Before you buy an outdoor gate for your dog, read this!
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6 Best Dog Gates for the Outdoors
Updated on Oct. 20, 2024
Dog gates are great for keeping your four-legged friends from getting into unwanted areas, but not all gates are designed for indoor and outdoor use. So before you buy the wrong product and end up with a rusted gate, check out the best outdoor options available and why they might work for you.
Carlson Pet Products Outdoor Walk-Thru Gate
This Carlson Pet Products walk-thru gate with a small pet door is built to withstand year-round elements in nearly all climates. With its swinging door design, there’s no need to take it down and put it back up every time your dog needs to go through. Simply set it once and open it when needed.
Retractable Indoor/Outdoor Gate
This retractable gate extends 71 inches across and is 31 inches tall. It’s a great barrier for high-traffic areas because it can be easily opened and closed without disassembly. It’s designed for pets from 10 to 40 pounds.
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Cardinal Gates Outdoor Safety Gate
This durable gate by Cardinal Gates can be installed easily. It’s weatherproof, so it works great on uncovered patios and decks.
Carlson Pet Products Wide Pet Gate
Need to block off a big area? This huge gate by Carlson Pet Products might be your answer. It expands to 144 inches, folds down for easy setup and storage, and includes a small doggie door. It can be mounted or free-standing.
Indoor/Outdoor Retractable Gate
Perfect for stairways, doorways and hallways, this 33-inch-tall gate works indoors or outdoors and expands to 55 inches wide. Amazon reviewers say it’s easy to install and easy to open and close.
Smonter Expandable Barricade Gate
If you have a hall or entryway that requires a dog gate but can’t accommodate a permanent installation, the Smonter Expandable Barricade Gate is an excellent alternative. Its aluminum accordion-style construction stretches to 129 inches wide, fitting most spaces smaller than that. You can easily slot it in wherever you need it.
What to Look for in an Outdoor Dog Gate
Outdoor dog gates prioritize function over aesthetics, so focus on how well they work. Here are the key factors to consider when shopping:
Materials and Construction
- Metal: Typically made from aluminum, metal gates are among the sturdiest options available. However, they tend to be heavy and unwieldy, making them better suited for permanent installations that won’t be moved often. Look for rust-resistant coatings to protect against the elements in outdoor settings.
- Plastic: Generally the most affordable option, plastic gates are similar in construction to metal gates but usually less sturdy. They may suffice for smaller dogs or well-behaved larger dogs and are lightweight, making them easier to move frequently. Plastic gates with UV protection are ideal for prolonged outdoor use, as they resist fading and cracking.
- Fabric Mesh: Many retractable gates use fabric mesh, providing a visual and physical barrier for your dog. While they are not the sturdiest option and can be easily bypassed, they often look better and store away more discreetly.
Mounting Style
- Permanent: These gates require physical attachment to the wall or entryway, typically through drilling. Once installed, they are permanent and cannot be easily moved. While they offer the most secure solution, they lack portability.
- Pressure-Mounted: These gates expand to fit in a hall or entryway, using a spring-mounted bar to exert pressure for stability. They balance security and portability well, making them easier to move than permanent gates.
- Free-Standing: These gates require no mounting; you simply place them in the desired location to block off an area.
Installation
Outdoor surfaces can vary, so think about the installation method that works best for your space. Some gates come with kits for versatile mounting on surfaces like wood, concrete or grass, while others may need additional hardware.
Understanding the surface where the gate ill be installed ensures a more secure and stable setup.
Size and Shape
Measure the space you want to block to ensure you select a properly sized gate. An ill-fitting gate may not expand wide enough for your space. Also, consider the height based on your dog’s size and athleticism; taller gates are preferable for athletic dogs that might jump over shorter ones.
Height for Larger Dogs
For larger or more energetic dogs, taller gets (ideally 36 inches or more) are often needed to prevent escapes. Also, strong materials help contain bigger breeds, making these gates more secure, even against the most determined pet.
Portable vs. Fixed
If you’re looking for flexibility, consider a portable gate. They’re easy to move, often foldable and ideal for a temporary setup, like while on vacation or when changing locations seasonally.
Fixed gates, on the other hand, provide a more permanent solution and are usually more sturdy.
Security Features
Some outdoor dog gates include pass-through gates, allowing you and your guests to bypass the main gate easily. These may feature spring-loaded locks for added convenience and security, preventing your dog from following you through. Consider these additional security features, as they can differentiate between a good gate and the perfect one for your needs.
Aesthetic and Visibility
While function is crucial, many shoppers also appreciate gates that will complement their outdoor space. Gates with neutral colors or a sleek design can blend well into landscaping, which can offer both practically and visual appeal.
Why You Should Trust Us
Alex Shoemaker is a Florida-based journalist and handyman with extensive experience in home remodeling and house flipping. He has contributed to numerous print and digital publications, including MSN, NewsBreak, Family Handyman, Reader’s Digest, and Taste of Home. Alex has received awards for his writing, photography and pagination.
Paul Rankin, Content Updates Editor at Family Handyman, updated and contributed research to this article. Paul is a former commerce editor at Bob Vila and has written shopping guides since 2021.
How We Found the Best Outdoor Dog Gates
We began searching for the best outdoor dog gates by exploring the various options in the category. We considered over a dozen models, focusing on their materials, construction, mounting styles, security features, etc. Additionally, we analyzed user reviews and expert testimonials to ensure we selected gates with a proven track record. Finally, we narrowed our selection to include high-quality options across several styles and budgets.
FAQ
Are free-standing dog gates good?
Free-standing dog gates can create a barrier between your dog and restricted areas, but they are generally less secure than mounted gates. They may not effectively contain a determined or energetic dog. For better security, consider a permanently mounted or pressure-mounted gate for highly athletic dogs.
How high should a gate be for a dog?
Most dog gates range from 20 to 40 inches in height. The right height for your dog depends on size, athleticism, determination and general sneakiness. A shorter gate may suffice if you have a well-behaved dog that doesn’t attempt to escape. However, a taller and more secure option is advisable for dogs that can jump over fences.
What dog gate doesn’t screw into the wall?
Pressure-mounted dog gates use tension to stay in place, instead of being screwed into the wall. They provide a good balance between free-standing and permanently mounted options. They work well in sturdy spaces, like doorframes, but are not recommended for areas with added risks, such as the top of stairs, where additional security is necessary.
