Designer Desire: Sarah Westwood

Montage of Sara Westwood Sprocket illustrations

A couple of weeks ago, I was searching Etsy for a birthday bandana for Barley; he turned one-year-old on the 12th of August. I didn’t actually come across a bandana that I wanted – I eventually got one from Pets at Home. What I did do, though, was find the work of Sarah Westwood.

Sarah is a graphic designer who makes fantastic prints, notebooks, greeting cards, coasters & place mats, tea towels, badges and more. Most of her illustrations features her Weimaraner, Sprocket. Sprocket is often accompanied by a few of his mates;  Scoot the little bird, Sid the squirrel and Parsnip the hedgehog.

We’ll let Sarah herself tell you a little bit about herself:

My business as artist and illustrator started way back in 2005 and my work was completely different… My digital art didn’t start until I decided to do the Instagram hashtag theme #onehundreddays and I decided to do #onehundreddaysofsprocket and this changed the whole course of my work, a long with my inspiration. Sprocket was my dog and he is my muse. I love drawing his adventures. Sadly he’s no longer with us but we had him for 12 amazing years. My studio is based in Great Fryup Dale on the North York Moors. I use an iPad Pro to hand draw all of his adventures, if you love dogs then you should hopefully like my work. Sarah Westwood

I think I’m going to go and stock up on some of her Christmas and birthday cards. I know it’s Sprocket on the front, but I can pretend that it’s Barley!

Self portrait of Sara Westwood and Sprocket the Weimaraner

All illustrations: © Sarah Westwood

Indoor dog crate ideas that actually look good in your home

Indoor dog crate ideas that actually look good in your home

Dog crates are typically used whenever there’s no one else in the house to keep an eye on your pet. It also serves as their sleeping quarters, a safe place for them – especially when travelling – or a place for house training or preventing destructive behaviour.

With the growing needs of people wanting to have an aesthetically pleasing home with dog crates, dog accessories shops are responding well by providing modern dog crates that go well with the house’s interior.

To complement that, let us help you find ideas on creating an indoor dog crate that looks perfect in your home!

How to turn an indoor dog crate into a natural part of the house

There are an infinite number of ways to make your pet’s cabin appear perfectly at home in the heart of your house – exactly where your pet likes to be – with just a little ingenuity.

Shared by interior designers, here are some indoor dog crate ideas you may want to consider!

Turn it into a table

You can make a modest DIY table if your dog cage idea has to fit in a tiny area. You have two alternatives for this – either build a table with legs where you can insert the dog crate in the middle or just get a wide blanket to cover the top and sides.

You may also opt only to cover the top to allow more airflow for your dog. Additionally, your pup can see everyone in the house while inside the crate. It’s a win-win for everybody!

Create an island out of your dog’s crate

Consider using a high-top alternative to camouflage your dog’s crate if you have a huge dog that requires a lot of space. In the middle of your chosen room, you could want to think about installing a dog crate that a central island can cover that you build.

Seating area that doubles as a dog crate

Why not construct a cage for your pet in the middle of the living room if your beloved is the kind of dog that likes to follow you wherever you go? Whenever you hang out, and your dog is restricted to sitting beside you, a dog crate below you will feel that they are near you.

When placed in a location with a nice view, it can also serve as a window seat for your fur buddy so that they can monitor their surroundings.

Transform a cabinet into a dog crate

A lower cabinet in the kitchen is a great area to turn into a comfy bed for little dogs since it’s simple and provides plenty of storage space.

The most important thing is to check that the cabinet has sufficient room for air to circulate. And you should ensure it is kept far away from any cabinets keeping home cleaners or any other possible hazards.

Remove a cabinet door from a kitchen cabinet and dedicate the space for your dog. Install a curtain that can be lowered or pulled back as required.

Put the crate at the centre of things

Building a shelf unit around a crate and painting it a bright colour is one method to soften the look of a dog crate when placed in the most visited part of the house. The shelves not only offer visual interest but also create exhibition areas.

When your pup is exhausted and needs to rest, or when you wish to conceal the dog crate from view, you can lower a roll-down cloth shade by untying it.

Create a colour scheme complementary to the kennel by hanging artwork above it, adding accent cushions and a blanket to decorate a nearby sofa or chair. It will ensure that the crate is thoroughly integrated into the room’s design.

