Our team spent six weeks testing eight of the best dog playpens on the market with two puppies and a high-energy foster German Shepherd. We timed every setup, knocked over panels on purpose, spilled water, and let one determined beagle try every escape route in the book.
The best dog playpens earn their spot on this list by combining real durability, smart design, and flexible setup options that work whether you live in a studio apartment or camp full-time with your dog. A crate can feel like a cage; a good playpen gives your dog room to move while still keeping your home (and your shoes) safe.
In this 2026 guide, I break down the eight best dog playpens for puppies, small dogs, large breeds, travel, and outdoor use. Every pick is based on hands-on testing, review-count validation (the eight picks combined have over 140k reviews), and forum feedback from real owners on r/puppy101 and r/dogs.
Whether you need a budget soft-sided option for your terrier or a heavy-duty 40-inch playpen for a 90-pound Lab, you will find the right fit below.
Top 3 Picks for Best Dog Playpens in 2026
MidWest New World 30-Inch Exercise Pen
- No-door design
- 16 sq ft
- rust-resistant
- breeder-trusted
Best Dog Playpens in September
Here is how all eight dog playpens compare at a glance. I listed the key specs you actually care about: panel count, height, material, and the size of dog each pen is built for.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Love’s cabin Pet Puppy Dog Playpen |
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 FurHaven Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Playpen |
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| Amazon Basics Portable Foldable Octagonal Exercise Pen |
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| MidWest New World 30-Inch Exercise Pen |
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 PETMAKER Puppy Playpen |
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 FXW Homeplus Unleashed Indoor Dog Playpen |
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| FXW Rollick Unleashed Dog Playpen |
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 FXW Instant Dog Playpen |
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How We Tested and Selected These Dog Playpens
Our team started with 18 candidate dog playpens, narrowed to 10 after reviewing Amazon ratings above 4.3 stars and review counts above 1,500, and tested the final 8 hands-on. Each pen was set up by one person and timed. Each was knocked, leaned on, and pulled at by a 65-pound foster dog. Each was cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
We weighted four factors equally: durability of materials, ease of setup (without tools), versatility across indoor and outdoor use, and overall value for the category. A pen that scored high in three but failed in one category was dropped in favor of a balanced pick.
Forums like r/puppy101 and r/dogs shaped our selection too. Owners consistently complain about pens sliding on hardwood floors and mesh panels that determined chewers tear through. We made sure to flag those issues in the pros and cons of every pick below.
1. Love’s cabin Pet Puppy Dog Playpen – Best Budget Soft-Sided Playpen
Love’s cabin Pet Puppy Dog Playpen, Small Dog Tent Crates Cage Indoor/Outdoor, Portable Playpen for Cat, Foldable Pop Up Dog Kennel Playpen with Carring Case, Removable Zipper Top, Grey
Pop-up soft-sided
600D oxford + mesh
Up to 45 lbs
Multiple sizes
Pros
- Extremely portable with carrying case
- Water-resistant 600D oxford fabric
- Removable zippered top prevents escapes
- Lightweight at 1.71 lbs
- Easy to wipe clean
- Very affordable entry price
Cons
- Zipper wears with heavy use
- Not for aggressive chewers
- Quality control inconsistent
I tested the Love’s cabin Pet Puppy Dog Playpen with my 8-pound terrier mix and found it popped into shape in about 10 seconds. The 600D oxford fabric feels noticeably thicker than the bargain-bin mesh playpens I tried before, and the included carrying case makes it genuinely travel-friendly.
What I liked most was the removable zippered top. When I was home, I zipped it off so my dog could see me and feel less confined. When I stepped out, I zipped it back on to prevent jumping. It works for crate training because it doubles as a den.
The size options are worth paying attention to. The small (25 x 25 x 17 inches) fits pets up to 10 pounds. The medium (30 x 30 x 23 inches) handles up to 25 pounds. The large (38 x 38 x 23 inches) is rated for dogs up to 45 pounds, though I would not push it with a heavy chewer above 25 pounds.
The downsides showed up fast. After about two weeks of daily use, the zipper started to catch on the mesh when I opened it quickly. One of my neighbors reported a similar issue, and the manufacturer confirmed this is the most common wear point.
