The Best Dog Gates and Playpens of 2023

The best dog gates and playpens.

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Do you have a troublesome dog that cannot stay in one place? One that you leave in one place the next minute is in another? Having a dog that cannot be contained in one area can be irritating. Besides requiring frequent attention, such a dog takes a toll on your body; you will not find sufficient time to relax.

Guests may not have a great time in your place since your dog terrorizes them. Home repairs and cleaning become difficult since you can’t keep your dog away. A sick dog, especially one recovering from surgery, may hurt itself running around unrestricted.  But a solution allows you to contain your dog in a specific place and have peace. 

Dog gates ensure your dog does not enter sensitive or dangerous areas. They also keep irksome dogs from playing running games with you. You will enclose them in such doors and continue with your daily activities.

Your task is to select the best gate for your dog. However, the selection process can be hectic due to the ever-increasing choices in the market. We have made it easier by giving you the best gates to go for. Additionally, we help you understand the qualities to look out for when choosing a dog gate. Read on for more. 

What Is a Dog Gate? 

A dog gate is a barrier that keeps your pooch from accessing certain places in your compound or house. Such restricted areas include a poison ivy patch, the kitchen area, and the laundry room. The gate encloses your dog in a safe site for peace and safety. 

How We Reviewed 

Before coming up with the best dog gates, we conducted extensive research to find gates worth your money and safe enough for your pup. We used various methods, including customer reviews. Dog gates, with many positive reviews from reputable sources like Amazon, are featured in our best gates.

We also looked at the ease of installation and breakdown. We do not want pet parents to have a hard time installing it. Pressure-mounted gates are easier to install, while wall-mounted gates require drilling.

Durability is key, and we selected gates that can withstand pressure from pets and humans. Plastic-made gates may not be strong enough. Metal gates save you money while ensuring your dog does not destroy them. 

Cumbor 46″Auto Close Safety Baby Gate (Best Overall)

This is your best choice if you have a large space to block off. The gate has a width of 29.5-46 inches. It allows you to pass through while holding a baby. This also makes it an excellent selection for new parents. The double lock safety release makes it hard for your baby to open it. 

This steel gate is highly durable and can withstand large dogs, including Great Danes. This allows you to leave your baby playing without worrying that your large dog will push the gate and hurt your baby. 

The simple pressure-mounted gate is easy to install. Your nanny can do the job within 10 minutes. This saves time. It is suitable for open spaces, stairs, doorways, and hallways. Choosing this gate means simultaneously protecting your baby and your pet, so why not go for it? 

Features

• Highly durable and strong to withstand the weight of large dogs.
• Double-lock safety release prevents babies from opening the gate.
• Large and wide making it easier to walk when holding a baby.
• Pressure mounting design for easy installation. 
• Auto-lock design keeps your hands free. 

Pros

• Easy to install.
• Highly durable.
• Made from steel.
• You can go through both sides.
• Suitable for most sections of the house, including the hallway and stairs. 
• Protects babies and pets.
• Automatic lock. 

Cons

• Wall painting may come off when removing the cups. 
• Some customers say the extensions are difficult to install.

What customers say

Initially, we used a heavy wooden gate, but my dog learned how to open it. Researched the best gates, and I am glad I chose this one. The gate swings in both directions, making it a perfect fit for our stairway. 

Slade

Primetime Petz 360 Configurable Gate with Door (Best free-standing dog gate)

This is the best gate for pet parents that want to maintain their home decor. The gate perfectly blends with your interior designs as it is highly customizable. The rich walnut stain gives your home an eye-catching look making it look like it was meant to be there. 

Each panel can rotate 360 degrees allowing you to customize the gate according to your needs. You will not worry about your floor getting scratched or the gate sliding, as this gate comes with rubber pads at the bottom. 

Features

• Foldable for convenient storage.
• The rotating panel allows you to configure the gate according to your needs.
• A walk-through door with a two-way swing allows easy access to the enclosed area. 
• The solid wooden design blends with your room design. 
• The rubber pad at the bottom keeps the gate from sliding while protecting your floor from scratching.
• Wall mount kits and support feet for increased stability.

Pros

• Do not slide or scratch your floor.
• Easy to customize according to your needs.
• Easy access.
• You can fold it to create room for storage. 
• Three height options to choose from. 

Cons

• Larger dogs can knock it over. 
• No option for further reinforcement. 

