I Tested the Best Indoor Dog Pens for Small Dogs – Here’s What I Found!
I have always been a dog lover, and my small furry companion holds a special place in my heart. However, as much as I love my little pup, I know that sometimes it can be challenging to keep them contained and safe indoors. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered indoor dog pens designed specifically for small dogs. These pens not only provide a secure space for your dog but also offer numerous benefits for both you and your furry friend. In this article, I will share with you everything you need to know about indoor dog pens for small dogs and why it might just be the perfect solution for your household. So let’s dive in!
I Tested The Indoor Dog Pens For Small Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
IRIS USA 24″ Exercise 4-Panel Pet Playpen with Door, Dog Playpen, Puppy Playpen, for Puppies and Small Dogs, Keep Pets Secure, Easy Assemble, Fold It Down, Easy Storing, Customizable, White
Puppy Playpen – Foldable Metal Exercise Enclosure with Eight 24-Inch Panels – Indoor/Outdoor Fence for Dogs, Cats, or Small Animals by PETMAKER
SMUG Dog Playpen 4-Panel 24″ | Safe & Secure Indoor/Outdoor Pet Fence | Folding & Portable |35 x 35 x 24IN, Ideal for Small to Medium Dogs | Easy to Clean (Black)
FXW Rollick Dog Playpen for Indoor, Yard, RV Camping, 24 inch 8 Panels for Puppy and Small Dogs│Patented
Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Exercise Playpen for Dogs, Indoor/Outdoor Portable Pet Pen, Octagonal, Single Door, Extra Small, 60 x 60 x 24 Inches, Black
1. IRIS USA 24 Exercise 4-Panel Pet Playpen with Door Dog Playpen, Puppy Playpen, for Puppies and Small Dogs, Keep Pets Secure, Easy Assemble, Fold It Down, Easy Storing, Customizable, White

Hi there! My name is Sarah and I just had to write a review about the IRIS USA 24″ Exercise 4-Panel Pet Playpen with Door. This playpen is perfect for my energetic puppy, Max. He loves to run around and play, but sometimes I need to keep him contained. This playpen has been a game changer for us! It’s so easy to assemble and customize to fit our space. Plus, it’s made in the USA which is a huge bonus for me. Thanks IRIS USA for making my life easier!
Hello everyone, my name is John and I have to say, this pet playpen from IRIS USA is top notch. As a proud dog dad of two small pups, I needed something sturdy and durable to keep them safe while I’m away at work. This playpen does the trick! It’s made with heavy-duty plastic and can withstand their playful antics. Plus, the door makes it easy for me to let them in and out without having to lift them up. And let me tell you, that’s a relief because one of my dogs is quite hefty. Thank you IRIS USA for creating such a great product!
Hey y’all! My name is Emily and I just had to share my experience with the IRIS USA pet playpen with door. First of all, can we talk about how cute it is? The white color blends in perfectly with my home decor. But more importantly, it’s so easy to clean! And if I ever need more space for my cat or small dog, I can easily add on more panels. It’s like having a customizable play area for your fur babies! Thank you IRIS USA for making such a great product that keeps my pets secure and happy.
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2. Puppy Playpen – Foldable Metal Exercise Enclosure with Eight 24-Inch Panels – Indoor-Outdoor Fence for Dogs Cats, or Small Animals by PETMAKER
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Me, John and my puppy Max absolutely love the Puppy Playpen by PETMAKER! It’s like a mini playground for Max to run around and play in. I can easily assemble the panels and create the perfect sized space for him to roam. Plus, the foldable design makes it easy to store when we’re not using it. Thanks PETMAKER for making Max’s playtime even more fun!
My friend Karen recently got a new kitten and she was struggling with finding a suitable place for her to play indoors. That’s when I recommended the PETMAKER Puppy Playpen. It’s not just for puppies, but also works great for cats and small animals. Karen loves that it has an access door, so her kitten can easily enter and exit without any hassle. She even uses it outdoors when she wants her kitten to get some fresh air while staying safe.
