11 Best Dog Gates of 2024
by Carol Bryant
Updated on March 05, 2024
When it comes to dog safety, sifting through the best dog gates to find one that works for your family should be a top priority.
The American Humane Association estimates that one in three pets get lost at some point during their lifetime. Even worse, close to 10 million dogs and cats are lost or stolen in the United States every single year.
A dog gate can help ensure dogs remain safely contained, but that’s not their only use. Gates can also make your life easier, protect your home, or separate pets from company or visitors. However, not all dog gates are created equal, so we pulled together a list of our favorites.
Our Top Dog Gates
All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the Vetstreet editorial team and do not reflect a direct endorsement by the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.
- Best Overall: Richell 3-in-1 Convertible Elite Pet Gate
- Best Retractable: Retract-A-Gate Safety Gate
- Best for Stairs: PetMaker Wooden Pet-Gate
- Best Dog Gate With a Door: EveryYay In The Zone Arched Walk-Through Pet Gate
- Best Extra Wide Gate: Cumbor Extra Wide Pet Gate
- Best Affordable Extra Wide Gate: Regalo Easy Step Extra Wide Walk Through Gate
- Best for Large Dogs: Internet’s Best Traditional Pet Gate
- Best Pressure Mounted Gate: Carlson Walk Through Pet Gate With Small Pet Door
- Best Portable Dog Gate: MYPET North States Paws Portable Pet Gate
- Best Outdoor Dog Gate: Richell 6-Panel Convertible Indoor/Outdoor Playpen
- Best Wooden Gate: Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate
11 Best Dog Gates for Every Need
Overall Winner
Our pick: Richell 3-in-1 Convertible Elite Pet Gate
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | 4-panel (91.7 x 31.5 inches), 6-panel (135.8 x 31.5 inches) |
| Weight | 49.5 pounds |
| Materials | Wood |
| Colors Available | Autumn Matte |
| Expandable | Yes |
As puppies grow and dogs evolve, so does the Richell 3-in-1 Convertible Elite Pet Gate. Recommended for small and large dogs up to 44 pounds, the four-panel hardwood gate easily converts to a room divider or a dog playpen. The lockable door allows free movement from room to room without having to move the entire unit. Each panel locks in place at 90-degree and 180-degree angles using a specially designed cap.
Highlights
- Attractive, stable, and easy to use.
- Works well for large openings.
- Converts to pet pen and room divider as well as a dog gate.
- Perfect for a small to medium-sized dog.
- Looks like high-end furniture.
Things to Consider
- Higher price point.
- Not designed for dogs over 44 pounds.
- Some say pins that hold the panels together are difficult to remove if you wish to take a panel away.
Sample buyer review: “While not cheap, I decided to spring for this fencing/gate apparatus. It immediately has solved for my needs. It matches the flooring nicely, has a convenient gate, and is heavy duty enough to not only serve its primary purpose, but to also not look like cheap junk”
Best Retractable Dog Gate
Our pick: Retract-A-Gate Safety Gate
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | 52-inch (52 x 34 inches), 72-inch (72 x 34 inches) |
| Weight | 4.1 pounds |
| Materials | Mesh |
| Colors Available | Black, Cafe, White |
| Expandable | Yes |
A retractable dog gate is a great option for a low-profile gate that practically disappears when opened. The Retract-A-Gate Safety Gate is wide enough for most spaces and has a convenient opening mechanism. The ease of opening and ability to operate this retractable dog gate with one hand puts it high on our list. Bonus points for the low profile that is sturdy and stylish to fit into any home or apartment décor.
Highlights
- Certified for use at both top and bottom of the stairs by JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association).
- Scratch-resistant mesh for use with dogs and cats.
- Tough, washable, see-through fabric.
- Quiet one-hand operation when opening or closing.
- Available in 52” or 72” wide.
- Not bulky.
Things to Consider
- Higher price point.
- Does not include wall anchors and spacers.
- Larger dogs may be able to climb over it.
