose a door that’s appropriate for your dog’s size and install it in a convenient location.
If you install a doggy door, consider creating a sheltered outdoor area for your pet. This could be as simple as a covered porch or as elaborate as a custom-built doghouse that complements your home’s architecture. Adding comfortable bedding and some toys can make this space inviting and enjoyable for your canine companion.
Our Conclusion
Incorporating dog-friendly features into your home renovations can greatly enhance both your and your pet’s quality of life. From practical storage solutions to luxurious grooming stations, these upgrades demonstrate how thoughtful design can accommodate the needs of all family members—furry ones included.