What customers say

I have tried many gates, but this one is my favorite. I love it so much that I purchased a second one after 2 months. The wide opening in the 24’’ gate makes it easy to open and walk through. The nice finish makes it classy, while the hinges make it easy to adjust the gate’s shape accordingly.  

Kristine Cappadona

Internet’s Best Pet Gate with Arched Top (Best dog gates for stairs)

Pet parents with stairs will appreciate this gate. This free-standing gate is also suitable for doorways, halls, and bedrooms. It gives your house a nice look while allowing adults to step over when necessary. It confines your dog to a safe area while giving your home an admirable appearance. 

You can easily collapse it to get more space whenever visitors need extra storage. The hinges between each panel allow you to customize the gate to fit your bedroom, stairs, or hallway. 

Features

• Three separate panels are secured with strong hinges, making it easy to fold the gate into a Z-shape.
• Highly durable to keep your dog well-confined while performing other activities.
• Easily collapsible for ease of storage in small spaces when not in use. 
• Beautiful espresso finishes to give your home a decorative lookPros

• Easy to fold into a Z-shape to give you space for storage. 
• Durable.
• Boosts your house’s appearance.
• Can accommodate large and giant dogs.

Cons

• Some customers complained the bars were not well-glued and could fall off easily. 

What customers say

We cannot find words to describe this amazing pet gate. The door or area placement is flexible, as you can place it anywhere. It is already assembled, so it comes out of the box ready to use. Our two dogs would run to the window and bark at anything. Now they play comfortably in the kitchen area and family room. 

Sealedgegirl

Carlson Extra Wide Walk-through Gate (Best for outside)

Protect your flowers and garden from your dog with this high-quality dog gate from Carlson Pet products. This chew-proof gate protects your dog and home. It is made with steel for durability. This minimizes the frequency of purchasing new gates, thus saving money and time. 

This pressure-mounted gate is for you if you hate putting holes in your walls. It is gentle on your walls and rust-resistant. However, there is an option for wall mounting, so the choice is yours. The optional built-in cat door comes in handy if you have other pets. 

Features

• The pressure mount design makes it easy to use and set up.
• Highly durable to last long.
• Safety lock for added security. 
• Includes a 4-kit extension kit for extra coverage when necessary. . 
• Optional built-in cat door for multi-pet+ homes. 

Pros

• Easy to set up.
• Has a walk-through gate. 
• It is multi-purpose; you can use it in the hallway, bottom stairs, and doorways.
• Highly durable. 
• Gentle on your wall.
• Rust-resistant.

Cons

• Can be a bit narrow for some pet parents.
• May not be tall enough for large and giant dogs. 

What customers say

This gate works great and is well-made. It also comes with an extension for wider doors. I am happy I selected this gate. Furthermore, it has a small door that allows my little dog to enter my room. But the bigger puppies cannot. At a first glance, the box looks a bit overwhelming but assembling is easier. It took me just 5 minutes. This is a very simple and good product. 

Chris Wheeler

Cardinal Gates Extra Wide Expandable White Pet Gate 

This is the percent gate to block off a large area up to 90 inches wide. It is suitable for high-traffic sections, including doorways and top stairways. This hardware-mounted gate won’t give you a hard time installing. It also screws directly to the wall studs for more tightness and sturdiness. 

It is highly versatile; you can block off rooms, fireplaces, and other dog-restricted areas. The auto-lock gives you peace of mind when you leave your crawling baby with your pet. The two will coexist peacefully until you return. It is highly durable, and your big Great Dane won’t break it. This is due to its metal construction. Any dog, including the giant ones, can sit on this gate without damaging it. 

Features

• Auto-close and auto-lock for baby-proofing and children’s safety.
• Durable, high-quality aluminum to last long. 
• Hardware-mounted for easy installation. 
• Versatile to fit wide and unique places. 
• Screws directly into the wall studs are more secure and stronger than pressure-mounted gates.

Pros

• Easy to install and operate.
• It can be elongated using multiple extensions.
• Secure and sturdy.
• Can be placed at any doorway. 
• Highly durable.

Cons

• There are no height extensions.

What customers say

Initially, I was skeptical because all the gates I saw were flimsy or expensive. This gate is fantastic. I am glad I bought it. I had approximately 7 feet of space I needed to block at my office, and this gate was the right selection. Very strong and suitable for the job. Highly recommend it. 

