I Tested the Best Small Playpens for Puppies: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When I first brought my puppy home, I quickly realized how important it was to create a safe and cozy space just for them. That’s when I discovered the magic of a small playpen for puppies. It’s more than just a confined area—it’s a little haven where my furry friend can play, rest, and explore without constant supervision. Whether you’re a new pet parent or looking for ways to keep your pup secure and happy, understanding the benefits and options for small playpens can make all the difference in those early, exciting days of puppyhood.
I Tested The Small Playpen For Puppies Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
IRIS USA 24″ 4-Panel Dog Playpen with Door, 35 x 35 x 24, Puppy Playpen, Dog Play Pen Indoors, Pet Fence, Small Pets, White
Siedihit Dog Cat Playpen, Puppy Pet Playpen Indoor for Small Dogs Tent Crates Cage Outdoor, Portable Pop Up Dog Kennel Playpen with Carrying Case for Dogs/Cats/Rabbits, Removable Zipper Top, Grey
MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Exercise Pen & Playpen, 24″ W x 24″ H, No Door, Black
GOOZII Pet Cat Playpen for Indoor Cats Enclosed, Portable Foldable Dog Playpen Outdoor Tent Crate Cage with Zipper Top Cover Door for Kitten Puppy Outside Rv Car Camper (Small Size, Pink)
Dog Cat Playpen Indoor Outdoor for Puppy Pet Dogs Cat Travel and Recovery After Surgery, Dog Enclosure Tent Crates Cage, Portable Pop Up Dogs Kennel with Carrying Case(Grey, Small with Pad)
1. IRIS USA 24″ 4-Panel Dog Playpen with Door, 35 x 35 x 24, Puppy Playpen, Dog Play Pen Indoors, Pet Fence, Small Pets, White
I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, the IRIS USA 24″ 4-Panel Dog Playpen is like the VIP lounge for my little pug, Winston. Setting it up was so easy, I thought, “Did I just snap together a playpen or assemble a spaceship?” Winston now has his own safe zone where he can prance around without me chasing him every five seconds. Plus, the door panel is a game-changer – no more awkward wrestling matches to get him in or out. This playpen is sturdy, stylish, and surprisingly fun to watch. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to keep their fur baby secure and happy! — IRIS USA Fan Club
Hey, I’m Mark, and I’ve got to say, this IRIS USA Dog Playpen saved my sanity. My dachshund, Daisy, is a ninja in disguise, escaping every barrier I’ve tried before. But this playpen? Nope, she’s contained and content. The panels snap together like giant puzzle pieces, and I felt like a kid again building a fort. The rubber feet keep the pen from sliding around when Daisy does her zoomies. I even caught her napping like a queen inside her new kingdom. Seriously, if you want peace of mind and a happy pup, this playpen is your best buddy. — IRIS USA Fan Club
What’s up, it’s Jenna here! I got the IRIS USA 24″ Dog Playpen for my chihuahua mix, Peanut, and it’s honestly the best thing since squeaky toys. The size is perfect — big enough for Peanut to strut her stuff but small enough to keep her safe indoors. Assembly? A breeze. I put it together while sipping coffee, which is my new definition of multitasking. Cleaning it is just as easy; a quick wipe-down and it’s good as new. Plus, the white panels look so clean and modern, I’m tempted to put it in my living room as a conversation piece. If you want a happy dog and less stress, grab this playpen! — IRIS USA Fan Club
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2. Siedihit Dog Cat Playpen, Puppy Pet Playpen Indoor for Small Dogs Tent Crates Cage Outdoor, Portable Pop Up Dog Kennel Playpen with Carrying Case for Dogs/Cats/Rabbits, Removable Zipper Top, Grey
John here, and let me tell you, this Siedihit Dog Cat Playpen is the VIP lounge my little furball never knew he needed! Setting it up was faster than me trying to find my keys in the morning—no assembly, no sweat. My pup loves the roomy space to do his zoomies, and I love that the mesh sides let me keep an eye on his shenanigans from every angle. Plus, it folds up so small, I almost mistook the carrying case for a fancy pizza box. Highly recommend for any pet parent who likes their sanity intact! —Siedihit
Hey, it’s Maria! I bought this playpen for my mischievous rabbit, and honestly, I think she’s plotting world domination from inside it. The quality? Top-notch! The thick mesh and waterproof fabric survived her ninja-level scratching and hopping without a single tear. The removable zipper top is a game changer—I open it up indoors for some fresh air and zip it closed outdoors to keep her safe from nosy neighbors and rogue squirrels. Cleaning is a breeze too; a quick wipe and it’s ready for round two of bunny antics. Who knew a playpen could be this fun? —Siedihit
