Best Outdoor Dog Pens of 2025

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Outdoor dog pens are a great way to provide a safe and secure space for your furry friend while allowing them to enjoy the outdoors. These pens come in a variety of sizes and materials, including metal wire, plastic, and wood. They can be easily set up and taken down, making them perfect for camping trips or backyard barbecues. Some outdoor dog pens even come with covers to provide shade and protection from the elements. With an outdoor dog pen, your pup can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine while staying safe and contained.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Extra Large Dog Playpen Indoor Outdoor Heavy Duty 16 Panels Cover #TOP 1
Extra Large Dog Playpen Indoor Outdoor Heavy Duty 16 Panels
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Yaheetech 16 Panel Dog Playpen Cover #TOP 2
Yaheetech 16 Panel Dog Playpen
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Amazon Basics Foldable Dog Playpen Cover #TOP 3
Amazon Basics Foldable Dog Playpen
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Outdoor Dog Pens

#TOP 1

Extra Large Dog Playpen Indoor Outdoor Heavy Duty 16 Panels

BestPet
Black
Extra Large Dog Playpen Indoor Outdoor Heavy Duty 16 Panels Cover
BestPet Dog Playpen Indoor 40 inch 16 Panels Metal Dog Pen Pet Dog Fence Outdoor Exercise Pen with Doors,Pet Puppy Playpen for RV Camping Yard, Black

The Extra Large Dog Playpen is designed to keep your pet safe and secure with plenty of room. You can easily change the size and shape of the playpen without any tools. The playpen is constructed from sturdy heavy-duty metal, rust-resistant, and perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. It is easy to set up and disassemble, making it ideal for travel and camping.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Easy to assemble
Adjustable size and shape
Great for small dogs
Portable and lightweight
What We Don't Like
Narrow gate entrance
Flimsy gate latches
#TOP 2

Yaheetech 16 Panel Dog Playpen

YT-00025976
Black
Yaheetech 16 Panel Dog Playpen Cover
Yaheetech Dog Playpen Outdoor 24 inch 16 Panels Indoor Dog Fence Metal Dog Pen Heavy Duty Pet Puppy Exercise Pen for RV Camping Garden Yard

The Yaheetech Dog Playpen is a durable and sturdy pet exercise pen suitable for indoor and outdoor use. With 16 panels, the playpen can be assembled into different shapes, such as octagon, square, and rectangle. The playpen is safe and secure with appropriate bar spacing and a latch on the door. It also has rounded edges to protect pets from injury and to prevent damage to floors. The playpen is easy to set up without tools and can be disassembled for storage and transportation.

What We Like
Easy to assemble
Sturdy and strong
Good value for money
Versatile usage
Secure gate design
What We Don't Like
Stakes could be thicker
Narrow gate opening
#TOP 3

Amazon Basics Foldable Dog Playpen

Amazon Basics
YE128061A-24
black
Amazon Basics Foldable Dog Playpen Cover
Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Exercise Playpen for Dogs, Indoor/Outdoor Portable Pet Pen, Octagonal, Single Door, Extra Small, 60 x 60 x 24 Inches, Black

The Amazon Basics Dog Playpen is perfect for small pets, featuring a compact design that accommodates dogs up to 16 inches tall. With eight connected panels and secure locking doors, you can easily create a safe play area for your furry friend. This playpen can be shaped into various configurations, allowing you to customize the space for playtime or to block off specific areas in your home. Setting it up is a breeze—just unfold and connect the panels without any tools. Plus, it folds flat for convenient transport and storage when not in use.

What We Like
Sturdy and safe design
Easy to assemble and store
Versatile for indoor and outdoor use
Lightweight and portable
Great size for small pets
What We Don't Like
Corner pieces may detach
Can rust if left outside
#TOP 4

Sweetcrispy 8-Panel Dog Playpen

AN-DOGF-8S24
8-Panel
08 Panels 24 Inch
Sweetcrispy 8-Panel Dog Playpen Cover
Sweetcrispy Dog Playpen Indoor - Pet Fence Puppy Exercise Pen for Yard Gate 8 Panel 24” Height Heavy Duty Crates with Doors Metal Dog Pen for Camping, RV, Outdoor, Small/Medium Pets

The Sweetcrispy Dog Pen is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, providing a sturdy and safe space for your pets. Its durable metal construction ensures it can withstand various conditions, perfect for camping or RV trips. With options for different panel counts and heights, you can easily create the ideal environment for your dog or other small pets. Setting it up is a breeze, taking less than five minutes, and the rubber plugs at the rod connections keep noise to a minimum, making playtime enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.