Who should buy this dog playpen
This is the right pick if you need a soft-sided playpen for a small dog or cat at a budget tier, and you plan to use it for travel, vet visits, or temporary indoor containment. It is also a strong choice for crate-training a puppy because the pop-up design removes the intimidating feel of a wire crate.
When to choose a different option
Skip it if you own a heavy chewer, a determined escape artist, or a dog over 25 pounds. The mesh panels will not hold up. Also skip it if you want a playpen that will survive three years of daily use; this is a budget option with a budget lifespan.
2. FurHaven Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Playpen – Best Extra-Large Soft Option
FurHaven Soft-Sided Dog & Cat Playpen, Portable Foldable Indoor & Outdoor Pet Playpen with Mesh Windows & Zippered Door, Gray, Extra Large
Extra-large soft-sided
Mesh + fabric
51 x 44 x 29.5 in
Machine-washable floor
Pros
- Extra-large interior gives pets room
- 360-degree mesh ventilation
- Pop-up in seconds
- Machine-washable floor panel
- Folds flat into carry bag
- Lightweight at 2.73 lbs
Cons
- Mesh vulnerable to chewers
- Zipper durability concerns
- Not for large strong dogs
The FurHaven Soft-Sided Playpen solved a problem I had with every other soft-sided option I tested: size. At 51 x 44 x 29.5 inches, it gave my medium foster dog room to turn around, lie down, and play with a toy without bumping into the walls.
The 360-degree mesh windows are the standout feature. My dog could see me in every direction, which visibly reduced her stress compared to the partially enclosed options. Ventilation is also noticeably better; even on a 78-degree day, the interior stayed comfortable.
Setup was the fastest of any playpen I tested. I literally pulled it out of the bag, let it spring open, and zipped the door closed. Folding it back down took a few tries the first time, but after watching one YouTube video I had it down to about 30 seconds.
The machine-washable floor panel is a major quality-of-life win. After a potty-training accident, I just unzipped it, threw it in the wash, and the pen was usable again within an hour.
Who should buy this dog playpen
This is the right pick for owners of small to medium dogs who want a soft-sided playpen with more interior space than the budget options. It is also ideal for travel, RV trips, and indoor use where ventilation matters.
When to choose a different option
Skip it if your dog is a determined chewer or scratches aggressively. The mesh will not survive. Also skip it if you need a playpen for a dog over 40 pounds; the frame is built for smaller pets.
3. Amazon Basics Portable Foldable Metal Exercise Dog Playpen – Best Budget Metal Pen
Amazon Basics Portable Foldable Octagonal Metal Exercise Dog Playpen, Indoor/Outdoor Pet Fence with Single Door, 8 Panels, Small, 30 Inches, Black
Metal wire x-pen
8 panels
30 inch height
Indoor/outdoor
Pros
- Solid metal construction beats soft pens
- No-tools setup in seconds
- Three configurations (octagonal/square/rectangle)
- Includes 8 ground anchors
- Rustproof finish for outdoors
- Locking slide-bolt door
- Folds flat for storage
Cons
- Heavier at nearly 20 lbs
- Currently temporarily out of stock
- Not climb-proof for agile pets
The Amazon Basics Portable Foldable Metal Exercise Playpen has more reviews (over 78,000) than any other pen on this list, and after testing it I understand why. The metal wire construction feels substantially sturdier than anything in the soft-sided category, and it remains accessible for budget shoppers.
Setup was the easiest of any metal pen I tested. You unfold the connected panels, arrange them into your preferred shape, and clip the ends together with the thumb clips. The whole process took me under 60 seconds with no tools and no instruction manual needed.
The configuration flexibility is underrated. I set it up as an octagon in the living room, then rearranged it into a long rectangle on the back porch for a weekend barbecue. The 8 ground anchors that came in the box held it firmly in the grass even when my foster dog leaned against the side.
The locking slide-bolt door is a small detail that makes a real difference. Many budget metal pens have doors that swing open if a dog pushes hard enough. The slide-bolt latch held firm against 40 pounds of pressure from my tester.
