As much as we love our dogs, we cannot be with them as much as we want to be 24/7. Leaving them alone unsupervised is not an option because God knows what troubles and mess dogs are capable of. But, if they’re safely contained, it could be. So if you’re looking for something that can do the work, a small dog playpen is the one for you!
While we’re at it, you might also want to check out our Top 5 Invisible Fences For Small Dogs.
What is a Small Dog Playpen?
Playpens are containment areas for dogs meant to safely secure them when they’re not supervised. They’re also meant to provide a safe space for dogs to play and even rest. They have many uses apart from that which we will discuss later on. And, like baby playpens, a small dog playpen come in different sizes and materials and are usually lightweight and portable.
Do Dogs Need Playpens?
Yes, because dogs get in trouble when they’re left alone unsupervised. Often, whenever there’s an opportunity, they get lost in their own world and that, most of the time, becomes out of hand- They literally chew on anything that they can put their mouth on! That’s why a small dog playpen, like GPS Dog Collars, is essential as it can help you keep your dog safe when you cannot supervise it closely.
Playpens are also a great tool for house and obedience training. In fact, Cesar Millan, a famous dog trainer, says that it’s best to get a playpen as early as possible while dogs are still young so you can, while training them, set yourself simultaneously up as the pack leader. It’s also ideal to start teaching dogs commands and basic impulse control at a young age so they can adopt good manners- the sooner the better!
In addition, a small dog playpen promotes safe and consistent play and good behavior when used properly and responsibly-and by that, we mean not using it as a punishment tool but rather a tool for positive reinforcement. Consistent play provides a positive outlet for dogs to expend their energy because excess energy may lead to frustration, anxiety, and even bad behavior.
Top 10 Small Dog Playpen
Frisco Wire Dog & Small Pet Exercise Pen with Step-Through Door
Dimension: 36 x 24 x 36 inches
Item weight: 25.5 pounds
If you’re looking for a small dog playpen that is built to last, consider this 8-panel playpen from Frisco. This playpen is made from tough metal wires with a black E-coating finish that is sure to withstand dogs’ force and power chewing. For the safety and security of dogs, the Frisco wire dog playpen features an easy access doorway with double locks and safety clips. It also comes with metal anchors to keep it in place when used outdoors.
This playpen comes in 5 sizes and comes in square, rectangle, and octagon shapes. It comes with plastic stabilizers for octagon configuration. This playpen can be collapsed into a compact size for easy transport and storage.
Pros:
- suitable for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs that are pen trained
- features 8 panels that are configurable
- constructed with durable metal wires with a black E-coating finish
- features an easy access doorway with double locks and safety clips
- collapsible for easy storage
Cons:
- may not be a great option for unruly dogs
EliteField 2-Door Soft-Sided Small Dog Playpen
Dimension: 52 x 52 x 32 inches
Item weight: 10.0 pounds
Constructed with nylon and mesh, this collapsible, soft-sided playpen form EliteField is ideal for indoor and outdoor use. It’s waterproof and features two zippered dogs for easy exit and easy entry. The mesh side provides excellent ventilation and visibility to allow easy monitoring. In addition, the flooring fabric is solid and machine washable- perfect for keeping things clean and tidy!
This small dog playpen is suitable for all breeds. It comes in six colors (brown & beige, beige & green, maroon & beige) and six sizes. Its smallest version measures 30 x 30 x 20-in while the biggest version measures 62 x 62 x 36-in. The package includes ground stakes and a carry bag.
