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A dog gate is a necessary tool for all pet parents, especially those in multi-pet homes or those with toddlers.
The major advantage of a dog gate is that it allows you to safely confine your pooch in one area, without giving them the feeling of isolation.
It is also useful to separate pets who are yet to form a bond and it can also create a safe boundary between your dog and dangerous zones in your home.
A quick scan at the stores and you will come across a lot of dog gate models, each with something interesting to offer.
This may have left you wondering which dog gate suits your specific needs at home in terms of spacing and usability.
If that’s the case, then you’re in the right place! Our team researched and reviewed the leading brands and narrowed them down to a list of the 14 best dog gates you can buy today.
Out Top Picks for the Best Dog Gates
Best Indoor Dog Gates for Large & Medium Dogs
1. PAWLAND Dog Gates for the House – Best for Extra Wide Doors
Dimensions: 144 x 0.8 x 32 inches
Weight: 34.4 pounds.
Material: Wood frame & meta wire interior
Type: Freestanding
Expandable: Yes
If you’re looking for a perfect barrier to wide openings, then the PAWLAND dog gate is worth checking out. It features six panels connected with fully rotating hinges.
We were impressed by the lockable door on this gate that gives pet parents the flexibility to walk freely across rooms without having to shift the entire unit.
As a freestanding pet gate, you can unbox this product and use it on the go without having to worry about fixing it to the doorframe.
This gate is constructed with a sturdy wood frame and metallic materials which makes it a good option for pet owners with large dogs.
The strong construction is also an ideal choice for people with active pups who love chewing on items barricading their way.
Despite the sturdy construction, the weight of this gate is manageable, making it highly portable when changing positions throughout your house.
If you’re looking for a stylish dog gate to match your interior décor, then you won’t be disappointed with either color option.
What we liked
- Sturdy construction yet lightweight
- Can be configured to a playpen
- Extra wide for large openings.
What we didn’t like
- Might be bulky when storing or transporting
2. Frisco Arch 4-Panel Solid Wood Dog Gate – Best for Medium Dogs
Dimension: 80 x 0.78 x 30 inches
Weight: 16.94 pounds.
Material: Wood
Type: Freestanding
Expandable: Yes
Coming in with three color options, the Frisco Arch dog gate offers more that protecting certain areas from your dog.
You get the chance to choose a complementary color that matches your home decoration and walls without sacrificing on aesthetics.
With a fancy curved design on the top of the panels, this dog gate can blend with your house door frames and may not look like an additional barrier.
The freestanding design means that you can switch this gate from one entranceway to the other without doing much work.
Both outer panels on either side are supported by two swiveling feet which offers additional stability when using the gate.
The additional selling point for this dog gate has to be the folding design which allows you to fold it up when not in use for easy storage.
This gate forms a good barrier for medium-sized and small dogs, but some reviewers pointed out challenges with some large breed dogs.
What we liked
- Very functional and with a beautiful design
- Highly portable and versatile.
- Easy to configure on different walkways and platforms
What we didn’t like
- Might not be the best option for active large breed dogs due to the lightweight finish.
3. Frisco Steel 8-Panel Configurable Dog Gate
Dimension: 190 x 2 x 30 inches
Weight: 44 pounds.
Materials: Steel, plastic, and metal
Type: Freestanding and walk-through
Expandable: Yes
Available in black, grey, and white, this gate from Frisco is enough to keep your active pooch away from dangerous areas.
Supporting that function is a construction of an eight-panel design that can be configured in different shapes to create a barrier in any space.
Joining the panels together can form a wide playpen, which can be used to housetrain your dog or create a comfy sleeping zone.
All these are made possible by the easy-press buttons which allow you to remove the panels and tailor them to your liking.
For added safety, the manufacturer included a self-closing door, which will automatically shut when left open at less than an angle of 90 degrees.
The door can swing in both ways to give your pooch convenience when entering or exiting the barred areas and it also features a double locking system to add to safety.
If you’re looking for a versatile and flexible dog gate that can be used in a variety of areas, then this could be the gate for you.
Talking of flexibility, the panels are easy to install and disassemble. You will only need a screwdriver to mount it to the walls and a pencil to sketch out the perfect fitting.
