Are you looking for the best dog playpens for your pup? As a dog owner, it’s common to worry about the safety of your pup in their new home. While many pet owners choose to crate their dogs for safety, it can limit their movement and playtime, which can be discouraging for any energetic pup.
Thankfully, there’s an alternative to crating that can give your pet the freedom to move and play while keeping them safe and secure. A high-quality dog playpen provides a contained space for your pet to play with their toys and roam freely while you’re out running errands or busy with household chores.
Investing in a dog playpen can give you peace of mind knowing that your furry friend is safe and happy, even when you’re not at home.
Benefits of Dog Playpens
- A dog playpen provides your pet with more space to move around, stretch and play compared to a crate, helping them stay active.
- It encourages exercise, promoting the development of muscles and joints and making them stronger.
- The playpen helps develop independence and confidence in dogs by allowing them to move around freely without being attached to you.
- It provides a safe, enclosed area for your dog to move around in, without having access to your entire home.
- The playpen can be used to keep your pet out of mischief and prevent them from accessing certain rooms or areas.
Types of Dog Playpens
You need to understand the different types of dog playpens available in the market to make it easier for you to select a playpen that suits your needs. Here are the two types of dog playpens.
Indoor Dog Playpens
If you’re looking for a way to provide your dog with some indoor playtime while keeping them safe and contained, then an indoor dog playpen is a great option. Designed specifically for indoor use, these playpens give your furry friend plenty of space to move around and play without having to confine them to a small area.
Not only does an indoor playpen help keep your dog contained and off certain areas in your house, it can also be a useful tool for housetraining your puppy. By giving your pet a designated space to call their own, they’ll feel more at ease in their new home and be less likely to have accidents outside of their designated area.
Outdoor Dog Playpens
If you’re worried about your dog’s safety when letting them play outside, an outdoor dog playpen might just be what you need. These pens are designed to keep your furry friend secure and out of harm’s way, especially if you live near a busy road or don’t have a fenced-in yard. With an outdoor playpen, your dog can enjoy some fresh air and exercise while you have peace of mind knowing they’re safe and secure. Plus, it gives them the freedom to play and move around without the constraints of a leash.
Things to Consider When Buying a Dog Playpen
When buying a dog playpen, it’s important to keep several factors in mind to ensure that you get the best playpen for your furry friend. Here are some of the things to consider:
Dog Size
Make sure that the playpen you choose is big enough to accommodate your dog and provide them with space to move around and play. The playpen should also be tall enough to prevent your dog from jumping out.
Location
Consider where you’ll be keeping the playpen. If it will be outdoors, you may want to look for a playpen with added features like waterproofing. For indoor playpens, you may want to choose a color that matches your décor.
Stability and Durability
The best dog playpen should be stable and durable enough to contain your pet. Look for playpens with stabilizing stakes to keep them in place, especially if you have a large dog who could knock it over.
Material
Playpens are made of different materials, each with their own pros and cons. Metal playpens are strong and durable but may scratch your floors. Wooden playpens are aesthetically pleasing but not durable enough for outdoor use. Plastic playpens are suitable for indoor and outdoor use but may not be suitable for heavy chewers. Mesh playpens are less durable but can be used indoors.
Portability
If you need to move the playpen around, look for one that’s portable and easy to move. Collapsible playpens are a good option for those who need to move them around frequently.
Flexibility
Consider whether you need a playpen that can accommodate multiple pets or one with a specific shape to fit your space. Some playpens can change size and shape with the removal of additional panels.
Entry
Playpens with doors can be helpful for large dogs who can’t be lifted over the fence, and can also prevent dogs from jumping over the playpen.
By considering these factors, you can choose a high-quality dog playpen that will keep your pet safe, secure, and comfortable.
Top 10 Best Dog Playpens
Finding the best dog playpen for your furry friend can be a daunting task with the numerous options available in the market. As a responsible pet owner, safety, durability, and stability should be among the top factors to consider when shopping for a playpen. You want to ensure that your pet has enough space to play, relax, and move around without feeling caged or restricted.
To make it easier for you, we have compiled a list of the top 10 best dog playpens that offer both reliability and durability. Our reviews highlight the features, pros, and cons of each playpen to help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs and your pet’s safety.
