Dog Pens & Playpens

What to Consider When Buying A Dog Pen for Indoor or Outdoor Use?

Your primary use case, along with your dog’s physical traits and needs, should guide your decision when choosing a dog pen for indoor or outdoor use.

Start by determining your goals when purchasing a dog pen. Whether you need containment for a housetraining confinement zone, an outdoor yard, a travel setup, or a training area, your specific needs play a major role in selecting the right type of playpen. Playpens vary in material, size, and design. For example, metal pens offer strength for large dogs, while foldable fabric pens provide lightweight portability for small pets on the go. 

Consider your dog’s breed, size, age, energy level, and behavior to look for a playpen with the right balance of safety, comfort, and durability. If your pup is an escape artist, go for dog playpens with double latches, narrow bar spacing, or an optional top cover to keep them safely contained and give you added peace of mind. If your dog shows aggressive behavior, a heavy-duty dog crate may be a safer alternative to a playpen.

Additional considerations when shopping for the perfect dog playpen for your needs include: portability, ease of setup and cleaning, aesthetics, and price.

Types of Dog Playpens 

The different types of dog playpens are generally categorised in several ways, including their uses, dog size, materials, and function. At Lilly & Max, we group them into three main categories based on use cases: indoor dog playpens, outdoor dog playpens, and portable dog pens. These types and their definitions are listed below.

• Indoor Dog Pens: Indoor dog pens are designed to confine dogs within a specific area inside the home safely. These playpens are typically made from lightweight yet durable materials such as coated steel, high-density plastic, mesh fabric, or finished wood, making them easy to move while complementing your home decor. Most indoor pens include floor-protecting components like rubber feet or anti-scratch pads to prevent damage to hardwood. This type of dog enclosure is especially useful for potty training small dogs or puppies, post-surgery recovery, and protecting furniture in apartment living or small spaces.
• Outdoor Dog Pens: Outdoor dog pens, also known as dog exercise pens or Xpens, provide a safe and secure enclosure for large dogs in backyards, campsites, parks, or at the beach. These exercise pens use tall, hinged panels that prevent dogs from jumping or climbing out, making them ideal for energetic or strong breeds. Manufacturers build these exercise pens from durable materials such as heavy-duty metal, welded wire, or aluminum, and apply a powder-coated or electro-coated finish that resists rust, scratches, and fading. Many Xpens come with sturdy ground stakes to keep the dog playpen in place, especially when used on softer surfaces like grass, dirt, or turf. Water-resistant fabric dog pens are good options if left outside overnight, while exercise pens with roofs provide shade for your dog on hot days.
• Portable Dog Pens: Portable dog pens refer to pet pens that are made of lightweight materials that make them easy to fold up for storage and transport. Lightweight materials include plastic and fabric. Four popular styles of portable dog pens are commonly available at pet stores and online, including foldable dog pens, collapsible dog pens, covered dog pens, and pop-up dog pens. These playpens offer a convenient way to contain your four-legged friend during travel, outdoor adventures, or short-term indoor uses. Whether you’re camping, visiting a beach, or traveling in an RV, selecting the suitable type depends on your travel goals and your dog’s needs.

Thinking about when and where you’ll use a canine playpen helps you choose the right type. Many dog pens are versatile enough for both indoor and outdoor use, while some are designed specifically for your yard or travel. After selecting the appropriate type, consider what it’s made of.

Dog Playpen Materials

Dog pens come in a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, fabric, glass, and wood. Each material affects the dog kennel pen’s safety, durability, comfort, portability, maintenance, and cost. The right choice depends on factors such as your purpose and your pet’s age, activity level, and behavior. Choosing the right material not only ensures your dog’s comfort but also provides the security needed to keep them safely contained in one area.

Below are the pros and cons of each dog playpen material, including safety, durability, comfort, maintenance, and cost. 

