Since you can’t have your eyes glued on your dog 24/7, it helps to have a portable pet playpen to ensure your dog is having a safer playtime. With it, you won’t have to worry that your dog might be picking up random things that could hurt him. If you love to travel, having a portable playpen also gives your pet a little homey retreat. There are actually many ways to use a portable playpen. You can use it to house a senior dog or as a way to potty train a pet. But to maximize its benefits, it is imperative that you choose only the best dog/pet playpen. Don’t worry about where to find it, as we have listed 10 of the best brands in the market.
10 Best Dog Portable Playpens
1. Parkland Pet Portable Foldable Playpen
If you truly want the best dog/pet foldable playpen, the Parkland Pet Portable Foldable Playpen is the way to go. Built with high-quality 600-Denier Oxford, this playpen features incredible elasticity, strength, and water resistance. These attributes make the playpen suitable for both indoor and outdoor use as well.
This model measures 48” x 48” x 24” and because it has an octagon shape, the playpen gives a lot more room than expected. You can fit in here your dog’s bed, pillow, blanket, chew toys, and of course… your dog! There are also two other size options if you want something smaller.
As you can see, the playpen has a zippered half-mesh top and eight sides complete with mesh windows. This allows you to take your dog outside on a beautiful sunny day without worrying that nasty insects or a kingfisher might pester your pet. Most importantly, having multiple mesh windows provides maximum airflow and ease of access.
This model weighs 3.99 pounds. It pops right up and packs away just as fast. While it doesn’t include a carrying bag, it folds down flat for convenient storing. Besides, it is relatively light. You can bring it with you when you are traveling and camping.
pros
- Built with high-quality 600-Denier Oxford material
- Has a large zippered front door for convenient access
- Multiple mesh windows promote airflow and visibility
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
- Pops right open; no tools required
- Lightweight and folds down flat
- Water-resistant
- Great value for your money
cons
- It doesn’t come with a carrying bag
- Some reviewers commented that the zippers might eventually need replacement
2. ToysOpoly Pet Playpen
If you have a fur-baby at home, then getting the ToysOpoly Pet Playpen should not linger in your head more than once. It is the best dog/pet portable playpen for a small- to medium-sized dog.
Made with high-quality 600-Denier Oxford, this playpen can withstand against heavy claws without getting stretched, torn, or snagged. It also boasts of a strong internal frame to keep its shape even if a large dog rams against it.
This model measures 45” in diameter and 25” in height. Even if you squeeze in some pillows and toys, your pooch will still have enough room to move around and play. This playpen is quite a breeze to set up and it folds completely flat for storage.
As you can see, there are two zippered roll-up doors to provide you convenient access to your pooch. The latest design has zippers, not Velcro, to secure both the top and bottom panels. Rest assured a naughty pooch couldn’t break loose.
The manufacturer has also thoughtfully included a carrying bag for easy transport. Additionally, the playpen comes with four metal anchors, so you can stake it firmly into the ground when you use it outdoors.
Although the playpen isn’t machine-washable, it is much easier to spot clean since it is water-resistant. Meanwhile, the bottom is waterproof to protect your floor from spills or wee-wee accidents.
pros
- Made with high-quality 600-Denier Oxford material
- Has a strong metal framework to hold its shape
- Has two zippered roll-up doors for convenient access
- Comes with four metal anchors and a carrying bag
- Multiple mesh windows promote airflow and visibility
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
- Pops right open; no tools required
- Lightweight and folds down flat
- The bottom panel is waterproof
cons
- Doesn’t have a larger size
3. Ruff 'n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen
If ever you need to go out of town, it helps to have the Ruff n’ Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen to keep Mr. Scruff entertained. This playpen will give your dog a safe and comfortable area to play, laze around, and sleep. This product is spacious and durable enough for a large agile canine or a bunch of rowdy pups.
This playpen is made of high-quality 600-Denier nylon, making it one of the best dog/pet foldable playpens in terms of strength and flexibility. The fact that it features reinforced seams and corners makes for a reliable enclosure for any dog. Not to mention it has a heavy-duty floor mat.