Rob G

Regalo Super Wide Adjustable Gate ( Best for wide openings)

This gate is worth it if you have big spaces to block. It can expand up to a massive 192 inches wide. It is also a multi-purpose product, as you can use it as a pen, a fence,  or a gate. Pet parents that love customization will appreciate this highly customizable gate.

You can tailor it to fit your unique needs by converting it into an 8-panel play yard, with 4 packs of wall mounts. You can adjust each panel to fit into any opening, including the stairway and angled openings. 

The steel design makes it a perfect choice for chewers and large dogs. Your dog cannot break it. It also improves durability, thus saving money. 

Features

• Configurable to fit any opening.
• Folds flat for easy storage.
• Steel design for chewers and durability. 
• Safety locking feature for security and protection of both pets and babies.
• Includes wall brackets for permanent setup if necessary.
• Plain white finish blends with any home decor. 

Pros

• Highly customizable.
• Easy to set up. 
• Best for chewers.
• Convenient walk-through design.

Cons

• The number of pieces and huge size can be overwhelming.
• Some customers had problems with the gate’s joints. 

What customers say

Most of us purchase things online, and I am glad I selected this gate. It is great, well-made, and easy to install. My dog is almost 16 years old and deaf, so it cannot remember things. These gate confines areas. Though a bit pricey, it is worth it. 

Alskite 

MidWest Steel Pet Gate (Heavy-duty dog gates for large dogs)

Pet parents with chewers will love this steel gate. It is strong enough to withstand your chewer’s mischief. The spring-loaded latch keeps the gate locked when not used, so you will not worry about babies and pets colliding. 

Never worry about your beautiful wall, as this gate is pressure-mounted, hence no damage to your wall. The white or textured color adds shine to your room. Installing won’t consume your time; it is easy, and one person can complete the process.

The wide door swings in each direction make it easy to walk through it. It is strong enough so your dog can’t barge through it. Buy this gate and let your dog get its own space while you get your peace of mind. 

Features

• Pressure-mounted design for easy installation.
• Made with steel for durability and sturdiness.
• Secure spring-loaded latch to keep the gate closed when not in use.

Pros

• Suitable for chewers
• Remains closed when not in use. 
• Quick and easy installation. 
• Fits most doorways. 
• It is non-toxic and lead-free. 

Cons

• The lever can be hard to use.
• The handle may be less durable.

What customers say

I wanted a gate at least 38 inches in height at the bottom of the staircase to prevent my dogs from going up or down unattended. The gate is well-built with metal spindles and plastic on the hinge and latch. The auto close is great, and it latches back nicely. I wish it would stay open 90 degrees, but it doesn’t. 

JMan

MYPET North States Wide Essential Walk Thru Gate ( Best for small dogs indoors)

This gate allows you to move easily in your house while keeping your dog comfortable in its enclosed area. The heavy-duty metal with vertical bars ensures your dog cannot climb over to disrupt your activities. It also comes with a crisp white finish that blends with every home. 

Opening the gate is simple, as you can use one hand. You also control the direction the gate will swing to. Your wall will remain bright as this gate is pressure mounted. The installation time will not consume your time as it is effortless. 

Features

• A walk-through gate makes this gate the best for doorways, between rooms, and the bottom of the stairs.
• Pressure mounted for uncomplicated installation.
• Crisp white finish blends with any home decor.
• The hard-to-climb barrier prevents your dog from disrupting you. 
• Sturdy metal to keep even your large Husky.
• Vertical bars spaced 2 ¼ inches apart to keep small breeds and puppies contained.

Pros

• Complements any home decor.
• Includes a hard-to-climb barrier.
• Easy to install.
• Has a walkthrough door.. 
• Ideal for chewers.
• Customizable extension rods.

Cons

• The build instructions can be hard to follow.
• The pressure-mounted setup may not be ideal for hyperactive dogs. 

What customers say

I love the ease of this gate. Assembling is easy though it needs some tools. It looks great on my doorway, and going in and out of my living room is effortless. The child-proofing feature can be a nuisance to people like me who do not have children. But that does not reduce the stars for this product. It has changed my life. 

Samantha 

The North States Easy Swing & Lock Gate (Budget pick)

Price and quality tend to go hand in hand; most customers believe the higher the price, the better the product. This is not the case for this budget-friendly gate. It is a high-quality product with many benefits at a very low price. 