What we liked
- Secure locking system
- Highly versatile and flexible
- Easy to use and maintain
- Can be used in wide openings
What we didn’t like
- The walk-through panel might be narrow for some adults to pass comfortably
4. PAWLAND Extra Wide Dog gate
Dimension: 80 x 0.75 x 24 inches
Weight: 29.5 pounds.
Materials: Steel, plastic, and metal
Type: Freestanding
Expandable: Yes
This is yet another unit from PAWLAND that made it to our list and for all the good reasons. You are looking at a simple yet powerful convertible dog gate for your flexibility.
The usable width of this gate extends up to 96 inches which is good enough for most walkways in many homes.
When we talk of versatility, we were excited by how these panels could be re-arranged to form a pet fence, room divider, and playpen, all with a few simple steps.
This gate also features two sturdy feet on the outer panels to keep the whole frame in place when containing your dog.
With the choice of Espresso and white colors, you can be sure to find a unit that gives your house a beautiful appeal.
For small homeowners, you can choose the three-panel design which gives you the option to create an effective barrier on minimal openings.
What we liked
- Highly versatile with lots of configurations
- Easy to set up and use
- Portable and easy to fold down when not in use
What we didn’t like
- Might not be convenient for active large dogs.
5. Best Choice Products Freestanding Wooden Pet Gate
Dimension: 60.5L x 0.75W x 31.5H inches
Weight: 29.5 pounds.
Materials: Wood
Type: Walk-through
Expandable: yes
If there’s a wooden dog gate you won’t regret considering, it’s the Best Choice Products freestanding pet gate.
We believe so because it’s constructed with hard-wearing wooden materials and 360-degree double hinges that make it easy to fold and configure the panels.
The neutral finish comes with two color choices which can add to the aesthetic of your home by complementing your existing décor.
The panels are attached right from the box, which makes it very easy to set up and use. You only need to secure the feet and place the gate on your desired open space.
The rubber padding on the bottom will help in keeping the gate secured in place despite being tugged or pushed by your active dog.
It also adds some protection to your floor by preventing scratches when moving the dog gate from one corner to another.
What we liked
- The design is complementary and beautiful
- Very easy to install and use
- Constructed with sturdy wooden material
- Added safety using the rubber padding
What we didn’t like
- Might be wobbly when used to contain multiple active pups
6. Mom’s Choice Awards Winner-Cumbor
Dimension: 1.28 x 46 x 30.5 inches
Weight: 13.82 pounds.
Materials: Metal
Type: Pressure-mount
Expandable: No
If you have a toddler at home, then you need to protect the unmonitored interaction with dogs by installing a convenient pet gate.
It can also be placed on walkways and staircases to prevent your curious young one from crawling into trouble.
The gate can fit openings of up to 46 inches, and it has gaps of 2.24 inches between the bars, which makes it a good option to keep the dog’s head away from your child.
This metallic frame can fit many doors without being flimsy.
The dominant feature of this gate has to be the large walk-through door which allows parents to walk freely while holding their toddlers.
This baby gate will conveniently block your kid from crawling into the dog zone, all thanks to the double lock safety release which is extremely difficult for kids to open.
If you have a large breed dog, then you don’t need to worry because these steel panels can withstand up to 150-pound impacts of pushes and tugs from dogs.
For the safety of your kids, the door has an auto-lock hinge that locks in place when opened at 90 degrees.
It however swings back to shut when opened below 90 degrees to ensure your dog doesn’t move into the kid’s zone.
10 minutes is more than enough to install this pressure-mounted gate in your preferred spots.
What we liked
- Double lock safety release for added safety
- Made with a sturdy construction
- Looks great in the house
- Easy to monitor your dog from afar
What we didn’t like
- Not convenient for large openings.
7. Retractable Indoor and Outdoor Gate for Kids & Pets
Dimension: 4.5 x 3.1 x 36.6 inches
Weight: 4.94 pounds.
Materials: Mesh fabric
Type: Retractable
Expandable: Yes
This mesh dog gate is very easy to use in high-traffic areas within your home and extends up to 65 inches wide and is 35 inches in height.
The big advantage of using a retractable mesh gate in your home is that it can save some space when not in use.
You can simply do that by retracting the mesh and regaining your wide access until when you need to create a barrier again.
This pet gate is an upgrade from the previous version. It now features an adjustable bottom bracket which helps in tackling different heights within your home.