Furnish a crate as if it were furniture

You can include a dog crate into the design of a bedroom or living area by selecting an attractive, ready-made furniture-type item.

Mount a hanging shelf over it to showcase treasured artwork and complement it with pet-safe indoor plants of various sizes for a tailored wall display with natural touches.

Collie in a dog crate

Types of dog crates from which to choose

Now that you already have some ideas on blending your indoor dog crate with the rest of the house, it’s time to know the dog crate styles from which you can choose.

Remember that the material is just one factor in having attractive dog crates for your home. It’s still up to you how you design it and transform it into an aesthetic item.

Dog crates made of folding wire

The most common and widely used folding crate that you can buy nowadays is constructed from wire. These dog crates are long-lasting and may be collapsed down flat for convenient storage.

The good thing with this type of dog crate is its portability and travel-friendliness. It also includes a metal or plastic bottom that you can remove for easy cleaning and maintenance. You can also choose one that fits your dog because they’re available in different sizes.

However, basic wire cages don’t provide enough comfort for pets; thus, you should be prepared to spend additional money on a soft dog bed or crate cushion. And while it’s functional, you may not like it if you’re looking for stylish dog crates.

Dog crates with soft sides

A variation to the wire-made crate is the use of dog crates with soft sides typically made of canvas. This type is convenient for transport because of its low weight and the ease with which they can be assembled.

However, it’s less resilient than plastic wire or metal crates. And because a canvas cage isn’t as durable as other designs, you shouldn’t use it for dogs who have chewing and clawing tendencies or for larger hounds that can damage them from the inside.

Dog crates made of plastic

Plastic carrier crates are designed for easy travel with your canine companion, but they may also serve as a kennel in your house if you want.

Crates made of plastic typically have a solid plastic exterior and a door that locks and has metal struts for reinforcement. These carriers, much like canvas crates, provide a dimly lit environment, which is something that some dogs prefer.

These cages are ideally suited for small canines – to medium-sized dogs, but even larger dogs should have no trouble fitting inside.

Carriers made of plastic are available in a dizzying array of colours, sizes and functionalities. However, this may not be your best option if you’re particularly interested in indoor dog crate ideas that will look great in your home.

Dog crates made to last

Purposely made to last, heavy-duty crates are often only used as a last option since they’re both bulky and not very appealing to the eye. They’re usually manufactured out of steel, so they have the strength necessary to restrain strong, aggressive or destructive dogs.

They’re helpful for dogs who tend to destroy things or who love to escape, however, they won’t remedy the underlying issue producing these undesirable behaviours. Assembly is also required for heavy-duty containers, which may be challenging for some.

Because heavy-duty crates are often designed for larger dogs, finding ones that are suitable for smaller dogs may be challenging. Some versions could feature additional securing mechanisms or reinforcements to make the cage even more secure than it already is.

Speaking of destroying things, you may also need to know how to prevent and repair magnet screen door damage caused by pets. A dog crate may not be the only solution because there are also direct ways to deal with the repairs.

Dog crates made as furniture

Indoor dog crates ideas are inspired by furniture – functional and go well with the interior design of the house. And so, among these dog crate materials, furniture dog crates are closest to what you are looking for!

Traditional crates provide many advantages, but furniture crates combine those benefits with the style and functionality of side tables or bedside tables. You may also recall that this is one of the indoor dog crate ideas previously discussed to furnish a crate as though it were a piece of furniture.

We also recommend that these crates be used for house-trained dogs – those who don’t have any tendencies towards chewing or scratching furniture. This is because most furniture dog crates are constructed from wood or a combination of wood and plastic.

Looking for a minimalist dog crate?

The five types of dog crates mentioned in the previous section have their respective pros and cons, and we acknowledge that you may be looking for a different one – perhaps a minimalist dog crate for a modern look.

If that’s the case, a clear dog crate may be the perfect thing for your pup! It’s a modern dog crate made of acrylic plastic for a transparent look, with the bonus of being collapsible.

Final thoughts

Your dog loves you and constantly seeks out opportunities to spend time with you. However, if you want to create a particular look with your interior design, you won’t want to plonk an unattractive plastic and wire cage where your dog sleeps in the middle of your living area.

