Best Dog Gates

While there's no doubt that you adore your canine companion, there are occasions when you want to limit their access to certain areas of the house. That could be because you'd prefer them not to go upstairs, you'd rather keep them separate while you eat, or you simply want to be able to answer your front door without the risk of your dog running away!

In any of the instances above, and more, a dog gate is the best solution. But, with so many different designs to choose from, finding the best dog gate for your individual needs can become a bit of a headache. So, to make things easier, we've done the hard work for you! Below, you'll find 12 of the best dog gates in Australia.

How did we choose the best dog gates in Australia?

You might think a dog gate is a fairly simple thing to buy. After all, regardless of design, they all serve the same purpose. But, there are some key elements when it comes to finding the right dog gate for your pet that are quite easy to overlook.

That's why we made sure to cover the following criteria when selecting the best dog gates out there:

  • Size and Dimension
  • Material
  • Type
  • Adjustability
  • Locking mechanism

We'll look at each of the above and more as we guide you through finding the perfect pet gate for your dog and your home. Let's get started!

Our top picks

PaWz Wooden Pet Gate

PaWz Wooden Pet Gate

Charlies Pet Durable Wooden 3 Panel Freestanding Pet Gate

Charlies Pet Durable Wooden 3 Panel Freestanding Pet Gate

Pet Gate with Extension

Pet Gate with Extension

PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding

PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding

Who is the PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding best for?

Who is the PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding best for?

3-in-1 Super Wide Adjustable Baby Safety Gate

3-in-1 Super Wide Adjustable Baby Safety Gate

Charlies Extendable Safety Gate

Charlies Extendable Safety Gate

Wide Tall Dog Gate Retractable Mesh

Wide Tall Dog Gate Retractable Mesh

Expandable Barrier Gate

Expandable Barrier Gate

Dog Space Rocky Large Extra Tall

Dog Space Rocky Large Extra Tall

Pet Barrier Adjustable Gate

Pet Barrier Adjustable Gate

PaWz Wooden Pet Gate: See $105.99 at PaWz
Charlies Pet Durable Wooden 3 Panel Freestanding Pet Gate: See $129.00 at Pet Circle
Pet Gate with Extension: See $129.00 at Kmart
PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding: See $123.11 at PaWz
Who is the PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding best for?: See $401.87 at Amazon
3-in-1 Super Wide Adjustable Baby Safety Gate: See $149.95 at Amazon
Charlies Extendable Safety Gate: See $129.00 at Pet Circle
Wide Tall Dog Gate Retractable Mesh: See $139.33 at Amazon
Expandable Barrier Gate: See $138.99 at Amazon
Dog Safety Gate: See $59.98 at Mydeal
Dog Space Rocky Large Extra Tall: See $369.95 at Pet Circle
Pet Barrier Adjustable Gate: See $59.96 at Catch

Let's look at each dog gate in detail

PaWz Wooden Pet Gate

PaWz Wooden Pet Gate

The PaWz Wooden Pet Gate is a great choice if you have a particularly large opening to seal off as, depending on what size you go for, it can stretch across 2.8 metres. The panels can also be adjusted to fit small openings as needed, making it one of the most versatile dog gates you can find.

As a freestanding gate, there's no need to secure it to your walls or door frames and, when it's not in use, it can be folded for easy storage.

The solid MDF construction gives it sturdiness and durability, while the anti-scratch rubber feet will protect wooden floors. The MDF construction also makes this gate easy to wipe clean, so any mucky paw prints will be easy to remove.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 1.8m - 2.8m width/60.5cm high
Material MDF
Dog gate type Freestanding
Adjustable Yes
Locking mechanism No

What do our experts say about the PaWz Wooden Pet Gate?

We love how easy this gate is to install and extend. Simply stand on its feet, adjust the panels to the required width, and you're set. This is perfect if you want to move it between rooms or have a large space to block off.

The only thing that we felt this dog gate was missing is a locking mechanism. There's no doubt that it's sturdy, but a larger dog may be able to knock it over with some ease.

Who is the PaWz Wooden Pet Gate best for?

This dog gate would be best for anyone with a young puppy to keep sectioned off from a certain part of the house. It would also be a good choice if you want to move the gate from room to room as you'll be able to adjust its width with ease.