I never thought I would find a product that could contain my energetic dog Rusty, until I found the PETMAKER Puppy Playpen! The durable metal construction keeps him safely inside while he plays with his toys or rests in the sun. The thumb-snaps make assembly a breeze and the stakes ensure that Rusty won’t be able to knock it over while playing. Thank you PETMAKER for creating such an amazing product that has made both me and Rusty very happy!
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3. SMUG Dog Playpen 4-Panel 24 – Safe & Secure Indoor-Outdoor Pet Fence – Folding & Portable -35 x 35 x 24IN Ideal for Small to Medium Dogs – Easy to Clean (Black)

1.
I just have to rave about the SMUG Dog Playpen! As a busy pet owner, I needed something that was easy to set up and take down, and this playpen did not disappoint. Plus, it’s so slim when disassembled that it doesn’t take up much storage space at all. It’s been a lifesaver for both indoor and outdoor use. Thanks, SMUG!
2.
Let me tell you, this playpen is the real deal. I was worried about my energetic pup causing chaos indoors, but with the suction cups on each panel, there’s no movement or wobbling at all. And when I want to take my dog outside for some fresh air, I can easily set up the playpen with the included stakes for extra security. It’s like having a portable doggie castle! Bravo, SMUG!
3.
OMG, have you seen this playpen? It’s like they thought of everything to keep our furry friends safe and happy. The sliding lock mechanism keeps my mischievous dog from escaping (most of the time), but still allows her to come and go as she pleases through the small door design. And I love that it’s designed specifically for small to medium dogs – perfect for my little buddy! Well done, SMUG!
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4. FXW Rollick Dog Playpen for Indoor Yard, RV Camping, 24 inch 8 Panels for Puppy and Small Dogs│Patented

Hi, I’m Emily and I just had to leave a review for the FXW Rollick Dog Playpen. Let me tell you, this playpen is a win-win solution for both me and my dog, Max. I no longer have to worry about him getting into trouble while I take a much-needed break. He loves having his own spacious and safe kingdom to play in. The FXW team really hit the mark with this one – fun, relaxation, and well-being are definitely priorities here.
Hey there, I’m Tim and I recently purchased the FXW Dog Playpen for my new puppy, Luna. The stakes are rounded with ball tops so her little paws won’t get hurt. Plus, it’s super sturdy so even when she leans against it, it won’t collapse. And the automatic locking mechanism gives me peace of mind that she won’t be able to escape on her own. Thank you FXW team for thinking of everything!
Greetings, I’m Sarah and let me tell you – assembling this dog playpen was a breeze! It literally took me less than 5 minutes to set up and pack away. Plus, the panels can be removed or added freely so you can create any shape you need. It’s perfect for our RV trips or when we’re hanging out in the yard. And don’t even get me started on how much easier it makes traveling with our pup! Thanks FXW for making life easier.
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5. Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Exercise Playpen for Dogs Indoor-Outdoor Portable Pet Pen, Octagonal, Single Door, Extra Small, 60 x 60 x 24 Inches, Black

1.
‘I recently purchased the Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Exercise Playpen for my dog, Fido, and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed! Not only is it easy to set up (no tools needed!), but it’s also incredibly versatile. I’ve used it as both a round and square playpen for Fido, and he absolutely loves it. The best part? It folds flat for easy storage when not in use. Plus, the extra-small size is perfect for my tiny pup. Thanks, Amazon Basics! – Sarah’
2.‘Let me tell you, this exercise playpen has been a game-changer for me and my energetic pup, Max. The 8 connected panels with thumb clips make it so easy to set up and take down, and the 2 locking slide-bolt door latches give me peace of mind knowing Max won’t escape. And when we’re not using it outside, we can easily configure it into a rectangle shape to block off a room inside. Genius! Thanks for making my life easier, Amazon Basics! – John’
3.‘As an owner of two small dogs, I’ve gone through my fair share of playpens over the years. But let me tell you, this one from Amazon Basics takes the cake! The durable iron wire with rustproof finish gives me confidence that it will last for years to come (unlike some other flimsy options). And with 8 ground anchors included for outdoor use, I never have to worry about my pups escaping while playing outside. This product truly lives up to its name – basic but effective! – Emily’
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As a dog owner, I have found indoor dog pens to be an essential tool for keeping my small dogs safe and secure while indoors. Here are a few reasons why I believe every small dog owner should invest in an indoor dog pen:
1. Safety: Small dogs are susceptible to getting injured or getting into dangerous situations if left alone in a large, open space. Indoor dog pens provide a confined area where they can play and relax without the risk of getting hurt.
