How to design a beautiful space for your dog, and the best kit to buy

telegraph.co.uk:

our devotion to them is only growing – indeed, studies show that millennials are more likely to be dog owners than parents or homeowners. “People have realised how much dogs bring to our emotional wellbeing as companions,” she says. “I keep hearing people telling me how grateful they are to their dog.

They want them to feel comfortable and included – but equally they don’t want their house to look like a kennel.” Hence the flourishing “dogteriors” market where dog beds, blankets and accessories are designed to be tasteful, complimenting the interior design scheme of the home.“You don’t lose your taste and sense of style when you get a dog,” confirms Rachael Field, co-founder of new fashion-led dog brand, Hound Dog, which is designed to be east London stylish rather than overtly “doggy”. “Your dog’s things are always out on display and so too is your dog – if the colours work well with the interior it’s pleasing.” Rather than twee bone prints and cutesy polka dots, her collection includes wax twill dogs’ work jackets in khaki, olive and tan, and hand-thrown glazed dog bowls on oak trays. “Everything is practical but also beautiful,” she says.I intend Rudy’s cubby under the stairs to be the epitome of Le Chic de Chien (a term invented by luxury Parisian luggage-maker, Goyard, when it first brought out a range of dog accessories in the 19th century).

It will be painted in a neutral yet warm clay colour with a simple spotlight on the ceiling and a zellige tiled floor. The only stumbling block is that it will need to contain a metal crate to contain Rudy when we go out and prevent him from shredding the new kitchen doors (he has form).