You will also appreciate the new locking mechanism which is very easy for adults to use with one hand and difficult for toddlers to operate it.
As a retractable gate, we took great concern with the durability of the mesh and we were fascinated at how sturdy the material is.
This means that you can use this gate for a long time without worrying about short-term wear and tear or scratches from your playful pups.
What we liked
- Great design with useful upgrades from the previous models
- Offers one-handed operation
- Scratch resistant mesh
- Sturdy and durable
What we didn’t like
- Not convenient for heavy chewers
8. MYPET North States Windsor Arch Pet Gate
Dimension: 38.25 x 3 x 28.25 inches
Weight: 7.25 pounds.
Materials: Metal
Type: Pressure-mount
Expandable: No
This dog gate is both stylish and highly functional, although it comes with a single-color option which could be limited to people who need options.
Despite lacking variations in color, the MYPET North States dog gate is endowed with multiple functions that help in creating a safe space for your pup.
Most notably, this gate comes with a triple locking system and one-handed operations which makes it secure for your dog and easy for your everyday use.
For added safety, the door includes a hold-open feature which keeps the door open at 90 degrees and shuts it when opened below 90 degrees angle.
The heavy-duty metal construction and the overlay matte bronze finish cannot go unnoticed. This helps to keep your pet in place despite the possible knocking and pushing when trying to escape.
For your convenience, the manufacturer made this gate adjustable in various spaces to make it easy in mapping safe spaces across your home.
What we liked
- High-quality bronze finish
- Easy to install and disassemble
- Secured locking system and one-handed operation
What we didn’t like
- Limited color option
- Needs regular monitoring to check on rust
9. Cumbor 40.6″ Dog Gate for Stairs and Doorways
Dimension: 31.5 x 28.9 x 2.14 inches
Weight: 12.57 pounds.
Materials: Metal
Type: Hardware-mounted & Pass-through
Expandable: No
This dog gate from Cumbor is particularly useful in creating a barrier for toddlers to prevent them from accessing dangerous dog zones.
It features a pass-through design that allows pet parents to pass without having to disassemble the entire setup.
The steel construction on this dog gate can withstand a dog impact of up to 150 pounds, making it a sturdy option to consider.
One of the highlights of this gate is the customization, which allows pet parents to use it is various spaces.
With the added safety of auto close and auto lock, you can be sure to keep your pets and kids safe without worrying about escapes.
What we liked
- Easy to assemble and use
- Made with a sturdy construction
- Highly customizable
What we didn’t like
- The gap opening can be too big for babies to play and provoke dogs on the other end.
10. Carlson Wide Configurable Pet Gate – Best For Large Dogs
Dimension: 30 x 2 x 30 inches
Weight: 13 pounds.
Materials: Alloy steel
Type: Wall-mounted & Walk-through
Expandable: Yes
With an expansion of up to 76 inches, the Carlson Pet Gate is a go-to option for people who need to create barriers on broader openings and for large canines.
The wall-mounted design helps in keeping the gate in place for added security and prevents the frame from getting knocked over by playful pups.
If you don’t need to map out the access for your cat, there’s a 10 x 7 inches small pet door at the center where your feline friend can pass through when they need to.
This allows you to let the small pets (cats and puppies) pass through the barred walkway while restricting the big lads from accessing the enclosed areas.
The Carlson Dog Gate is highly adjustable and can be used on doorways, hallways, and stairways to keep your dog within their boundaries.
What we liked
- Good for large dogs
- Included small door for small pets
- Safety lock mechanisms
What we didn’t like
- The plastic hinge joints could be a target for heavy chewers
- The small pet door does not open fully
Best Indoor Dog Gates for Small Dogs
11. Regalo Super Wide Adjustable Baby and Pet Gate
Dimension: 192.13 x 0.39 x 27.95 inches
Weight: 30.86 pounds.
Materials: Metal
Type: Wall-mounted
Expandable: Yes
If you’re looking for a super wide dog gate for larger spaces, then this unit from Regalo might be what you need.
The gate can open up to 192 inches in width to create a barrier for your furry friend from accessing restricted areas.
It also serves as a convenient baby gate that maps out a playing area for your young ones and prevents them from crawling into the dog zone.