What We Like
Versatile and adjustable design
Sturdy and durable materials
Easy to set up
Spacious for growing puppies
Excellent customer service
What We Don't Like
Paw entrapment risk
Rust when used outdoors
#TOP 5

Petorldog Heavy Duty Dog Kennel

ZJ--7010016
Black-Silver
40" Height
Petorldog Heavy Duty Dog Kennel Cover
Petorldog Dog Fence for Yard Outdoor Indoor Dog Playpen 40" Height 16 Panels Metal Dog Pen Puppy Playpen Portable Dog Kennel Crate for RV Camping(Black-Silver)

The Petorldog Dog Playpen offers a robust and reliable solution for pet owners. Its rust-proof design ensures long-lasting durability, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. You can feel secure knowing that the enhanced locking mechanism prevents even clever pets from escaping. Quick and easy to set up, this playpen is portable and can be customized to fit any space. It’s suitable for pets of all sizes, providing a safe area for them to play and relax, whether in your backyard or inside your home.

What We Like
Sturdy and heavy-duty construction
Easy to assemble and use
Durable materials for longevity
Spacious play area for pets
Convenient for storage
What We Don't Like
Minor issues with door panel
#TOP 6

mestyl 40" Dog Playpen

Black
mestyl 40" Dog Playpen Cover
mestyl Dog Playpen, 40" Height 16 Panels Outdoor Pet Play Pen, Big Dog Exercise Play Pen for Large/Medium/Small Dogs, Foldable Puppy Pen for Indoor, Camping, RV, Anti-Rust Paint Finish, Quick Install

The mestyl Dog Playpen is designed for your pets' safety and comfort. Its durable hammer coating prevents rust and peeling, making it suitable for any weather. With 16 panels, you can create a spacious play area of up to 81 square feet, perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Each door is equipped with dual automatic locks to keep your pets secure, while the round-tipped connecting rods ensure their paws and eyes are protected. Plus, this playpen is foldable and easy to set up, requiring no tools for installation, allowing you to store it conveniently when not in use.

What We Like
Easy to set up
Sturdy and durable
Portable and lightweight
Flexible shape and size
Good for multiple dogs
What We Don't Like
Not completely rust resistant
Heavy when packed
#TOP 7

FXW Rollick Dog Playpen

FXW
Black
24 inch
FXW Rollick Dog Playpen Cover
FXW Rollick Dog Playpen for Indoor, Yard, RV Camping, 24 inch 8 Panels for Puppy and Small Dogs│Patented

The FXW Dog Playpen is a win-win solution for both you and your dog. Unlike narrow enclosures or kennels, this spacious semi-open playpen provides a safe and sturdy activity area for your dog to have fun in. You can finally take a break and relax without worrying about your pet. The stakes and rods are designed for stability and safety, ensuring that the playpen won't collapse or allow your dog to unlock the door. Assembly is a breeze, taking less than 5 minutes, and the panels can be added or removed to create a flexible area in any shape you need. Made with a rust-resistant powder coating, this playpen is perfect for yard use, camping, or traveling. The FXW team takes care of its family members by offering quality products and responsive customer support.

What We Like
Sturdy and durable construction
Versatile and customizable layout
Easy to set up and move
Good for various dog sizes
Effective safety for kids and pets
What We Don't Like
May sway if not properly configured
Gate latches can be cumbersome
#TOP 8

VISCOO 16-Panel Dog Playpen

27Pack
27Pack
VISCOO 16-Panel Dog Playpen Cover
VISCOO Dog Playpen Outdoor, 16 Panels 40" High Metal Dog Fence with Gate, Pet Fence for Large/Small Dogs, Portable Dog Fence for RV Camping, Yard

The VISCOO Dog Playpen offers a spacious and secure area for your furry friends. Standing at 40 inches high and comprising 16 panels, it can be configured into various shapes, giving your pets plenty of room to play. Its sturdy electroplated metal construction resists rust and features a design that protects your dogs' claws. You’ll appreciate the easy assembly process, which requires no tools, making setup a breeze. Plus, its lightweight design means you can take it along for outdoor adventures like camping or trips to the yard.

What We Like
Easy to set up
Lightweight and portable
Rust resistant
Flexible size options
Affordable alternative to fencing
What We Don't Like
Feels somewhat flimsy
Gate can be difficult to open
#TOP 9

Mr IRONSTONE Dog Playpen 16 Panels

16P32-A
Black
Mr IRONSTONE Dog Playpen 16 Panels Cover
Mr IRONSTONE Dog Playpen with Anti-Rust Coating, Dog Fences, Dog Pens Outdoor/Indoor Pet Playpen for Large/Medium/Small Dogs, Portable & Foldable Pet Fence 32" Height 16 Panels.