1) Richell Convertible High Pet Playpen (3-in-1)
Richell Convertible High Pet Playpen is a simple playpen that is full of ingenious features. It is made of extremely durable plastic that can be used inside or outside. The playpen does not harbor mold, germs, or any other contamination. It includes a mat to provide extra comfort to your dogs. The mat can also be used as a roof cover when conditions are not ideal outside.
The pet pen is made of quality and durable plastic that is completely water-resistant. It has vertical bars to prevent dogs from climbing or jumping and escaping. The pen includes specially designed caps to safely lock the panels in place at 90°, 120°, and 180° angles. It has a door with a safety lock so your dog can’t escape. The playpen can be laid out as a rectangle or square or even as a hexagon. It can be converted into a pet gate and room divider easily.
Pros
- Lots of Space: This playpen is really roomy, measuring 48 inches in diameter. That means your furry friend will have plenty of space to run around and play.
- Easy to Assemble: You don’t need any tools to set up this playpen, which is great news if you’re not super handy. It’s made up of eight panels that snap together, so it’s really straightforward to put together.
- Portable: When you’re not using the playpen, you can easily fold it up and store it away. Plus, it’s really lightweight, which means you can take it with you wherever you go.
- Tough and Durable: This playpen is made of sturdy metal, so it can handle even the rowdiest of pups. It also comes with four metal stakes that you can use to secure it to the ground.
- Versatile: Whether you’re looking for an indoor or outdoor playpen, this one fits the bill. It’s also suitable for a variety of pets, not just dogs.
Cons
- This playpen is expensive
2) Frisco Steel 8-Panel Configurable Dog Gate & Playpen
This product is an eight-panel gate made by Frisco that is both versatile and durable. You can mount it on the wall or set it up as a freestanding gate in various shapes such as a square, rectangle, or octagon to fit your specific needs and space. It comes with large anchors to secure the gate between walls and separate open spaces, providing your pet with a safe place to roam freely.
The gate-mounting process requires a pencil and screwdriver, but setting it up as a freestanding gate is tool-free. Each panel is 30 inches tall and has a powder-coated finish. The easy-press buttons allow you to remove panels quickly and tailor the gate to your needs. The gate measures 186.5 inches without mounting brackets and 190 inches with brackets.
The gate also features a self-closing door that automatically shuts if left open less than 90 degrees, and it swings freely in both directions. The dual-lock system keeps your pet safely contained. Frisco products are designed, tested, and approved by the pet experts at Chewy, and they strive to create products that will bring you and your pet more happy moments together. From dog gates to apparel to potty gear, Frisco offers a variety of products to meet your pet’s needs.
Pros
- Versatile: This eight-panel gate is very versatile and can be configured into different shapes and sizes to fit your space and pet’s needs. It can be used as a gate or as a freestanding enclosure to create a designated play area for your pet.
- Durable: Made of steel, this playpen is durable and built to last. It also features a powder-coated finish to ensure it holds up well over time.
- Easy to install: The gate-mounting process requires only a pencil and screwdriver, and setting it up as a freestanding gate is tool-free, making it very easy to install.
- Secure: The playpen comes with large anchors to secure the gate between walls and separate open spaces, ensuring your pet stays safe and secure in their designated area. The self-closing door and dual-lock system also provide added security.
- Pet Expert Approved: Frisco products are designed, tested, and approved by the pet experts at Chewy, so you can trust that this playpen is made with your pet’s safety and comfort in mind.
3) Iris Plastic Pet Playpen
The Iris Plastic Pet Playpen is a great choice for small – to medium-sized dog breeds, especially if you have limited space in your home. This pet playpen is compact, lightweight, and a fantastic alternative to traditional wire playpens. It’s made of heavy-duty plastic and features double steel door latches, making it a sturdy option for your furry friend.
You can select from different color options to match your home decor. This playpen is ideal for puppies who tend to chew on things they shouldn’t, keeping them safe and secure. Assembly is quick and easy, and the playpen can be used both indoors and outdoors. It even includes a sturdy dog door to allow easy access for your pup. Additionally, you can purchase add-on panels to increase the size of the playpen.
Pros
- Versatile: This playpen can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a dog play yard, play gate, or small dog fence. It’s a great option for pet owners who need flexibility in their pet containment options.
- Portable: The Iris playpen is lightweight and easy to move around, making it a great option for pet owners who like to take their furry friends with them on trips.