The huge measurements come with high configuration settings. You can adjust each panel on this frame to fit almost any opening including walkways and angles spaces.
When not in use, the panels can be folded down and stored in a small space.
This gate features an all-steel construction which makes it a durable accessory to have for your furry friend.
The walk-through door in the middle is convenient for passing through, although, we noted that it may be narrow for some people.
What we liked
- Suitable for wide spaces and highly customizable
- Can be converted into a playpen
- Secure locking for added security
What we didn’t like
- The walk-through door can be narrow for some people
12. Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate – Best Quality
Dimension: 39.8 x 17.7 x 20.1 inches
Weight: 15.98 Pounds
Materials: Wood frame & Metal interior
Type: Freestanding
Expandable: Yes
For dogs that need a barrier in many sections of the house, you may need a convenient freestanding dog gate for your ease of use.
This top-quality dog gate from Richell comes in two color choices for the aesthetic complementary of your floor, walls, and interior décor.
The bottom part of the gate has been furnished with some rubber fittings to secure the footing and protect your floor from scratches.
An added aspect to improve sturdiness is the widened base at the bottom of both outer panels. This helps to prevent tipping when knocked over by playful dogs.
The manufacturer recommends this gate for barring small dogs of between 6.5 to 17.5 pounds. Larger dogs can easily knock over the freestanding unit and walk into the protected zones.
What we liked
- Beautiful design with impressive quality
- Secured footing for added safety
- Can be configured in different spaces
- Side panels easily fold in for easy storage.
What we didn’t like
- No walk-through door
13. Carlson 70-Inch-Wide Pet Gate, Premium Wood – Best for Small Dogs
Dimension: 70 x 1 x 20 inches
Weight: 12 Pounds
Materials: Wood frame & Metal interior
Type: Freestanding
Expandable: Yes
The New Zealand pine wood frame adds some good-looking charm and toughness to this dog gate, making it a good option for active small pups.
The gate is very easy to set up right from the box, thanks to the freestanding design which also allows for improved adjustability. It can expand from 41 inches to 70 inches.
With the included stabilization legs at the bottom, this gate offers a sturdy option for your small dog to remain active without worrying about knocking the barrier down.
If you need to shift the gate to a larger or smaller opening, then you can simply slide the latch system for easy expansion to fit your desired space.
What we liked
- Highly customizable for different configurations
- Made with durable materials
- Easy to set up and use
What we didn’t like
- Some strong medium dogs can tip this gate.
14. Zoogamo 3-Panel Dog Gate with Hearts Design
Dimension: 47 x 0.5 x 19 inches
Weight: 12 Pounds
Materials: Wood
Type: Freestanding
Expandable: No
This dog gate is made with heavy-duty wooden material. It also incorporates decorative paw prints into the frame design for an added touch of elegance.
The Zoogamo 3-panel pet gate provides a stylish solution to keep your dog safe from dangerous zones and maintain an artistic attraction.
With a lightweight frame and flexibility, you can carry this gate along various spaces in your home to create a safe space for your dogs and puppies.
Despite being a freestanding dog gate, this unit does not feature rubber pads for protecting the floor from scratches.
What we liked
- Elegant design
- Easy to move around to different spaces
- Made with durable wood material
What we didn’t like
- No rubber pads at the bottom
Why Do You Need a Dog Gate?
1. Safety and containment
A dog gate is more than a mere accessory for your beloved pup at home. It is also a lifesaving tool that helps to safely contain your pets in one area.
With a right-fitting gate in your home, you can keep your pooch from accessing hazardous areas such as the kitchen or the stairways.
Unmonitored access to dangerous areas can cause your beloved pup to get into trouble with the potential of having accidents and injuries.
2. House training and behavior management
If you have a young dog who is still undergoing housetraining, then you may want to consider a barrier to make your work easier.
This tool can create a restricted area and give your dog practical solutions when training them on behavior modification.
A dog gate can help minimize your dog’s access to certain areas during house training, and this gives you an easy time to supervise their habits and redirect them.
All dog gates featured in our list have rodded frames for transparency, which gives pet parents a chance to monitor their canines even when restricted in a particular area.
In addition to house training, a strategically placed dog gate can help in behavior modification.
If your pet has unwanted habits such as chewing on the sofa, you can place a gate to restrict their access as you redirect their negative conduct.