Sample buyer review: “This gate is the best! My son AND my dog are very rough with the gate. Holds up when they try and climb. Very durable.”
Best Dog Gate For Stairs
Our pick: PetMaker Wooden Pet-Gate
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | 3-panel (54 x 24 inches), 4-panel (72 x 24 inches) |
| Weight | 7.47 pounds |
| Materials | Wood, Metal |
| Colors Available | Brown, Mahogany, White |
| Expandable | No |
This wooden gate helps restrict access at the bottom or top of stairs or any other area in the home. The PetMaker dog gate for stairs does not require installation, hardware, or drilling. Lightweight and sturdy but effective, this pet gate is 54” x 24”.
Highlights
- Accordion-style for easy set up and moving.
- Attractive alternative to plastic pet gates.
- No latches to hook.
- Affordable and many 5-star ratings.
Things to Consider
- Smarter, savvier dogs may try to push this gate over.
- Lightweight.
Sample buyer review: “I wanted to keep our little Beagle (weight 18 pounds) in the den so I blocked off the hall doorway to the bedrooms. It is the best thing since sliced bread! Love this little gate – it’s lightweight, easy to fold and unfold, and best of all, my dog doesn’t even go near it.”
Best Dog Gate With A Door
Our pick: EveryYay In The Zone Arched Walk-Through Pet Gate
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | 29″-43.5″ L X 30″ H |
| Weight | N/A |
| Materials | Metal |
| Colors Available | Brushed bronze |
| Expandable | Yes |
Designed to keep your dog where you want her, the EveryYay In The Zone gate is made with sturdy steel and finished in a brushed bronze hue. This pressure-mounted expandable gate has an auto-locking main door with a smaller door to allow cats or little pups to pass through, helping to ensure larger canine escape artists stay put while letting you easily walk in and out as needed.
Highlights
- Arched design.
- 6.5″ x 10.25″ door allows smaller dogs to come and go.
- Auto-locking main door.
- Adjustable width.
- Pressure mounted.
Things to Consider
- One pet parent said their 45 lb dog was able to fit through the smaller door.
Sample buyer review: “Great gate! Has definitely served its purpose and blends into the space where it is located.”
Best Extra Wide Dog Gate
Our pick: Cumbor Extra Wide Pet Gate
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | 29.5 – 46 x 30.5 inches |
| Weight | 13.5 pounds |
| Materials | Metal |
| Colors Available | Black, Brown, Gray, White |
| Expandable | Yes |
Sometimes, a wider dog gate is needed depending on the opening or space in which it will be placed. For pet parents with a 40” opening to block off, the Cumbor Extra Wide Pet Gate is a worthy choice. It comes with multiple extensions to fit in many different doorways, and the built-in gate swings both ways.
Highlights
- Many pet parents rejoice at the ease of installation.
- Wide enough to walk through if carrying groceries or kids indoors.
- Gate automatically closes after a push of 90 degrees, but stays open past 90 degrees.
- Install with four wall cups (included) to fasten the bolts against the wall more firmly.
- Ergonomic design for fast and smooth opening.
Things to Consider
- Pressure mount defends up to 210 pounds.
- Made of metal.
- Some say the extensions are cumbersome to install.
- Some say when cups were removed from the wall, they caused some paint removal.
Sample buyer review: “I just needed a barrier to “remind” a dog that he can’t go into our bedroom and didn’t want the inconvenience of either stepping over a barrier or having to remove and replace the expandable type. This swing open gate is perfect and the option of a pressure installation meant it was both easy to install and non-destructive to the door frame.”
Best Affordable Extra Wide Dog Gate
Our Pick: Regalo Easy Step Extra Wide Walk Through Gate
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | 29 – 38.5 x 30 inches |
| Weight | 13 pounds |
| Materials | Metal |
| Colors Available | White |
| Expandable | Yes |
Extra-wide dog gates can be expensive, but this nicely priced option from Regalo comes in under $50 and still fits openings up to 38.5 inches wide. It’s adjustable and comes with a 6-inch wide expansion kit, so it can be used in both narrower doorways or wider ones. The pass-through design makes it easy for pet parents to go in and out of rooms with ease, but the gate is tall and strong enough to keep dogs out.