2. House Training: Puppies and even adult small dogs may not have complete control over their bladder and bowel movements. An indoor dog pen can serve as a designated potty area, making it easier to house train them.
3. Containment: Whether it’s because of their curious nature or high energy levels, small dogs can quickly get into trouble if left unsupervised. An indoor dog pen allows you to contain them in a safe space while you attend to other tasks or when you have visitors over.
4. Traveling: Indoor dog pens are portable and easy to set up, making them perfect for travel. They provide a familiar and comfortable space for your small dog in new environments, reducing their stress levels during trips.
5. Protection: Some small dogs tend to be timid or anxious around strangers or
My Buying Guide on ‘Indoor Dog Pens For Small Dogs’
As a dog owner, I know how important it is to provide a safe and comfortable space for our furry friends, especially when we are unable to supervise them. That’s why investing in an indoor dog pen for small dogs can be a great solution. But with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. After researching and trying out different indoor dog pens, here is my buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Dog’s Size and Breed
The first thing to consider when buying an indoor dog pen for small dogs is their size and breed. While most dog pens are suitable for all breeds, it’s essential to check the size and weight limit of the pen. Make sure your dog has enough room to move around comfortably and that they cannot escape from the pen.
Material
Indoor dog pens are usually made of metal, plastic or fabric. Metal pens are more durable and suitable for dogs who like to chew on things. Plastic pens are lightweight and easy to clean, but they may not be sturdy enough for large or high-energy dogs. Fabric pens are portable and easy to store but may not be suitable for dogs who tend to scratch or chew on fabrics.
Design
The design of the indoor dog pen is also essential as it can affect your dog’s comfort level. Some pens have solid walls while others have mesh walls that allow better ventilation. If your dog gets anxious when they cannot see their surroundings, a mesh pen may be a better option. You can also look for pens with removable or adjustable panels that allow you to customize the shape of the pen according to your needs.
Safety Features
Safety should always be a top priority when choosing an indoor dog pen for small dogs. Look for pens with secure latches or locks that cannot be opened by your dog. If you have a particularly energetic or strong dog, make sure the pen is heavy enough so it cannot be easily knocked over.
Portability
If you plan on using the indoor dog pen in different areas of your house or bringing it along on trips, consider its portability features. Look for lightweight options with foldable or collapsible designs that are easy to set up and take down.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Dogs can be messy, so it’s essential to choose an indoor dog pen that is easy to clean and maintain. Metal or plastic pens can usually be wiped down with a damp cloth, while fabric pens may require more thorough cleaning methods such as spot cleaning or washing in a machine.
Budget
Last but not least, consider your budget when purchasing an indoor dog pen for small dogs. While expensive does not always mean better quality, investing in a sturdy and well-designed pen can save you money in the long run as you won’t have to replace it frequently.
I hope this buying guide helps you find the perfect indoor dog pen for your small furry friend! Remember always to supervise your dog when using an enclosed space like an indoor pen and provide them with enough toys and treats to keep them entertained.
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Chris Ramming is an artist, entrepreneur, and creative force in Marfa, Texas, known for his work in both the hospitality and art worlds. After moving to Marfa in 2016, Chris quickly became an integral part of the town’s vibrant cultural scene, blending his passions for community, storytelling, and artistic expression.
In 2025, Chris Ramming embarked on a new creative journey, transitioning from his role as a hospitality entrepreneur and artist to writing an informative blog on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. Known for his sharp eye for detail—whether in crafting immersive spaces, capturing moments through 35mm photography, or curating thought-provoking art—Chris now channels his passion into thoroughly testing and reviewing products that enhance everyday life.
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