- Durable: Made of heavy-duty molded plastic, this playpen is built to last. It’s also designed with non-skid rubber feet to protect floors from scratches.
- Expandable: If you need more play space for your pet, you can easily add on additional panels to create a larger playpen. This makes it a great investment for pet owners who anticipate their pet’s play needs evolving over time.
- Spacious: With a total enclosure area of 21 sq. ft, this playpen provides plenty of room for your pet to run around and play. The door openings are also large enough to allow easy access for both you and your pet.
Cons
- It does not provide you with height choices to choose from.
- The playpen may be too short for climbers/jumpers.
4) Frisco Deco Horizontal Lines 3-Panel Dog Gate
Looking for a pet gate that not only keeps your pup contained but also looks great in your home? Check out the Frisco Deco Horizontal Lines 3-Panel Pet Gate! It’s 24 inches tall, making it perfect for extra-small, small, and medium-sized breeds. The gate features a folding, freestanding design that works as a gate or room divider, giving your pet their own safe space wherever you need it.
One of the best things about this gate is that it’s really easy to use. There’s no assembly required and no tools needed. Simply unfold the three panels and turn the support feet, and you’re good to go! The two swiveling, sturdy support feet add extra stability when needed, ensuring that your pet won’t accidentally knock it over.
The Frisco Deco Horizontal Lines 3-Panel Pet Gate isn’t just functional, it’s also stylish. The gate features a deco-style design with horizontal line cutouts that add a touch of elegance to any room. It comes in two color options – clean white or rich espresso – so you can choose the one that matches your home decor.
Pros
- Stylish Design: This pet gate features a stylish deco-style design with horizontal line cutouts that add a touch of elegance to any room. It’s a great option for pet owners who want a functional pet gate that also looks great in their home.
- Easy to Use: There’s no assembly required and no tools needed to use this pet gate. Simply unfold the three panels and turn the support feet, and you’re good to go! This makes it very convenient for pet owners who want a hassle-free solution.
- Portable: The folding, freestanding design of this pet gate makes it easy to move around. You can use it as a gate or room divider wherever your pet needs their own safe space.
- Sturdy: The two swiveling, sturdy support feet add extra stability to this pet gate when needed. This ensures that your pet won’t accidentally knock it over, providing peace of mind for pet owners.
- Versatile: This pet gate is 24 inches tall, making it perfect for extra-small, small, and medium-sized breeds. It’s a great option for pet owners who want a pet gate that can be used in a variety of settings, from doorways to hallways to open spaces.
5) Midwest Exercise Pen
The Midwest Exercise Pen is an excellent choice for large-breed puppies that need more space to play and exercise. It consists of eight 24-inch wide panels with a sleek black E-coat finish to provide protection from the elements, which makes it perfect for outdoor use. The playpen has corner stabilizers for indoor use and ground stakes for outdoor use, ensuring that your furry friend is safe and secure.
The exercise pen comes in five different heights, allowing you to choose the perfect size for your pet. It also features an optional sunscreen or wire mesh top that provides shade or added security while your dog is outside. The double latch dog door ensures that your pet can enter and exit the playpen easily. The exercise pen is easy to fold down for storage or transportation, making it perfect for pet owners on the go. Additionally, the pen comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty for added peace of mind.
Pros
- Durable: Durable steel pet gate resists chewing for determined pets.
- Easy to Install: The pet gate features pressure-mounted technology, which means there’s no need for drilling or tools. Simply adjust the tension knobs to secure the gate in place and you’re good to go!
- Versatile: This 30-inch tall pet gate fits openings 29-39 inches wide, offering versatile use for pet owners.
- One-Handed Operation: Gate has one-handed lock for easy opening/closing while holding pet/items.
- Stylish: This pet gate features a sleek, modern design that complements any home decor. It’s available in both black and white to match your personal style.
Cons
- Dog owners cannot purchase single add-on panels.
- The playpen may not be sturdy enough for full-grown dogs.
6) Zampa Foldable Portable Dog Playpen
Zampa Foldable Portable Pet Playpen is a portable playpen that is easy to set up. It easily folds down and comes with a handy carrying case for easy transportation and storage. The playpen is durable and comes with an attached floor mat. It includes reinforced corners and seams to keep your dog safe and secure.
