Dogs and cats are part of the family. And like any other family member, we want to ensure they are safe and secure.
That’s why a pet gate is such an essential addition to your home. It keeps your pets safe from getting into trouble and gives you peace of mind knowing that they can’t escape when you’re not around.
Choosing the right dog gate can be daunting for pet parents. With so many different styles and sizes, it can take time to narrow down your choices.
I ranked and reviewed the seven best pet gates for your furry friends on the market today in this guide. Then, we’ll discuss each dog gate’s features and benefits, so you can decide which is right for you and your furry friends!
Best Overall
Regalo
Regalo pet gate stands 30 inches tall and includes a 6-inch wide extension kit and four pressure mount spindle rods. In addition, it is certified to JPMA and ASTM standards and includes multiple safety-lock features.
Best For Large Dogs
Cumbor
Cumbor pet gate can withstand up to 150 pounds of impact without budging at all. So pet parents with large-size dog breeds don’t need to worry about the gate being pushed down and hurting their pets.
Best Automatic Close
Safety 1st
The Safety 1st Pet Gate can be pressure-mounted in a snap, so you don’t have to break out the drill for installation. It features a pressure indicator that lets you know when it’s time to readjust the pressure mount.
Best Hold-Open
BalanceFrom
BalanceFrom Easy Walk-Thru Safety Gate is a pressure-mounted gate that can be placed anywhere in your home. It has a hold-open feature that allows you to walk through the gate without removing it completely.
Best Walk-Through
Carlson Extra
The easy slide handle of the Carlson Extra Tall Walk Through Pet Gate makes it a cinch to open and close with one touch. The door also has a safety lock that prevents it from being opened by toddlers and pets.
What is a Pet Gate
A pet or dog gate is a device used to keep pets contained in a specific area. For example, pet gates keep dogs and cats out of places in the home where they are not supposed to be, such as the kitchen or bathroom.
Many pet gates are made of wood or metal and can be either free-standing or mounted to a wall. Pet gates come in various sizes and shapes, so choosing one that will fit your needs is important.
For example, if you have a small dog, you’ll want to choose a dog gate that is small enough to block your dog from getting through but not so small that your dog can easily jump over it.
Pet gates can be a great way to keep your pet safe and secure and possibly suffice as a training tool. For example, if you are potty training a puppy, you can use a dog gate to confine it to a specific area until it learns where to go.
Pet gates also keep cats from climbing into places where they shouldn’t be, such as on top of the fridge or bookcases.
So, if you’re looking for a way to keep your pet safe and secure or give them their own space, then a pet gate is a great option.
What Are the Best Pet Gates?
Here are my picks for the best pet gates for this year.
#1 Regalo Easy Step Pet gate
The Regalo Easy Step Pet gate is perfect for keeping babies and pets safe in a designated area. The gate is extra wide, ideal for larger openings, and can be adjusted to fit openings between 29-38.5 inches wide.
The gate also stands 30 inches tall and includes a 6-inch wide extension kit and four pressure mount spindle rods. In addition, it is certified to JPMA and ASTM standards and includes multiple safety-lock features.
One impressive thing about this Regalo Easy Step Pet gate is how it is very easy to use and set up. This explains why it’s a best-seller on Amazon.
It has a pressure-mounted design that can be quickly installed and taken down for storage. The all-steel design is durable and convenient, with a walk-through door feature and four wall cups for added security.
The Regalo Easy Step Pet Gate is perfect for doorway, hallway, and bottom-of-stairway use. It’s great for pets and children 6-24 months old – make sure not to exceed a maximum of 3 extensions when installing the pet or dog gate.
Key Features & Uses
- Includes multiple safety lock features.
- Certified to both JPMA and ASTM standards.
- Pressure mount design.
- Perfect for doorways, hallways, and the bottom of stairs.
- All-steel design with walk-through gate.
- The gate includes a 6″ wide extension.
- Adjustable – Includes 6-inch wide extension kit, four pressure mount spindle rods, four wall cups, and screws.
Cons
The gate is not adjustable to fit smaller openings and does not have a swinging door feature.
Final Verdict
The Regalo Easy Step Pet Gate provides an extra-wide size feature with adjustable options and extra safety features such as safety locks and wall cups. Plus, it’s quick and easy to install, making it an ideal choice for any pet owner.
#2 Cumbor Auto Close Safety Baby Gate
You want the safest gate possible to protect your child, but you don’t want something that will be a pain to install or use. Traditional baby or dog gates are difficult to install and can be a pain to use. They can also be dangerous if not installed properly.
The Cumbor Auto Close Safety Gate is the perfect solution. Installation is simple and can be done in 10 minutes without any help.
