We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
Plus discounts on some of our favourites. driveway barrier swing gates
Whether you want to keep your dog separate from a toddler, workmen, dog-shy guests or simply protect your new carpet, a dog gate is the perfect solution for creating a safe space for your dog.
A dog gate is useful to block off unsafe areas, like stairways, kitchens or baby rooms, and are especially great when you're training your dog. Permanent dog gates are recommended if you're a homeowner, while pressure-mounted or freestanding dog gates are a good choice for renters – and can be installed without the hassle of a toolbox.
Dog gates generally come in three materials – wood, metal or plastic – or a combination of plastic and mesh. If your dog is prone to chewing or scratching, it's best to avoid wood, plastic or plastic and mesh gates, and opt for a metal gate instead. If you travel or will be adjusting the gate to different rooms in the house, the best option is a portable, free-standing gate.
If you have children and dogs, and life is particularly hectic, choose one that is easy to unlatch, rather than one to step over, which could be hazardous. If your dog is a renowned climber/escape artist, you can get extra-tall gates to deter even the most energetic of dogs from attempting to jump over them.
It's also advised to avoid using a baby gate instead of a dog one. A child safety gate may be flimsy and not as sturdy or strong as a dog gate, which means it could collapse, making it unsafe and unsuitable for your dog.
Here's our selection of the best metal, mesh and wooden dog gates available for 2023. From freestanding to retractable options, there’s something in this edit for everyone.
This dog gate can be stuck to door frames and walls with self-adhesive tape, making it a great pick for renters. It can also be drilled, if you'd prefer.
The see-through mesh fabric allows you to supervise your dog from the next room, too.
How gorgeous is this? Crafted from wood, this handmade gate is ideal for those with rustic interiors. As well as a dog or baby gate, this could also be installed as a chic garden door.
We don’t think we’ve found any other dog gate that we can say will add texture and character to your space. Choose from 14 different sizes.
This bespoke dog gate is made to fit a wide range of stairs, doorways and openings. There’s no installation or drilling required so it's ideal if you’re renting.
With a natural wood finish and minimal zigzag design, this gate is a more stylish option than some of the others on our list.
This one does require some drilling for installation, so if you’re a renter or less handy, try one of the other pressure-mounted options, but if you’re looking for a permanent solution that won’t intrude on your decor, this is a good, reasonably-priced gate.
It comes in grey and white, too.
Made from birch wood with clear varnish, this gate has galvanised bars and is brilliant for puppies and smaller dog breeds.
Metal gates are strong and durable and make a good option for dogs who would otherwise chew wooden gates. This one is designed with a double locking mechanism that ensures your pet stays securely in place.
There’s also a small built-in door that can be kept open for cats to pass through.
Any owners with a big pooch will appreciate this dog gate, which stands at 91.5cm tall. It has a double-lock system for extra security, and an auto-close gate in case you forget to shut it.
This quick-install pet barrier is simple to fit and suitable to move around your home due to its pressure-fit design (meaning there's no need for tools or drilling).
It's a great way to keep your pet secure in a room of your choosing and is suitable for large dogs. A one-hand locking and opening system also makes it simple to operate.
With its retractable design, Wayfair’s dog gate is far less of an eyesore when not in use than traditional versions – it’s barely visible at all. It’s lightweight, durable and a great price, too.
This Pressure Fit Pet Gate is ideal for small to medium-sized dogs. Easy to install and remove without the need for tools, this convenient gate can be opened and closed with one hand and opens in both directions.
Crafted from steel, it features an automatic closing door feature for extra security.
Keep your pup from wandering into restricted spaces with this chunky wooden stair gate. Unlike most gates, it has a two-way opening that can be operated with one hand. There are five colours to choose from, including our favourite, this beautiful azure blue.
This one also has a mini door for smaller pets like cats to come through freely and it’s adjustable for door frames of different sizes. The non-slip rubber feet will keep the gate in place.
This crisscross gate is prettier than your average, made from solid pine and finished in fresh white. Support feet make it more sturdy, helping it to withstand bumps and knocks from overeager pups.
It also has two hinges, so it can fold multiple ways to fit a variety of openings in your home.
The guard dog gate is made using folding panels, so there is nothing for a pet to get trapped in. It is auto retractable meaning it folds back when opened and sits out of sight when not required. Ideal for tight spaces.
The gate can be used in doorways, hallways and in stairways to keep pets safely in one area. The white wooden gate features clean lines and a sturdy build that will complement the interior of any home, from traditional to contemporary.
The middle panel has a walk through gate which makes it easy for you to pass through without moving the whole frame.
This free-standing, adjustable pet gate by Archie & Oscar is an excellent way to stop pets from entering certain areas, as you can use it between door frames or between furniture. It's also a great way to separate pets from children to keep them both safe.
The pet gate comes in three sections, making it easy to move around, and has feet on the side to stop it from falling over.
7 ways to care for an older dog
22 Christmas gifts for your dog
3 signs that your dog's bed needs replacing
Reduce your dog's stress levels this bonfire night
RSPCA reveals its most unwanted animals
World's oldest known dog dies
10 of our favourite advent calendars for dogs
15 best cat toys to keep them entertained
19 dog beds to buy right now
The best dog and cat accessories under £35
The best indestructible dog toys
Country Living, Part of the Hearst UK Fashion & Beauty Network
We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
External Receiver ©2023 Hearst UK is the trading name of the National Magazine Company Ltd, 30 Panton Street, Leicester Square, London, SW1Y 4AJ. Registered in England. All Rights Reserved.