Also, this playpen features a zippered mesh roof, which you can either remove or close. When used outdoors, a zippered top can provide your dog shade, as well as protection against pesky insects. You also won’t have to worry about your dog getting wet if it drizzles, as the playpen is water-resistant.
The overall design of the playpen is inarguably its winning quality. It measures 48” x 48” x 23.5” and has an octagon shape to help increase interior space. Likewise, each panel has a rubberized mesh window to promote air circulation and visibility.
Aside from the fact that this playpen requires no assembly, it folds down flat for convenient storing. What’s more, this product comes with an FDA-grade dishwasher-safe collapsible bowl and a carrying bag.
pros
- Made with high-quality 600-Denier nylon
- The mesh top is removable for indoor use
- Boasts of a reinforced floor mat, protective corners, and toughened seams
- Multiple mesh windows promote airflow and visibility
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
- Pops right open; no tools required
- Lightweight and folds down flat
- Water-resistant
- Includes a free collapsible bowl and carrying bag
cons
- It emits a chemical smell, which can linger for several days
4. EliteField 2-Door Soft Pet Playpen
EliteField is currently Amazon’s no. 1 brand under the "Soft Pet Playpen" category. At first glance, you may think this product is just another octagon playpen. So, what makes it so special? First, it comes in multiple sizes and color combinations to suit pets of all sizes. The smallest model measures 30” x 30” x 20,” while the largest one measures 62” x 62” x 62.” As the name suggests, this playpen features two zippered mesh doors equipped with industrial-quality zippers that enhances the security of your pet. There are also multiple mesh windows to promote air circulation and to give your pet a good view of his surroundings.
Setting the EliteField 2-Door Soft Pet Playpen is also straightforward. It does not require tools or energy-depleting labor. Stowing it away can also be done in a jiffy. What’s more, it comes with a free carrying bag and four ground stakes. However, some users mentioned that this pen is only suitable for crate-trained dogs. An untrained dog could easily chew through this.
pros
- Rated as Amazon’s no.1 soft playpen
- Has two zippered entry points
- Has a zippered mesh door at the front and at the back
- Has a removable and washable zip-off mat
- Multiple mesh windows promote airflow and visibility
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
- Straightforward assembly
- Includes a carrying case and four ground anchors for outdoor use
cons
- Not suitable for chewers
5. ESK COLLECTION Blue 45" Dog Playpen
The ESK COLLECTION Blue 45" Dog Playpen features a simple octagonal design. Lightweight and collapsible, the space-saving design of this playpen makes it ideal for dog owners who are always on the go. What’s more, it comes with a carrying case that has side compartments, so you can conveniently tuck in some of your pet’s belongings.
As for accessibility, there is a roll-up mesh door at the center and a zippered mesh top. The presence of mesh windows for each panel serves as an avenue for you to check in on your pooch. With this playpen, your pooch will never have to feel like he is confined.
The materials used to make this product include a 600-Denier Oxford cloth. Not only is it durable, but it is also breathable and water-resistant. Installation is ridiculously easy to do, as it doesn’t require tools.
This playpen is as aesthetically appealing as it is efficient, plus there are a few color combinations to choose from. It is unfortunate that it only comes in one size, which measures 45” in diameter and 24” in height. Nevertheless, it is quite a steal if you use it for a small breed or a bunch of puppies.
pros
- Made with high-quality 600-Denier Oxford
- Has a roll-up mesh door and a zippered mesh top
- Multiple mesh windows promote airflow and visibility
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
- Pops right open; no tools required
- Lightweight and folds down flat
- The bottom panel is waterproof
- Includes a carrying case
cons
- Zippers need improvement
- Fits small dogs only
6. Zampa Pet Playpen
The Zampa Pet Playpen offers a practical solution for pet owners who want to bring their furry pals on camps, picnics, and other excursions. It is a fashion-forward playpen built with sturdy yet lightweight materials. Likewise, the playpen is water-resistant to ensure your pet stays comfortably dry inside in case it drizzles.
