Your Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Puppy Exercise Pen

puppies playpen

You love your dog very much and there is no doubt about that. But, there are times when you want him to be a bit quiet and play on his own so you can get some of your important stuff done. Many people use crates for this purpose and that’s okay, but what I have found my furry pal to like best is a playpen.

You might be wondering are puppy pens a good idea, and I’m here to assure you that they are. One of the most obvious benefits of a puppy exercise pen is that it provides a lot of space for the dog to move around and play. Also, any dog owner knows that one of the hardest things for a puppy is to learn how to be alone without his family. The pen will help him a lot in the process of learning how to be confident and independent whenever you need to leave your home and leave him alone.

Moreover, a puppy exercise pen can be your dog’s safe haven. Thanks to it, you’ll no longer need to worry where he’s playing and how – giving you that much-needed peace of mind.

puppy exercise pen

What actually is a puppy playpen?

Puppy pens are identical to playpens for kids. They are fenced areas that allow your furry friend to move around, play and exercise safely. This is one of the reasons why they are also known as exercise pens. You can perceive this unit as a way to confine your pet for a certain period, but unlike crates, these units provide your pet with a lot more space to move. In most cases, puppy containment pens are used for small dogs and puppies with high energy levels but sometimes they are used for bigger dogs as well, depending on their size. You can find playpens made of different materials and for different purposes, so in order to choose the right one for your furry pal, you should know the different types.

Types of puppy pet pens

Playpens come in different sizes, styles and materials. There are various simple models that are designed as an enclosure offering plenty of space for the dog. They don’t look fancy but they are still beneficial. Actually, there is nothing fancy in all of them as their primary goal is providing your dog with a safe space to move and play. However, there are some advanced models of pens that have accessories such as drink and food bowls, dog beds and toys.

Dog playpens can be either outdoor or indoor. Some of them can be used indoors only, others can be used only for an outdoor area while there are some that are multifunctional. Indoor pens are usually made of wood and other soft materials, while those for outdoor use are made from heavy-duty, lightweight metal.

puppy playpen

Other things to consider

Buying a playpen for your lovely puppy is not a straightforward decision – consider the following factors before buying a certain model.

  • Size – You might be wondering what size playpan for puppy should you get? Well, the size of your pet will greatly affect the size of the playpen you need to buy. Puppies are usually very small, which means you can choose a smaller model for now. However, think about the future as well. Keep in mind that your puppy will grow and the playpen you buy should be able to accommodate him. The size you choose will also depend on the breed of your dog. For example, a Chihuahua will not need the same space as a Bullmastiff.
  • Versatility – A versatile pen is the one you can use both indoors and outdoors. Also, it’s the one that can grow with your puppy. Once the puppy grows he will need more space, so buying a pen that can be upgraded is a great investment. This makes collapsible pens a better choice than those with a fixed size. Collapsible playpens usually come in panels allowing you to easily increase their size as your dog outgrows them.
  • Material – Exercise pens are made from different materials. Choose the material depending on where you are planning to use the pen and the breed of dog you have. For example, a solid plastic playpen is a great choice for outdoor use for a small dog. On the other hand, metal pens are a better option for bigger dogs. If your dog likes chewing things around him, avoid pens that are easy to chew.
  • Safety – Safety always comes first, so your best bet is looking for a playpen that can stand firmly on the ground so it doesn’t topple over and injure your furry friend. This is especially important if you have a dog that is very active. In case you notice that the pen easily moves, use some heavy objects and place them beside it to keep it in place.

You want something simple or you are looking for a playpen that comes with a range of accessories? Which accessories are important for you? Depending on the material, size and style, dog exercise pens come at different price points. Consider how much you are willing to spend on a pen and try to find a price that will suit your budget.

Wondering where can I buy a puppy playpen? Literally in any online or brick-and-mortar store that sells pet supplies. If you want to save time and money, consider shopping for a playpen online. Moreover, the number of online stores you can visit in one day cannot compare to the number of physical stores. More stores, more options and easier for you to find what suits you and your furry pal most.