Pets bring us love and joy each and every day. Keeping them safe is an essential task. This is especially true for pet parents that work outside the home.
The purchase and use of a new dog gate system can keep your pet safely in appropriate areas while keeping them away from dangers such as the kitchen stove or from chewing up your toddler’s toys.
Finding the best dog gate system may seem like a thankless chore. There are hundreds of pet gate systems available for purchase, each with excellent qualities and helpful features.
BEST CHOICE
PRIMETIME PETZ 360Ëš Configurable
Best Dog Gate in Our Rating
- Different sizes for different growth of your pets
- Classic design for any interior
- Rubber pads protect the gate from slipping
- Easy to install and does not require a lot of storage space
Selecting the Best Dog Gates in November, 2024
| Product | Dimensions | Weight | Brand | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (Editor’s Choice) Primetime Petz 360  | 88 x 0.8 x 36 inches | 22 pounds | Primetime Petz | Check Price |
Freestanding Wood Pet Gate | 66 x 0.8 x 32 inches | 12.5 pounds | WELLAND | Check Price |
| (Editor’s Choice) Richell Convertible Elite  | 197.5 x 0.8 x 31.5 inches | 49.5 pounds | Richell | Check Price |
Standing Wood Dog Gate | 80 x 2 x 31.5 inches | 32.3 pounds | Arf Pets | Check Price |
Richell Wood Freestanding | 39.8 x 17.7 x 20.1 inches | 15.98 pounds | Richell | Check Price |
Internet's Best Traditional | 39.9 x 22.2 x 4.8 inches | 21 pounds | Internet's Best | Check Price |
Richell Pet Sitter Gate | 28.3 x 2 x 20.9 inches | 16 pounds | Richell | Check Price |
Carlson Pet Products | 37.5 x 1 x 28 inches | 12 pounds | Carlson Pet Products | Check Price |
Carlson 76 Inch Wide | 30 x 2 x 30 inches | 14.85 pounds | Carlson | Check Price |
Carlson Extra Tall Metal | 41.7 x 1 x 31.9 inches | 9 pounds | Carlson Pet Products | Check Price |
1. Primetime Petz 360 Configurable Dog Gate : Best All-Around Pet Gate System
The Primetime Petz 360 Configurable Dog Gate earned high marks from our testing team members thanks to some terrific design attributes. The gate consists of four wood panels that have been finished with a lovely and rich walnut shade.
We also loved having a two-way swinging door which provides fast and easy access to our pets without having to do the awkward leg swing over the gate.
The Primetime Petz 360 Configurable Dog Gate includes rubber pads that ensure your new gate will not slip or scratch up floors.
- Beautiful walnut wood finish
- Can be placed in many areas and is simple to customize and configure
- Very lightweight and durable
- The swinging door allows you to move easily through the gate
- Somewhat expensive but well worth the cost
2. Welland Freestanding Wood Pet Gate : Most Aesthetically Pleasing Pet Gate Option for Kitchens
The Welland Freestanding Wood Pet Gate is a beautiful choice. The system is crafted from wood and is a gorgeous white color that blends into kitchens and any other room seamlessly.
This gate system consists of three panels and has a walk-through door to allow you to easily move from one area to another without the need to hop over the gate.
The Welland Freestanding Wood Pet Gate is 32 inches in height when assembled and can stretch out to 66 inches.
- Beautiful white wooden option
- Perfect for use in kitchens
- Walk-through door for easy access
- Includes two feet to prevent movement or scratching
- This option may not work as well for very large breeds as they may be able to over power it
3. Richell Three in One Convertible Elite Pet Gate : Most Versatile Pet Gate System
The Richell Three in One Convertible Elite Pet Gate is like having three separate dog gate systems all rolled into one! The system can be used as a free-standing enclosure, a mounted gate system, or a pet pen.
This system earned high marks from our testing team thanks to its versatility and terrific performance.
The Richell Three in One Convertible Elite Pet Gate can be folded down when not in use for simplified and space saving storage.
- Extremely well-made and durable
- Cap locks allow you to customize the angle at which the panels are placed
- Very versatile
- Awesome for folks that travel with their pets often
- This pet gate system is expensive, but well worth the monetary investment
4. Arf Pets Free Standing Wood Dog Gate : Best Pet Gate System for Stronger and Larger Breeds
The Arf Pets Free Standing Wood Dog Gate puts in double duty as it works as both a freestanding gate and a puppy playpen. Our testing team loved the cute bone cut out detailing along the top of the gate system.
This option would be perfect for a pet lover or a pet-centered business such as a groomer or pet store.