The Mr IRONSTONE Dog Playpen offers a durable and stable solution for keeping your pets safe. Its special silver hammer-tone coating makes it resistant to rust and scratches, ensuring long-lasting use. The upgraded safety features, including a spherical top stake and a reliable lock, help prevent injuries and keep your dogs secure. With double floor protection, the rubber sleeves and anti-slip foot pads safeguard your floors from scratches and wear. Plus, you can easily assemble the playpen into various shapes and sizes, making it perfect for any environment, whether at home or outdoors.

What We Like
Sturdy and solid construction
Versatile shape and size options
Easy to set up and assemble
Effective gate locks
Good for indoor and outdoor use
What We Don't Like
May rust in humid conditions
Lock security could improve
#TOP 10

GDKASRNY 16-Panel Dog Playpen

HCJ002
Silver
GDKASRNY 16-Panel Dog Playpen Cover
Dog Playpen,32/40/45 Inch Height in Heavy Duty, Folding Indoor Outdoor Anti-Rust Dog Exercise Fence, Portable Pet Playpen with Door for Large Medium Small Dogs and Pet (16 Panels, 32 Inch) Silver

The GDKASRNY Dog Playpen is a versatile solution for pet owners, available in heights of 24, 32, and 40 inches. This allows you to choose the perfect size for your small, medium, or large dog. The unique arrow design of the posts ensures that they can be easily and securely inserted into the ground, providing stability during use. With 8 panels for indoor use or 16 panels for outdoor settings, this playpen adapts to your needs, whether at home or on the go. Plus, using a proper pet pad can help protect your floors and minimize noise when your furry friend is playing inside.

What We Like
Easy to assemble
Sturdy and stable
Versatile configuration
Lightweight yet durable
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Powder coating may rust
Thin gauge metal frame
Buying Guide Image

Decide Which Outdoor Dog Pens Are Best for Your Pets

Introduction

When it comes to keeping your furry friend safe and secure while they enjoy the great outdoors, outdoor dog pens are a must-have. Not only do they provide a designated space for your pooch to play and roam, but they also keep them contained and prevent them from wandering off or getting into mischief. But with so many different styles, sizes, and materials available, how do you choose the right outdoor dog pen for your pup? In this article, we'll discuss some key factors to consider when shopping for an outdoor dog pen.

Size and Shape

One of the most important things to consider when choosing an outdoor dog pen is the size and shape. You'll want to make sure that the pen is big enough to accommodate your dog's size and energy level, as well as any additional features you might want to include, such as a doghouse or water and food bowls. Be sure to measure your dog's height, length, and weight to determine the minimum size of the pen you'll need.

In terms of shape, most outdoor dog pens are rectangular or square, but there are also circular and hexagonal options available. Consider the layout of your outdoor space and choose a shape that will fit comfortably and securely.

Material

Another important factor to consider is the material of the outdoor dog pen. The most common materials are metal, plastic, and wood, each with their own unique benefits and drawbacks.

Metal dog pens are durable and sturdy, making them ideal for active or larger breeds. They're also relatively easy to clean and maintain. However, they can be on the heavy side and may not be the best option for small or elderly dogs.

Plastic dog pens are lightweight and portable, making them a great option for traveling or temporary use. They're also easy to clean and often come in fun colors. However, they may not be as durable as metal or wood options, and they can be more expensive.

Wooden dog pens are a popular choice for their natural look and feel. They can be easily customized with paint or stain and are often more aesthetically pleasing than metal or plastic options. However, they require regular maintenance to prevent rot and decay, and they can be heavier and more expensive than other materials.

Features

Another thing to consider when choosing an outdoor dog pen is the additional features it offers. Some pens come with built-in doghouses, providing a cozy and secure space for your pup to retreat to when they need a break from all the fun. Others have removable roofs or covers, allowing you to create a shaded or sheltered space for your dog to enjoy.

You'll also want to consider the gates and entryways of the pen. Look for pens with secure locking mechanisms and multiple entry points to make it easy for you to get in and out, as well as for your dog to move freely.

Cost

Of course, cost is also a factor to consider when choosing an outdoor dog pen. While it's important to invest in a quality pen that will provide a safe and secure space for your furry friend, you'll also want to make sure you don't break the bank. Consider your budget and look for pens that offer the right combination of size, material, and features at a price that works for you.

Conclusion

Choosing the right outdoor dog pen for your furry friend can be a daunting task, but with a little research and consideration, you can find the perfect pen for your pup. Keep in mind the size and shape, material, features, and cost to ensure you choose a pen that will provide a safe and secure space for your dog to play and roam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How big should an outside dog pen be?