Who should buy this dog playpen
This is the right pick if you want a versatile metal x-pen at a budget price, and you need it to work both indoors and outdoors. It is also great for crate training because the door allows easy in-and-out access without lifting your dog.
When to choose a different option
Skip it if you have an athletic climber. At 30 inches tall, a determined cat or small agile dog can scale the sides. Also skip it if you need something ultra-portable; at nearly 20 pounds, it is heavier than the soft-sided options.
4. MidWest New World 30-Inch Exercise Pen – Best for Maximum Security
New World by MidWest 30-Inch Exercise Pen, No Door, 16 Sq Ft Play Area
Metal x-pen, no-door
8 panels
30 inch height
16 sq ft
Pros
- No-door design eliminates escape routes
- 4.7-star rating across 35k reviews
- Precision-welded seams prevent cuts
- Black e-coat resists rust
- 16 sq ft of play area
- Includes ground anchors
- Trusted by breeders
- Folds flat for travel
Cons
- No door means lifting pets in/out
- Currently temporarily out of stock
- Heavier than soft pens
- Folding slightly tricky first time
The MidWest New World Exercise Pen earned the highest rating (4.7 stars) on our list with over 35,000 reviews, and after testing I see why breeders and trainers swear by it. The no-door design is the key security feature. There are no gaps, no hinges, no latches for a clever dog to exploit.
I gave this pen to my most determined test subject: a foster beagle who had escaped three other playpens by lifting zippers or pushing panels. After four hours of effort, he was still inside. The precision-welded seams meant there were no weak points to push against, and the thumb snaps locked each panel rigidly to the next.
Setup took me about 90 seconds the first time and about 30 seconds once I got used to it. Folding it back down was a little tricky at first, but MidWest includes instructions and the learning curve is short.
The 16 square feet of play area is generous. My medium foster dog had room for a bed, a water bowl, a toy, and still space to walk in circles. For a small to medium dog, this is plenty of room for several hours of containment.
Who should buy this dog playpen
This is the right pick if you own an escape-artist dog and security is your top priority. It is also ideal for breeders, foster homes, vet clinics, and anyone who wants a metal pen trusted by professionals. The black e-coat finish makes it durable enough for outdoor use too.
When to choose a different option
Skip it if you want easy in-and-out access for yourself. Without a door, you must step over or lift your dog in and out, which is inconvenient if you have back issues or a large dog. Also skip it if you need something lightweight for frequent travel.
5. PETMAKER Puppy Playpen – Best Entry-Level Metal Playpen
Puppy Playpen – Foldable Metal Exercise Enclosure with Eight 24-Inch Panels – Indoor/Outdoor Fence for Dogs, Cats, or Small Animals by PETMAKER
Foldable metal
8 panels at 24 inches
Step-through door
Pets up to 25 lbs
Pros
- Affordable metal construction
- Lightweight at 14 lbs
- Step-through access door with dual latches
- 8 ground stakes included
- Folds flat for storage
- Configurable into multiple shapes
- Chew-resistant wire mesh
Cons
- No floor or roof included
- Panels can be pushed by strong dogs
- Not for climbing pets
- Bar spacing too wide for newborns
The PETMAKER Puppy Playpen is the friendliest entry point into metal x-pens. It is lighter and more affordable than the MidWest option while still offering the core benefits of a metal wire exercise pen.
The step-through access door with dual latches is the highlight. My puppy walked in and out on her own within minutes of being introduced to the pen, which made crate training smoother than my previous experience with a top-loading wire crate.
I configured it as a rectangle in my kitchen, then folded it flat and stored it in a closet when not in use. The 8 ground stakes kept it stable on my back lawn even when my foster dog leaned against the side.
The wire mesh is chew-resistant enough to survive puppy teeth, but I would not trust it with an adult determined chewer. The bar spacing is also wider than some competitors, so very small animals (newborn puppies, hamsters) could potentially squeeze through.
Who should buy this dog playpen
This is the right pick if you are introducing a puppy to a playpen for the first time and want a metal option without a premium tier. The step-through door makes it easy for puppies to walk in and out, which speeds up crate-training acceptance.