The Arf Pets Free Standing Wood Dog Gate is very durable and strong. It held up extremely well when used with larger breeds including Rottweilers and Malamutes.
- The versatile system works as a freestanding gate or pen enclosure
- Very durable and strong
- Terrific price point
- Beautiful wood with cute bone cut-out detailing
- We loved using this system so much that we did not observe any negative aspects
5. Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate : Best for Older or Less Active Pets
The Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate is a freestanding gate system that has side panels that help to confine pets to specific areas.
Our testing team loved that they did not need to stress over installation or difficult assembly steps. This offering works best for pets that less than 18 pounds.
The Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate does not completely prevent pets from leaving their sequestered area.
- No installation
- Easy to assemble and use
- Great for apartments or hotels
- Moderate price point
- If you have a larger dog, they might be apt to simply push through it
- Does not attach to frames or walls and only has one side
6. Internet’s Best Traditional Dog Gate : Best option for Homes that are at Least Two Stories
The Internet’s Best Traditional Dog Gate offers a lovely choice for individuals with both upstairs and downstairs areas in their home or business. This system works perfectly to block stairs from curious pups or kitties.
Our testing team loved the beautiful panels that are composed of wood and is available in several finishes.
The Internet’s Best Traditional Dog Gate arrives with four panels that are secured with wire hinges.
- Perfect for deterring pets from stairs
- Gorgeous wooden panels
- Collapses down for easy storage
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Bigger breeds can push past it
7. Richell Pet Sitter Gate : Best Budget Priced Pet Gate System
The Richell Pet Sitter Gate is an easily adjusted pet gate system. The system fits into doorways to safely confine your furry friends. It fits doorways from 28 to 41 inches in width.
Our testing team was surprised at how simple this option is to assemble and install.
The Richell Pet Sitter Gate has a cute, little door that lets pets pass through as needed.
- Great price
- Easy to install and assemble
- Rubber bottom prevents slipping
- Little pet door to allow pets to move in and out if needed
- Smaller pets can squeeze through the gate
8. Carlson Pet Products Design Studio Walk Through Pet Gate : Easiest Gate System to Install and Assemble
The Carlson Pet Products Design Studio Walk Through Pet Gate is one of the easiest gate systems to assemble and install. This is a wonderful feature for individuals with arthritis or mobility concerns.
The gate system is also as easy on the eyes as it is on your wallet, which is a definite plus. The gate expands to fit doorways from 30 to 37 inches as needed.
The Carlson Pet Products Design Studio Walk Through Pet Gate was also a favorite among our pets. We love it for pets that can’t decide if they want in or out thanks to a dedicated pet door.
- Extremely easy to set up
- Small door for indecisive pets
- Terrific price point
- Attaches to doorways
- Durable and attractive
- We liked this option so much that we were hard pressed to find any negative qualities
9. Carlson 76 Inch Wide Flexi Configurable Pet Gate System : Terrific Inexpensive Gate System Option
The Carlson 76 Inch Wide Flexi Configurable Pet Gate System consists of three panels. The panels are easily adjusted to fit in areas up to 76 inches in width. The gate reaches up to 30.5 inches in height, making it an excellent option for larger breeds.
Our testing team loved that this gate system includes a walk-through door with a safety locking feature, so it works well with both pets and children.
The Carlson 76 Inch Wide Flexi Configurable Pet Gate System folds up fast for storage when not in use.
- Terrific price point
- Wall mounted system that actually includes the needed mounting hardware
- A very pretty gate system
- Easy to clean and care for
- Some team members had difficulty with latching and unlatching the safety gate feature to walk through
10. Carlson Extra Tall Metal Expandable Pet Gate : Best for Pet Parents on a Budget
The Carlson Extra Tall Metal Expandable Pet Gate has an amazing price point. But do not let its budget status deter you, as this gate is very well made and extremely durable.
Our testing team loved using this option to keep pets away from stairs as well as for use in bedroom doorways.
The Carlson Extra Tall Metal Expandable Pet Gate expands from26 inches to 42 inches.
- Terrific price point
- Perfect for smaller homes
- Durable
- Small pet door for little pets to move around
- Easy to clean and maintain
- This gate may not be appropriate for individuals with mobility issues as you will need to swing a leg over to get through it as there is no swinging door
The Best Dog Gate – Buyer’s Guide
Finding the best dog gate for you and your pet’s needs can seem overwhelming. With so many options available that each boasts new features and specs, finding the right gate system is frustrating. You may wonder if you can just measure the predetermined area and buy one that fits. Unfortunately, listings and product info can be misleading, and you might wind up with a completely useless gate for your space.
