THE BEST PET GATES
By: Door Buddy Editors | Published: 5 March 2025

If you’re a “pawrent,” you know that keeping the peace in a home with both cats and dogs is no easy feat! Many pet owners rely on pet gates to maintain harmony, but with so many options out there, how do you know which one is best? Whether you’re searching for the best pet gate for stairs, or a dog gate with a pet door, we’ve got you covered.
It’s no secret that dogs love getting into places they shouldn’t, like the cat’s litter box. Not only is this totally gross, but it can also stress out your cat. A good pet gate helps restore order, keeps your pup in check, and gives your kitty some much-needed space.
In this blog post, we’ll help you find the “purrfect” pet gate by exploring top options and key features to consider for your home and furry friends.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A PET GATE
Whether you’re searching for a cat gate for your doorway, baby gate, or an indoor dog gate for the house, the goal is the same - you need something reliable that will safely block off restricted areas. A good pet gate should be sturdy enough to prevent pets from barging through while keeping your space secure.
Versatility is also key. The best pet gates can be used in multiple areas of your home, allowing you to section off rooms or staircases as needed. When choosing a pet gate, consider these factors:
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Design: Does it complement your home’s aesthetic?
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Ease of installation: Is it simple to set up and remove?
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Accessibility: Can you easily pass through when needed?
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Placement: Where will you be using it?
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Size: What height and width best suit your space and pets?
Answering these questions will bring you one step closer to finding the perfect pet gate. Keep reading for some great options!
TYPES OF PET GATES
When it comes to pet gates, we’re lucky to have a wide variety of options available. With so many choices, you can easily find one that suits your home, your pet, and your budget. From pet gates with doors to freestanding dog gates with cat doors, here’s a rundown of the options:
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Adjustable/Tension Pet Gate: Ideal for doorways and sectioning off spaces. Pet gate doors can be an option here for easy access.
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Freestanding Gates: Perfect if you move barriers around frequently and want to avoid mounting to walls. Look for a freestanding baby gate with cat door for added versatility!
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Walk-Through Gates: A blend of security and convenience, allowing easy human access while keeping pets contained. These are great dog gates for stairs.
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Pet Gate with Cat Door: For homes with both cats and dogs, this is a win! It allows your kitty to pass through while keeping your dog at bay. Dog gate with cat door options are available too!
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Retractable Pet Gates: Great for wide openings. Some even work outdoors! Good for homes that need flexibility with pet gates for dogs.

BEST PET GATES FOR DOGS AND CATS
Best for Wide Spaces
Keep your pets safe and secure with the Carlson Pet Extra Wide Walk Through Pet Gate with Small Pet Door. This versatile gate expands to fit openings between 29-36.5 inches wide, making it an excellent choice for larger doorways or wider spaces. Featuring a convenient small pet door, it allows your cats to pass through freely while keeping your dogs safely contained.


Best Sustainability
For those who prioritize sustainability without sacrificing style or functionality, the Safety 1st Eco-Friendly Nature Next Bamboo Gate is the perfect choice. Made from eco-conscious bamboo, this gate offers a beautiful and environmentally friendly solution to keep your little ones or pets safely contained.
Best Budget
Looking for an affordable and reliable solution to keep your pets safe? The Regalo Easy Step Walk Thru Baby Gate at Chewy is the perfect choice for budget-conscious pet owners. This dog gate features a built-in pet door, allowing your furry friends to pass through while keeping them contained when needed. Its sturdy construction ensures long-lasting durability, and the walk-thru design makes it convenient for daily use.


Best for Large Dogs
If you have large breeds or extra tall pups, the Frisco Metal Pattern Extra Tall gate at Chewy is the perfect solution for your home. Designed with taller dogs in mind, this gate provides added height to keep your furry friends safely contained while still offering an elegant, modern design.
Best Expandable
For those with larger spaces or wide openings, the Cardinal Gates Extra Wide Expandable White Pet Gate is the ultimate solution. Expandable to fit a variety of larger spaces, this gate is perfect for long hallways or spacious rooms. Whether you need to block off an entire area or create a safe space for your pet, this gate offers the flexibility and durability to meet your needs.