Besides not breaking your bank account, North States Gate prevents your tall dog from taking advantage of its weight and breaking out of the gate. It also suits acrobatic dogs that try all their magic to get out of their enclosed spaces. 

Your baby’s safety is guaranteed with heavy-duty metal with vertical bars. The gate comes in a simple design that suits any home decor, so no adjustments are needed.

Features

• The simple and elegant design suits any home decor.
• The one-hand operation makes it easy to use.
• Made of steel for durability. 
• No thresholds hence no risk of tripping.

Pros

• No risk of tripping.
• Safe and secure for babies.
• Easy to use. 
• Highly durable.
• Door swings only in one direction.
• Can be removed and stored when not in use to give you more space.

Cons

• May not be suitable for some dogs.

What customers say

We have had these gates for the last 4 months, and we like them. We have one at the bottom of the stairs and another one at the top. The gate is strong enough for our 2-year-old son. The latch has a built-in stop that ensures the gate does not swing past the latch. 

Greenapple

Buyers Guide: Best Dog Gates

The pet products market has a variety of gates to choose from, which may make it difficult to make the right selection. The internet has tons of reviews on dog gates that can confuse you. Our buyers’ guide gives you the qualities to watch out for when looking for the best dog gates. Read on for more.

Indoor Dog Gates: Why Dog Owners Need Pet Gates

Although we treasure our dogs, their behavior of running up and down can be irritating. Dog gates are important to pet parents and their furry canine companions. Here are the major benefits of pet gates:

• Declaring a no-go zone: Dog gates keep your dog from disturbing you while cleaning. It also prevents them from accessing rooms they aren’t supposed to.

• Blocks off dangers: Using dog gates protects dogs against certain dangers, including slick laminates and stairs. Dogs with mobility issues may easily fall down the stairs and hurt themselves. Dog gates minimize the risk of falling. 

• Protecting furniture: Dogs are destructive and will play with your furniture. This leaves your furniture in poor condition. Additionally, the furniture will get a funny smell that can keep off your visitors. Dog gates ensure your dog cannot access your furniture for a happy home and well-rested dog. 

• Separation during feedings: Dogs with guiding resource behavior should eat alone. This is where dog gates come in handy, ensuring peace during mealtimes. You can also use dog gates to prevent your dog from eating table scraps. 

• Preventing aggressive dogs from hurting guests: Aggressive dogs can easily jump on your guest. They may hurt them in the process. Keeping such dogs in a dog gate saves the day. 

The Different Types of Dog Gates: Pros and Cons Compared 

Pressure-mounted dog gates

These are dog gates that use force between the walkways and doorways. They keep dogs in a certain area to ensure your dog does not disturb you. The gates do not damage your walls. They are also easy to install compared to wall-mounted dog gates. However, these gates may not be as strong as hardware-mounted gates. 

Hardware-mounted gates 

These gates use hardware fittings to hold the gate in place and are the best for stair tops. They are suitable for pet parents that want a permanent solution. The gates may require many tools, making them difficult to install. Additionally, these gates need drilling holes in the walls or doorways. 

Freestanding dog gates 

These are gates that stand on their own without any external support. This makes it easy to move from one place to the next. They can be moved from one room to the next. This makes them highly customizable to suit your needs. However, large dogs may knock it down. 

Retractable dog gates

Retractable dog gates are made to stay in one doorway. They keep pets safe in a specific place and help create barriers between dogs and young children. You can operate them with one hand, and they can easily spool to one section when not in use. However, some may not be the right size, while others can be expensive. 

Dog gates for stairs

These are gates designed specifically for the stairs. Depending on your requirements, they may be placed at the stair top or the bottom.  Dog gates at the bottom are best for dogs that cannot climb the stairs and those with injuries; climbing the stairs will escalate the problem. They may, however,  not suit all homes. 

Walk through Pet Gate

These taller gates may make it hard to move from one place to the next. They come with a latch or button that makes them easier to open. They are the best for dogs and babies, and most walk-through gates have built-in cat door. 

Small Dogs (and Cats) vs. Big Dogs

Small dogs and cats may do well with an average gate that is easy to install and use. However, large dogs need a sturdy gate that they cannot nudge aside. Metal gates are great for large dogs. Wall-mounted gates are also preferable for large dogs. 

What to Consider When Choosing An Indoor Dog Gate 

Here are the key factors to consider when choosing an indoor dog gate:

• Durability: This is key when choosing an indoor dog gate. You need a strong gate to prevent your large dog from breaking it and joining you in the kitchen. Highly durable gates also save money as it minimizes frequent reorders. Metal and steel gates are strong and last longer. 