Highlights
- Affordable price point under $50
- Certified to both JPMA and ASTM standards
- Can fit a variety of openings
- Includes different lock features—great for child-proofing, too
- Extra extension packs (sold separately) can be added for even larger openings
Things to Consider
- Not suitable for cats or very small dogs
- It’s on the short side, so not appropriate for dogs that can jump
- Not the easiest to open or close with one hand
Best Dog Gate For Large Dogs
Our pick: Internet’s Best Traditional Pet Gate
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | 24-inch 3-panel (60 x 24 inches), 24-inch 4-panel (80 x 24 inches), 36-inch 3-panel (60 x 36 inches), 36-inch 4-panel (80 x 36 inches) |
| Weight | 24-inch 3-panel = 15 pounds, 24-inch 4-panel = 19 pounds, 36-inch 3-panel = 20 pounds, 36-inch 4-panel = 29 pounds |
| Materials | Wood |
| Colors Available | Espresso, White |
| Expandable | Yes |
Available in two sizes and either 3- or 4-panel model, big dogs can have their own personal space thanks to the freestanding Internet’s Best Traditional Pet Gate. Constructed from durable, solid wood and available in 24- or 36-inch sizing, it’s perfect for entryways, bedrooms, staircases, hallways, and doorways.
Highlights
- Two sizes for a variety of bigger dogs.
- White finish or espresso finish to blend with décor.
- No drilling required.
- Designed to stand freely.
- Folds down to three inches for narrow areas and easy storage.
Things to Consider
- Sections only open in one direction.
- Some say carpet fibers get stuck in the gate.
- Heavyweight.
Sample buyer review: “I was very impressed with this gate. It is great quality. It is not a flimsy gate like most but has a good weight to it. Not easy for a dog to knock over. Can be placed in so many different areas.”
Best Pressure-Mounted Dog Gate
Our Pick: Carlson Walk Through Pet Gate With Small Pet Door
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | 29 – 36.5 x 30 inches, small-pet door = 8 x 8 inches |
| Weight | 9.85 pounds |
| Materials | Steel |
| Colors Available | White |
| Expandable | Yes |
If you don’t want to permanently fix a dog gate to your doorway or stairway, a pressure-mounted gate is the way to go. These gates use tension to hold everything in place and can be easily moved and stored away if necessary. This affordable option from Carlson is ideal because it doesn’t require any tools for installation and it’s gentle on your walls. It can fit wide entryways up to 36.5 inches and offers both a swing door for humans and a small pet door for cats or other small animals.
Highlights
- Steel construction makes this a durable option
- No tools needed and easy assembly
- Won’t damage walls or molding
- Includes an extension pack for wide doorways
- Affordable price point
Things to Consider
- The swing door is on the narrow side
- Only one color (white) available
- The small-pet door is a bit large, so may not work to keep small dogs (or babies) out
Best Portable Dog Gate
Our Pick: MYPET North States Paws Portable Pet Gate
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | 26 – 40 x 23 inches |
| Weight | 6 pounds |
| Materials | Plastic |
| Colors Available | Fieldstone, Light Gray |
| Expandable | Yes |
If you’re searching for a dog gate that is portable and easy to move, then look no further than this option from MYPET. This made-in-the-USA, plastic gate is light enough to move around your home, but strong enough to hold in place and keep pets out. There are a couple of features that make this one of our top picks. First, it features rubber bumpers so it won’t damage walls. Second, the bumpers are positioned higher than other gates, which can accommodate molding up to 4 inches. And lastly, there is an adorable paw-print design cut into the gate. How cute is that?