• Metals: The most common metals used for dog playpens include stainless steel, titanium, and copper. These materials are strong, durable, and easy to clean. They are often coated with an electro-coat or powder-coat finish to provide rust resistance and weather protection, making them the best choice for large breeds, aggressive chewers, and long-term outdoor setups. Metal dog corrals come in various panel heights and sizes to suit different dog breeds and life stages. Their modular design allows pet owners to expand the enclosure by connecting additional panels. Best of all, metal playpens are collapsible, foldable, and easy to set up and store. However, metal pens tend to be more expensive and heavier than plastic or fabric options. Poorly constructed metal pens may also pose safety risks, such as exposed wire ends or sharp points.
• Plastic: Two common types of plastic used for dog pens are high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and acrylic. HDPE is renowned for its strength, durability, and chemical resistance; it’s a good option for light outdoor use or high-traffic indoor areas. Acrylic or Plexiglass is known for its transparency and impact resistance. Plexiglass canine playpens are perfect for pet owners who want to supervise their dogs from different angles while maintaining a modern, sleek aesthetic. These materials make plastic playpens lightweight, expandable, and easy to clean, but the pen panels are usually bulky and non-collapsible. If you’re looking for a compact dog pen for travel, plastic is not the best option. Plastic playpens are commonly used for housetraining adult and senior dogs, but are not recommended for puppies due to chewing and teething behaviors.
• Wood: Wood used in wooden dog pens typically includes engineered wood and hardwood. Engineered wood, such as plywood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF), offers greater resistance to moisture and temperature changes than hardwood, thanks to its layered construction. Solid hardwoods, including oak, maple, and walnut, are popular materials for the high-end and priciest pet furniture; they are durable and last longer than manufactured alternatives, though they tend to be more susceptible to moisture, scratches, and dents. These playpens require assembly, and they’re harder to clean. Both materials provide a stylish way to keep your pooch safely contained in a designated area while complementing your home decor. Wood playpens are more suitable for small, well-behaved dogs who aren’t going to chew or jump over the enclosure.
• Fabric: Common materials used in pet playpens include polyester, nylon, cotton canvas, and poly-cotton blends. Fabric is widely used in portable dog corrals because it is lightweight, foldable, and easy to transport. Travel-friendly dog pen designs include mesh dog pens, soft-sided dog pens, and pop-up dog pens. These designs provide good airflow, visibility, and comfort for well-trained, small, or toy breeds. Most soft-sided dog playpens feature a low-profile dog door that is designed specifically for smaller breeds to enter and exit with ease. However, fabric playpens are more challenging to clean and can be chewed through by rambunctious puppies or larger dogs.

Once you’ve figured out the material that best matches your needs, the next step is to pick the right size playpen for your four-legged friend.

Dog Playpen Size

The right dog playpen size refers to a playpen with the appropriate panel height and number of panels to give your dog enough space to stand up, lie down, and turn around comfortably, while also being tall enough to prevent escapes and stop other animals from jumping in, no matter if it’s used inside or outside.

It’s important to select an appropriately sized playpen for your dog’s comfort and safety. A too-small dog pen can lead to confinement anxiety that often heightens their anxiety and stress levels. Not having enough height in a dog xpen can result in dangerous jumping or climbing attempts.

Below are some factors to consider when choosing the proper canine playpen for your pup.