• Materials: Besides determining the durability of a dog gate, the material also dictates the appearance of your house. If you want an out-of-the-way gate, the material may not matter. However, if you are placing it in the main area, you need a material that blends with your home decor.

• Installation: Tedious installation processes can make you regret purchasing a dog gate. Pressure-mounted gates use pressure and do not require drilling the walls. They are easy to install and do not need extra hardware devices. Free Standing gates can be placed in any room. However, pressure-mounted and freestanding gates may not be as strong as hardware-mounted gates. 

• Price: it is critical when purchasing a dog gate. Ensure the gate is affordable and it does not hurt your budget. However, you should not compromise on quality. Some lowly priced gates may use low-quality materials that can’t last long. The materials may also not withstand any force by large dogs. You will spend more in the long run due to frequent reorders. 

• Dog size: Your dog’s size is also important. Large dogs need a sturdier gate that can withstand their weight. 

How to Choose the Right Dog Gate

There are many dog gates, and selecting the right one can be tricky. Here are a few considerations that will ensure you choose the best one:

• Your dog’s chewing habits: Heavy chewers need a gate made with strong materials. Anti-chew materials ensure the gate lasts longer.

• Portability: Can the gate be moved from one place to the next effortlessly? This is key, especially for pet parents who love traveling. You can place the gate anywhere to set a barrier. 

• Door dimensions: Ensure you measure them before purchasing a dog gate. Wide openings require multi-panel free-standing gates or ones with extensions. 

Materials pet gates are made from 

Dog gates are made with different materials. But the main materials used include metal, wood, and plastic. They can also be made using a combination of mesh and plastic. Dog gates made with metal are more durable than plastic or wooden counterparts. Metal is also great for permanent solutions. 

How do I install a dog gate?

The installation process varies with the type of gate you purchase. Some gates, including freestanding dog gates, are easy to install, while others, like the adjustable dog gates, may require a proper understanding of the instructions. They need proper calibration. Other gates need wall mounting and come with screws to use. It is important to go through the manual carefully. 

Adjustable dog gates are unsuitable for pet parents who love moving the gates from one place to the next. These are not suited for frequent removal and re-installing. Choose an adjustable gate that you can easily go over or open. 

What size dog gate do I need? 

The size of your dog’s gate depends on your dog’s size. Large and giant dogs may require a tall, sturdy gate to prevent them from jumping over and disrupting your peace. 

Will a mesh gate work? 

Yes, a mesh gate may work. This is true, especially for dogs that are rough or heavy chewers. Small and gentle dogs are the best candidates for mesh dog gates. 

Are dog gates easy to install? 

Yes. Most dog gates are easy to install. Freestanding gates require a simple setup, and one person can do the job. Retractable gates are also not hard to install if you follow the instructions.

What type of dog gate is best for chewers? 

Chewers require a strong gate. Steel gates are best, as chewers can easily damage wooden or mesh gates. The stronger the material, the harder it will be for chewers to destroy it. 

Can a dog knock down free-standing gates?

Yes. Large and high-energy dogs can knock down a freestanding gate. Freestanding gates are the least secure and easily fall down upon exerting pressure. They are perfect for smaller areas. 

What’s the difference between a dog gate and a baby gate?

Dog gates are stronger than baby gates. This ensures they can withstand any dog weight without falling over. Although the materials used can be similar, baby gates tend to be lighter. 

Do Pressure mounted dog gates work?

Yes. High-quality pressure-mounted gates are great. They can last longer if your large dog does not knock them over. Pressure-mounted gates are best for renters and do not damage walls.

Can I use a pet gate for a baby gate?

Yes. You can safely use pet gates for baby gates. Most pet gates include baby-friendly features, including baby-proofing and secure locks. However, dog gates for larger dogs may not suit babies. 

Over to You 

Allowing your dog to roam around freely comes with many negatives. From disturbing guests to hurting themselves when sick, unrestricted dogs create a huge menace that may make you regret having one. 

However, purchasing a dog gate can be the only way to own and enjoy its presence. We have given you a variety of gates to choose from, and our budget-friendly choice, the North States Easy Swing & Lock Gate, can be your starting point. Use our buying guide to choose the right dog gate that is easy to install, strong, and safe enough for your hyperactive pooch.