It was very easy to put together.  It is a very dark chocolate like color but I matched it with my walnut wood and it looks very nice in my living room.  I have a 5.5 lb Chihuahua using it. It is big enough for a large terrier.  She loves how safe she feels. My girl doesn't chew so it is plenty strong enough. Other customers complained of dogs chewing through. I probably wouldn't put a puppy in here just because I  believe they should be trained first.
It is exactly what I desired.