The playpen measures 45" x 45" x 24" and has eight semi-mesh panels. It can easily hold a small or medium-sized dog quite comfortably with enough room for a pillow, a blanket, and a few toys. Likewise, it features reinforced corners and seams, as well as a non-detachable floor mat. All of these are a blessing if you have a pooch that gets innovative with his escape plans.
Moreover, the Zampa playpen has a zippered mesh top, which you can remove when you want to give your pooch a bit more air or a better view. There are also exterior pockets where you can tuck in some items. It also comes with a carrying case, which adds to its portability.
While this playpen is one of the best products to buy for a pup or a small pooch, you may want to keep an eye on your pet if he is still untrained or is yet to complete his teething stage.
pros
- Built using lightweight materials
- Fairly durable for puppies and small canine breeds
- Features reinforced corners and protected seams
- Non-detachable floor mats eliminate weak spots
- Has exterior pocket for a water bottle and treats
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
- Lightweight and folds down flat
- Includes a carrying case
cons
- Can be a little difficult to collapse and fold back into its case
- Not suitable for chewers and diggers
7. Pawdle Deluxe Playpen Kennel
The Pawdle Deluxe Playpen Kennel is fairly durable, considering it is comprised of a metal framework and a high-quality 600-Denier Oxford fabric. The largest size available for this playpen measures 48” x 48” x 24.” While this may not hold a large agile dog, it can comfortably accommodate a pair of puppies or a small dog with room to spare for his blanket, pillow, and toys.
The playpen is lightweight; it is, therefore, easy to move around. It is easy to take out, open, set up, and stow away. What’s more, it comes with a handy case for when you need to travel. Ground stakes are also included for when you need to use it outdoors. There are also storage pockets for your pet’s water bottle, leash, etc.
Moreover, this playpen has a nice run of features, such as protected seams and reinforced corners to keep your dog’s security in check. There are plenty of mesh areas for improved ventilation, too. The zippered top and front door are also mesh. When it comes to cleaning, the texture of the material used makes maintenance as easy and quick as possible.
Unfortunately, the Pawdle Deluxe may not be suitable for crafty pets. If your dog is particularly strong and boisterous, he may be able to weigh down the playpen or rip a hole in the bottom.
pros
- Built with high-quality 600-Denier Oxford material
- Has a large zippered front door for convenient access
- Features protected seams and reinforced corners
- Multiple mesh windows promote airflow and visibility
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
- Pops right open; no tools required
- Lightweight and folds down flat
- Water-resistant
- Has storage pockets for accessories
- Includes a carrying case
cons
- More likely to collapse with a boisterous pet
8. Jespet Pet Dog Playpens
There are two size options for Jespet Pet Dog Playpen. The largest model measures 61” x 61” x 30,” and is good enough for a bunch of pups or a medium-sized dog weighing up to 90 pounds. The octagon shape of this playpen gives your pet ample room to move around and switch sleeping positions. You can put in a blanket, a pillow, and a few toys, too.
This playpen has a zippered water-resistant bottom that will help protect your floor from spills and wee-wee accidents. Likewise, it features two zippered doors and a zippered mesh cover. This playpen sets up easily and you can take it down just as fast. Then you can tuck it inside the carrying case that comes with this product.
The manufacturer claims that this playpen is made of 600-Denier Oxford material. Considering the material it is made of, it should provide water resistance and cleaning should be a breeze. However, we would not recommend this for pets who like clawing and chewing. Many users note that a determined escapee can puncture it.
pros
- Features zippered front doors and mesh cover
- Multiple mesh windows promote airflow and visibility
- The bottom is water-resistant
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
- Pops right open; no tools required
- Lightweight and folds down flat
- Water-resistant
- Has storage pockets for accessories
- Includes a carrying case
cons
- Cannot house large dogs
- Not suitable for chewers and diggers
9. Precision Pet Soft Side Play Yard
The Precision Pet Soft Side Play Yard aims to bring the comfort and safety of home wherever you roam. This playpen is heavy-duty, as it features quality zippers, reinforced corners, protected seams, and a reliable steel wire frame. It also comes with four ground stakes, so you can anchor the playpen against the soft ground during outdoor use.