Pros

  • Extendable up to 2.8m depending on size
  • Solid MDF construction
  • Anti-scratch rubber feet
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • No locking mechanism

Charlies Pet Durable Wooden 3 Panel Freestanding Pet Gate

Charlies Pet Durable Wooden 3 Panel Freestanding Pet Gate

Another good choice if you're looking for a freestanding dog gate, this Wooden Panel Pet Gate is constructed from solid wood and is made up of three panels that make adjusting the width super easy. This adjustability also means that it can be used in a variety of ways including sealing off doorways, as a temporary hold, and as a room divider.

The sturdy support feet on either side of the panels prevent the gate from being knocked over while simultaneously protecting your floors. There is also a 2cm gap between each slat, so there's no risk of your dog getting through the gate - even small dogs will be kept contained!

Thanks to its folding design, this dog gate can also be folded flat and stored away easily. It also features anti-rust metal hinges so, should you get any water on them when wiping it down, you can rest assured the hinges won't be affected.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 1.8m width/61cm high
Material MDF
Dog gate type Freestanding
Adjustable Yes
Locking mechanism No

What do our experts say about the Charlies Pet Durable Wooden 3 Panel Freestanding Pet Gate?

One of the things we like most about the Charlies Pet Durable Wooden 3 Panel Freestanding Pet Gate is its versatility. Being able to use it as a small, temporary hold, a room divider, and as a doorway blocker really gives you value for money. We also liked the design of external feet on either side of the gate as this added to its stability and makes it harder to knock down.

Who is the Charlies Pet Durable Wooden 3 Panel Freestanding Pet Gate best for?

This pet gate would be best for dog owners who want a versatile option that can easily be moved around the home, and stored away easily when not in use. It's also the best portable dog gate we came across.

Pros

  • Solid construction
  • Sturdy support feet
  • Extendable
  • Versatile

Cons

  • Not as wide as some gates, even when fully extended

Pet Gate with Extension

Pet Gate with Extension

This is one of the most innovatively designed pet gates we found on our search for the best dog gate. To start with, it can easily be extended to fit a door frame using the included extension bar. So, if you want to move it from room to room, there's no need to worry about it not fitting.

It also features an internal pet door (kind of like a cat door) within the main door, which allows smaller pets to pass through while keeping larger dogs contained. Meanwhile, the no-feet design means that this gate won't cause any damage to your floors.

Fitting this dog gate is really easy too as it is a pressure mounted gate. This means that you don't have to screw it into place and risk damaging walls and door frames in the process. And, thanks to its steel and ABS plastic construction, it's both a durable and sturdy gate.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 72cm-108cm wide/76cm high
Material Steel and ABS
Dog gate type Pressure Mounted
Adjustable Yes
Locking mechanism Yes

What do our experts say about the Pet Gate with Extension?

One of the best features this gate has to offer is the small pet door that allows smaller pets to pass through while keeping larger dogs contained. This is perfect if you have a cat that you let roam free throughout the house, but would rather your dog didn't.

The inclusion of extension bars also means that it's easy to extend when needed and can be moved around the home as necessary. Plus, it's also a little higher than most other gates, making it a good choice for dogs who have a history of jumping over dog gates.

Who is the Pet Gate with Extension best for?

The Pet Gate with Extension is best for multi-pet households who don't mind smaller dogs or cats roaming free but would prefer bigger dogs remain sectioned off. It's also a good choice for dogs who can jump high and have managed to clear the height of a previous gate.

Pros

  • Includes extension bars
  • Features a small pet door
  • Higher than most other gates
  • Made from sturdy, durable materials

Cons

  • Doesn't close automatically

PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding

PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding

Most dog gates are designed to keep your dog securely contained. That is, after all, their purpose. But, often this means that the aesthetic of the gate is forgotten about and you have to live with a clunky, metal, prison-like structure in your home. This Wooden Pet Gate from PaWz puts an end to that.

Designed to blend in beautifully with any home, this gate features a decorative curved top and is made from MDF for a sturdy but aesthetically appealing finish. And, when it isn't in use, you can fold it flat for easy storage.

