Indoor Dog Rooms

If you have extra space in your home, your dogs will love having their own room! It can be a cozy nook under your staircase, a converted palace in your garage or basement, or even a large guest room turned dog playroom.

Dog toys and treats can take up a lot of space, so having a designated area to corral everything is key. In the above image, (an amazing design job from Smith Firestone Associates!), the dog room is outfitted with comfy leather dog beds, enclosed kennel-like rooms, a playful striped carpet, and a gorgeous chandelier. The tiled flooring is easy to clean and maintain.

Why create a dog room?

1) If you have more than one dog, it's a great way to keep all "dog-related" items organized.

2) You love your pets like they are your kids, and want them to have their own space to play and hang out.

3) If you need to run an errand, the dogs will feel safe and cozy inside of their dog room, vs. a cramped crate.

4) It's one of the few places in your home that you can put dozens of dog photos up on the walls and not feel crazy.

5) You can fuel your creative side and have a lot of fun in the creation and organization of the room.

6) If you're a professional dog-walker or dog-sitter, having a special room devoted to Fido and friends is a huge asset.

What does your dog room need?

1) Natural light or adequate lighting source

2) Comfortable dog beds

3) Cute bins, baskets and canisters to store dog toys and treats

4) A cozy blanket or two

5) Framed photographs of your pets

6) Hooks to hang leashes and harnesses

7) Food and water bowls

8) A handful of favorite, "safe" toys

9) Towels/mats for drying off

10) Access to the outside (if possible)

If you recently built your own dog room, I'd love to hear from you! Leave a comment below.

{Image Source: Houzz via Smith Firestone Associates}