Pros:
- suitable for all breeds
- features a soft-sided playpen with mesh windows for visibility and ventilation
- constructed with lightweight, durable steel and machine washable polyester
- features two zippered doors for easy exit and easy entry
- additional features include two handy accessory pockets and a water bottle pocket
- collapsible for easy storage
Cons:
- may not be a great option for big chewers, untrained dogs, and large breed active dogs
IRIS 8-Panel Plastic Outdoor Small Dog Playpen
Dimension: 63 x 63 x 34.25 inches
Item Weight: 26.2 pounds
If you’re looking for a training and play area for your dog, consider this playpen from Iris. Iris provides a safe and secure containment area for dogs with its 8-panel playpen made from durable molded plastic. It can be used indoors and outdoors as a play area, exercise space, and training pen. To keep it from moving and sliding, it features non-skid rubber feet which also protect the floor from scratches and damage.
This small dog playpen also features a hinged door with double-steel door latches. It is suitable for all breeds. Also, it’s easy to assemble and easy to clean.
Pros:
- suitable for all breeds
- features 8 panels
- made from durable molded plastic
- comes with hinged doors and double-steel door latches
- features non-skid rubber feet for floor protection and to keep the pen in place
- easy to assemble and easy to clean
Cons:
- one user complained that it’s flimsy and moves easily
- may not be a great option for unruly dogs
IRIS 4-Panel Plastic Exercise Dog Playpen
Dimension: 36 x 36 x 23.6 inches
Item Weight: 11.66 pounds
If you own a puppy or a small breed dog, consider this 4-panel playpen from Iris. This small dog playpen is one of the cheapest playpens on our list. Like all the others, however, it gets the job done. This playpen features 4 panels that are made of heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant plastic that is easy to assemble and disassemble. It comes with full-length connecting rods that secure the panels in place- perfect for keeping dogs safe while contained.
This playpen is available in 4 colors: pink, blue, dark grey, and white. It is suitable for puppies, and small and medium breeds. For easy storage, this playpen features a collapsible and lightweight design.
Pros:
- suitable for all breeds
- cheaper option
- constructed with heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant plastic
- panels feature full-length connecting rods to secure them in place
- collapsible and lightweight for easy storage and transport
Cons:
- may not be a great option for big dogs
IRIS 4-Panel Plastic Exercise Dog Playpen with Door
Dimension: 36 x 36 x 23.6 inches
Item Weight: 12.73 pounds
IRIS 4 panel small dog playpen is another great option if you own a puppy or a small or medium-size dog and you are on a limited budget. This playpen is made of heavy-duty plastic and is the cheapest playpen on our list, but it sure provides plenty of room for your pup to move and play with its 8 square feet room. The panels which measure 2 ft in height feature a door with double-steel door latches, tall enough to stop your pup from jumping out. It also features non-skid rubber feet to hold the panels in place.
This playpen is available in 3 colors: black, dark gray, and white. It can be used indoors and outdoor. It is suitable for puppies, and medium and large dogs. For easy storage, this playpen features a collapsible and lightweight design.
Pros:
- suitable for small and medium breeds
- cheaper option
- made of heavy-duty plastic
- features a double-steel door latches
- comes with non-skid rubber feet
- collapsible and lightweight design for easy storage
Cons:
- may not be too small for big dogs and active dogs who move a lot
MyPet 8-Panel Petyard Passage Plastic Dog Pen, Brown
Dimension: 10.75 x 35.24 x 26.75 inches
Item Weight: 26.2 pounds
MyPet 8-panel small dog playpen is the perfect solution to keep your fur baby safely contained when you can’t supervise them closely. It features 8 plastic panels which provide 34.4 square feet of room for all types of dogs to play and move freely without feeling confined. The pen has interlocking panels that are easy to assemble and can be configured into different shapes. To keep it in place, it features non-skid rubber feet which also keep floors safe from scratches and damage.
This playpen is suitable for all breeds. It can be used indoors and outdoor. For easy storage, this pen features a collapsible design.