• Your dog’s breed. Different dog breeds need different playpen sizes based on their energy levels, behavior, and size. High-energy breeds, such as Border Collies, Jack Russell Terriers, Labrador Retrievers, and Siberian Huskies, need more space to run, play, and burn off energy. For calmer, cuddly breeds like Dachshunds, Corgis, and French Bulldogs, they are generally content with a small, cozy space where they can burrow, stretch out, and feel secure.
• Your dog’s size and life stage. Think about both your dog’s current size and their expected adult size when choosing the right playpen size, especially if you’re shopping for a puppy. Young dogs grow so quickly, and large and giant breeds, such as Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Great Pyrenees, need plenty of room as they grow bigger. For puppies of larger breeds, look for extra-large playpens with removable divider panels. These dividers allow you to create separate areas for sleeping, playing, and potty training, while giving you the flexibility to adjust the space as your pooch grows.
• Your dog’s jumping ability. Knowing or measuring how high your dog can jump is key to choosing the right dog corral size. A dog’s jumping ability varies by breed, age, and energy level. Athletic breeds, like Border Collies, Greyhounds, and German Shepherds, are capable of jumping 1.5 to 2 times their own height. Larger and giant dogs generally have the potential to jump higher than medium dogs, according to ASCA Obedience Jump Heights Charts. If your dog is a good jumper or climber, choose a playpen with taller panels—typically 36 inches or higher for medium to large breeds, and up to 48 inches or more for athletic and agile dogs. For small or less active breeds, lower panels may suffice, but it’s always better to size up in height if your dog shows signs of being an escape artist.
• Your room’s size and layout. Consider the size, layout, and style of your home when choosing the best pen size for your pup. In smaller spaces, opt for foldable or modular pens that fit corners or tight areas. For open layouts, transparent or low-profile designs like acrylic or mesh help maintain visibility and a spacious feel.

After evaluating the panel height your dog needs, consider the playpen’s shape, since both factors determine how much space the dog playpen provides.

Dog Playpen Shapes

Dog exercise pens with connecting panels can be assembled into various shapes and configurations, depending on their intended use, the doggy’s breed, size, and behavior, as well as the available space.

Below are the most common dog playpen shapes and their benefits.

• Rectangular dog pen: Rectangular dog pens offer the most space-efficient design for both indoor and outdoor use. This classic configuration allows for a clear area of activities such as playing, resting, and feeding. This layout fits well in small apartments or tight spaces, where it can be placed neatly against walls. With clean lines, neutral colors, and a simple setup, the rectangular dog pen provides a functional and attractive pet containment solution for everyday use.
•  Circular dog pen: Circular dog pen, without corners and sharp edges, creates a continuous, even space that suits active or high-energy breeds like Border Collie, Australian Shepherd, and Weimaraner. These dog corrals work well inside or outside and allow for smoother interaction with interactive dog toys.
• Hexagonal or Octagonal dog pen: Hexagonal or octagonal dog pens offer more space inside the playpen than square or rectangular shapes. Their multi-sided design provides flexible entry points and better visibility. These dog pen configurations are a good option for small to medium-sized dogs and work well in backyards, patios, or large indoor spaces. Their expandable structure connects easily with modular panels, making it simple to adjust the layout or increase space for multiple dogs.
• L-Shaped dog pen: L-shaped playpens are designed for corner placement, making them a space-efficient option for limited space. This dog pen shape separates zones for play, rest, and feeding, making it a good choice for small apartments or shared rooms. L-shaped pens are often expandable, allowing owners to adjust the layout to better match a dog’s daily routine and movement needs.

Choosing the right shape for your dog’s playpen based on their breed, size, and available space helps ensure comfort and well-being. However, every configuration must prioritize safety by evaluating structural strength and features, such as pen panel design or latch locks.

Safety

Dog playpen safety involves both the enclosure’s built-in features and how you set it up and supervise your dog. Even the most secure playpen can become unsafe if it’s not set up properly or suited to your dog’s behavior.

When buying a safe dog play, these are some of the safety features to look for.

