Crates & Playpens
The best dog playpens
A pen bridges the gap between a crate and full house freedom — perfect for puppies during the day. Height and floor protection matter most.
Best exercise pens
MidWest Foldable Metal Dog Exercise Pen (48")
MidWest Homes for Pets
A pen gives a puppy room to move without full run of the house — ideal for daytime containment and gradual freedom.
- Best for
- Puppies and dogs who need a safe contained area larger than a crate.
- Skip if
- Determined climbers/jumpers (add a top) or tiny apartments with no floor space.
- Watch out
- Tall dogs can tip or climb a low pen; choose height to match your dog.
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Check price on AmazonMidWest iCrate Double Door Folding Dog Crate (42")
MidWest Homes for Pets
The default first crate for good reason: a divider panel lets it grow with a puppy, and the double doors make placement flexible in any room.
- Best for
- Most large-breed dogs (71–90 lbs) and puppies that will grow into it.
- Skip if
- Serious escape artists or heavy chewers who need a heavy-duty steel crate.
- Watch out
- Match the size to your dog's adult weight; use the divider so a puppy can't potty at one end.
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Gorilla Grip Washable Crate Mat / Pee Pad
Gorilla Grip
A washable, slip-resistant waterproof pad that protects crate trays, floors, and furniture during house-training.
- Best for
- House-training, senior dogs, and protecting surfaces cheaply.
- Skip if
- Dogs who chew fabric pads.
- Watch out
- Choose a size that covers the area you're protecting.
Check Amazon for current price. Ratings and availability change. Verify on Amazon.
Check price on AmazonKey buying criteria
- Height. Match to your dog's jump/climb ability.
- Panel count/footprint. More panels mean a bigger, reconfigurable area.
- Floor protection. Add a washable mat underneath for accidents.
What to check on Amazon before buying
- Panel height vs your dog.
- Whether a door panel is included.
- Total enclosed area.
- Indoor vs indoor/outdoor finish.
Setup and usage tips
- Combine with a crate. Crate for sleep, pen for awake time.
- Add a mat and toys. Make the pen a pleasant place.
- Supervise climbers. Add a top if needed.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Too short. Athletic dogs clear low pens.
- No floor cover. Bare floors get scratched and soiled.
- Unanchored on slick floors. Pens can slide; secure or add grip.
How we choose
- We start from the buyer's actual problem, not the highest commission.
- We prioritize products with a long track record and broad availability.
- We call out who a product is wrong for, not just who it is right for.
- We tell you exactly what to verify on Amazon before you buy.
We only earn if you buy through our links, and it never changes the price you pay or what we recommend.
Final recommendation
A 48" MidWest exercise pen covers most dogs; pair it with a washable mat and a crate for sleeping. Shorter dogs can use a lower height.
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Editorial guide last updated 2026-07-02. Product details require manual verification on Amazon before purchase.