8 Smart Storing and Shelving Solutions for Your Dog’s Items

Posted by Val Malnar on December 16, 2024

Many dog owners consider their pets a source of joy for the companionship they offer and the positive energy they bring into a household. But few deny that keeping their homes organized with a dog in the equation can often be a challenge. Toys can quickly pile up, leashes and collars can often get misplaced, and dog food bags may take up valuable space in the kitchen. Although these may seem like small inconveniences, too many of them at the same time may make your home feel cluttered if they’re not properly addressed.

If managing your dog’s items has seemed rather difficult for you as of late, it’s time to explore better storage solutions that will promote organization and easy access. To that end, below are some effective ideas for storing and shelving your dog’s stuff.

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1. CREATE A PET-FRIENDLY ENTRYWAY
Want to simplify daily walks and trips outdoors? A pet-friendly entryway is a great place to start. Install sturdy hooks on the wall to hang leashes, collars, and harnesses; this will prevent these dog-walking essentials from tangling. For waste bags and portable pet bowls, try storing them in a small basket or decorative bin.

For added convenience, consider wall-mounted shelves with small cubbies to store other grab-and-go essentials. If you have a larger entryway, a bench with built-in storage can double as a place to sit while you’re preparing for walks and a spot to stash dog raincoats or travel gear.

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2. DEDICATE A DRAWER FOR PET CLOTHES
It would also be a good idea to designate a drawer or small cabinet exclusively for your dog’s wardrobe. To keep these items organized, use drawer dividers to separate items such as raincoats and shirts. Roll or fold clothing neatly to save space and make everything easy to spot.

Also try keeping a separate section for accessories like bow ties or dog hats to ensure everything stays in order. If you like to collect unique accessories like a custom dog hat or two, be sure to set aside a spot for them to prevent them from getting lost among your other pet accessories.

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3. INSTALL DOG FOOD PULL-OUT STORAGE
Dog food bags may end taking up a lot of valuable kitchen space, but pull-out storage cabinets offer a sleek solution. Consider integrating pull-out bins into your pantry or kitchen cabinetry so that it will be easy for you to store food in airtight containers. This will keep the food fresh and protect it from pests. Add a measuring scoop to the bin for easy portioning, and place the storage near your dog’s feeding area for added convenience.

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4. ORGANIZE GROOMING SUPPLIES
Pet grooming items like brushes and shampoos can quickly become scattered and make a mess if left unorganized. Prevent this by using a compact storage bin or caddy to keep these essentials together.

If your home has limited space, try using hanging organizers with clear pockets to store your grooming tools while saving counter space. To make grooming sessions more efficient, also sort supplies by type—such as for nail care, brushing, or bathing—so that you can quickly grab what you need when it’s time to freshen your pup up.

5. HAVE PORTABLE STORAGE SOLUTIONS FOR TRAVEL
Do you travel with your dog often? Dedicated travel storage solutions will make packing easier every time. Start with a durable tote bag or clear plastic container for storing collapsible bowls, travel-sized shampoo, waste bags, a blanket, and any medications your dog needs. To further ensure you don’t leave any pet items behind, pack a checklist inside the bag. Store travel essentials separately from everyday items so that you can grab and go without scrambling to gather your supplies.

6. CUSTOMIZE SHELVES FOR PET BEDS & TOYS
Custom shelves are a stylish and functional way to organize your dog’s space, and many dog parents find them worth the investment. Install low shelves to hold baskets for toys and create a cozy nook for your dog’s bed underneath.

For even better organization, store your dog’s toys in stackable baskets. And if your dog loves playing outdoors, keep a separate basket for outdoor toys near the door.

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7. STORE LESS-USED ITEMS HIGHER OR IN TUCKED AWAY SPACES
Not all of your dog’s belongings need to be easily accessible at all times. Less-used items, like seasonal clothing or old toys, can be stored in higher cabinets or in your attic space. This approach will keep your main areas free of clutter while still allowing you to access dog items when necessary.

You can also use space-saving solutions like under-bed storage for larger items like crates or extra blankets. When the seasons change, swap out your dog’s wardrobe and accessories so that only the most relevant items are within easy reach.

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8. LABEL EVERYTHING FOR EASY ACCESS
Lastly, be sure to label your dog’s items for a simple, yet effective way to keep everything organized and easy to find. Adding clear labels will help you quickly identify what’s inside drawers, bins, or storage containers, saving you time and frustration when looking for specific items. Use distinct labels for food containers, toy bins, grooming tools, and accessories like collars, leashes, and custom dog bandanas.

You’ll find that a well-organized system for your dog’s belongings will simplify your day-to-day life and achieve a cleaner, happier home for both you and your pet. Implement these ideas today, and you and your dog are sure to enjoy a clean and clutter-free living space.

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