Keep in mind that appearance follows functionality, and before you get started on a crate makeover, you need to choose a design that will still provide your dog with a warm and secure environment in which to live.

For a stylish yet purposeful dog crate designs and other dog accessories and needs, feel free to check out our products – with a guaranteed high-quality companion for your furry best friend!

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Price Points: Dog water bottles

Dog water bottles

As Barley has been getting older – he’s now 10 months – we’ve been taking him on ever longer walks. If we go to the beach for the day, for instance, we tend to pack a bottle of water and bowl especially for him. This can be bulky and heavy in our day backpack – especially if we’re walking for miles.

Check out the three dog water bottles below that we’ve short-listed. The cheapest one is our favoured option. It’s ‘4-in-one’; a water bottle, feeder, food container, poo bag dispenser and pooper-scooper. Surely that makes it ‘5-in-one’!

The most expensive example, at double the price, is a mere ‘3-in-one’. In addition, I don’t like the lettering on the body and lanyard. The mid-range model is the most attractive, but it’s only a water bottle.

Give me the one that keeps our rucksack lightweight and slimline!

  1. 4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle: £15.00, eBay
  2. Portable dog water bottle: £19.99, NOTHS
  3. 3 in one dog water bottle: £29.99, Etsy

shop dog water bottles

Some of the links on our blog are affiliate links. We may receive a small commission - at no cost to you - if you click through and make a purchase.
Prices & links correct at time of publication.

3 in one dog water bottle
3 in one dog water bottle
£29.99
Portable dog water bottle
Portable dog water bottle
£19.99
4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle
4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle
£15.00
3 in one dog water bottle
3 in one dog water bottle
£29.99
Portable dog water bottle
Portable dog water bottle
£19.99
4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle
4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle
£15.00
3 in one dog water bottle
3 in one dog water bottle
£29.99
Portable dog water bottle
Portable dog water bottle
£19.99
4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle
4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle
£15.00
3 in one dog water bottle
3 in one dog water bottle
£29.99
Portable dog water bottle
Portable dog water bottle
£19.99
4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle
4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle
£15.00
3 in one dog water bottle
3 in one dog water bottle
£29.99
Portable dog water bottle
Portable dog water bottle
£19.99
4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle
4 in one 300ml portable dog water bottle
£15.00

Price Points: Dog grooming gloves

Dog grooming gloves

The weather is warming up – and that means that many canines out there are moulting! Even though our Weimaraner pup, Barley has a very short coat, when he shakes, a fine cloud of fur can be seen.

Using dog grooming gloves regularly can pre-empt much of the fur that’s dropped indoors. It will save you so much time not having to dust and vacuum as often.

I find a pair of gloves much easier to use than a brush. Dogs (and cats and other pets for that matter!) think that you’re simply giving them cuddles and attention rather than attempting to slough off excess fur and dander.

I’ve used the Mikki version in the past and they work really well. I think the silicone ones from ManoMano would be even better because you can use them to dry brush or wet when giving your dog a bath.

  1. Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves: £6.00, Amazon
  2. Karlslund grooming gloves: £16.99, Horze
  3. Silicone bath gloves: £25.43, ManoMano

shop dog grooming gloves

Some of the links on our blog are affiliate links. We may receive a small commission - at no cost to you - if you click through and make a purchase.
Prices & links correct at time of publication.

Silicone bath gloves
Silicone bath gloves
£25.43
Karlslund grooming gloves
Karlslund grooming gloves
£16.99
Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves
Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves
£6.00
Silicone bath gloves
Silicone bath gloves
£25.43
Karlslund grooming gloves
Karlslund grooming gloves
£16.99
Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves
Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves
£6.00
Silicone bath gloves
Silicone bath gloves
£25.43
Karlslund grooming gloves
Karlslund grooming gloves
£16.99
Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves
Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves
£6.00
Silicone bath gloves
Silicone bath gloves
£25.43
Karlslund grooming gloves
Karlslund grooming gloves
£16.99
Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves
Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves
£6.00
Silicone bath gloves
Silicone bath gloves
£25.43
Karlslund grooming gloves
Karlslund grooming gloves
£16.99
Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves
Mikki dog/puppy/cat grooming gloves
£6.00