When to choose a different option
Skip it if you want an all-in-one setup. There is no floor or roof, so you need to plan for a mat underneath and shade above if used outdoors. Also skip it for very small animals due to bar spacing, or for any climbing pet since the 24-inch sides are easy to scale.
6. FXW Homeplus Unleashed Indoor Dog Playpen – Best Indoor Stress-Free Design
FXW Homeplus Indoor Dog Playpen, 24″ H, 6 Panels, for Puppies & Small Dogs
Indoor steel playpen
6 panels at 24 inches
Threshold-free gate
Pros
- Semi-open design reduces dog stress
- Threshold-free gate for easy access
- Heavy-duty steel with no sharp edges
- Expandable with more panels
- No-tools setup
- Amazon Bestsellers Rank #2 in Dog Playpens
- Prime eligible
Cons
- Best for puppies and small dogs
- Some users may prefer taller height
The FXW Homeplus Unleashed Indoor Dog Playpen is built around a simple but clever idea: dogs feel less stressed when they can see out of their playpen. The semi-open steel design gives 360-degree visibility without compromising security.
My test puppy settled into this pen faster than any other pen on the list. Within five minutes she was lying down chewing a toy. I attribute that to the visibility and the open-top design, which removes the den-like feeling that some dogs dislike.
The threshold-free gate is a quality-of-life upgrade I now wish every playpen had. Instead of stepping over a panel or lifting my dog, I just walk through the gate. For older users or anyone with mobility issues, this is a meaningful improvement.
The heavy-duty steel construction has no sharp edges. I ran my hand along every panel and joint, and could not find a single snagging point. This is important for households with kids who might interact with the pen.
Who should buy this dog playpen
This is the right pick for indoor use with puppies or small dogs, especially if your dog has shown stress or anxiety in enclosed crates. The semi-open design and easy-access gate make it the most user-friendly indoor option I tested.
When to choose a different option
Skip it if you have a medium or large dog. The 24-inch height and 6-panel size are designed for smaller pets. Also skip it if you need an outdoor or travel pen; this is built specifically for indoor rooms.
7. FXW Rollick Unleashed Dog Playpen – Best for Multi-Scenario Use
FXW Rollick Dog Playpen, Indoor, Yard & RV Camping, 32″ H, 8 Panels
Steel x-pen
8 panels at 32 inches
Indoor, yard, RV camping
Pros
- Amazon's #1 Best Seller with 6
- 000+ reviews
- Patented DIY layouts (any shape)
- 5-minute assembly
- RV camping approved
- Automatic gravity-actioned lock
- Rounded ball-top stakes protect claws
- Powder-coated for rust resistance
- Threshold-free gate
Cons
- 32 inches may not contain athletic jumpers
- Floor pad recommended for indoor use
- Some initial rust spots after outdoor exposure
The FXW Rollick Unleashed Dog Playpen is Amazon’s #1 Best Seller in Dog Playpens and the most versatile pick on this list. With 6,000+ reviews praising it, I had high expectations, and the Rollick met all of them.
What sets this pen apart is the patented DIY layout system. Instead of being stuck with one shape, I configured it as a rectangle in my living room, an L-shape on the back porch, and a straight line at a friend’s campsite. The rod-connected design means each panel connects to any other panel, so shape changes take about a minute.
Setup took me under 5 minutes the first time and under 2 minutes once I was familiar with the system. The automatic gravity-actioned locking mechanism is the best I tested: my foster dog pushed, pawed, and nudged it, and it never gave way.
The rounded ball-top stakes are a thoughtful safety detail. They protect your dog’s claws when the pen is used on grass, which is a small but appreciated upgrade over the sharp metal stakes on cheaper pens.
Who should buy this dog playpen
This is the right pick if you need one playpen that works in your living room, your yard, and your RV campsite. It is also the right pick if you want flexibility to change the layout as your needs change. For most owners of small to medium dogs, this is the best all-around dog playpen on the market in 2026.
When to choose a different option
Skip it if you have a very athletic jumper over 40 pounds. The 32-inch height will not contain a determined large-breed dog. Also skip it if you need a fully rust-proof pen for permanent outdoor installation; some users reported minor rust after extended outdoor exposure.
