Choosing a wooden pet urn

Why families choose wood

Wooden urns feel familiar and homelike. The grain and finish give a softer look than stone, and a carved design can reflect your pet's personality or your family's faith.

Getting the size right

As with any urn, allow about one cubic inch of capacity per pound of your pet's healthy weight. Our wooden urns are full-size urns made of solid wood with a mahogany finish, so they suit large dogs, or families who'd like room for a collar, tags or other mementos. For a cat or small dog, a smaller urn is usually a better fit; see our small pet urns and our small dog urn size chart.

Carved designs

Our wood urns with a mahogany finish come plain or with a carved design, including a cross, Buddha, rose, mountain scene and lighthouse. Many families choose a design that reminds them of a favorite place or of what the pet meant to them.

Caring for a wooden urn

Keep a wooden urn indoors, away from direct sunlight, heaters and damp areas, which can fade or warp wood over time. Dust with a soft, dry cloth. Wooden urns are designed for display rather than burial; if you'd like to bury your pet's ashes, ask about a burial container suited to the ground.

Wood or marble?

Wood is warm and traditional. Natural marble is heavier and more permanent, and every piece has unique veining. Both are good choices; it comes down to the look you'd like in your home. Compare marble pet urns and see our guide to marble, granite and wood.

Common questions

Are wooden urns good for pets?

Yes. Wooden urns are a popular choice for display at home. Choose a size based on your pet's weight.

Can a wooden urn be buried?

Wooden urns are designed mainly for indoor display. For burial, a container made for the ground is a better choice.

How do I clean a wooden urn?

Dust it with a soft, dry cloth and keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight.

Sources and further reading

• Cremation Association of North America

  Information about cremation and cremated remains.