According to data from the Pew Research Center, a significant 62 percent of American households include a pet, with almost every owner considering their furry friend a true family member. In today’s world of hybrid work schedules, managing your dog’s daily routine can be tricky. A highly valuable addition to your dog supplies is a pet play pen, and we’re here to guide you to the perfect choice.
Expert Insight
“Any dog owner can benefit from a pet play pen. Think of it as a secure and contained area where your dog can enjoy playtime with toys or relax for a nap while you’re busy. It’s crucial to remember it’s not a substitute for a backyard or a walk, but rather a versatile tool for various stages of your dog’s life, and useful even with multiple dogs.” — Tom Davis, renowned dog trainer for Patrick and Brittany Mahomes, among other high-profile clients
Whether you need a safe indoor haven or an outdoor pet play pen for your puppy to bask in the sunshine safely, we rigorously tested 19 different dog pens. Our evaluation focused on key aspects: ease of setup, user-friendliness, versatility, portability, and overall value. We’ve identified top contenders for various needs, including large breeds, small dogs, travel companions, and growing puppies.
Continue reading to discover the best Pet Play Pens, as rigorously tested by PEOPLE.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Frisco Wire Dog & Small Pet Exercise Pen at Chewy $50
Best Budget:
Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen at Amazon $39
Best Design:
SALE
Iris 4, 6, or 8 Panel Plastic Playpen at Amazon $100 $85
Best for Large Dogs:
SALE
Yaheetech Dog Playpen 8 Panels at Amazon $110 $85
Best Outdoor:
SALE
New World Pet Products Foldable Exercise Pet Playpen at Amazon $71 $50
Best for Travel:
SALE
Parkland Pet Portable Foldable Playpen at Amazon $40 $20
Most Convenient:
EliteField Two-Door Soft Playpen at Amazon $100
Best for Puppies:
Esk Collection Small Dog and Puppy Playpen at Amazon $48
Best Dog Crate:
SALE
Petmate Pet Kennel at Amazon $67 $38
Best Pet Camera:
Furbo 360 Dog Camera at Amazon $99
Best Overall
Frisco Wire Dog & Small Pet Exercise Pen
Star Qualities:
- Simple clip-secured structure for quick assembly
- Robust yet lightweight design
- Versatile for both indoor and outdoor environments
Red Flags:
- Not ideal for frequent transport
Setting up this pet play pen was incredibly straightforward. Simply unfold it to your desired shape and secure it with user-friendly clips. In just over 90 seconds, the Frisco pen was ready for use. Once assembled, it proved to be remarkably user-friendly, although the door’s dual latches might require a bit of practice to open and close smoothly – a minor point that wouldn’t deter us from recommending it. The metal construction makes this pen adaptable for both indoor and outdoor use. It includes ground stakes for enhanced stability outdoors and offers ample space for various dog sizes.
We believe the Frisco Wire Dog & Small Pet Exercise Pen’s size, versatility, and ease of setup and use make it an excellent value. It’s intuitive to assemble and disassemble and surprisingly sturdy despite its slender wire frame. The main drawback is its portability; at 25 pounds, it’s not the most travel-friendly option among those tested. However, moving it short distances is manageable, and it fits comfortably in most car trunks for transport.
Sizes: 24 inches to 48 inches | Weight: 18-33 pounds | Material: Metal | Colors: 1
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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Best Budget
Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen
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PHOTO: Amazon
Star Qualities:
- Folds easily for storage and travel
- Features a convenient zippered door
- Simple and quick setup
Red Flags:
- Best suited for puppies and small dog breeds
The Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen is remarkably intuitive and ready to use right out of the box. Its foldable, collapsible design includes a zippered roof attachment and an easily accessible zippered doggie door.
One minor drawback is its lightweight construction. A determined dog might be able to chew through or potentially damage the material. It’s also less versatile in orientation compared to other pet play pens, being designed for a single setup. However, for its intended purpose, it’s a solid choice at a very reasonable price. We confidently recommend this budget-friendly option for owners of small dogs or puppies needing temporary, contained space.
The secure zipper closures effectively keep pets inside while remaining easy to open from the outside. This is ideal for work-from-home pet parents needing to keep their dogs safely confined during extended meetings. The playpen includes a carrying case and a collapsible 16-ounce food bowl for added convenience.