The 4 panels are all hinged and can easily be adjusted to act as a room divider or to seal off a wide doorway. The external feet on either side of the gate also ensure it stays upright and makes it harder to knock down. The freestanding design means there's no need to install it permanently either and, to top it off, it is ready to go straight out of the box.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 1.5m-2m/80cm tall
Material MDF
Dog gate type Freestanding
Adjustable Yes
Locking mechanism No

What do our experts say about the PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding?

One of the best things about this freestanding dog gate is that it can be a permanent installation in your home without spoiling your decor. Of course, style isn't everything, but we can confirm that this gate performs well too. It's sturdy, durable, doesn't come with any difficult installation instructions, and can be extended as needed. All in all, an excellent dog gate if you want both style and substance.

Who is the PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding best for?

The PaWz Wooden Pet Gate is best for someone looking for a way to keep your dog contained without feeling as though they have to sacrifice the look of their home. It's also ideal for anyone who would struggle to install a pet gate or for dog owners who don't want to cause damage to walls and door frames.

Pros

  • Decorative design
  • Can be extended up to 2m
  • Sturdy and durable
  • No installation required

Cons

  • No locking mechanism

Who is the PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding best for?

Who is the PaWz Wooden Pet Gate Door Freestanding best for?

One of the biggest issues people who have used dog gates previously face is the height of them. Most stand at less than a metre high and, if you have a larger dog or a giant breed, this is quite easy for them to jump over and break free! This Extra Tall Gate from Comomy, however, stands at 1m tall, making it perfect for pet owners who need some extra height to contain their fur baby!

The height of this gate isn't its only good feature, though. It is also pressure mounted, making it really easy to install without causing any damage to your door frames. It's pretty much escape-proof as well and features a double-lock system that requires a "press and lift" operation to open - something that not even a dog with a history of breaking free would be able to achieve!

The steel design is super durable too and the entire gate has been tested to withstand up to 100lbs of impact. So, even if your dog pushes against it, there's a good chance they won't be able to shift it. Finally, the auto-close function means you can pass through easily with just one hand and not have to worry about manually closing it once you're through.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 48.8in wide/36in high
Material Steel
Dog gate type Pressure mounted
Adjustable No
Locking mechanism Yes

What do our experts say about the Comomy Extra Tall Gate?

The height of this gate is a big selling point and something that anyone with a large or giant breed needs in their life. Another feature, aside from its height, that we loved is its strength. Large dogs are strong and could easily shift a pressure mounted gate out of place simply by leaning against it. With its steel construction and capability of withstanding 100lbs of impact, this isn't something to worry about.

The double-lock system is also fantastic, easy to operate using just one hand and, most importantly, will keep your dog securely behind the gate.

Who is the Comomy Extra Tall Gate best for?

This is one of the top dog gates for dog parents who are looking for taller gates. The 1m height will keep large dogs contained while the steel construction and double-lock mechanism will keep any Houdini hounds safely where you want them.

Pros

  • Extra tall
  • Solid steel construction
  • Pressure mounted
  • Can withstand up to 100lbs of pressure
  • Locks automatically

Cons

  • Width cannot be adjusted

3-in-1 Super Wide Adjustable Baby Safety Gate

3-in-1 Super Wide Adjustable Baby Safety Gate

The 3-in-1 Super Wide Adjustable Baby Safety Gate is one of the most versatile we found on our quest for the best pet gates. As its name suggests, this pet gate can be used in a variety of different ways including an extra wide room divider, self-contained pen, and as a barrier for dangerous areas (such as a fireplace).

Standing at 74cm high, it's good for keeping small dogs and medium sized dogs contained while the 5.3cm spacing between bards will ensure they aren't able to squeeze through. It is also both sturdy and durable being made from steel and ABS plastic.

You have a choice of installation options with this gate as well, and it can be used as freestanding gate or as a wall mounted option (mounting hardware included). It is also lightweight enough to adjust as needed and the panels can be pulled apart for easy storage.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 60cm width/74 cm high per panel
Material Steel and ABS Plastic
Dog gate type Freestanding and wall mounted
Adjustable Yes
Locking mechanism Yes

What do our experts say about the 3-in-1 Super Wide Adjustable Baby Safety Gate?

If you're looking for value for money, this is definitely one of the pet gates you should consider. The fact it can be used in a variety of ways gives you ultimate control over where your dog goes in your home and, when you want to keep them secure but still in the same room, being able to transform the gate into a self-contained pen is ideal.