Highlights
- Portable and easy to move around your home
- A good option for traveling
- Rubber bumpers won’t damage walls
- Great design
- Affordable price point
Things to Consider
- Plastic may not be strong enough for heavy chewers
- Only stands 23 inches tall, which may not work for larger dogs
- May not be strong enough for determined dogs
Best Outdoor Dog Gate
Our Pick: Richell 6-Panel Convertible Indoor/Outdoor Playpen
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | 4-panel (63.8 x 36 inches), 6-panel (127.6 x 36 inches) |
| Weight | 4-panel = 26.9 pounds, 6-panel = 39.8 pounds |
| Materials | Plastic |
| Colors Available | Brown |
| Expandable | No (panels can be added or taken away to change size) |
Not your ordinary outdoor dog gate, this multi-functional playpen is three products in one and can be used safely indoors or outdoors. It converts into a pet gate and room divider so dogs are safely confined indoors or to a full playpen in larger outdoor areas. Easy to clean and easy to assemble, Richell gets high marks for this one.
Highlights
- Caps lock the panels in place at 90, 120, and 180-degree angles for extra stability.
- Lockable gate door for extra security.
- Durable blow-molded plastic construction.
- Panel designed for various sizing configurations.
- Gate door allows you to move the unit freely without heavy shuffling.
Things to Consider
- More expensive than some but it’s a nice three-in-one option.
- H6 model is designed for dogs up to 88 pounds.
- No color choice.
Sample buyer review: “Love this gate. It’s so easy to move around and disassemble, it’s sturdy, easy to clean and works perfectly. Ordering another one now for the other room.”
Best Wooden Dog Gate
Our pick: Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxH) | Small (26.4 – 40.2 x 20.1 inches), Large (39.8 – 71.3 x 20.1 inches) |
| Weight | Small = 11.9 pounds, Large = 15.98 pounds |
| Materials | Wood |
| Colors Available | Autumn Matte, Origami White |
| Expandable | Yes |
The wooden freestanding dog gate from Richell is low enough for dog parents to step over but secure enough to contain smaller-sized dogs. No installation is necessary with this wooden dog gate, as the width is adjustable from 39.8 inches to 71.3 inches.
Highlights
- Beautiful hardwood finish available in brown or white.
- Allows for easy placement anywhere in the home.
- Side panels fold in for easy storage and transport and keep the dog gate from tipping over.
- Rubber feet prevent sliding and protect floor surfaces.
- Available in two sizes: large for doorway or hallway openings 39.8 to 71.3 wide and small for doorway or hallway openings 26.4 to 40.2 wide.
Things to Consider
- Additional panels not available for purchase.
- Not designed for larger dogs.
- Toddlers may be strong enough to push the gate over.
- Some assembly required.
Sample buyer review: “I was tired of buying doggie gates that were cheap and poorly made. They didn’t last long and didn’t look good enough to put in the front of my house. I was pleased to find that this free-standing gate looks really good in the archway between my dining room and the living area, and it is perfect to keep my three little doggies where they should be.”
How We Ranked Our Top Dog Gates
When selecting the dog gates on our list, we looked at a variety of features including:
- Safety features
- Ease of assembly
- Functionality
- Ability to stand the test of time
- Online availability
- Buyer ratings and reviews
We also considered price point to be an important feature for pet parents, so while some of the dog gates listed are more expensive, most are affordably priced.
Dog Gate Buying Guide
A quick search of “dog gates” online reveals millions of results (over 200 million to be exact), so we took the guesswork out of selecting the best dog gates for every need.
Consult this buying guide to find the right gate for your dog.
Reasons You Might Need A Dog Gate
Whether you are trying to keep a new puppy from getting into trouble or blocking off access to a room or staircase, a well-constructed dog gate is essential. Here are some reasons you may want to consider purchasing a dog gate.
Pet safety. Keep dogs away from doors or dangerous areas of the home with a dog gate. They also come in handy for new puppies, who you may want to keep out of certain spots in the home. Senior dogs with arthritic joints can easily tumble down stairs, which is another reason a quality dog gate comes in handy.