Additionally, it’s easier to use, and it’s incredibly safe. The large walk-through gate makes it easier than ever for parents to walk with their children, and the double-lock safety release ensures that your child & pets are safe from harm.
The gate is designed to fit openings from 29.5” to 46”, making it perfect for stairs, doorways, and large spaces. This steel-designed dog gate can withstand up to 150 pounds of impact without budging at all.
So pet parents with large dogs don’t need to worry about the gate being pushed down and hurting their pets and baby, making it great for a family with kids and pets.
Key Features & Uses
- 46″ Extra Wide Gate to fit stairs, kitchen, and doorway.
- Ergonomic Design Lock that is impossible for your child or pet to open.
- Auto-close Double lock – you don’t need to use your hands.
- It fits openings from 29.5 to 46 inches wide.
- Sturdy enough to work perfectly for your toddler and your pets.
- Pressure-mounted Dog Gate.
- Swinging Door Feature (180 Degrees)
- Height – 36 inches.
Cons
- It’s a bit expensive.
Final Verdict
When picking out a safety gate for my home, the Cumbor Auto-Close Safety Pet Gate is one of my top picks. Not only does it keep my kids safe from slipping downstairs or getting into the dog’s food, but it also has an automatic close feature that keeps my pooch from making a run for it every time the front door opens.
Plus, it comes in a stylish white finish that complements home décor perfectly. So if you’re looking for a safety gate that will keep your kids and pets safe and look good doing it, the Cumbor Auto Close Safety Pet Gate is the deal!
#3 Safety 1st Easy Install Baby and Pet Gate
Keeping your kiddo contained can be tough, especially if you’ve got a furry friend running around. But have no fear; the Safety 1st Easy Install Pet Gate is here!
This amazing contraption can be pressure-mounted in a snap, so you don’t have to break out the drill for installation. Plus, it features a pressure indicator that lets you know when it’s time to readjust.
Did you know that all pressure-mounted gates need to be re-tightened from time to time? This safety gate has an easy-to-read indicator that tells you when it’s time to do so. If the indicator turns red, readjust until it returns to green.
And if your hands are full (because, let’s face it, they always are), never fear! The one-hand release handle makes it a cinch to open and close the gate door, even when your arms are full.
But the best part of this gate? The automatic closing door. Just set it and forget it because this baby will close itself – talk about a lifesaver.
So if you’re looking for an easy way to keep your furry babies safe and sound (and away from Fido’s food), look no further than the Safety 1st Easy Install Baby & Pet Gate. It’ll be the best investment you ever make.
Key Features & Uses
- Customizable width – This safety gate adjusts to fit doorways and openings between 29 and 47 inches wide and is 36 inches high.
- Pressure Mounted Gate.
- Pressure Mount Indicator.
- Easy Installation.
- Automatic Closing Pet Door.
- One-Hand Release.
- 180 Degrees Swing Door.
Cons
- It needs to be re-tightened from time to time. The pressure indicator will tell you when it’s time, so it’s not a huge hassle but something to keep in mind.
#4 BalanceFrom Easy Walk-Thru Safety Pet Gate
Do you have a naughty pet or toddler who constantly tries to escape the confines of your home? If so, then you need the BalanceFrom Easy Walk-Thru Safety Gate.
This handy walk-through gate is designed to keep your little ones (and furry friends) safe and sound. And best of all, it’s super easy to install and use.
The BalanceFrom Easy Walk-Thru Safety Gate is a pressure-mounted gate that can be placed anywhere in your home. It has a hold-open feature that allows you to walk through the gate without removing it completely.
The gate also has an auto-close feature that will close the gate automatically after you’ve walked through. And if you have a particularly active pet or child, don’t worry – the safety latch can withstand even the most determined escape attempts.
The BalanceFrom Easy Walk-Thru Safety Gate is made from durable material. It’s also easy to clean – wipe it down with a damp cloth when needed.
Key Features & Uses
- Easy Installation – You don’t need any tools to put it together.
- Auto-close & Hold-open feature for your convenience.
- Made from Durable Steel.
- Pressure Mount Design.
- Easy to read assembly Instructions.
- It fits openings between 29.1 – 33.8 inches wide.
- The gate is 30 inches tall.
Cons
- No pressure mount indicator like the Safety 1st Easy Install Baby Pet Gate.
Final Verdict
If you’ve ever stepped on a toy in the middle of the night or nearly tripped over a furry friend who likes to lounge in doorways, you know how important it is to have a good dog gate.
