How to Make a Wooden Pet Crate with a Removable Divider
Creating a wooden pet crate with a removable divider is a great DIY project that allows you to tailor the size and features to suit your pet’s needs. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy space for your dog or a safe spot for a smaller animal, this project can be customized to fit your pet perfectly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of building a sturdy, functional wooden pet crate with a removable divider to make it easier for you to separate your pet from time to time.
Materials and Tools Needed:
- Wooden planks (1×4 or 1×6, depending on the size of the crate)
- Plywood sheets for the floor and back (if preferred)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Removable divider (can be made from a thin piece of plywood or wooden slats)
- Hinges (if needed for doors)
- Handle (for easy transport)
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Wood stain/paint (optional for finishing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Measure and Plan
The first step is to determine the size of the crate. Consider your pet’s breed and size, and then add a little extra space for comfort. A common size for a medium dog crate is about 36 inches long, 24 inches wide, and 30 inches high, but you can adjust based on your needs.
Make sure to include the removable divider in your design. The divider will separate the crate into two sections, giving you the ability to adjust the size depending on your pet’s needs or behavior.
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
Using your measurements, cut the following pieces from your wooden planks:
- 4 pieces for the sides of the crate (two for the length and two for the height).
- 2 pieces for the front and back of the crate (based on the width and height of the crate).
- 1 piece for the bottom (this can be plywood for durability).
- Removable divider (this can be a thin piece of plywood or wooden slats attached to a frame).
For a wooden slat design, you may need more pieces for the front, back, and sides, as the crate will have a more open design.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
Start by constructing the base of the crate. Use the bottom plywood piece and attach the four side pieces (length and height) to it. Use wood glue first for a strong bond, and then reinforce with wood screws to secure everything together. Make sure the edges are flush for a neat and professional look.
Step 4: Attach the Front and Back
Next, attach the front and back panels to the sides of the crate. Depending on your design, you can either make the front fully enclosed or leave it open with slats. If you opt for slats, cut your wooden planks to the same width as the front and back, and then space them out evenly when attaching.
Secure the front and back pieces with screws, ensuring the panels are square and level.
Step 5: Build the Removable Divider
The removable divider is crucial for dividing the space of the crate into two sections. You can create the divider by cutting a piece of plywood to the same height as the crate’s sides and the width of the interior space. You may want to add a frame to the divider to keep it sturdy and easy to move in and out.
To make the divider removable, you can design it with slots or hinges, or simply allow it to fit snugly into place. A common method is to make grooves along the sides of the crate where the divider can slide in and out easily.
Step 6: Add the Door (Optional)
If you want a door for easy access to your pet, you can create a simple hinged door on the front panel. Cut a portion of the front panel out, leaving room for hinges on the side. Attach a hinge to the door frame and then secure it to the crate. You can add a latch or bolt for added security.
Step 7: Sand and Finish
Once the crate is assembled, give it a thorough sanding to smooth any rough edges. This will help prevent your pet from getting splinters or scratches. After sanding, you can stain or paint the crate to match your home décor or to give it a protective finish. Be sure to use pet-safe paints or stains to ensure your pet’s safety.
Step 8: Install the Divider and Final Touches
Finally, place the removable divider in the designated slots or attach it using the hinge system. Test the divider to make sure it is secure but easy to remove when necessary. You can also add a handle to the top of the crate for easy portability or to make it easier to lift if you need to move it.
Tips for Making the Pet Crate More Comfortable:
- Cushioning: Add a soft bed, mat, or blanket inside the crate to give your pet a comfortable space to relax.
- Ventilation: If you’re building a fully enclosed crate, be sure to leave plenty of ventilation by incorporating gaps or slats on the sides to allow airflow.
- Customization: Customize the divider’s size for different purposes, such as creating a smaller area for a puppy or giving an older pet more space.
Conclusion
Building a wooden pet crate with a removable divider is a rewarding and practical DIY project that can make life easier for both you and your pet. With a little woodworking knowledge and the right tools, you can create a custom crate that’s perfectly suited to your pet’s needs. Whether you have a puppy that needs a smaller space or a full-grown pet that enjoys more room, the divider allows you to adjust the size as needed.
This project not only helps create a safe space for your pet but also adds a beautiful, functional piece of furniture to your home. Best of all, it’s an excellent way to bond with your pet while building something special that will last for years.
For more woodworking ideas and detailed plans, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course here.