While testing the top ten pet gate systems, we gained a ton of new knowledge. We now want to pass that information on to you so that you can make an informed decision. Let’s get started!
Do I Really Need a Dog Gate System?
When I first tried to find a gate for my dog back when I was in college, I could only find baby gates meant for small children. The gates did not fit well and fell down constantly leaving my frustrated while my dog enjoyed knocking it down and eating my houseplants. She even learned how to climb the gate and escape.
As technology advanced, new strides were made towards creating gate systems that are safer for pets and people too. If you are concerned about a pet getting into things or making messes, a pet gate system is a terrific solution. Many have special features that make them easier to set up and use. At the end of the day, keeping our pets and our family safe is always our top priority, making pet gates a must-have for animal owners and lovers.
Key Considerations for Purchasing a New Dog Gate System
Let’s take a closer look at some imperative points to ponder when considering which dog gate system to purchase.
- Sizing: It is extremely helpful to think about the area where you want to place the gate system. You will also need to consider the size of your pets. Are they smaller dogs? Larger breeds? The gate needs to be tall enough to keep pets in, while keeping toddlers or kids out if needed.
- The Houdini Effect: Do you have an especially smart dog? One testing team member has an older pet Pomeranian that is almost as talented at escapes as Houdini himself. If your four-legged friend is intelligent and motivated to escape, you will need to buy a gate system that has added security measures.
- Own or Rent: Do you live in an apartment you rent or your own place? If you live in an apartment temporarily, you will want to choose a pet gate system that is easily moved. If you own your home, you can select a more permanent gate system solution.
- Aesthetics: No one wants to stare at an ugly gate system. Select one that blends in or compliments your current home decor scheme to prevent any eyesores.
What are the Different Types of Dog Gate Systems?
There are thousands of versions f pet gate systems currently available on the market. There are several distinct categories they fit into. Let’s examine the different types of pet gates and their unique attributes.
Pressure Mounted Pet Gate Systems:
Pressure mounted dog gate systems allow you to place the gate in between two walls or within a door frame. The gate stays in place thanks to a pressure system. There are small coils inside that create tension to hold it in place.
This is one of the easier systems to install and will not require you to drill or disturb any walls or surfaces permanently. This version is also easier to move, making it perfect for renters of apartments or condos, for example. On the downside, if you have a pet that is highly active or motivated to escape, it is somewhat easy to knock the gate over.
Hard Mounted Pet Gate Systems:
Hard mounted dog gate systems are “permanently” attached to your walls or door frame. They can be uninstalled and moved if needed but may leave holes behind that will need to be filled with putty and painted over. You will need to use a stud finder to ensure that you attach it properly to avoid accidents or injuries.
Hard mounted gates tend to get a bad reputation due to the fact that they are not as easily moved or mobile as their tension mounted counterpart. If you have very active dogs, this is your best option. This option also costs more than tension mounted gates but are also more durable and sturdier, making them a smart choice for larger, stronger breeds like Boxers or Pit Bulls. They also work wonderfully for children as well.
Free Standing Pet Gate Systems:
Free standing dog gate systems are another popular option for keeping pets safe. This type of gate has at least four sides or gates that attach to one another. Your pups can play safely inside, and you can move the system easily. Freestanding pet gate systems are perfect for taking puppies outside to play or for bringing along on vacation. We have used our several times on family trips.
A freestanding systems stands up alone but can be placed next to a wall for added support and safety. They are less secure than the other versions though. Larger dogs can push it around quite easily and may even knock it over completely.
Material Matters
It is also important to consider the material that your new dog gate system is composed of. Here is a closer examination of the good and bad qualities of the most commonly used materials in making pet gate systems.
Wooden Pet Gate Systems:
Wooden gates have surged in popularity in recent years, perhaps thanks to the recent boom in farmhouse and vintage décor styles. Wooden gates are sturdy and are far more beautiful to look at that plastic or metal. This material is also long lasting and very durable. Wooden gates can be a tad problematic if you have a male dog that likes to mark his territory as wood that hasn’t been properly finished or varnished is quite porous, and urine could seep in.
Metal Pet Gate Systems:
Dog gate systems that are crafted from metal are usually made from iron, steel, or wrought iron. These gates usually have long vertical metal poles or slats attached to a top and bottom frame. The metal bars are typically slender in diameter and have little gaps in between.
If you have smaller breeds like Pomeranians, Yorkies, or Chihuahuas, this may not be the best solution. Smaller dogs can easily slide through the spaces in between the metal rods. These gates are also easier for children to climb over.
