Dangers of Retractable Barricades

Dog crates, gates or barricades are all useful in helping the dog adjust to a new setting or confining the dog to an area of your home. It is best to use items designed to meet pet-safety standards. Remember that barricades in the car are important to the dog's safety. A barricade between the driver and pet prevents unwanted nuzzles while driving and keeps the dog from flying forward in the case of a sudden stop. A portable dog kennel is also a good alternative.

  1. Collapse of Gate

    • Select a barrier or a crate for the size dog you have and consider permanent installation if the dog is traveling with you often. Retractable pet barricades, or pressure mounted pet gates, can pop out of a doorway if a dog pushes against it. This might cause injury to the pet that falls with the collapsing gate.

    Anxiety

    • A wire mesh or wooden gate that allows visibility to the blocked off area will reduce anxiety in the dog's reaction to being contained. Isolation from the dog's family will increase anxiety if the pet cannot watch the boundaries. Dogs do have emotions and will pout and then are more likely to disobey or become destructive. Retractable barriers might have a latch that the dog can undo and escape.

    Injury

    • A plastic-coated, heavy-gauge mesh gate mounted with pressure hinges is best. A 36-inch height is recommended. Wooden gates are available, but not a good choice for a dog that chews. The barrier should have a walk-through gate that you and the dog use. The risk of injury increases if a pet tries to open a retractable barrier and gets its paw or head stuck in the barrier.