• Structural strength: Check the thickness and dimensions of the pipes, rods, or panel frames to ensure the construction can withstand impact or pressure from active dogs. Sturdy frames help prevent tipping or bending. Inspect for poor design elements, such as exposed gaps or sharp corners, that could pinch or trap your pet’s paws, legs, or snout during movement or play.
• Panel design: Dog playpen panels typically come in two shapes: square and rounded. If you have a mischievous, curious dog that climbs or jumps, consider square panels because the connection gaps between rounded panels create pinch points. Your dog’s paws or jaws could get caught in these gaps during escape attempts.
• Panel connectors: Panel connectors, such as metal stakes, T-style joints, snap-in clips, or welding clamps, join individual playpen panels and play a key role in the enclosure’s stability and safety. Poorly made connectors can lead to loose panels, collapse risks, or sharp edges that may injure your dog. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty dog pen for indoor or outdoor use, choose metal rods or reinforced joints instead of plastic clips, and make sure the tops of the stakes aren’t sharp, as they could pinch paws or skin. For teething puppies or strong chewers, avoid thin plastic connectors, which can break and pose a safety hazard.
• Bar styles: Dog playpens with horizontal metal bars are unsafe for escape artist dogs, as they can use the bars as footholds to climb out. If you have a Houdini dog, a playpen without horizontal bars is usually the safest choice.
• Bar spacing: If you’re choosing a dog playpen for breeds with small heads, such as Chihuahuas, Pugs, and Boston Terriers, make sure the vertical bar spacing is narrow enough to prevent the dog from slipping through or getting its head stuck.
• Locking mechanism: Opt for a dog playpen with a lock that faces outward to prevent your dog from tampering with it. Before purchasing, assess how strong and secure the locking system is, especially if you have a Houdini dog. Do not keep aggressive chewers in canvas pens with netting, as they may gnaw their way out or swallow parts like zippers. 

When purchasing a dog playpen, keep safety in mind by choosing one with strong construction and security features. Next, consider comfort because a safe containment tool is only effective if your dog feels happy inside it.

Comfort

When considering the comfort of a dog pen, look for one that provides enough space for movement and play, and offers proper ventilation and shade.

There are four rules that help you choose the best dog pen size for your pet.

• Your dog should be able to lie down and fully stretch in any direction, without touching the pen’s sides.
• Your dog should be able to stand up and wag its tail freely, without hitting the pen panels or roof.
• Always place a water bowl no more than one meter from your dog’s resting area to ensure easy, consistent access to hydration, especially during summer months or long stays in the pen.
•  Create room for a designated potty area away from their sleeping spot to promote hygiene and training success.

Keep in mind that all dog enclosures require proper ventilation for your dog to breathe easily, which is especially important if you’re searching for a portable playpen for traveling or taking your dog to work. Soft-sided playpens with mesh panels or pop-up playpens with flap covers allow for better airflow and help prevent overheating.

Convenience and Versatility

When purchasing a dog playpen, look for models designed for convenience and versatility—ones that go beyond basic enclosures to support your lifestyle, whether you’re at home, traveling, or outdoors with your four-legged friend.

Below are seven standout dog kennel pen features to help you evaluate a playpen’s convenience and versatility.

• Step-through gate design: Step-through dog pens feature a gate with a raised threshold but no top bar across the opening. This design requires stepping over the bottom frame to enter or exit. The threshold provides an added layer of containment, making it ideal for pet owners with multiple adult dogs that are prone to escape. However, step-through pens are not safe options for senior dogs, puppies, or short-legged breeds such as Corgis, Dachshunds, and Beagles, because repeated jumping over the threshold can cause joint stress and increase the risk of arthritis.
• Threshold-free gate design: No-threshold dog pens or Threshold-free dog pens feature a gate with neither a raised bottom frame nor a top bar across the opening. The full-height, step-free design allows puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with mobility issues to pass the door panel easily.
• Shade cover or tent-style roof: Dog playpens with a removable cover or tent-style roof not only keep your pet secure but also provide shade on hot days.
• Flooring: A convenient dog playpen includes flooring that protects your home, keeps your pup comfortable, and makes cleanup easy. For indoor use, choose a pen with a soft mat or blanket for added comfort. For outdoor use, consider a playpen with weatherproof flooring to keep your dog dry. For puppies, look for pens with a vinyl sheet or similar waterproof layer for quick cleaning and easy maintenance.
• Storage pocket: Dog playpens have built-in storage features, such as side or exterior pockets, that let you carry food, treats, or toys to help keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated.
•  Gravity lock mechanism: A gravity lock automatically secures the latch when the gate or door is closed, providing a hassle-free closure.
• Versatile design: Versatile dog playpens typically include noise-dampening tubes and rubberized floor protectors for indoor use, along with ground stakes for outdoor setup. They also act as a sturdy fence that is resistant to chewing and scratching, making them ideal for large dogs or highly active puppies.