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), a dog pen should be at least 10 feet by 10 feet or 5 feet by 15 feet. For large and active dogs, a longer kennel is recommended.

2. What is the best floor for an outdoor dog kennel?

Concrete floors can be hard on dog joints and may lead to skeletal problems. Better flooring options for outdoor dog kennels include rubber, epoxy, plastic, vinyl, and engineered wood. These materials provide more comfort and support for dogs.

3. How to make an outdoor dog kennel?

To make an outdoor dog kennel, start by choosing a location and determining the size. Prepare the area and lay down a suitable floor material like rubber or engineered wood. Install fencing around the area and add a roof for protection against the elements.

4. Can I leave my dog in a playpen all day?

It is generally safe to leave a dog in a playpen for longer periods compared to a crate. However, it's important to ensure the dog is ready for longer periods alone and doesn't associate the playpen with being left alone. Gradually increase the time spent in the playpen and provide appropriate mental and physical stimulation.

5. Are dogs happier inside or outside?

While it's not cruel to keep a dog outdoors in mild weather, dogs are social animals who thrive on companionship and being close to their owners. They are generally happiest when spending time with the family. Keeping a dog solely outside can lead to social isolation and loneliness.

6. What do you put at the bottom of an outside dog house?

The bottom of an outside dog house can be made of plywood. If insulating the house, foam insulation board can be placed between the floor joists and secured to the plywood using weather-resistant outdoor adhesive.

7. Are dogs OK in kennels outside?

Yes, outdoor dog kennels can provide a safe and secure environment for dogs. Dogs enjoy fresh air and sunlight, but allowing them to roam freely outside may not always be safe. A kennel helps keep dogs protected and prevents them from wandering off or getting into dangerous situations.

8. How do I keep my outside kennel warm?

To keep an outside kennel warm in winter, consider placing it in a sunny spot to benefit from the natural warmth of the sun. It's also important to protect the kennel from strong winds by positioning it or using windbreaks. Providing adequate bedding, insulation, and access to shelter can help keep dogs warm in colder temperatures.

Editor's Notes

During our outdoor dog pen research, we found 24 outdoor dog pen products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 328,339 customer reviews through our big data system to write the outdoor dog pens list. We found that most customers choose outdoor dog pens with an average price of $118.59.

The outdoor dog pens are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of outdoor dog pens, including BestPet, Yaheetech, Sweetcrispy, Petorldog, mestyl. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 14,078 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.

Outdoor Dog Pens Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP3
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#TOP5
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#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand BestPet Yaheetech Amazon Basics Sweetcrispy Petorldog mestyl FXW VISCOO Mr IRONSTONE GDKASRNY
Color Black Black black 8-Panel Black-Silver Black Black 27Pack Black Silver
Material Metal Metal Metal Metal Metal Alloy Steel Metal Iron Metal Metal
Style 16 panels Outdoor With door 8-Panel 16 Panels 40"H Modern and Compact 27Pack Hammered Finish Portable
Item Weight - 48.2 pounds 16.59 pounds 28 pounds 62.2 pounds 72.2 pounds 23.8 pounds 55.9 pounds 53.8 pounds 59.9 pounds
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H - 33.46 x 23.62 x 11.81 inches 25.98 x 25 x 2.56 inches 31.75 x 25 x 6 inches 41 x 28 x 10 inches 40.5 x 27.25 x 8.5 inches 24.57 x 24.5 x 5.75 inches 40 x 25 x 10 inches 31.89 x 27.56 x 8.46 inches 33 x 29.5 x 10.5 inches
Item Dimensions LxWxH - 102 x 102 x 24 inches 59.06 x 59.06 x 24 inches 92 x 32 x 23.6 inches 28 x 10 x 41 inches 26 x 8.5 x 40 inches 24.21 x 5.51 x 24.21 inches 40 x 25 x 9 inches 134 x 30 x 134 inches 27.7 x 5.5 x 32 inches
Brand Name - Yaheetech Amazon Basics Sweetcrispy Petorldog mestyl FXW VISCOO Mr IRONSTONE GDKASRNY
Target Audience Keyword - dogs dogs Dogs dogs Dogs dogs small-animal-pets, dogs dogs dogs
Specific Uses for Product - Outdoor, Indoor indoor/outdoor use Outdoor Outdoor, Indoor Outdoor, Indoor Outdoor, Indoor Outdoor RV Camping, Travel, Outdoor, Indoor Outdoor
Model Name - Dog Playpen AmazonBasics Foldable Metal Pet Dog Exercise Fence Pen Dog Playpen Indoor Pet Fence dog enclosure 16P40 - 27Pack 16P32-A DP
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.5
ftb score rating icon 8.3
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