Pros:
- suitable for all breeds
- features 8 interlocking panels with a carrying strap for easy setup
- can be used both indoors and outdoors
- provides 34.4 square feet of room
- features a 9.5 x 8 in swing door with grip and twist latch for easy entry and easy exit
- configurable design
- features non-skid rubber feet to keep the pen in place
Cons:
- users complained that the pen was hard to move and adjust
Frisco 8-Panel Plastic Exercise Dog Playpen
Dimension: 63 x 63 x 34.25 inches
Item Weight: 21.51 pounds
Whether you need a playpen for your dog or a training or lounging area, this 8-panel playpen from Frisco is a great option. Made with durable, heavy-duty molded plastic, this playpen provides a safe containment space for dogs with its 18 square feet play area. It features 8 interlocking panels and a secure, double latch door that are easy to set up. Plus, the panels can be reconfigured to meet your needs. To protect floors from scratches and damage, this playpen comes with non-skid rubber feet that secure the playpen in place.
This small dog playpen is available in 3 colors: black, gray, and white. It is suitable for small and medium breeds.
Pros:
- suitable for small and medium breeds
- features 8 interlocking panels
- made of durable, heavy-duty molded plastic
- provides 18 square feet of the play area
- comes with double latch doors and non-skid rubber feet to keep the pen in place
- easy to set up
Cons:
- may not be a great option for heavy and big dogs
Paws & Pals Insta-Fort Portable Soft-sided Dog & Cat Playpen
Dimension: 48 x 48 x 25 inches
If you love going on a weekend getaway with your furry pup, this playpen is for you. Made with Polyester, this playpen is very portable, light as a feather and folds very easily into a tote- perfect for indoor and outdoor use. It features 8 mesh windows with a removable top and bottom that allows your dog to enjoy the outdoors while safely contained. This also allows you to monitor your dog inside the house while you go about your daily routine.
For easy entry and easy exit, this small dog playpen features two zippered side dogs with side pockets for toys, treats, and other puppy stuff. It is also perfect for nursing mothers, however it may not be great for dogs that are not pen trained.
Pros:
- cheapest option
- suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- perfect for nursing mothers and their pups
- features a polyester enclosure that folds easily into a tote
- comes with 8 mesh windows with removable top and bottom
- features two zippered side doors and side pockets
Cons:
- may not be a great option for large breed dogs
Precision Pet Products Courtyard Wire Dog Exercise Pen
Dimension: 38.58 x 38.58 x 37 inches
Item Weight: 64.8 pounds
Whether you have a puppy, a small, or a large breed dog, this small outdoor playpen from Precision Pet Product is a great option. This playpen is designed to meet all your needs with its configurable design that you can assemble easily. Durability-wise, this playpen is made from rust-resistant galvanized steel with a decorative silver crackle finish. It comes with long pins and soft pins for soft ground and hard ground staking. This playpen is suitable for all types of breeds.
The package includes (5) panels, (1) panels with a gate, a set of long pins, and a set of short pins. For easy storage, this playpen features a collapsible design.
Pros:
- suitable for all breeds
- features rust-resistant panels with a silver crackle finish
- no exposed screws, wires, or pins that can injure dogs
- comes with long pins and soft pins for soft ground and hard ground staking
- collapsible design for easy transport and storage
Cons:
- may not be a great option for unruly dogs
Petmate 8-Panel Wire Dog Exercise Pen with Door, Black
Dimension: 192 x 0.25 x 48 inches
Item Weight: 40.0 pounds
If you have a jumper or a giant breed, consider this small dog playpen from Petmate. Standing 48 inches high, this playpen features 8 coated metal panels that can be configured in many ways to suit your needs. It gives dogs enough space to move around freely, lay their body, and even take their meals. It comes with a solid hinge design that easily folds and snap hook assembly for wire crate attachment.
This playpen comes in 4 sizes: medium, large, extra-large, and giant. It is suitable for all types of breeds.