Portability

If you plan to use the dog kennel pen occasionally or take it with you on trips—whether you’re traveling the world or heading out for outdoor activities like hiking or camping—portability is key. Portable dog corrals are lightweight, easy to disassemble and reassemble, and simple to fold and store. Look for models that offer tool-free assembly, flexible configurations, and a convenient storage bag or carry case.

Aesthetics

When shopping for an indoor dog pen, consider its appearance and how well it blends with your existing decor, since you and your family will see it all the time. Metal and plastic dog pens come in various colors to complement your home. Transparent Plexiglass pens are the most attractive option, combining both practicality and modern design.

Should You Buy a Dog Pen or a Dog Crate?

Whether it’s better to buy a dog pen or a dog crate depends on your needs and your dog’s specific requirements. The differences between a dog crate and a dog pen include size, function, and structural strength.

If you’re looking for a dog enclosure for potty or house training, a dog crate is a better choice than a playpen. According to research from Brown University, dogs naturally avoid soiling their resting areas. When used correctly, an indoor dog crate with a limited, enclosed space can be an effective tool for housebreaking because it encourages your dog to hold their bladder and bowel movements until it’s time for outdoor elimination.

For dog owners who plan to leave their dogs alone at home for more than eight hours, dog pens are a preferred containment tool due to the larger space they offer compared to a dog crate. They’re spacious enough to hold food and water bowls, toys, and still provide room for the dog to move and play. Some extra-large models can even accommodate or connect with a dog crate.

Dog pens are also a handy tool for restricting your furry friend’s access around the home while you’re at work or busy around the house. The same benefit applies to outdoor use. If you’re bringing your dog to work or visiting a friend’s house, a portable dog playpen creates a temporary confinement zone, giving you peace of mind knowing your pal is safely contained. Additionally, it’s a breeze to set up, carry, and store.

Metal dog crates are much stronger and safer than metal dog pens because of their thicker wires or tubing and sturdier locks. If you have a very determined or houdini dog, consider investing in a durable, escape-proof metal crate instead of a pen.

Is it Safe to Leave a Dog in a Playpen?

Yes, it is generally safe to leave a house-trained dog in a playpen, as long as the pen is properly assembled, appropriately sized, and meets the dog’s needs for food, water, and play.

Are Wire Dog Pens Safe for Puppies?

Yes, wire dog pens can be safe for puppies, but safety depends on several factors, including panel height, wire mesh design, and your puppy’s behavior. When buying a wire playpen for a puppy, make sure the panels are tall enough that your puppy can’t climb out, and the wire rails aren’t too far apart where they could get their head stuck. For high-energy, aggressive chewing puppies, select dog pens with diamond mesh for added safety. The diagonal pattern makes it harder for puppies to grip with their teeth, as their jaws tend to slide off rather than latch onto the wire.

How Much Does a Dog Pen Cost?

The cost of a dog pen depends on the type and size you choose. Below are the average costs for different types and sizes.

Dog Pen Types	Sizes	Average Cost
Soft‑sided or pop‑up playpens	S/M/L	$20-$70
Metal/fabric Playpens	S/M/L	$50-$120
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) playpens	4/6/8 panels	$40-$100
Acrylic or Plexiglass Dog Playpens	4/6/8 panels	$100-$350
Heavy‑duty Metal Playpens	4/6/8/12/24/32/48 panels	$40-$200

Where to Buy Dog Pens?