Who is the 3-in-1 Super Wide Adjustable Baby Safety Gate best for?

The 3-in-1 Super Wide Adjustable Baby Safety Gate is best for those looking for a multipurpose gate. Use as a room divider, safety gate, or self-contained play area as needed simply by adding and removing panels. Think of this as the Lego of dog gates!

Pros

  • 3-in-1 multifunctionality
  • Extra width can be added when needed
  • Sturdy steel and ABS plastic construction
  • Locking system

Cons

  • May be too short for larger dogs

Charlies Extendable Safety Gate

Charlies Extendable Safety Gate

Another great choice for anyone struggling to find dog gates that can be adjusted to fit wide doorways or stairs, the Charlies Extendable Safety Gate comes with an extension panel that can be fitted easily to the side panels and adjusted to fit your needs.

There's no need to worry about following hard to read manufacturer's instructions either as this gate is fully pressure mounted. Simply adjust the tension as needed for a perfect, sturdy fit.

On the subject of sturdiness, this gate is one of the most durable available and is made from iron with ABS plastic and metal hardware. The walk through door swings shut, has a locking mechanism, and features rubber bumpers so there's no risk of damage to your walls when installed.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 73.5cm width/76.2cm high
Material Iron, ABS Plastic, Metal
Dog gate type Pressure Mounted
Adjustable Yes
Locking mechanism Yes

What do our experts say about the Charlies Extendable Safety Gate?

We really liked the addition of the extra panel that came with this gate. This doesn't only make it suitable for wider doorways but means that, in the eventuality of having to move home, you don't have to worry about purchasing new baby gates to fit your new walls.

The iron construction also makes it really durable and the locking mechanism gives extra security. All things that are important for bigger, stronger dogs.

Who is the Charlies Extendable Safety Gate best for?

This pet gate would be best for homes with wide doorways and stairwells. The included extension panel is easy to fit while the pressure-mounted design makes the gate easy to install. It's also a good choice for large, strong dogs who have knocked baby gates out of place previously.

Pros

  • Extension panel included
  • Easy to install with no damage to walls or door frames
  • Strong iron construction
  • Easy to use locking mechanism

Cons

  • No multifunctionality

Wide Tall Dog Gate Retractable Mesh

Wide Tall Dog Gate Retractable Mesh

A dog gate doesn't have to be a permanent feature in your home but sometimes you don't want to have to deal with the hassle of dismantling and storing it away when you don't need it. This is where a retractable dog gate comes into play.

This type of dog gate is designed to clip to a door frame or wall, and allow you to roll it out of the way when it isn't needed - kind of like a vertical blind. It can also be operated using just one hand too, and the buckle clip ensures it stays in place when extended.

Retractable dog gates are also some of the best outdoor dog gate options you'll find as they are rust and weatherproof, so they are ideal if you're attempting to stop your dog venturing from your home into your backyard, or vice versa.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 56in width/42in high
Material Mesh
Dog gate type Retractable
Adjustable Yes
Locking mechanism Yes

What do our experts say about the Wide Tall Dog Gate Retractable Mesh?

One of the things we liked most about this retractable dog gate was how easy it was to operate. Simply unclip the buckle from the wall mounted bracket and it rolls back on itself. Similarly, extending it is super easy and it is light enough to manage using just one hand.

One concern that we have, however, is the mesh construction. While it does seem tough, a particularly persistent dog may be able to scratch or push their way through it. There's also a small gap at the bottom that a small dog may be able to squeeze under.

Who is the Wide Tall Dog Gate Retractable Mesh best for?

This type of dog gate is best for people with dogs who are already used to being separated off. While it'll stay in place once installed, a dog who is desperate to get to their owner may be able to get through quite easily. It is a great choice for an outdoor dog gate though, and is perfect for creating a barrier between your home and garden.

Pros

  • Retractable design
  • Can be operated with one hand
  • Locking mechanism
  • Comes with all necessary hardware

Cons

  • Mesh design may be too weak to contain some dogs

Expandable Barrier Gate

Expandable Barrier Gate

Made from iron and aluminium, this Expandable Barrier Gate is strong and sturdy enough to remain freestanding throughout use while still being lightweight enough to adjust as needed.