The portable pet playpen is water-resistant for the outdoors. It measures 24 inches high and 45 inches in diameter. The playpen is ideal for small and medium dog breeds but may not be ideal for larger breeds or older puppies once they grow bigger. It does not require any assembly. The pen has a zippered dog door that ensures easy entry and exit for your pet. It comes with a 1-year money-back guarantee.
Pros
- Safe and Durable: Water-resistant, high-quality materials with reinforced corners and protected seams for pet safety.
- Spacious and Convenient: Plenty of space for pets to play with a 45″ diameter and 24″ height. Plus, the exterior side pockets and bottle holder make it easy to keep your personal items close by.
- Easy to Use: Setting up this playpen is a breeze – it pops up in seconds with no assembly required! And when you’re not using it, the playpen folds flat, making it easy to store and transport. Plus, the included carrying case makes it easy to take with you on the go.
- Mesh Top: The included mesh top can be zipped on when needed, providing added security and protection for your pet.
- Great Customer Service: Zampa is dedicated to providing top-notch customer service. In addition to the playpen, you’ll receive 4 metal spikes for outdoor safety, and the customer service team is committed to making things right. Plus, they even provide a video tutorial to help you get started with your new playpen!
Cons
- It is not ideal for large dog breeds.
- The playpen is not as sturdy as metal playpens.
7) IRIS Indoor & Outdoor Plastic Dog PlayPen
IRIS Indoor & Outdoor Plastic Pet Pen is a solid and sturdy pet pen that can be used indoors or outdoors. It is a quality puppy pen that is made in the US. The pen is designed to keep your pet safe and comfortable while providing him with enough space to play. It is made of durable heavy-duty molded plastic for durability and reliability.
The Plastic Pet Pen features an 8-panel construction that is solid and comes with non-skid rubber feet to protect your flooring. The panels interlock together securely with full-length connecting rods. It easily folds for quick and easy transportation anywhere. The plastic material not only makes it lightweight but also makes it extremely easy to clean and disinfect. It comes in two sizes of either 4 or 8 panels and is available in different colors such as chocolate, white, green, blue, and chrome.
Pros
- Versatile: This playpen is versatile for indoor/outdoor use, creating a safe and secure play space for your furry friend.
- Portable: IRIS Playpen is portable and lightweight. It provides 8 sq ft play area for pets.
- Easy to Use: Easy setup and use with 33″W x 24″H panels and 14”W x 16.5”H door. The distance between the bars is 1.5”, ensuring that even small pets are safely contained.
- Expandable: To create a more spacious exercise pet playpen, you can add any IRIS 24” Exercise 4-Panel Playpen Panel Add-On. This makes it a great investment for pet owners who anticipate their pet’s play needs evolving over time.
- Durable: The IRIS Exercise Pet Playpen is made of durable, heavy-duty molded plastic that will never rust. This playpen lasts for years, providing a safe and secure space to play and exercise.
8) Precision Soft Side Dog Playpen Indoor
Looking for a strong and sturdy indoor playpen for your small or medium dog? Check out the Precision Soft Side Play Pen! It’s easy to set up and put away for storage or transport and even comes with a carrying case to make things even easier.
The bottom panel is also a breeze to remove and wash, so your pet can always have a clean and cozy play area. And if you need to set it up outside for a bit, no worries – its water-resistant materials help protect it from the elements.
Overall, the Precision Soft Side Play Pen is a great investment for pet owners who want a durable and reliable playpen that’s simple to use. It gives your pup plenty of space to stretch their legs and play indoors.
Pros
- Durable and Reliable: You can count on the Precision Soft Side Play Pen to keep your pet safely contained while they play and exercise. It’s made to be sturdy and strong, so you can trust it to last.
- Easy to Use: Setting up and taking down this playpen is a breeze – it’s designed to be simple and user-friendly. And when you’re ready to pack it up, it folds up easily for storage or transport. Plus, the included carrying case is a nice touch!
- Spacious and Comfy: Your furry friend will have plenty of room to stretch out and play in this playpen. It’s designed to provide a comfortable and spacious play area, both indoors and outdoors.
- Easy to Clean: The removable bottom panel is a real game-changer when it comes to keeping the playpen clean. You can simply take it out and wash it whenever you need to, ensuring your pet always has a hygienic play area.
- Water-Resistant: You don’t have to worry about spills or accidents damaging this playpen – it’s made from water-resistant materials to help protect it from the elements. This makes it a great option for indoor and outdoor use.