The best places to purchase dog pens include online retailers such as Amazon, Chewy, Wayfair, Walmart, and Lilly & Max. These platforms offer a wide selection of indoor and outdoor dog pens, including foldable metal pens, plastic playpens, and heavy-duty enclosures. Pet store chains like PetSmart and Petco also carry a range of standard dog pens, both in-store and online. They are best for same-day pickup or if you want to evaluate the materials and size in person.

Below is a list of popular online stores for dog pens.

• Amazon
• Walmart
• Petco
• Petsmart
• Argos
• Wayfair
• Home Depot
• Lowes
• Tractor Supply
• Lilly & Max
• Fleet Farm
• Farm and Fleet
• Bunnings

Where to Buy Cheap Dog Pens?

If you’re shopping on a budget or need a pen for casual or temporary outdoor use, secondhand marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or OfferUp often provide the best value.

Listings frequently include mid-range and premium models at steep discounts. Brands like IRIS, MidWest, and Amazon Basics are commonly found for 30–60% less than retail prices.

What Are The Most Popular Dog Playpen Brands?

The following are some popular dog playpen brands. 

• FXW: FXW specializes in modular, heavy-duty metal playpens built for outdoor durability and large breed containment. Its Rollick and HomePlus series are popular for their tool-free setup, anchoring system, and customizable layouts, making them ideal for camping, backyard use, and multi-dog households..
• MidWest: MidWest focuses on metal wire exercise pens that are affordable, reliable, and easy to fold and transport. Their best-seller, the Exercise Pen with Door, supports configurations from 24″ to 48″ in height, making it suitable for puppies to large breeds. 
• IRIS USA: IRIS USA dominates the plastic dog playpen market, offering lightweight, easy-to-clean pens ideal for small to medium dogs and indoor use. The 4-Panel and 8-Panel Playpens are known for their interlocking design, vibrant color options, and tool-free assembly. 
• Amazon Basics: Amazon Basics offers no-frills metal playpens with excellent value, consistent quality, and broad availability across sizes. Its Foldable Metal Exercise Pen is one of the top-selling models online, popular for quick setup and durability. 
• Lilly & Max: Yaheetech produces reinforced metal playpens with tall panels, making them ideal for large, strong, or escape-prone dogs. Their designs often include secure latches and anti-rust coatings for outdoor longevity. 
• EliteField: EliteField is known for soft-sided, pop-up playpens designed for travel, indoor containment, and temporary setups. Its circular mesh models are lightweight, ventilated, and fold flat, with built-in ground anchors for mild outdoor use. 
• Ruff ’n Ruffus: Ruff ’n Ruffus offers cheap soft playpens with included carrying cases, travel bowls, and built-in roofs, making them ideal for budget-conscious pet owners. Their soft crates are easy to set up and clean, appealing to new dog owners or occasional use. 
• Frisco: Frisco makes sturdy wire playpens and pet gates designed for indoor or light outdoor use, with a focus on secure access doors and durable finishes. Its pens are trusted for easy setup, Chewy-exclusive deals, and positive customer support. 
• Richell USA: Richell USA designs premium, multi-functional pet containment solutions that blend style with utility. Best known for the Convertible Indoor/Outdoor Pet Playpen, the brand offers modular plastic pens that double as gates or dividers, featuring weather-resistant materials, lockable doors, and tool-free setup. Choose Richell for a versatile, space-efficient playpen that fits modern homes and transitions easily between indoor and outdoor use.

Why Trust Lilly & Max Dog Playpens?

Lilly & Max dog playpens are trusted for their heavy-duty steel construction, customizable configurations, and secure design features tailored for strong, active dogs. Built with powder-coated iron panels and reinforced joints, these pens provide a durable and escape-resistant enclosure suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.