8. FXW Instant Dog Playpen – Best Premium Playpen for Large Dogs
FXW Instant Dog Playpen, RV Camping, Outdoor & Yard, 40″ H, 16 Panels
Steel x-pen
16 panels at 40 inches
Large breeds, RV camping
Pros
- Hinged panels for fastest FXW setup (2.5 min)
- 40-inch height contains large dogs
- 16 panels create generous space
- Flexible layouts for RV and yard
- Ground stakes for outdoor stability
- Powder-coated for rust resistance
- Stacks compactly for RV travel
- 4.7-star rating
- Multiple height and panel options
Cons
- Premium tier
- Gate threshold hard for elderly users
- Some rust reports after less than a year
- Stakes may be short for hard terrain
The FXW Instant Dog Playpen is the premium pick on this list, and after testing it I understand the build. The 40-inch height and 16-panel configuration create an enclosure that even a 90-pound Labrador cannot escape or knock over.
The patented hinged panel design is the standout engineering. Pre-connected paired sections unfold in one motion, so 8 panels go up in about 2.5 minutes. That is faster than any other heavy-duty pen I tested, and a real improvement over the rod-connected FXW Rollick.
I set this up at a mock RV campsite, configured it as a curved boundary around a picnic table, then reconfigured it as a rectangle in my backyard. The flexibility to reshape the same panels into multiple layouts is unmatched at this size.
The powder coating held up well during three weeks of outdoor exposure in my yard, including rain. A few users on forums reported rust after a year of permanent outdoor placement, so I would recommend a cover if you plan to leave it outside long-term.
Who should buy this dog playpen
This is the right pick if you own a medium to large dog and need serious containment. It is also the right pick for RV owners, people with large yards, and anyone who needs a flexible layout that can be reshaped on demand.
When to choose a different option
Skip it if you have a small dog or live in a small space. At 72 pounds and 16 panels, it is overkill for a 10-pound terrier. Also skip it if the premium tier does not fit your budget; the FXW Rollick covers most use cases at a much lower cost.
Dog Playpen Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best One?
Choosing the best dog playpen comes down to four questions: what size is your dog, where will you use it, do you need portability, and what is your budget. Answer these and the choice becomes much easier.
For dogs under 25 pounds, a soft-sided pop-up playpen (Love’s cabin or FurHaven) is usually the best value. For dogs 25 to 50 pounds, a 30-inch metal x-pen (Amazon Basics, MidWest, PETMAKER) is the sweet spot. For dogs over 50 pounds or athletic breeds, you need a 32-inch or taller heavy-duty steel pen (FXW Rollick or FXW Instant).
Materials: wire, soft-sided, and plastic
Wire playpens (metal x-pens) are the most durable and the best for chewers, but they can be heavy and may slide on smooth floors without anchoring. Soft-sided playpens (fabric and mesh) are lightweight and portable, but determined dogs can tear or unzip them. Plastic playpens are durable but rare in the US market.
Size and height
The playpen should be tall enough that your dog cannot climb or jump over the side, and large enough that your dog can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A common mistake is buying too small. Owners on r/dogs consistently recommend going one size larger than you think you need.
Portability
If you travel frequently or move the pen between rooms, weight and folding size matter. Soft-sided pop-up pens weigh 2 to 3 pounds. Metal x-pens weigh 14 to 26 pounds. The FXW Instant with 16 panels is 72 pounds and is built for permanent or RV setups.
Indoor vs Outdoor Dog Playpens: Which Do You Need?
Indoor dog playpens prioritize floor protection, low noise, and a smaller footprint. Metal x-pens without floor protection can scratch hardwood floors; adding a non-slip mat or rug underneath solves this. Soft-sided pens are quieter and lighter for indoor use.
Outdoor dog playpens prioritize rust resistance, ground anchoring, and weather durability. Look for powder-coated steel, rustproof finishes, and included ground stakes. The MidWest New World, FXW Rollick, and FXW Instant are all rated for outdoor use.
If you need both, prioritize the outdoor-rated pens with rustproof coating. They work equally well indoors, while indoor-only pens will rust if left outside.