3. Protection of valuables and furnishings
The active nature and curiosity of most dogs can sometimes be a pain when they scratch and chew your valuables at home.
This is where a dog gate comes in to protect your valuables from the sharp teeth of your beloved canine.
A retractable dog gate provides an effective barrier to shield your dog from accessing a room with decorated and treasured items.
We strongly suggest that you train your dog to keep boundaries even when installing strategic obstacles for limiting access to certain areas.
4. Muti-pet households
Pet owners with multiple furry pals can attest to how hard it can be when trying to maintain a peaceful co-existence among new four-legged friends.
With a versatile dog gate, you can control the interactions between your pooch and your feline friend as you work on introducing them in a controlled environment.
Separating your pets helps in preventing conflicts during meal time or play time between the unfamiliar furry siblings.
5. Newborn or infant safety
Welcoming a newborn baby into your home can be a challenging time for a dog because of the unfamiliar face introduced.
A dog gate can be a life-saving tool in mapping out a physical barrier between your furry family and your infant.
This will help in controlling the interaction between the two as you work on introducing your dog to the newest member of the family.
The dog gate also allows you to monitor the interaction between your dog and the baby, and this can give you valuable insights on how to teach them boundaries to prevent conflicts.
Once your baby starts walking, we recommend teaching them how to interact with dogs in a proper way to prevent scuffles between the two.
6. Training boundaries
Dogs can do better when subjected to a predictable routine and taught limits within the house.
A pet gate can be used to map out physical boundaries for your dog, teaching them where they can go and where they should avoid.
For example, if you want your dog to avoid going to your garage, you can place a retractable pet gate across the door from the house to teach your pooch their limits.
With consistent practice, your canine friend will learn the off-limit areas in your home and they will not willingly go into those areas.
The Five Common Types of Dog Gates
It is irrefutable that pet gates can offer more control when dealing with dogs at home, especially when mapping out dangerous areas.
But these helpful tools come in different types, each with a set of unique features, advantages, and disadvantages.
The flexibility that comes with choosing the ideal type should culminate in weighing your specific use case and the features of different gates before settling on one.
The five main types of dog gates are; freestanding dog gates, pressure-mounted dog gates, hardware-mounted dog gates, retractable dog gates, and pass-through dog gates.
1. Freestanding dog gates
Freestanding dog gates are those that can stand on their own without the need to attach them to a doorframe or the wall.
Self-supporting dog gates are highly portable, making them a good option for pet owners who want flexibility when creating boundaries for their canine companions.
Some freestanding pet gates can be linked together to create a wider playpen for your dog, which can help in crate training and housetraining.
2. Pressure-mounted dog gates
This dog gate is supported by pressure pushed against the door frame of the walls.
Most pressure-mounted dog gates are easy to set up and they also offer an adjustable opening for accommodating different dog sizes.
Pressure-mounted dog gates are best used along hallways and doorways to keep your dog restricted from one end.
3. Hardware-mounted gates
Permanent dog gates, also known as hardware mounted, can be securely fixed on the doorframe or walls to offer a permanent solution in a specific area.
Hardware-mounted pet gates are sturdier than most other types and they can best be used in highly hazardous areas for your dogs.
4. Retractable dog gates
These dog gates are also called mesh dog gates, due to their scratch-resistant mesh construction which can be rolled back when not in use.
Retractable dog gates are a good option for pet parents looking for barriers that can save some space when not in use and add some flexibility.
This type of dog gate may not be ideal for strong pets with unwanted habits such as scratching or chewing.
5. Pass-through dog gate
As the name suggests, this is a dog gate that allows you to walk through the gates while restricting your pets to one side.
Most walk-through dog gates are fitted with a narrow door with an easy opening mechanism that allows easy passage when needed.
7 Factors To Consider When Choosing a Dog Gate
There’s no doubt that dog gates can be a good investment for any pet parent who wants to keep their dogs safe from accessing unsafe areas.
But with so many options in the market today, how can you find the perfect option for your home?
There are several factors that you should keep in mind when looking for a convenient pet gate.
All these factors are geared toward ensuring that your dog is safe and that the accessory is in sync with your living space without distorting the walkways.
The following is an explanation of the considerations you need to have in mind when looking for a good dog gate.