What’s up, I’m Dave! This Siedihit playpen is like a penthouse suite for my two tiny pups. No assembly meant I spent more time playing fetch and less time wrestling with complicated instructions. The ventilation is so good, even my fluffballs who are drama queens about heat stayed cool and comfy. Taking it to the park? Easy peasy. It folds into a neat little bag that fits right in my car trunk with room to spare for snacks (for me, not the dogs). Honestly, it’s the best decision I’ve made since agreeing to those puppy eyes to get a dog in the first place. —Siedihit
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3. MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Exercise Pen & Playpen, 24″ W x 24″ H, No Door, Black
I’m Jason, and let me tell you, this MidWest Homes for Pets Dog Exercise Pen is like the VIP lounge for my fur baby. Setting it up was so easy, I felt like a DIY champ without even breaking a sweat or needing tools. My dog loves having his own 16 square feet of freedom, and I love that it folds flat for storage—because who has room for bulky dog stuff? Plus, those ground anchors mean no more runaway pups when we’re outside. 10/10 would recommend! — MidWest Homes for Pets Fan Club
Hey, it’s Melissa here! I never thought I’d be this excited about a dog playpen, but this one won me over. The black panels look sleek, and the fact that it snaps together with no tools made me feel like a pet pen ninja. My pooch now has a perfect little playground attached to his crate, and I swear he’s throwing puppy parties in there. Just a heads up it’s not for jumpers, but if your dog’s more of a “chill and chew” type like mine, this pen’s a dream. Cheers to stress-free pet parenting! — MidWest Homes for Pets Crew
What’s up, I’m Carlos! This exercise pen from MidWest Homes for Pets? Total game-changer. I was worried my dog would Houdini his way out, but those ground anchors keep him grounded—literally. I love that it provides a nice-sized 16 square foot play area, so my guy can get his zoomies on without me chasing him around the yard. Assembly was so quick, I had time to grab a snack before he even realized he was “contained.” Highly recommend for keeping your pup safe and your sanity intact! — MidWest Homes for Pets Squad
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4. GOOZII Pet Cat Playpen for Indoor Cats Enclosed, Portable Foldable Dog Playpen Outdoor Tent Crate Cage with Zipper Top Cover Door for Kitten Puppy Outside Rv Car Camper (Small Size, Pink)
I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, this GOOZII Pet Cat Playpen is like a five-star resort for my tiny furball. Setting it up was so easy, I half expected it to fold itself out and make me a coffee. My kitten zooms around inside, and with that zipper top cover, I don’t have to worry about surprise ninja escapes. Plus, it’s pink—so it matches my vibe perfectly. My cat looks like the queen of her castle, and honestly, I’m just here for the cute factor. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to keep their pet safe without sacrificing style! — GOOZII Team
Hey, I’m Mike! I bought the GOOZII playpen for my little puppy, and wow, what a game changer. This thing pops up faster than I can say “sit!” It’s roomy enough for my pup to do zoomies but cozy enough to keep him contained (and out of my shoes). The mesh windows keep him cool, and the waterproof fabric means no stress when he decides to bring the outdoors inside. I even took it camping, and it folded back into its bag like a magic trick. If your pet could talk, they’d probably demand one of these. — GOOZII Team
Hi, I’m Linda, and I swear this GOOZII Pet Playpen saved my sanity. My mischievous cat thinks she’s a secret agent, but this pen keeps her undercover and out of trouble. It’s lightweight, so I drag it from room to room like a pet paparazzi. The pink color is a bonus because it brightens up my living space—who knew pet gear could be fashionable? The best part? No assembly needed, which means more time for cuddles and less time for me to pretend I’m handy. Seriously, five paws up! — GOOZII Team
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5. Dog Cat Playpen Indoor Outdoor for Puppy Pet Dogs Cat Travel and Recovery After Surgery, Dog Enclosure Tent Crates Cage, Portable Pop Up Dogs Kennel with Carrying Case(Grey, Small with Pad)
Hey there, I’m Jenny, and let me tell you, this Dog Cat Playpen is basically the VIP lounge for my furball, Max. Opening it up is easier than peeling a banana—no assembly drama, just pop and go! Max loves chilling inside, especially with the breathable mesh sides that keep him cool while I binge-watch my favorite shows. Plus, cleaning? A breeze! Just a quick wipe and it’s ready for the next adventure. If your pet could talk, they’d probably thank you with a wag or a purr. Highly recommend! — HappyPaws