The Safety 1st Easy Install Baby Pet Gate is one of the best on the market, thanks to its hold-open feature and walk-through door. The hold-open feature lets you keep the gate open while you’re coming and going.
The small pet door swings close automatically, so you don’t have to worry about your pets getting out. The walk-through door is also convenient, so you don’t have to remove the whole gate whenever you want to pass through.
Plus, it’s easy to install and use, which is always a bonus. All in all, it’s no surprise that the Safety 1st Easy Install Baby Pet Gate is one of the best pet gates on the market.
#5 Carlson Extra Wide Tall Walk-Through Pet Gate
The Carlson Extra Wide Tall Walk Through Pet Gate is a great way to keep your small pets safe and contained.
The easy slide handle of the Carlson Extra Tall Walk Through Pet Gate makes it a cinch to open and close with one touch. The door also has a safety lock that prevents it from being opened by toddlers and pets.
The gate can be wall mounted using the included hardware or placed on the floor using the included feet. This gate is made of high-quality materials designed for durability.
The vinyl-coated steel construction is strong enough to withstand repeated use, and the powder-coated finish resists scratches and fading. If you need a wider gate to accommodate wider spaces, you can buy additional extensions to a max of three (sold separately) to make the pet gate wider, up to 36.5 inches.
This feature is appealing because some of the other pet gates do not offer this option.
Key Features & Uses
- Expands to fit openings between 29 -36.5 inches wide.
- 36 inches tall.
- Easy slide handle.
- 8” x 8” door for small pets to pass through.
- Easy set-up with pressure mounts.
- 4” extension included.
- 100% made from a sturdy metal frame.
Cons
- A large jumpy pet could easily push the gate over.
Final Verdict
The Carlson Extra Tall Walk-Through Gates is a great way to keep your small pets safe and contained. Its small pet door and safety lock make it perfect for preventing accidents.
The best thing about this dog gate is that you can easily walk your pet through it. Just push the safety button and slide the handle.
#6 Pawland Wooden Freestanding Foldable Pet Gate (Best Freestanding)
The Pawland Wooden Freestanding Pet Gate is made from durable wood construction. This wooden dog gate features three or four panels that are foldable to create various configurations.
The variant with four panels is a few dollars more expensive. At just over two feet tall, it’s perfect for small dogs.
The height is adjustable by adding or removing panels. Plus, the included hardware makes it easy to attach the gate to any wall.
But that’s not all – this gate also features a removable door panel that allows you to easily pass through without having to remove the entire gate. And when you’re not using it, the door panel can be conveniently stored without taking up much space.
The Pawland Dog Gate is the perfect way to keep your furry friend safe and sound. Order yours today!
Key Features & Uses
- Sturdy wooden door frame and durable steel wire slats.
- Collapsible to fit within most doorways and hallways.
- Free Standing and Foldable.
- It needs no assembly to set up.
- Extra inches wide and 24 inches tall.
- Easy to set up and store after use.
- Perfect for small & medium dogs.
- It can be used in the bedroom, balcony, and kitchen.
- Size: open (72 x 0.75 x 31.2)” WxDxH.
Cons
- Not for large dogs.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for the best dog gate that doesn’t require any assembly and is easily moveable from one spot to the other, this is the deal for you.
This free-standing dog gate has extra wide panels to accommodate large openings, and it’s also lightweight so that it won’t take up much space in your house.
#7 EasyBaby Retractable Baby and Pet Gate (Best Retractable)
The EasyBaby retractable safety gate is a sturdy and durable mesh barrier. The gate retracts out of the way when not in use and is space efficient.
This Retractable dog gate works as both an infant gate and a dog gate, intended for children aged 6-24 months or small to medium pets.
It is a hardware-mounted gate and requires a 2.5mm pilot hole drill for a timber surface, and for a hard wall – drill a 5mm hole for installation.
Included is an additional set of spare mounting brackets for convenient relocation. This safety gate fits openings up 55″ wide (including into corners) with 33-inch tall walls- so you have plenty of space to walk through comfortably while preventing accidents before they happen.
The stainless steel screws included will help keep this retractable fence securely fastened onto whatever surface it’s fitted against, whether wood trim pieces on houses OR metal posts supporting porches.
Key Features & Uses
- Indoor and outdoor use.
- Retractable Gate- retracts out of the way when not in use.
- Perfect for doorways and stairs.
- The gate is hardware mounted.
- Used as both a dog gate and a baby gate.
- Included – spare mounting brackets.
Cons
- Not Pressure-Mounted.
Final Verdict
The EasyBaby Retractable Baby and Dog Gate is the perfect option if you’re looking for a versatile and retractable gate.