Sizes: Medium, large, extra large | Weight: 2.4-4.6 pounds | Material: Polyester | Colors: 2
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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Best Design
Iris 4, 6, or 8 Panel Plastic Playpen
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PHOTO: Amazon
$100 $85 at Amazon $110 at Walmart $110 at Walmart
Star Qualities:
- Size adjustable by adding or removing panels
- Ideal for smaller dogs or calmer breeds
Red Flags:
- Transport can be cumbersome
Setting up this pet play pen took approximately eight minutes, thanks to the concise and clear instructions. Its adaptability is a standout feature, with panels that can be easily added or removed to adjust the size. The integrated door is both charming and functional. This pen is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. However, the panel height is relatively low, making it more appropriate for smaller breeds. A more adventurous or escape-prone dog might not be securely contained, in which case considering a dog GPS tracker could be beneficial. If you have a dog that is content within a defined space, this pen is an excellent choice. Otherwise, a higher-walled option might be necessary.
Transporting the Iris Plastic Playpen presents some challenges. Without a dedicated carrying case or a more compact folding mechanism, moving it involves carrying the panels as a stack, which can be awkward and requires extra effort. Despite this, the overall ease of setup and disassembly makes this pet play pen a worthwhile option.
Sizes: 4-8 panels | Weight: 21.51 pounds | Material: Plastic | Colors: 6
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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Best for Large Dogs
Yaheetech Dog Playpen 8 Panels
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PHOTO: Amazon
$110 $85 at Amazon $100 at Walmart View on Yaheetech.shop
Star Qualities:
- Locking pins for enhanced frame stability
- Excellent for outdoor use due to its robust construction
Red Flags:
- Higher door step-over might be challenging for dogs with limited mobility
Setting up the Yaheetech Dog Playpen requires patience. We found solo assembly challenging and often needed a second person to assist. Some trial and error was involved in the process. However, once assembled, it provides a sturdy and reliable enclosure, especially for larger dogs in outdoor settings. The locking pins, which connect the frames, also function as stakes to secure the pen into the ground for added stability. The door of this pet play pen is positioned slightly higher off the ground compared to other models tested, so it might not be suitable for dogs with mobility issues.
While usable indoors, this pen is ideally suited for outdoor use. Its robust build makes it particularly sturdy, and we recommend setting it up in a semi-permanent location due to the longer setup and takedown times. However, for storage, it can be kept under a bed or in a garage, either standing or on a shelf. Overall, we recommend this pen for those seeking a durable outdoor option that doesn’t require frequent relocation.
Sizes: Up to 8 panels | Weight: 24-43 pounds | Material: Electrophoresis steel | Colors: 1
Long-Term Testing Insights
We tested this model at home for several months to assess its effectiveness in helping a dog with separation anxiety. It served almost as a crate training alternative, providing more freedom to move while still offering secure containment, with significantly more space than a dog crate. The bars proved to be virtually indestructible, and we appreciated the panel height, as a shorter pen might be easily jumped over by our dog. Overall, the Yaheetech Dog Playpen remains one of our top choices for its durability and security.
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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Best Outdoor
New World Pet Products Foldable Exercise Pet Playpen
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PHOTO: Amazon
Star Qualities:
- Quick assembly process
- Ideal size for smaller dogs or puppies outdoors
- Extra sturdy frame when secured with stakes
Red Flags:
- Transporting by one person can be difficult
Setting up the New World Pet Products Foldable Exercise Pet Playpen took only six and a half minutes, thanks to straightforward and clear instructions. It’s an excellent option for backyards or any outdoor space, and the included stakes ensure stability on grass or other outdoor surfaces.
However, it’s not the most versatile pet play pen, as it’s significantly less stable without the stakes. Also, lacking a door, it doesn’t offer the easy access found in some other top picks. Without a carrying case, portability is limited, making it more of a single-location model. We found it somewhat bulky and heavy, requiring assistance for transport. Overall, this pen is well-suited for puppy training, new dog owners, or pet sitters. Its price is also reasonable considering its size.
Sizes: XS-XL | Weight: 10-29.2 pounds | Material: Alloy steel | Colors: 1
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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Best for Travel
Parkland Pet Portable Foldable Playpen
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PHOTO: Amazon
Star Qualities:
- Effortless setup process
- Zippered door and roof for easy pet access
- Integrated pop-up water bottle
Red Flags:
- Not exceptionally sturdy
If portability is your primary need, whether for travel or bringing your dog to work, the Parkland Pet Portable Foldable Playpen is a top contender. It features a zippered door and roof for convenient pet access. Traveling with it is equally easy; it’s lightweight and packs neatly into the included over-the-shoulder bag, fitting easily into almost any car. The affordable price is an added bonus.