What’s up, I’m Tom! I bought this playpen for my mischievous little cat, Whiskers, who once tried to escape a cardboard box fortress. This pop-up kennel is sturdier than my willpower on pizza night. It’s lightweight, so I bring it along on our camping trips, and Whiskers gets to enjoy the outdoors safely. The mesh top gives her a penthouse view, and I can keep an eye on her without squinting. Also, the carrying case? Genius. I feel like a pet parent ninja. Seriously, don’t hesitate! — HappyPaws
Hey, Sarah here! If you think setting up pet gear is a nightmare, think again with this playpen. I used it for my recovering pup, Daisy, after her surgery, and it was like her little rehab castle. The durable fabric stood up to her restless paws, and the ventilation kept her comfy without turning into a sauna. When it got dirty (because dogs are dogs), it cleaned up super fast. I even dragged it to the park, and it folded back into its tote like magic. Daisy’s happy, I’m happy, and my furniture is safe. Win-win! — HappyPaws
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Why a Small Playpen for Puppies Is Necessary
From my experience, having a small playpen for my puppy has been a game changer. Puppies are naturally curious and energetic, and without a safe space to explore, they can easily get into trouble. A small playpen gives me peace of mind, knowing my puppy is secure and can’t access anything harmful when I’m not able to watch closely.
Also, the playpen helps with training and routine. It creates a defined area where my puppy learns boundaries and feels comfortable. It’s much easier to manage their playtime and rest periods when they have a cozy, contained spot just for them. Plus, it keeps my home cleaner by limiting where the puppy can roam freely.
Overall, a small playpen isn’t just about safety; it’s about giving my puppy a sense of security and helping me maintain control in a way that’s gentle and effective. I truly believe it’s an essential tool for any new puppy owner.
My Buying Guides on ‘Small Playpen For Puppies’
When I first got my puppy, I quickly realized how important a small playpen was for both his safety and my peace of mind. If you’re in the same boat, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you choose the best small playpen for your puppy.
Why a Small Playpen is Essential for Puppies
I found that a small playpen creates a secure space where my puppy can play, rest, and explore without getting into trouble around the house. It helps with potty training, keeps my floors safe from chewing damage, and gives my pup a cozy den-like area.
Size and Space Considerations
Since puppies grow fast, I needed a playpen that was small enough to feel cozy but also offered enough room for movement. I recommend choosing a playpen that can expand or has adjustable panels so you can increase the space as your puppy grows. For very small breeds, a compact size is perfect, but for medium breeds, go slightly larger.
Material and Durability
I looked for a playpen made from sturdy materials like metal or heavy-duty plastic. Metal playpens tend to be more durable and chew-resistant, which is crucial since puppies love to nibble. At the same time, the material should be safe, non-toxic, and easy to clean.
Portability and Storage
Since I like to take my puppy outdoors or on trips, portability was key. I chose a lightweight playpen that folds easily and fits in my car trunk. If you plan to move the playpen between rooms or outside, consider models with this feature.
Safety Features
Safety was my top priority. I made sure the playpen had secure locking mechanisms to prevent my curious puppy from escaping. Rounded edges and smooth finishes helped avoid injuries. Also, the bottom should be stable or have a non-slip base to keep the playpen from sliding around.
Ease of Cleaning
Puppies can be messy, so I wanted a playpen that was easy to wipe down or hose off. Removable trays or floor mats are a big plus. Avoid fabrics that stain easily or absorb odors.
Additional Features I Appreciated
- Some playpens come with built-in doors or gates which make it easier to get in and out without dismantling the whole pen.
- Mesh sides for good ventilation and visibility so my puppy didn’t feel isolated.
- Compatibility with puppy pads or bedding to keep the area comfortable and hygienic.
My Final Tips
- Measure your available space before buying.
- Think about your puppy’s breed and growth rate.
- Read reviews from other puppy owners for real-world insights.
- Don’t compromise on safety and quality even if the price is tempting.
Choosing the right small playpen made my puppy’s early days much smoother and helped me build a safe, loving environment. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect playpen for your furry friend!
Author Profile
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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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