Frequently Asked Questions

You're purchasing a build manual.

It is a document, delivered as a digital download, that guides you through every step of building a crate like this one. The manual is roughly 200 pages long and includes:

• Lists of every tool & part you'll need and links to purchase.
• Clearly written how-to's for every step of the build.
• Detailed, step-by-step photos of the entire process.

Our build manual also includes detailed information on:

• Choosing the right size for your crate.
• Materials and finish options.
• Considering where your crate will fit in your home.

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Example Pages:

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You'll also get access to our custom crate calculator which will do all the mental math for you. Based on your custom crate dimensions, our calculator will output:

• The dimensions of each panel for your crate.
• The lengths of each frame beam, specific to your crate.
• Diagrams outlining the placement of every screw hole you'll need to drill in each panel.

The build manual is extremely detailed.

Over the course of roughly 185 pages, our build manual outlines each step of the process to build your pup the perfect crate. We'll outline:

• What parts you need and where to get them
• How to figure out the perfect crate size for your pup
• Options for finishing your crate so it fits your space

We've created and sold more than a dozen build manuals for a variety of purposes. We go out of our way to ensure there are no surprises or mix-ups along the way so even the most DIY-challenged pup parent can follow along.

Customization is one of the fun parts about building your dog their own crate. You choose the size (the manual offers guidelines), you order custom-cut parts to fit your build, and then you can finish the crate however you’d like.

You can:

• Use different wood or another material entirely.
• Laser cut a unique pattern into your panels.
• Use a plexiglass door instead of wood.
• Add interior lighting.

How your crate comes together is up to you! Our build manual covers a variety of ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

The cost of materials is variable as it depends heavily on the size of the crate you build as well as the level of fit and finish you decide upon. Additionally, material prices will fluctuate based on current demand. With those caveats out of the way, expect the materials for your crate build to run between $200-300.

Note, this estimate is exclusive of any tools you may need (see below).

Once your parts have been delivered to your door the construction of the crate should take a couple of days of active (but not overwhelming) work time.

The total build time will depend on the intricacy and style of your panel pattern as well as your choice of finish. Please account for time for paint to dry, time required to sand your panels to your desired level of finish, etc.

We’ve designed the crate and written the build manual to make the entire process easy to execute with an "apartment-grade" tool kit (plus a couple of small additions that are cheaply available).

You’ll need:

• A hammer.
• A 2.5mm and a 4mm (or 5/32”) hex wrench/screwdriver.
• A drill with various bits up to 1/4”.
• A 1/2” countersink drill bit.
• A hole saw drill bit (or other means of cutting vent holes).
• Sandpaper (and/or an orbital sander).
• A drum sander (optional).
• Safety glasses & gloves (optional, but a good safety precaution).
• A putty knife & wood filler putty (optional for a nicer finish).
• A pencil and tape measure.
• 2 Clamps (optional but helpful).
• Adjustable wrench or pliers.
• Finishing materials of your choice (outlined in the build manual); likely includes:
  • Masking tape.
  • Paint brush(es).
  • Primer, Paint, Polyurethane, etc.
  • Drop cloth (optional).

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All sales on digital goods/downloads are final. We do not offer returns or refunds once you have purchased a build manual.

Please ask any questions in advance — we’re happy to answer.

If your dog is known to chew or attempt to escape their crate, you can build them a Stay. Good dog. crate. If you choose to do so, be aware that the plywood will not stand up to heavy chewing. It will get damaged.

However, one of the key benefits of our crate is the ability to swap out panels in the event of damage (or just because you're ready for a change of style!).

Give us a shout at hello@staygooddog.com