Plastic Pet Gate Systems:
There are many options available that have been created from plastic materials. Plastic is lightweight and easier to clean, making this a good choice for puppies and dogs that like to pee to mark their territory. Plastic is also easier to move than wooden or metal gate systems. It’s also easier for teething puppies to gnaw on which can lead to issues.
Finding the best dog gate system for you and your furry friends can seem like an arduous chore. With hundreds of options, finding the best pet gate takes time and research. Keeping your pets needs, your budget, and the predetermined area for placement in mind will make shopping for a new gate much more straightforward.
We hope that our top ten dog gate reviews and our buyer’s guide were helpful to you today. Hearing from our readers always brings us a smile. Please leave us a comment down below with your favorite gates and any installation tips that you would like to share with us.
I took Welland Freestanding Wood Pet Gate only because of their design, they suit my bedroom perfectly. So I didn’t have any problems with these gates, my dog understands well that she shouldn’t enter my room when she sees them.
It’s great that no installation is required when we speak about Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate. These dog gates changed my life a lot, now my room is saved from dirty paths of my dog which makes me happy.
Before last week I’ve never found any dog gates which could really stop my dog from visiting some prohibited rooms. But after visiting this website I’ve ordered a new product and I really hope it’ll do its work best.
We have a little family hotel, and buying good dog gates was necessary. Our choice is Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate, and I can really recommend them. They worth their price and are easy to assemble.
However Arf Pets Free Standing Wood Dog Gate costs cheap, I bought it with a little discount, which makes me 2 times happier. The gates are really great, and I recommend them for all dog owners as I understand how difficult it can be to find the right option on the market.
I’m happy that more and more dog gates appear on the market. They become more beautiful, safe and suitable for any type of interior. I was shocked to find so many interesting options on this site so now I don’t really know which one to buy as I like all of them.
My dog is very stressed out about the last gates we bought. That’s why when we weren’t at home he completely destroyed them. So now I’m searching for a more durable option. Wish me luck with that!
Freestanding Wood Pet Gate is the best gates because of their design. They suit our apartment so well, so I can’t change them to any other option. I recommend it a lot!
If you decide to buy wooden gates, then think in advance how to protect the wood. For example, wax or vaseline would be a suitable method. Your dog will not notice the wood because the wax will block the smell. So, the dog is unlikely to mark the territory near the gates.
I completely agree with your testing team, because I bought The Primetime Petz 360 Configurable Dog Gate and have never regretted it. it fully justifies its price
In general, I don’t like to limit the space of my adorable pets. But if we talk about their safety and comfort at the same time, then I think the Richell Three in One Convertible Elite Pet Gate is just what you need. It easily changes its shape and resembles the playpen for little children, safe and comfortable
I got PrimeTime gate because I run a dog vacay business and sometimes need to separate dogs. This does a good job blocking a space up to 60 inches wide, I definitely recommend getting the feet made for them to keep the gate sturdy.
If you have a dog that paws at gates or jumps, this will get knocked over, it is more to just be a reminder of a barrier. I also use this to keep my dog from jumping on people as they come in the front door. It’s actual for any gates I guess
Perfect – Richell Wood Freestanding doggie gate is perfect. I think with any gate that doesn’t latch, if you have large dogs, you should expect that if your dogs try and move the gate, they will.
I have a chihuahua and a pit/lab mix and neither one of them try and move it. The Richell Wood Freestanding gate has little rubber pegs on the bottom that grip the hardwood floors pretty well – well enough that my 3 year old had a hard time sliding the gate around to get through the door way.
Carlson Pet Products gate has solved my problems completely although said dog sulked for days when he realized his mischievous ways have been thwarted.i am very pleased with this product.
What about Carlson Pet Products, it’s good value for money. Hopefully it continues to work well and keep the dogs downstairs I’ve purchased four dog gates previously & this is the best one I’ve bought.
So happy with this purchase of Richell gate. It’s easy to step over but prevents the small dog (12 lbs Chihuahua-Pomeranian) from going into a room we don’t want him in. He could probably jump over if he really wanted to, but he’s never bothered. He sees a barrier and accepts it. Might not work for a jumper.
What’s great about Richell gate over our previous gate is how adjustable it is for door width and how each foot is individually adjustable. We’re in an older house so the doorway isn’t 100% straight – no problem with this gate.
Absolutely loved it! Richell gate worked perfectly for building an in-room kennel for my new miniature pinscher puppy. It is beautiful and was super easy to assemble. All tools and parts are included. There is a good bit of space between the wall and the gate that I hope my puppy doesn’t squeeze through (I wont get her until next week so I don’t know for sure yet), but the space could be easily filled or blocked.