Best Outdoor Dog Gates
Here are our outdoor dog gate reviews.
1. Carlson 3-in-1 Outdoor Pet Gate
The Carlson 3-in-1 Outdoor Pet Gate is the ultimate in versatility. This all-steel, weather-resistant system can be used as an extra-wide pet gate, fence or play pen. The adjustable panels can be configured into several options to fit your needs.
- Gate extends up to 144” wide
- Small Pet Door included
- Wall-mount option for permanent installation
2. AmazonBasics Foldable Metal Pet Exercise and Playpen
The AmazonBasics Pet Exercise and Playpen can easily be installed as a dog fence and gate in any backyard, giving dogs the freedom to roam off-leash as they please. Available with or without a step-through access door.
- Different sizes available for dogs up to 30” tall
- Extend the eight panels to create a 16-foot enclosure
- Includes eight ground anchors for outdoor installation
3. North States MyPet Indoor/Outdoor Petyard
The North States MyPet Indoor/Outdoor Petyard is a freestanding unit and features a lockable pet door. The plastic panels are easily portable and allow the system to be used both indoors and outdoors.
- Panels measure 26” tall
- Up to 8 panels available to create a variety of enclosures
- Easily portable with foldable panels and carrying strap
4. MidWest Homes for Pets Exercise Pen
The MidWest Homes for Pets Exercise Pen is one of the most popular pens out there, thanks to its quality and affordability. Easy-to-install wire metal panels are available in heights up to 48” high for various configurations.
- Ground stakes included for outdoor installation
- Options include wire-mesh tops, sunscreens and connecting crates
- Features secure double-latch, step-through door
5. Perma Outdoor Retractable Baby Gate 33″ Tall, Extends to 71″ Wide, Gray
Although the Perma Outdoor Retractable Gate is for technically for babies, it is also designed for dogs from 10 to 40 lbs. This extra-wide retractable gate can be operated with one hand.
- Available in three heights, extends up to 71” wide
- Mesh material is claw-resistant
- Anchors and screws included for wood or hard-wall mounting
Outdoor Dog Gate Buyer’s Guide
Buying an outdoor dog gate or playpen will allow your dog to get outside and play, relax or exercise with you nearby. This economical option is great for decks with no gates or yards with no fences, allowing your pup to enjoy the outdoors with no leash in a safe and comfortable space. The first consideration is the space you have to work with. Decide if you need a simple gate to block off a specific area, or if you need a more complex unit configured to create a separate space. Next, measure your space and choose the width and/or total area needed. Finally, measure your dog’s height, and ensure you choose a gate that is tall enough to contain your pup.
Our buying guide reviews the best outdoor dog gates on the market so you can choose the right one for your needs. The following features are options for outdoor dog gates and will help you to choose which ones you need for you and your dog.
Materials
Outdoor dog gates can be made from a variety of materials including plastic, a weather-resistant wood such as Acacia, or most commonly, metal wire. Some higher quality gates are made of steel and are more durable for larger dogs. If the dog gate is made of steel or metal, make sure it has been finished in a weather resistant coating to make it rust-proof. Also decide if you will have a step-through door for yourself and the dog, or a small pet door to give your pup access to the outside.
Installation Method
Most outdoor dog gates come with a wall-mount system for installation between deck posts or between a brick wall and deck post. For playpen style systems, the panels will either be free-standing if configured into a square or octogan shape, and/or come with ground stakes to keep the panels in place. Most systems are also portable, meaning they can be easily folded up and stored or moved from one location to another.
Size and Shape
If you are simply blocking off a deck space or corner of the yard, the basic gate will work just fine. Just measure the width, choose a height and install. However, if you are creating an outdoor space for your dog, consider the height, width and space you need and choose the panels (usually 24” each) that work best to what you are trying to create. Most systems can be configured into a square or octagon shape, and some even have the option of adding a roof or connecting a crate to create a “bedroom” off the main area. When deciding on the height for your gate or panels, make sure it is at least one-third higher than your dog’s height. For example, a 20” tall pup should have an enclosure that is at least 30” high. Finally, don’t forget to check the width of the space between the bars. Some breeds may get their paws caught if the width between the bars is too narrow.
Recommended Reading: