Choosing the Right Dog Gate

Keep your canine and home safe and secure with the right dog gate.

Whether you’re training your new puppy, or simply trying to close off an area of the house, a dog gate can be a simple solution. Dog gates not only allow you to leave your four-legged family member out of their kennel, but also keep them safe. Sometimes it’s best to not give your pup the run of the house for their own safety and your home’s sake. Curious canines can get into trouble if they’re left with the entire house or yard to themselves. It all comes down to choosing the right gate for your dog and home.

Dog Gate Types

Freestanding Gates 

Freestanding dog gates work well for small or medium dogs. The gate can easily be moved around or walked over, making it more convenient for you. They’re perfect for areas where there’s a wide entrance or doorway that needs to be blocked off, or if a pressure-mounted or hardware-mounted gate won’t work with the walls.

It’s best not to use a freestanding dog gate if your pet is large, or can easily knock it down. You don’t want to use one if your pet will be able to jump over it. Finally, avoid using a free-standing gate to block off stairs.

Pressure-mounted Gates 

You can avoid using tools and hardware by installing a pressure-mounted dog gate. The gate is held in place by pressure, and can be adjusted to fit the doorway or staircase. Plus, you can easily move it around your home.

These dog gates don’t work well for blocking off angled areas. If you have a dog who can easily get through tight spaces or knock down obstacles, avoid using a pressure-mounted gate.

Hardware-mounted Gates 

If you have a dog that can easily knock over stuff, a hardware-mounted gate may be your best bet. The dog gate is secured with hardware, making it a more permanent solution. They work great for securing the top of staircases and more rambunctious dogs.

If you plan to move the gate around your home, this is not your best option. You also have to deal with installing hardware into your door frame or wall.

Exercise Pens

An exercise pen is a great way to let your dog outside while keeping them safely contained in a certain area. They also work great for letting curious puppies get used to being outside without a leash. They’re portable, and give your dog more room than a crate or kennel when you’re traveling.

Dog Gate Materials

Choosing the right material is just as important as choosing the right gate style.

Plastic or Mesh – Plastic and mesh gates are lightweight and inexpensive. If you have a puppy or a dog that likes to chew, a plastic or mesh gate is not your best choice. They can also be knocked down more easily than wood or metal dog gates.

Metal – Strong chewers and puppies will benefit from a metal dog gate. They’re sturdy and more secure, holding up against dogs who can easily get around or through obstacles.

Wood – Wood gates are sturdy, and can be more aesthetically pleasing for your home. They can be more expensive than plastic gates, but will hold up better in the long run.

Whichever type of gate you choose, you’ll feel better knowing you’re keeping your dog in a safe environment. Not only do dog gates create boundaries in your home, they can keep your dog from getting into things and running a muck. For more tips on caring for dogs and other four-legged family members, visit our pet care blog.