Cleaning: Are you mopping the floors and waiting for them to dry? Are you cleaning with products you want to keep away from the dog? Is the vacuum too intense for your pup? A dog gate can block your pet off from areas of the home while you clean in peace.
Pet introductions. If you are planning on bringing home a new puppy, dog, or feline friend, a dog gate can help keep pets safely separated while they get acquainted.
Guest comfort and safety. If you plan on having visitors, a dog gate can keep pups from jumping up on your visitors or begging for food during dinner parties. This is also helpful if you are having home repairs done or workers are coming in and out of your residence. Gates will help keep your dog and your guests safe.
Limiting activity. Dogs who are recovering from surgery or broken bones may need to limit their activity, and gating them in one room may prove helpful. When my Cocker Spaniel had ligament surgery, a retractable dog gate kept him safely contained to my home office.
Types of Dog Gates
There are several different types of pet gates available, so it’s important that you choose one that fits your dog’s personality and your lifestyle. The most common types of gates include the following:
Freestanding Dog Gates: These gates stand on their own and are not attaches or affixed to the wall or a stairway. These gates can be maneuvered to different places in your home and won’t cause damage to walls. While freestanding gates are a great option for calm or small dogs, bigger or rambunctious dogs may be able to knock them over.
Hinged Dog Gates: Hinged dog gates tend to be freestanding, but they have sections that hinge together. This allows the gates to be bent and folded in different configurations. Some of these dog gates can turn into playpens to help keep dogs contained in an open space or outdoors. They are easy to fold for simple storage.
Adjustable-Tension Dog Gates: Tension dog gates don’t attach directly to the wall, but they apply pressure to the wall or opening to tighten and stabilize the gate. These gates can be a little more complicated to install because the tension needs to correct in order for the gates to stay upright and strong. Tension gates won’t damage walls.
Pass-Through Dog Gates: Pass-through, or walk-through, dog gates are usually adjustable tension gates that feature a swinging door. This allows pet parents to pass through the gate easily. These types of gates are a great option if you have larger dogs and want to block off an area that you access frequently.
Choosing a Dog Gate: What to Look For
When choosing a dog gate, some of the key things to keep in mind are:
- Where will the dog gate be used?
- What is the size of the dog or dogs to be contained by the gate?
- What height and width are needed?
- What material is preferred?
- Will the dog gate be used outside and for travel?
- How easy is the dog gate able to be set up and take down?
- What aesthetic is preferred (i.e., metal, wood, plastic, etc).
- Durability of construction.
Dog Gate FAQs
Where can I buy dog gates?
Dog gates are widely available at brick-and-mortar pet retail stores and at online retailers. If you shop online for a dog gate, you’ll have a wider selection to choose from and are more likely to find something that fits the dimensions you need. Some baby gates also double as pet gates, so you may be able to find gates available at baby product retailers, too.
How to install a dog gate?
Installation of a dog gate will depend on the type of gate you decide to purchase. Freestanding dog gates are simple to set up and put in place. Adjustable tension dog gates need to be calibrated to the correct width and may come with expansion packs to help push the gate against the walls or openings. Other dog gates can be physically attached to a wall or staircase using screws or other fixtures. Read all of the manufacturer’s instructions when installing a dog gate at home.
How tall should a dog gate be?
The height of a dog gate will depend on the size and determination of your dog, as well as how you plan to use the gate in your home. For larger dogs (or dogs that like to jump), look for a gate that is between 36-40 inches tall. For smaller dog breeds, a gate height of 30-35 inches should suffice. If you have a smaller dog and want to be able to step over the gate to go in and out of the room, look for a dog gate with a height of around 20 inches.
What dog gate is best for chewers?
If your dog is a heavy chewer, consider purchasing a dog gate that is made from steel or metal. Steel is sturdy enough to stand up to a dog’s chewing habits. Plastic and wood are not the best options for dogs that like to chew and could be dangerous for your pup.