1. Size and height
The first thing you need to look at when considering a particular dog gate is the size and height of the tool when installed.
A good dog gate should be tall enough to prevent your pooch from jumping over. A short dog gate can beat the purpose of having a barrier in the first place.
Considering your dog’s breed, the gaps within the gate should also not be very wide to allow your dog to squeeze through when trying to escape.
2. Location and purpose
Your next deliberation should be about where you plan to place the gate and the specific purpose.
The planned location of your barrier carries a heavy weight in determining the type of gate you need.
For example, if you’re looking for a permanent barrier to prevent your dog from accessing the fireplace, you may have to narrow your choices to permanent gates.
3. Material and durability
The material structure used in making a dog gate should also be considered before checking out your desired product.
The type of material used speaks about the durability of the tool and how effective it can be in preventing your dog from accessing certain areas.
Dog gates made with sturdy materials are likely to be more durable and offer service for extended periods without breaking apart.
If you have strong dogs or giant breeds, we suggest sticking to strong gates made with sturdy wood or metal to contain your dog’s excess energy.
4. Installation and portability
A good dog gate should be easy to set up, without requiring extra services from other people.
Freestanding gates don’t require to be fixed on a wall, making them a good choice for people who need a stress-free setup.
Hardware-mounted gates may need the use of tools such as screwdrivers to fix screws on the doorframe. You also need to look at the portability aspect before settling on a desired door gate.
If you’re looking forward to using the gate in different places in your house, then we recommend choosing a portable option to make it easy for you when changing locations.
5. Aesthetic and design
The overall appearance and design of your favorite dog gate should also come into play, especially when you intend to use it in your living room.
We suggest going for a dog gate with subtle colors that match your walls, furniture, and interior décor.
The design of the gate should also be visible. This will make it easier for your pet to recognize it and prevent them from running into the barrier.
6. Gate-latching mechanism
You should pay more attention to the gates that can be opened and closed with ease, especially with one hand.
Gates with complicated latching mechanisms can be a pain when operating, especially when you want to cross over while carrying something with one or both hands.
You also need to strike a balance between a secure latch and one that can be opened too easily. A loose latching mechanism can be too simple for some brave dogs to open effortlessly.
7. Ease of use
The general ease of using the pet gate, both for you and your furry family should also play a part in deciding your purchase decision.
If you’re placing the gate along the staircases or in specific areas with more human traffic, we suggest going for the retractable option to give you a convenient pass every time.
Choose a gate that can be opened and closed easily, preferably with one hand, to make it easier for you when passing across the barrier.
If you have a cat, then you can also consider gates with small pet doors to give your tiny pets an easy time passing through the barrier.
You can also consider making a DIY dog gate at home and configuring it to your own liking, ease of use, and aesthetician appeal.
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for Dog Gates
Just like any other dog accessory, you need to maintain and clean your dog gates regularly to prevent the build-up of dirt and bacteria.
Maintaining your dog gate also ensures that you get prolonged service without experiencing unexpected breakdowns.
General cleaning and maintenance practices
1. Regular monitoring
Pet gates can experience a lot of tugging and pushing throughout the day, making it important to inspect them regularly.
If you find any loose screws or broken latches, you need to fix them immediately to prevent your beloved dog from accidents and injuries.
If you have a wall-mounted dog gate with lots of hinges, you need to lubricate them regularly to ensure they’re working properly.
Most manufacturers have a recommendation on how often you need to lubricate the hinges and the best fluid to use for lubrication.
2. Cleaning the dog gate
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the entire dog gate from top to bottom to remove accumulated dirt, debris, and pet hair.
You should clean the gate as often as possible, but at least you need to maintain a weekly wipe-down.
If the dog gate is heavily soiled, then you can add mild soap to the cleaning water to deal with the dirt.
Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals since they may be detrimental to some gates, especially wooden ones.
Make sure to dry a metal gate with a clean cloth after cleaning it to prevent the materials and parts from rusting.
For retractable dog gates, you can vacuum clean or shake off the dirt from the mesh.
Some manufacturers use a machine-washable mesh, and in that case, you can remove it and toss it into a washer for cleaning.
Training Your Dog to Use the Gate
A new accessory for your dog including gates, can be overwhelming for them and may cause stress and anxiety.