The only limitation is its overall robustness. This isn’t intended as a primary, permanent play area, being somewhat small and not as sturdy as other options. It’s best suited for travel, beach outings, or park visits. We recommend this product, along with a good harness, for owners who enjoy taking their small dogs on adventures but prefer not to carry a heavy playpen. It also includes a travel pop-up water bowl, enhancing its value. While basic, it’s exceptionally easy to set up, use, and carry.
Sizes: One size | Weight: 2.09 pounds | Material: Cloth | Colors: 1
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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Most Convenient
EliteField Two-Door Soft Playpen
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PHOTO: Amazon
Star Qualities:
- User-centric design
- Convenient side storage pockets
- Includes carrying case and shoulder straps for portability
Red Flags:
- Primarily suitable for fair weather if used outdoors
This pet play pen features not one but two easily zipped doors, along with thoughtful additions like multiple side compartments for treats and favorite dog toys. It’s also generously sized, accommodating various dog breeds comfortably.
Setting up the EliteField Two-Door Soft Playpen was generally smooth, although aligning the zippers presented a minor challenge. Folding it for storage or travel also proved slightly tricky during our tests. However, these minor frustrations aside, we found it easy to disassemble and reassemble once familiar with the process. Carrying it is highly convenient with the included case and shoulder straps. It’s suitable for indoor or outdoor use, though it might not withstand rainy conditions well. This pet play pen is a great choice for parks, beaches, or indoor settings – essentially, anywhere with mild, dry weather.
Sizes: 8 | Weight: 4.7-11.05 pounds | Material: Nylon, mesh, synthetic fabric | Colors: 8
Long-Term Durability
We tested this pen for about six months and consistently appreciated its convenience and durability. It has reliably withstood puppy claws throughout this period. Popping it open and taking it down remains very easy, though fitting it back into its storage case can sometimes be a slight struggle, occasionally requiring two people. Despite this, we still value the inclusion of a storage case. Its puppy-proof construction makes this mesh pen a worthwhile investment.
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PHOTO: Jhett Thompson / People
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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Best for Puppies
Esk Collection Small Dog and Puppy Playpen
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PHOTO: Amazon
Star Qualities:
- Pops open instantly for immediate use
- Excellent visibility through mesh design
- Portable and packable for travel
- Zipper and Velcro closures for easy access
Red Flags:
- Folding and disassembling takes longer than setup
Setting up this pet play pen is incredibly simple and doesn’t even require instructions. We found it popped open easily in just over three minutes. It’s extremely lightweight with user-friendly zippers and access points ideal for small dogs to move in and out. It comes with a slim, packable carrying case.
The zip-up top is a valuable feature for dogs prone to jumping or climbing. However, folding and disassembling the pen proved slightly more challenging than setting it up. We appreciated the mesh construction for containing energetic puppies while ensuring visibility and airflow. This pen is lightweight yet fairly sturdy, although a larger or more boisterous dog could potentially move it from the inside. It offers good value and is perfect for puppies or small breeds. However, it may not be versatile enough to accommodate a puppy as it grows into a larger dog.
Sizes: One size | Weight: 6.4 pounds | Material: Oxford cloth, mesh | Colors: 4
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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PHOTO: People / Jhett Thompson
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Add to Cart
While you’re shopping for pet play pens, consider these PEOPLE-Tested pet favorites. We’ve recognized them as winners in their categories, and we’re confident you’ll find them valuable additions to your pet supplies.
$67 $38 at Amazon $55 at Wayfair View on Chewy
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$99 at Amazon View on Furbo.com
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$50 at Amazon $30 at Walmart $30 at PETCO
$19 $16 at Amazon $23 at Walmart
What to Know About Pet Play Pens
Size
Consider both your dog’s current size and potential growth. Choose a pet play pen spacious enough for comfortable movement. “The primary consideration, especially with puppies that grow quickly, is size,” advises Davis. “Opt for a pen large enough to accommodate their adult size.” Some of our top pet play pen picks are expandable, allowing for size adjustments as your dog grows. The Iris Panel Plastic Playpen, our best design choice, is an expandable option, ideal if you’re unsure of your dog’s final size.
