How to Choose a Dog Pen

A dog pen can be used as an exercise area, a kennel or a portable yard when traveling or visiting. Pens come in a variety of types. Some are fairly permanent, while others are specifically designed to be collapsible to accommodate transportation and storage. The size of the dog determines the side of the pen. A dog that is prone to jumping fences will need a pen with a roof, and a dog that digs will need special consideration as well.

Things You'll Need

  • Website or pet store that sells dog pens
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Instructions

    • 1

      Decide whether your pen needs to only contain the dog, or if it needs to also serve as a barrier to keep children or other animals out. If you want your pen to be accessible for you or your children to come in to play with the dog, shorter walls or a door of some kind will be necessary.

    • 2

      Choose a pen with very high walls or a roof if the dog is prone to jumping over fences.

    • 3

      Choose a pen that has anchors or a bottom panel if the dog is prone to nosing or digging under fences.

    • 4

      Choose a pen that collapses easily, preferably without the use of tools, if you plan to tote the pen around during visits or travel.

    • 5

      Choose a pen's side panel height based on the following rules of thumb, if your dog is not a jumper: 30-inch sides for dogs under 40 lbs.; 36-inch sides for dogs 40 to 70 lbs.; 42-inch sides for dogs 70 to 90 lbs; and 48-inch sides for dogs 90 lbs. and up.