This is why you need to train your dog on how to effectively use the gate. An untaught dog may view a gate as a confining tool that separates them from the rest of the family.
The following is a stepwise approach you can use to introduce your dog to pet gates and train them on safe usage.
Step 1: Introduce the Gate
You can set up the dog gate in your intended place and let your dog explore it on their own terms.
If your dog seems too overwhelmed, you can just unbox the items and let them explore before setting them up.
Allow your pooch to sniff and investigate the new accessory before using it. This will help them get familiar with the scents and accept the new gate as part of the house.
Step 2: Link the gate with a positive experience
Use positive reinforcement techniques to reward your dog for approaching the gate and interacting with it in gratifying ways.
You can use tasty treats, praises, or petting to reward your dog for a job well done.
Your main goal at this stage is to reinforce the idea that the gate is a positive accessory and it comes with good things, not confinement.
Step 3: Practice Opening and Closing
After your dog gets calm around the gate, you can now practice opening and closing the gate in front of your dog, and allow them to see how it works.
At this point, your dog should start understanding that the gate can prevent their access to certain areas but in a positive way.
During the first trials, you can enclose your dog from one end and stay around to play with them from the other side as a way of showing your care despite the barrier.
Make sure to repeat the process until your canine friend seems comfortable to be barred from accessing the enclosed areas.
Gate training will depend on your individual dog and consistency, we encourage you to be consistent and allow your dog to work on their terms.
Note: You should never use the gate as a punishment tool for your dog. This will cause them to develop negative associations and make it worse to create a barrier for your pooch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a dog gate for Puppies?
Yes! Dog gates can also be used for puppies. But you need to ensure the gaps between the metals/woods are narrow to prevent the puppies from trying to escape.
2. Are there dog gates for wide openings?
Absolutely Yes! You can find dog gates specifically designed for wide openings. These extended barriers are often referred to as expandable or configurable gates.
Such dog gates can be adjusted to fit a variety of widths, making them perfect for larger doorways or wider open spaces.
When selecting a gate for a wide opening, ensure that it offers sturdy construction and remains stable even when fully extended.
Retractable gates are also a suitable option for wide openings, as they can be adjusted to the desired width.
Some freestanding gates can also be connected to create a large barrier, suitable for wide openings.
3. What can you use instead of a dog gate?
There are several alternatives you can consider instead of using a dog gate in your house, including baby gates and playpens.
Some pet parents have also rearranged furniture in their houses to deny or offer their dogs access to certain rooms.
4. Can dog gates be used for other pets, like cats?
Yes! Dog gates can be used as a barrier for other pets including cats. However, you need to choose a taller gate to prevent your cat from jumping from one room to the other.
Dog gates with vertical bars are specifically ideal for felines because they prevent them from jumping over the accessory with ease.
You also need to ensure that the latching mechanism for the desired dog gate is tough enough to prevent the cat from making their way out.
Conclusion
All the reviewed products featured in our guide are secured with a locking mechanism to keep your pup safe from dangerous areas.
Remember the safety of your dog is paramount when looking for their accessories. We do not recommend leaving your dog unmonitored for a long period in a gated area.
This will only make them develop a negative association with the gate and view it as a punishment tool, making it difficult to restrain them in subsequent times.
We recommend taking a closer second look at our top picks. The Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate is a fantastic choice for those looking for a stylish and solid option.
If you want a barrier for wide spaces, the PAWLAND Freestanding Wire Pet Gate offers great adjustment to cover a wide range of open spaces.
If you have a large dog, the Carlson 76-inch Wide Configurable Pet Gate might be the perfect fit, while the Carlson 70-Inch-Wide Adjustable Pet Gate will cater to families with small dogs.
Always counter-check the size of your open spaces and the size of the desired dog gate before making a final purchasing decision.
Justus is the lead author at Furs'n'Paws. He is not only a passionate animal lover but also an experienced pet writer and editor with several years of expertise in the field. With a keen understanding of animal behavior and a talent for interpreting the puzzling body movements of pets, he has developed a deep passion for sharing his insights and experience with his readers. Justus is experienced in researching and reviewing pet products, and putting together product reviews and buying guides. He is dedicated to helping pet owners provide the best for their furry companions. His wealth of knowledge and love for animals make him a trusted resource in the pet community.
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