Material
Pet play pens are available in various materials: metal, plastic, and fabric. For outdoor use, a metal pet play pen like the Frisco Wire Dog & Small Pet Exercise Pen is excellent. Plastic pens are lightweight and easy to clean, offering convenience. Fabric pet play pens are extremely light and portable but may not be as durable as metal or plastic.
Use
The intended use of the pet play pen is crucial in your selection. “For potty training, a smaller space is preferable to minimize accidents,” Davis notes. However, if your dog will spend time in the pen with a comfy dog bed while you’re at work, a larger space like the Yaheetech Dog Playpen is more suitable.
If your dog has behavioral issues or shows aggression, pet play pens might not be the safest option, especially around visitors, Davis cautions.
Price
Budgeting for pet play pens depends on your needs. Do you need a single portable pen, or will you need a more stationary home pen as well? Our recommended pet play pens range from approximately $40 to $110, with prices varying based on size. You might even want multiple pens to create a larger area. “We often link several pens together to create a larger makeshift area in a room,” says Davis, highlighting the versatility of using multiple units.
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People / Jhett Thompson
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Behind the Scenes
To begin our evaluation, we researched and selected 19 popular pet play pens for testing.
- Setup: We assessed the setup ease of each pet play pen by timing the process from start to finish using a stopwatch. Testers then rated the intuitiveness of the setup for the average user.
- Ease of Use: We thoroughly examined all features, paying particular attention to the functionality of doors and entry points. Testers then collapsed or folded the pens, noting the ease of breakdown and overall versatility in use. We also recorded the weight of each pet play pen and assessed its portability.
- Evaluation: Each pet play pen was scored based on setup ease, usability, versatility, and portability. Only after this evaluation did testers learn the price of each product. Considering the price, they then rated the value of each pen. Final scores were averaged, and only the highest-rated products were included in this PEOPLE Tested list of best pet play pens.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which pet play pens are suitable for large dogs?
For larger dogs, choose pet play pens that can be anchored to a wall or ground for stability. Look for pens with tall panels; the New World Dog Exercise and Play Pen is the tallest in our recommendations. “Remember, a 100-pound dog can easily topple a flimsy pen,” Davis advises. “Pens are available up to six feet tall, so choose appropriately.” -
What is the purpose of a pet play pen?
“I use pet play pens daily with my dogs and clients’ dogs,” Davis explains. “Pens can section off areas in a house or office, or create a safe, small space for puppies during teething or potty training.” Pet play pens serve as a step beyond or an alternative to crates for some dogs.
“Before placing your dog in a pen, ensure they’ve had adequate exercise,” he emphasizes. “It’s a safe space to prevent them from accessing harmful items.” For travel, foldable pens “fit in trucks or RVs, providing a portable safe zone,” Davis adds. For a lightweight, budget-friendly, and easily portable pet play pen, we recommend the Ruff ‘N Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Play Pen.
- What differentiates pet play pens from dog crates?
Crates fully enclose a dog, while pet play pens define a contained area without necessarily having a roof or floor. “Crates are significantly safer and more secure, especially when you leave home,” Davis states. “We’ve seen dogs quickly climb out of pens when left alone.”
However, pet play pens offer a key advantage: ”freedom to move while still being contained,” Davis adds. “Our training facility uses a crate inside a pen setup. This allows us to crate the dog and then open the crate door to give them more space when appropriate.”
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Why Trust PEOPLE?
Journalist Rennie Dyball, with insights from our PEOPLE Tested team, evaluated numerous popular pet play pens, considering price, size, material, appearance, sturdiness, setup and takedown ease, and security. Dyball consulted with Tom Davis, a dog trainer and canine behavior expert in upstate New York, for expert perspective on matching pet play pens to dogs’ needs.
Staff writer Alyssa Brascia updated this article with long-term testing feedback from participants who used these pens with their dogs for up to six months, tracking their durability over time, ensuring our recommendations remain current and accurate.
Our Expert Panel
Tom Davis is a dog trainer and canine behavior expert in upstate New York, known for working with clients like Patrick and Brittany Mahomes.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
The PEOPLE Tested seal of approval helps you identify top-quality products. Our unique testing methodology involves labs across the country and a network of home testers, evaluating effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and more. Based on test results, we rate and recommend products to meet your needs.
We regularly re-evaluate product categories awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal, ensuring our recommendations are always up-to-date. Companies cannot buy our endorsements; products must earn them through rigorous testing.
PEOPLE Tested provides trustworthy recommendations for your everyday purchases.
