As much you love your dogs’ company, it doesn’t mean you want them to have access to every room in your home, or at least not all the time. An indoor dog gate can be helpful for preventing falls or keeping your dog away from unsafe household items. With different materials and safety features to choose from, you might be wondering whether you need to purchase a dog gate for your home and which type is best for your dog.
We asked a veterinarian for advice on what to look for in a dog gate, how to choose the right size, and whether you can use a baby gate for your dog.
When Would You Want to Use a Dog Gate?
You might consider purchasing a dog gate if you’re trying to keep your dog from certain areas of your home. For instance, you might want to keep your dog away from hazards like stairs, hot elements on a stove, or common household poisons. Aside from safety, a gate is a wise investment for keeping areas of your home clean or preventing damage to valuable items and keepsakes.
Whether you have a new puppy or an adult dog, a gate can be a great way to slowly introduce your dog to your home. “During house training, gates can limit a puppy’s access to areas where accidents are more likely to happen,” says Dr. Kelly Hood, DVM, in-house veterinary expert at PetPortraits.com. Unless you’ve cleaned up urine thoroughly, lingering odors might prompt your dog to pee in the same spot.
Another reason to use dog gates is to separate dogs or other types of pets that don’t get along, she says. Your dog may need to be separated while eating, taking medications, or being groomed. Dog gates are also a good idea if you have infants or toddlers at home.
What Are the Different Types of Gates?
There are three types of dog gates which are pressure-mounted, hardware-mounted, and freestanding gates. Let’s get into each one.
Pressure Mounted Gates
Pressure-mounted gates are “a good option if you’re renting or aren’t looking to make permanent changes,” Dr. Hood explains. These gates have rubberized tension knobs and a bar that adjusts the width of the gate until it’s securely in place. You can install a pressure-mounted gate in a doorway and remove it easily without needing tools.
Hardwire-Mounted Gates
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, hardware-mounted gates are more secure. “They’re better for the top of stairs or if you have an energetic or larger dog,” she says. These gates usually come with bolts or brackets so you can mount the gate in a doorway or attach it to a wall. The downside is that, since they’re fixed in place, you can’t move them around the house or use them in more than one doorway.
Freestanding Gates
Freestanding gates don’t require installation and can be set down where they’re needed. Some freestanding gates have rubber grips on the bottom or support feet for added stability. They might also have hinges, so you can create a zigzag or rectangular shape and fold them away easily. This feature comes in handy if you need to block off a fireplace, for example. These gates are “useful for creating temporary barriers or enclosing spaces that are oddly shaped, but they aren’t as secure as other types of gates,” she explains.
Ultimately, the gate you choose depends on your needs. If you’re looking for something portable, a freestanding gate might work well for your home. But if you’re concerned about your dog pushing the gate over, a hardware-mounted gate is a safer choice. Some pressure-mounted gates come with hardware, so you have the option of mounting them to a door or wall for more stability.
What Kind of Material Is Safe for Dogs?
Dog gates come in wood, metal, plastic, or a combination of materials. “Metal gates are usually the most durable and chew-resistant, so they’re great for dogs who are persistent chewers,” Dr. Hood says. If you opt for a wooden gate, she recommends choosing one treated with a pet-safe finish.
Plastic gates are more affordable. But since these gates tend to be more lightweight compared to wood or metal, “they might not withstand a bigger dog or a dog that’s really determined to get past it,” she says. “The most important thing when choosing a gate is that it’s sturdy enough for your dog’s size and temperament.”
How Do You Know What Size to Choose?
Before buying a gate, measure the width of the doorway or opening where you’ll use the gate. “Most gates are adjustable within a certain range, so it’s really about finding one that fits your space,” she says. You should also check if the gate has a certain weight limit.
In addition to the width, you also need to consider the height of the gate and your dog’s behavior. Some products have recommended heights based on your dog’s breed or size. You may need something taller if your dog has a habit of jumping or climbing on furniture.
“The gate should be tall enough so that your dog can’t jump over it,” she says. A gate that is 20 inches high may work for puppies or smaller breeds. “For bigger breeds or jumpers, you’ll probably need a gate that’s at least 30 inches high,” she says.
Are Baby Gates Safe for Dogs?
Baby gates are often made of the same type of materials as dog gates. However, baby gates tend to be more lightweight and aren’t made with the kind of heavy-duty plastic that can resist chewing and clawing from a dog. Since they’re meant for babies, they may be shorter and have a lower weight resistance.
Although it’s not a good idea to use a dog gate for a baby or toddler, “baby gates can work for dogs in many cases, but they’re not always ideal,” Dr. Hood says. Gates designed for dogs are often more durable and have features suited to a dog’s behavior. She recommends avoiding gates with large openings where a dog’s paw or head could get trapped.
When purchasing a gate, look to see if it has a pet-proof lock. Ideally, the locking mechanism should be easy for you to open but secure enough to withstand dogs known for being escape artists. If your dog is a climber, avoid gates with horizontal bars where your dog can get a foothold and get over the gate.
How Do You Train Your Dog to Use a Gate?
Like any new addition to your home, introducing your dog to a gate takes a little time and patience. “Start by letting them investigate the gate while it’s open,” she says. “Then close it and reward your dog for calm behavior near the gate.”
Even if the gate you’ve purchased can withstand your dog’s weight, you want to train your dog to stop jumping on or scratching at the gate. If you notice this behavior, redirect your dog and give them a treat for sitting calmly. “With time and consistency, most dogs will eventually learn to accept the gate as part of their environment,” she adds.
The post Dog Gates 101: Choosing the Right Dog Gate for Your Home appeared first on American Kennel Club.