The Precision Pet Soft Side Play Yard measures 46” x 46” x 28.” As you can see, this playpen has eight mesh panels for superior air circulation. Both the top and bottom panels are removable for when you need to maximize visibility or access your pet. There are also three side pockets to tuck in leashes and toys. What’s more, it has a water hole and water holder to provide your pets quick access to hydration without the unnecessary spills.
pros
- Features quality zippers, reinforced corners, and protected seams
- Has a sturdy steel wire frame to keep its shape longer
- Includes ground stakes
- Multiple mesh windows promote airflow and visibility
- The bottom is water-resistant
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
- Pops right open; no tools required
- Lightweight and folds down flat
- Water-resistant
- Has storage pockets and a water holder
- Includes a carrying case
cons
- Feels heavier compared to others
10. BestPet Pet Exercise Pen
The BestPet Pet Exercise Pen offers a secure area for your pooch to play and laze around. This playpen is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. It measures 39 inches in diameter and 21 inches in height. There are two small zippered entrances on the side panels. There is also a zippered entrance at the top, which you can open or close with ease.
As for durability, this playpen is equipped with a heavy-duty rust-resistant metal frame. Being water-resistant also helps increase the longevity of the product. Setting up the playpen is straightforward without the need for tools. Likewise, you can fold it down in seconds. However, some customers complained that the case that comes with it looks flimsy and is far too small to fit the playpen.
pros
- Features a heavy-duty rust-resistant metal frame
- Has two small zippered entrances on the sides
- Zippered entrance at the top
- Suitable for indoors and outdoors
- Pops right open; no tools required
- Lightweight and folds down flat
- Water-resistant
cons
- The carrying case might need replacement
Factors to Consider When Getting Portable Pet Playpens
Materials
The three most commonly used materials for creating a playpen are metal, plastic, and fabric. Among the three, fabric or mesh playpens are the weakest. Nevertheless, they also have their own unique advantages. If you choose a fabric-based playpen, it is, therefore, advisable that you opt for a product that uses a heavy-duty fabric with high strand strength. A good example is a 600-Denier Oxford fabric, as it features good elasticity and waterproof characteristics. Fabrics with a high denier count are thick and sturdy enough to withstand clawing.
Size
There is no point in getting an enclosure if it won’t effectively contain your pet. You need to make sure that your dog can sit, lie, and walk inside the playpen. There should also be room for a bed, toys, feeding bowls, and other accessories.
Weight
The weight of the playpen matters because you will need to relocate it from time to time. Likewise, the weight will also determine how secure your pet is kept. A heavy playpen usually has a sturdy metal frame to support it. However, you may need to carry a few extra pounds in exchange for the stability it offers.
Visibility
Playpens should provide entertainment, comfort, and relaxation to your pet, rather than make him feel isolated and claustrophobic. It is, therefore, important that you choose a playpen that offers maximum visibility. A good example would be a playpen that has a mesh screen on each panel. This will give your dog a better view of his surroundings. Visibility also comes hand in hand with ventilation. Having multiple mesh screens will also promote airflow.
Security
Security is a crucial factor to consider, especially if your pet is Houdini-like. Most owners prefer a non-detachable bottom with reinforced stitching and protective seams, as these eliminate the weak spots that most zippered bottoms create. However, others like the ease of cleaning that a zippered bottom provides. If you plan to use the playpen outdoors, opt for a product with an optional roof. You can use it to provide shade, as well as protection from predator birds and insects.
References and resources
- Purina, The Benefits of a Puppy Playpen
- pets.thenest.com, Setting Up a Puppy Playpen