Pros:
- suitable for giant breeds
- features 8 coated metal panels that can be configured in many ways
- comes with a solid hinge design that easily folds and a snap hook for crate attachment
- comes in 4 sizes (medium, large, extra-large, giant)
Cons:
- may not be a great option for unruly dogs
Small Dog Playpen Buyer’s Guide
Size
Size is the first factor that you need to consider when buying a playpen for your dog. For your dog to feel comfortable inside, your dog will need enough space to move around freely. It should not be tiny or cramped or else it will keep moving and sliding. Also, extra space for your dog’s food and water bowl is a plus.
Playpens come in different sizes. Manufacturers typically indicate the breed that their playpen is intended for so you won’t have to figure it out if it’s suitable for your dog. As a rule of thumb, the more panels the better. Also, it should be considered high so your dog can’t jump off it easily.
Material
Material is the next important factor that you need to consider when buying a playpen for your dog. For it to withstand chewing and dogs’ force, your dog will need a playpen that is constructed with durable materials that your dog can’t chew, move or slide. The playpen should also be heavy enough and sturdy.
Playpens made from fabric or high wirings may be more suitable for puppies. Playpens made from metals or plastic may be more suitable for adult dogs. However, if you have a puppy and you want a playpen that can grow with it, choose a large playpen that is durable and versatile.
Portability
Portability is the third factor that you need to consider when buying a playpen for your dog. There will be cases where you need to bring your dog out, say in your backyard or in the park, or where you need to go somewhere and you need to bring your dog with you. It’s not at all times that you can supervise your dog during these situations.
So, if situations like these do happen often, choose a playpen that is portable and collapsible for easy transport. This also ensures that your dog will have a safe space of its own where it can move freely without you having to constantly watch them or worry about them.
Ease of Storage
Ease of storage is also a great feature that you need to look for when buying a playpen for your dog. Playpens, in most cases, are only used occasionally, and when they’re not in use, it’s best to store them so that you will have more space in your house.
So, when choosing a playpen for your dog, choose the one that can be easily assembled and disassembled, in that way it won’t take up too much of your time when dismantling or putting it up. In addition, if you have a small storage space, a playpen that is collapsible is definitely a plus.
FAQs about Small Dog Playpen
Does my dog need a playpen?
Yes. Dogs need playpens because they provide them a safe area where they can play and rest when they have no one to supervise them. Also, playpens can be used as a tool to teach dogs good manners, basic impulse control, and commands.
What is the best playpen for dog?
There is no single best playpen for dogs. A playpen will only work its magic if a dog knows how to use it. However, there are playpens that are intended for all types of breeds such as Precision Pet Products Courtyard Wire Dog Exercise Pen, MyPet 8-Panel Petyard Passage Plastic Dog Pen, IRIS 4-Panel Plastic Exercise Dog Playpen and IRIS 8-Panel Plastic Exercise Dog Playpen.
Can dogs move or slide the pen?
Yes. If your dog is not pretty chill, it can easily move or slide the pen. That is why it is recommended that pet owners train their dogs to use a playpen to prevent misbehavior and potential accidents that might occur due to unruly behavior.
Can dogs jump out of the playpen?
Playpens come in different dimensions. There are playpens that are intended for small pups. These pens have shorter panels. Playpens for giant breeds have higher panels to prevent pups from jumping out.
How often should I leave my dog in a playpen?
Playpens are only meant to be used when you cannot supervise your dog closely. We suggest that you use it only when it is really needed as dogs, like humans, need to go out, play, and socialize with other dogs. Also, you should only contain your dog for the right reasons and by that we mean not using it as a form of punishment.
Best Small Dog Playpen: Verdict
Playpens, when used properly and responsibly, can help you keep your dog safe when you can’t be there to supervise them closely. We believe that they’re as essential as other dog accessories and the sooner you have them, the better. Playpens are versatile. They can be used in various ways- as a play area, training space, and lounging area. Again, you should only use playpens when it is really needed and for the right reasons- never use it as a punishment.
We hoped this article was helpful! If you ever decide to get one today, make sure that you go through our buyer’s guide checklist features.