Best Freestanding
The Richell Deluxe Freestanding Pet Gate offers the ultimate in convenience and versatility. This freestanding dog gate is easy to move around and install, making it a great option for pet owners who need a portable solution. Featuring a cat door, it allows your feline friends to pass through freely while keeping your dog safely contained.
Best Rectractable
The Wiscky Retractable Baby and Pet Gate is a versatile solution for both indoor and outdoor spaces. This mesh-lined retractable gate is perfect for pet owners and parents who need a convenient way to block off areas without taking up too much space. Designed for easy storage, it can be retracted when not in use, making it ideal for areas that require occasional gating.


Best for Staircases
The North States Supergate Pet Gate is the ultimate solution for homes with stairs or narrow openings. Specifically designed to provide secure protection at the top or bottom of stairs, this gate helps prevent both pets and children from accessing dangerous areas. Its tall design adds an extra layer of security, ensuring your pets or little ones stay safely contained.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES TO CONSIDER
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Pet-Proof Locks: Ensure your gate has a secure lock to prevent pets from escaping.
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Adjustable Heights: Some gates can be adjusted for various dog breeds, making them ideal for homes with different-sized pets.
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Easy-to-Clean Materials: Choose gates with smooth surfaces for easy maintenance and durability.
MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR PET GATES
To extend the lifespan of your pet gate, keep these tips in mind:
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Regularly check the locks and hinges to ensure they’re secure.
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Clean with mild soap and water to remove dirt and stains.
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Ensure that the gate’s stability is maintained, especially for dog gates with pet doors and freestanding gates.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
Consider the height and strength of your dog. For large dogs, a tall and sturdy metal gate works best. Smaller breeds may be comfortable with a freestanding dog gate with cat door.
Most gates come with instructions. Adhesive gates, like Door Buddy, are easy to install without tools. Hinged/foldable gates may require wall mounts for extra security.
Metal gates are best for dogs who chew. Avoid wooden or mesh gates for heavy chewers.
LATEST INNOVATIONS IN PET GATES
Keep an eye out for smart gates controlled via apps, which allow you to lock or unlock gates remotely. There are also dog gate alternatives like Door Buddy, designed to help with space-saving and preventing your dog from getting into restricted areas without the bulk of a traditional gate.
WHY CHOOSE DOOR BUDDY AS YOUR PET GATE ALTERNATIVE?
While there’s certainly a place for traditional pet gates, especially when it comes to stairways, there’s also an excellent pet gate alternative to consider. The Door Buddy Adjustable Pet Door Strap and Door Prop (a pet door latch keep dogs out) which helps create a gap in your door, allowing just enough space for your cat to pass through while keeping your dog or baby safely on the other side. If you want to avoid the hassle of heavy-duty, cumbersome gates, the Door Buddy Door Strap for Cats and the Door Buddy Cat Door Prop are excellent alternative solutions.
Our customers have dogs ranging from 12 to 120 pounds, and they love how reliable and strong these solutions are. With over 35,000 five-star reviews, Door Buddy is the ultimate pet gate alternative!
CONCLUSION: BEST PET GATE
Choosing the best pet gate for your home is all about finding the right balance of functionality, style, and safety. Whether you’re looking for a gate that will help keep your pets safe or prevent your dog from snacking on the cat’s food, there are plenty of options out there to suit your needs. From adjustable tension gates to freestanding models and even pet gates with built-in cat doors, the perfect solution is just a click away.
Remember to consider the size, installation ease, and special features like pet-proof locks or adjustable heights to ensure you’re getting a gate that works for your furry family. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the latest innovations, like smart gates or gates specifically designed for certain breeds!
So, whether you opt for a traditional pet gate, a stylish bamboo option, or a clever alternative like Door Buddy, you’re bound to find a solution that keeps both your pets and your home in harmony. Happy shopping, and may your home remain a peaceful pet-friendly haven!