Not only does it work as a dog gate, but it’s also perfect for indoor and outdoor use. Plus, the included spare mounting brackets make it easy to relocate the gate if needed.
What To Look For in Choosing a Pet Gate To Buy
A pet gate is a must-have for keeping your furry friends safe and secure. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best for your pet and your home.
Here are some key factors to consider when searching for the perfect dog gate.
Height and Built-in Doors
When selecting the perfect pet or dog gate, look for a tall enough one to prevent your furry friend from jumping over it but not so tall that you have difficulty stepping over.
Furthermore, some models come with built-in doors for humans and smaller ones for small pets; this gives you greater control and flexibility in determining when your pet can enter or leave the room.
Durability
Once you’ve determined the size of your dog gate, it’s essential to consider durability. Steel and aluminum are typically considered the strongest materials for a dog gate – steel is robust but may be quite heavy, whereas aluminum offers strength in a more lightweight design.
Wooden or plastic gates may also be appropriate for smaller dogs requiring basic containment; however, they won’t offer as much protection against wear and tear over time as a metal gate frame.
Materials
The materials of your pet gate can greatly affect its appearance and overall aesthetic. If you plan to place the gate in a prominent area, you may wish for it to seamlessly complement your home’s decor.
Wooden and steel gates are ideal for creating an elegant look, while plastic or aluminum can have more of a noticeable impact on the room’s design.
Easy Installation
When it comes to installing your dog gate, there are three main types. Pressure-mounted gates do not require drilling and can be wedged into place; however, they cannot section off an entire room without something else to hold them in position.
Hardware-mounted gates use screws for installation and are more dependable than those that must press against the walls – perfect for stairways! Lastly, freestanding gates stand handily on their own feet but lack the durability of pressure or a hardware-mounted gate.
Size of Pets
When it comes to purchasing a dog gate for your furry friends, size really does matter. It is important to consider the size of your pet when selecting the appropriate dog gate so as to ensure its safety and convenience.
Before committing to buying a particular style of pet gate, be sure to measure the size of your dog, or cat, depending on who needs the gate. If your pooch needs some wiggle room, opting for a large dog gate may be the better choice.
On the other hand – if you happen to have an itty-bitty kitty who would feel threatened by a large metal panel blocking their way – you should opt for something that offers more visibility instead of restricting them away from certain areas of the house.
Whatever route you choose in terms of size, our furry pals will surely thank us by ceasing their door-jiggling antics!
Best Dog Gate FAQs
How to measure your pet for a pet gate?
If you’re looking to keep your furry friend contained, you’ll need to find a dog gate that’s just the right size. But how do you measure your dog for a pet gate?
The answer may surprise you. First, you’ll need to determine the height of your pet. To do this, measure from the ground to the top of your pet’s head.
Next, you’ll need to measure the width of your pet. For this, measure from one side of your pet’s body to the other.
Finally, you’ll need to consider the thickness of your pet’s body. Once you have all of these measurements, choose a pet or dog gate that is wide enough and tall enough to accommodate your pet. With a little bit of planning, finding the perfect dog gate is easy!
Is there a difference between a Dog Gate and a baby gate?
The main difference between a pet or dog gate and a baby gate is the size of the opening.
A dog gate offers a generous opening, allowing your furry buddy to easily enter and exit.
In comparison, baby gates have a smaller opening designed to keep little ones safely contained. Dog gates are most times made from sturdy materials like wood or metal.
In contrast, baby gates are made from softer materials like plastic or fabric.
Can dogs knock down free-standing Dog gates?
No, dogs cannot knock down free-standing dog gates. This is because they lack the opposable thumbs required to grip the dog gate and the brute force necessary to overcome the gate’s momentum.
Additionally, dogs ain’t particularly coordinated, meaning that they are unlikely to be able to apply the right amount of force in the right direction.
Can cats jump over pet gates?
The answer to this question depends on the size of the pet gate. For example, a small cat may be able to jump over a pet gate a few feet tall, but a larger cat or a full-grown adult cat would likely not be able to jump over a pet gate several feet tall.
Cats are good jumpers and climbers, so if there is no other way to get around the pet gate, they will probably try to jump over it. However, if you have a cat that you want to keep contained in one area, it is best to choose a pet gate that is tall enough to deter your cat from jumping over it.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a pet or dog gate that is both functional and stylish, we’ve got you covered. We’ve reviewed some of the best pet gates on the market and found the one that will work best for your needs.
Whether you’re looking for a small gate to keep your dog out of certain areas or a large dog gate to keep your pup contained, we’ve got you covered. So, what are you waiting for? Check out our top picks for the best pet gates and find the perfect one for your home!