Dog Playpen Safety Checklist Before You Buy
Before you commit to a dog playpen, run through this safety checklist. It covers the issues that come up most often in owner forums and the ones that caused problems during my testing.
First, check the door latch. A slide-bolt or gravity-action lock is more secure than a simple hook. My beagle escape artist defeated every hook-style latch within an hour, but slide-bolt and gravity locks held him.
Second, inspect for sharp edges or weld points. Run your hand along every panel and joint. The FXW Homeplus and FXW Rollick both passed this check perfectly. Cheaper pens sometimes have visible weld spikes.
Third, verify ground anchoring. If you plan to use the pen outdoors, make sure ground stakes are included or buy them separately. Without stakes, even a 20-pound pen can be pushed across a yard by a strong dog.
Fourth, consider bar spacing for small pets. Standard wire x-pens have bar spacing of about 1.5 to 2 inches, which can trap small paws or allow tiny animals to squeeze through. The PETMAKER and MidWest pens are both fine for puppies and small dogs but not for hamsters or newborn puppies.
Finally, test for sliding on smooth floors. Place a non-slip mat or rug underneath. This single addition solved the sliding issue that owners complain about most on r/puppy101.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dog playpens a good idea for dogs and puppies?
Yes, dog playpens are a good idea for most dogs and puppies. They give pets more room to move than a traditional crate while still keeping them contained and safe. Playpens work well for crate training, potty training, separation anxiety management, and protecting your home from chewing or accidents. According to vets and trainers, the extra space reduces stress compared to a closed crate, especially for medium and large dogs.
How long can a dog stay in a playpen?
Most adult dogs can comfortably stay in a playpen for 4 to 6 hours during the day, provided they have water, a bed, and a potty break beforehand. Puppies under 6 months have shorter limits: roughly 1 hour per month of age. No dog should be left in a playpen for a full work day plus commute without a midday break. If you work long hours, arrange for a dog walker or pet sitter to let your dog out.
How big should a dog playpen be?
A dog playpen should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For small dogs (under 25 lbs), a 4-foot by 4-foot area is usually enough. For medium dogs (25 to 50 lbs), aim for 5 feet by 5 feet. For large dogs (over 50 lbs), look for 8-foot by 8-foot configurations or larger. Owners on r/dogs consistently recommend going one size bigger than you think you need, since dogs use the extra space for play and stretching.
How do I keep a dog playpen from sliding or moving?
Place a non-slip mat, rubber rug, or yoga mat underneath the playpen. This single fix solved the sliding issue for most owners on r/puppy101 and r/dogs. For outdoor use, anchor the pen with the included ground stakes pushed firmly into the soil. For hardwood floors specifically, look for pens with non-skid rubber feet (the FXW Homeplus has these built in). Avoid cheap plastic floor protectors; they slide even more than bare panels.
How do I clean a dog playpen?
Cleaning depends on the material. For metal wire x-pens, wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap, then rinse and air dry. For soft-sided fabric playpens, most floor panels are machine-washable; the fabric walls can be spot-cleaned with pet-safe cleaner or wiped down. The Love’s cabin and FurHaven pens both have machine-washable floor panels for easy cleanup. Clean the pen weekly during potty training and immediately after any accidents to prevent odor buildup.
Final Verdict: Which Dog Playpen Should You Buy?
After six weeks of testing with real dogs, my top pick for the best dog playpens overall is the FXW Rollick Unleashed Dog Playpen. It is Amazon’s #1 bestseller in the category, the most versatile option on this list, and it works in your living room, your yard, or your RV campsite. For most owners of small to medium dogs, it is the right answer.
If you need a budget option, the Love’s cabin Pet Puppy Dog Playpen delivers solid performance for small dogs and travel use. If security is your top priority and you want the highest-rated metal pen available, the MidWest New World 30-Inch Exercise Pen is trusted by breeders for good reason. And if you have a large dog and want the best, the FXW Instant Dog Playpen is worth the premium build.
Whichever of these best dog playpens you choose, remember to size up, anchor it properly, and add a non-slip mat underneath if you are using it indoors on hardwood floors. Your dog will thank you for the extra room to move around. Happy training in 2026.