Choosing the right dog crate is a pivotal decision for any pet parent, impacting both your dog’s well-being and your home’s aesthetic. While there are countless options on the market, from basic wire models to heavy-duty travel kennels, finding the Best Dog Crates often means balancing functionality with design. If your canine companion is already well-versed in crate training and you’re seeking a solution that seamlessly integrates with your interior decor, the Fable Crate stands out as a premium choice. This meticulously designed crate offers a cozy, den-like space for your dog while doubling as a stylish piece of furniture, redefining what a dog crate can be. For pet owners who prioritize both elegance and comfort, investing in a high-quality, furniture-style crate can elevate your pet care routine. Ensure your dog’s comfort with complementary items like a cozy, durable dog bed inside their new sanctuary.
Why Choose a High-End Furniture Dog Crate?
The Fable Crate isn’t just a dog enclosure; it’s a statement piece designed for discerning pet owners. Its appeal lies in its ability to offer a secure space for your dog without compromising your home’s style.
Furniture-Grade Aesthetics and Design
Unlike traditional dog crates that often detract from a home’s decor, the Fable Crate is crafted to be an attractive furniture item. Made from ash plywood and featuring either clear acrylic or cold-rolled sheet metal for the door, its sophisticated look sets it apart from other commercially available models. Available in two elegant wood finishes, “signature” and walnut, this crate effortlessly blends with most home interiors. Its design aesthetic ensures it passes for a high-quality furniture piece, enhancing your living space rather than clashing with it.
A Fable Crate with its clear door shut, showcasing the elegant wood finish and modern design.
Optimizing Space in Your Home
For those living in homes with limited square footage, the Fable Crate offers an ingenious solution to optimize space. According to Jeremy Canade, co-founder and CEO of Fable, “A crate should be able to serve double duty.” This design philosophy allows the Fable Crate to function as both a safe haven for your dog and a practical surface for other uses, such as a side table. Its top surface provides additional usable space, making it a functional addition to any room. One large model was even observed to be substantial enough to function as a kitchen island, demonstrating its versatility.
A Den-Like Sanctuary for Your Canine
Many dogs prefer an enclosed space that offers a sense of security and privacy. While typical wire crates provide an open view, the Fable Crate delivers a more secluded, den-like environment where dogs can truly relax and feel safe. This design feature is intentional, aimed at minimizing anxiety and fostering a soothing retreat for your furry friend, as highlighted by Canade. Despite its enclosed nature, the crate ensures decent ventilation, comparable to other well-regarded plastic and aluminum kennels, maintaining a comfortable atmosphere for your pet. Consider pairing a comfortable crate with stylish dog tags for your pet’s safety and identification.
Effortless Placement with a Sliding Door
The Fable Crate’s innovative sliding door mechanism offers unparalleled flexibility in placement within your home. Unlike crates with hinged doors that require clearance, the Fable’s single door slides upwards and tucks neatly under the roof, much like a garage door. This clever design means you don’t have to worry about the door swing limiting where you can position the crate. While it doesn’t feature a removable tray, its lacquered wood interior is designed to resist most messes for several hours. In the event of damage, the company also provides replacement panels.
A Fable dog crate with its roof removed, showing the setup stage and interior wooden construction.
Relatively Simple Assembly for a Furniture Crate
Assembling furniture can often be a daunting task, but the Fable Crate’s setup process is surprisingly manageable for a furniture-style dog crate. Described as an “IKEA-light experience,” it involves fitting together wooden pegs and screws. While it does require more effort than setting up a simple wire or plastic crate, it is significantly easier than some other furniture crates on the market. The most challenging aspect might be maneuvering the heavy roof of the large version, which often requires an extra pair of hands.
Important Considerations Before Investing in the Fable Crate
While the Fable Crate offers many advantages, it’s essential to understand its specific suitability and limitations to ensure it’s the right choice for you and your dog.
Ideal for Crate-Trained, Calm Adult Dogs
The Fable Crate is primarily designed for dogs that are already crate-trained and exhibit a calm demeanor. It is not built to withstand the destructive tendencies that some dogs, particularly puppies or those undergoing initial crate training, might display. As Jeremy Canade advises, “Typically we recommend the crate for a crate-trained dog.” If your dog tends to chew, scratch, or attempt to escape from their crate, this model may not be the most suitable initial choice. For outdoor adventures or training, a long leash can be an invaluable tool.
Durability of Materials Compared to Other Options
Compared to some of the most robust dog crates on the market, such as those made from heavy-duty metal, the Fable Crate’s materials, though elegant, are not quite as durable. The clear acrylic door, for instance, could withstand 50 pounds of force but showed more flexibility than other tested doors, potentially allowing a determined dog to wedge a limb through. Visible scratches also appeared on both the acrylic door and the interior wood after rigorous testing, suggesting it may not be ideal for highly energetic or destructive dogs.
The Investment: Cost and Return Policy
The Fable Crate represents a significant financial investment, with prices starting from $799. This premium cost reflects its unique design, quality materials, and dual functionality as furniture. Potential buyers should also be aware that, due to the high shipping costs associated with heavy furniture items, the company typically does not accept returns. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully assess if this crate is the perfect fit for your dog and your living space before making a purchase. While there are no returns for change of mind, the company does offer replacement panels or doors for any manufacturing defects. For families who travel, consider jeep grand cherokee seat covers for dogs to protect your vehicle.
A dog comfortably resting inside a Fable Crate, which seamlessly blends into a modern home setting.
Finding the Perfect Crate for Your Beloved Pet
When searching for the best dog crates, the Fable Crate offers an exceptional blend of sophisticated design and comfortable functionality for already crate-trained dogs. It transforms a basic necessity into an elegant piece of home decor, while providing a secure and serene retreat for your canine companion. While its premium price point and suitability for calm dogs are important considerations, its aesthetic appeal, space-saving design, and thoughtful features make it a top contender for pet parents seeking a stylish and integrated solution. Always ensure the chosen crate aligns with your dog’s temperament and your lifestyle for the best experience. Explore more options for specialized gear, like a tactical dog vest, to cater to all your dog’s needs.