Cons
- It is not ideal for large dog breeds.
9) BestPet Heavy Duty Dog Playpen
If you’re on the hunt for an outdoor playpen that’ll keep your pet safe and secure, look no further than the BestPet Heavy Duty Pet Playpen. It’s built to withstand whatever Mother Nature throws its way, so you can rest easy knowing your furry friend is in good hands.
The playpen is super versatile, too – you can set it up in all kinds of shapes, from octagonal to squared to L-shaped. And the best part? You don’t need any extra parts or tools to do it. Just use the 8 panels and you’re good to go. The door panel is a nice touch, too, making it easy for your pet to come and go as they please.
If you have multiple pets, you can even get two playpens and combine them for a larger play area. How cool is that? Overall, the BestPet Heavy Duty Pet Playpen is a great choice for pet owners who want a playpen that’s tough, reliable, and versatile enough to suit their needs.
Pros
- Durable and Reliable: This playpen is built to last, with heavy-duty materials that can withstand even the toughest weather conditions. You can trust it to keep your pet safe and secure, no matter what.
- Versatile: With its 8-panel construction and ability to be assembled in different shapes, this playpen is super versatile. You can customize it to suit your space and your pet’s needs, making it a great option for all kinds of situations.
- Easy to Use: Assembly is a breeze – no tools or extra parts are required. Plus, the door panel makes it easy for your pet to come and go as they please.
- Spacious: Ample space for pet play and exercise in octagonal, square, or L-shaped design.
- Expandable: Easily combine 2 playpens to create a larger play area for multiple pets. It’s a great option for pet owners who want flexibility and versatility when it comes to their pet’s play area.
10) Parkland Foldable Dog Playpen
If you’re in the market for a lightweight, easy-to-set-up playpen for your furry friend, look no further than the Parkland Foldable Playpen. This thing is a breeze to assemble – no tools required – and it gives your pet plenty of room for all their favorite things, from blankets to toys to food and water.
One of the best things about this playpen is how easy it is to clean and maintain. And if you’re planning a camping trip with your pet, it’s a great choice. It’s super affordable, too, so you won’t have to break the bank to keep your pet safe and happy on the go.
The playpen features a zipper on the top and a door on the front, making it easy for your pet to get in and out whenever they please. And once you’ve unzipped the door, you can roll it up to keep it out of the way – no more tripping over the door when you’re playing with your pet!
At just 1.94 pounds, this playpen is lightweight and easy to take with you wherever you go. Whether you’re hanging out indoors, enjoying the great outdoors, or hitting the road for a long trip, the Parkland Foldable Playpen is a great choice for pet owners who want convenience and ease of use.
Pros
- Hassle-Free Assembly: You won’t need any fancy tools or complicated instructions to set up this playpen – just unfold it and you’re good to go! It’s the perfect solution for pet owners who want a hassle-free play area for their furry friend.
- Lightweight and Portable: This playpen is lightweight and portable for pet owners on-the-go. Ideal for travel or temporary containment, this playpen is an excellent option for pet owners.
- Easy to Clean: Easy cleaning: wipe with a damp cloth – done! Durable materials ensure longevity, no need to worry about wear and tear.
- Budget-Friendly: If you’re looking for a quality playpen that won’t break the bank, this is it. It’s an affordable option that still delivers all the features you need to keep your pet safe and happy.
- Convenient Design: Easy pet access with top zipper and front door in this playpen. Roll up the door once open to keep it out of the way during playtime.
Cons
- The playpen is not water-resistant.
LINDSIE PRO TIP: Put a large, washable potty pad under your pup’s playpen if you keep it inside. This will help the cleanup process tremendously! I keep 4-5 of these potty pads on rotation all the time in my house.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, our fur babies’ safety is always a top priority. When it comes to finding the right playpen for your pup, there are so many options to choose from – different sizes, shapes, and features can make the search overwhelming. But don’t fret, because we’ve got you covered!
Our team has put in the time and effort to research and test a variety of playpens to find the best of the best. We’ve made sure that each one provides ample space for your dog to play and lounge, while also being comfortable and secure.
We hope our reviews have been helpful in your search for the perfect playpen. And if you end up selecting one of the playpens we’ve recommended, we would love to hear about your experience with it! Our ultimate goal is to help you find the right playpen for your furry best friend, so they can stay safe and happy while you’re away.
~Lindsie