13 Small-Space Tips for Dog Lovers

We all love our pets — like, a lot. We feed them homemade dog treats, take them on special walks and even DIY toys for them. We’re not saying that’s a bad thing either, but you might find yourself running out of personal space in your home as your dog’s accessories (read: all those doggie Christmas gifts) pile up. There’s plenty you can do to improve your storage, but the following 13 apply specifically to your paw-sonal situation.

Window Seat

This window seat is a cozy retreat for both you and your four-legged friend. Not only does it house a bed, but its shelves can also store some of your pet’s favorite toys and treats. (Photo via Portico Design Group)

Food Canisters

Dry dog food comes in extra large bags that make transport easier, but they take up precious space in your pantry. If you have a garage, in-building storage unit or even an open floor in a roomier closet, keep the big bag there and fill a canister with enough for the week. That’s all you’ll need on your shelf — and you won’t mind it being there since it’s so cute. (via The Shabby Creek Cottage)

Pooch Pouf

As a place to rest your feet AND a place for your doggie to rest his bones, the pouf makes a cozy addition to the area just in front of your sofa, loveseat or easy chair. Since it doubles as a dog bed, that’s one less thing to take up precious floor space. (Photo via Ruth Eileen Photography)

Crate Idea

An island without cabinets underneath is a storage bummer when it comes to your appliances, plates and food. However, a dog owner might find it to be the perfect spot to build a covered crate. Your dog won’t complain about sleeping within sniffing distance of all the food either. (via Betsy Bassett Interiors)

Conceal the Clutter

Obviously, the best way to hide all of your dog’s accessories is with an adorable basket in a pattern that makes you wag your tail. Bonus points for a bowl set with a coordinating pattern. (via Bliss at Home)

Hide the Toys

You never thought you’d be that person — the one whose dog has more toys than any human child should have. Make the best of a spoiled situation with this chic toy box that doubles as a seating area… or even a dog bed. (via This Little Street)

Make a Happy Home

This teepee might seem a bit extravagant if you have a small space, but it just looks so cool. When you consider it as a piece of art, a focal point for your room AND a dog bed, you might just be okay with its size. (via Apartment Therapy)

Hang It High

Your floor space is coveted, so take advantage of an empty wall with this chic organizer that’s inspired by to-die-for furnishings from Anthropologie. You could slip it into an entryway, laundry room or anywhere that’s convenient to hang your pooch’s leash. (via Brit + Co)

Sit, Store, Stay

This dog is smiling because everything he needs is hiding inside of this window seat’s drawers. If your small space has this type of built-in, you can literally put everything inside — food, toys, brushes, shampoo, leashes, treats and whatever else you’ve acquired for your pampered pooch. Shut the drawers or cabinet doors, and nobody has to see what’s in it. (via Better Homes and Gardens)

BowHaus Modern Style Dog Crate

just a side table? Small-space residents say, “No thanks.” This one sits next to your sofa while your dog can sit, lie down and stay inside.

Crawl Space

Utilize that wasted space for more than just junk. This little nook will make your pup feel cozy and safe while he catches some Zs. (Photo via Rick Mattson Photography)

Alcove Cafeteria

In older buildings and homes, you’ll sometimes find odd angles and alcoves that leave you baffled as to what to do with them. One way to use that odd space is to make a shallow cutout like this one. You now have a functional place to put your pet’s bowls. (via Bill Poss)

Wardrobe Transformed

Behind the closed doors of this wardrobe, you’ll find everything a pet owner needs: food, toys, leashes and treats, as well as all of the essential cleaning supplies you and your home might require with a pet on the premises. You’ll know just where your lint roller is when your pooch wants to give you a hug before you leave for work. (via Better Homes and Gardens)