As its name suggests, the dog gate can be extended to an ultimate width of 330cm long. It also stands at 97cm high, which is tall enough to put most dogs off jumping over it.

It also features rubber feet that add to its sturdiness and help to keep your floors protected while it's in use. The trellis-like design means that it can be folded down with ease for storage too and, quite importantly, it is simple to assemble with a few basic instructions.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 330cm width/97cm high
Material Iron and Aluminium
Dog gate type Freestanding
Adjustable Yes
Locking mechanism No

What do our experts say about the Expandable Barrier Gate?

If you're looking to create a barrier rather than a traditional, swing door gate this is a good choice. It is simple to put together, doesn't require any permanent installation, and can be extended with ease. It's also sturdy and durable, but not so heavy that it can't be moved around.

If there is a downside, however, it's that the trellis-like design creates gaps in the gate which, depending on how far you've extended it, can be large enough for a dog to easily pass through.

Who is the Expandable Barrier Gate best for?

This Expandable Barrier Gate is best for mature and senior dogs who are already used to being separated from a part of the home. It would also be a good choice for anyone who may struggle with a locking mechanism, or simply wants a temporary barrier that can be easily stored away when not in use.

Pros

  • Can be extended up to 330cm
  • Made from iron and aluminium
  • Protective rubber feet
  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
  • Easy to store when not in use

Cons

  • The design can create large gaps that some dogs may be able to squeeze through.

Dog Safety Gate

Dog Safety Gate

Another retractable dog gate that is perfect for creating a temporary barrier while simultaneously being permanently installed, this Dog Safety Gate can be expanded up to 140cm simply by pulling the mesh barrier across and securing it in place.

Unlike many retractable dog gates, however, this one features a locking mechanism that requires you to push a button in order to unlock. This doesn't only add an extra layer of safety for your dog but allows you to operate using just one hand. It also features a secondary lock, which is ideal for keeping previous escapees exactly where you want them!

The frame and hardware are made from heavy duty steel, while the rolling part of the gate is made from aluminium alloy. This adds extra durability while still being lightweight enough for a smooth retraction. All parts are finished with a non-toxic coating as well, giving you extra peace of mind.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 140cm width/92cm high
Material Steel and Aluminium Alloy
Dog gate type Retractable
Adjustable Yes
Locking mechanism Yes

What do our experts say about the Dog Safety Gate?

One of the things we liked most about this safety gate is that it offers features some other retractable dog gates don't. Two different locking mechanisms offer extra security while the thick mesh seems like it would be much harder for a dog to claw or chew through.

Who is the Dog Safety Gate best for?

This is best for a pet parent looking for dog gates that won't take up too much space in their home or look clunky, but can still be easily expanded when needed. It would also be a good choice for dogs with a history of escapism as it's tough and features two locking mechanisms.

Pros

  • Retractable design
  • Heavy duty steel and aluminium alloy construction
  • Two locking mechanisms
  • Easy to operate
  • Expandable

Cons

  • Needs to be permanently installed

Dog Space Rocky Large Extra Tall

Dog Space Rocky Large Extra Tall

If your dog has a history of jumping over dog gates and you want a taller version of something you already have, the Dog Space Rocky Large Extra Tall Gate would be a great choice. Standing at 105cm tall, it would be difficult for large and energetic dogs to clear with ease, while the 72cm width make it great for wide entrances.

Easy to install, simply attach to your wall with the included mounting brackets and you're all set. The two-way opening system allows you to pass through with ease, while the locking mechanism can be operated using a single hand.

Its iron construction makes it durable as well, and it will be able to withstand pushing and pawing with ease. And, should you need to fill a wider space, there are additional panels available to purchase that will slot into the existing gate with ease.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 72cm width/105cm high
Material Iron
Dog gate type Wall mounted
Adjustable Yes, with additional panels sold separately
Locking mechanism Yes

What do our experts say about the Dog Space Rocky Large Extra Tall?

The height of this dog gate is potentially its biggest selling point. Standing at over 1m high, it really does stand up against large dogs and, paired with its iron construction, all of this adds up to one of the strongest dog gates we found.

The locking mechanism works well and being able to position the panels is a nice touch. If there is a downside, it's that this has to be permanently installed. So, if you're looking for a portable gate, this probably isn't your best option.

Who is the Dog Space Rocky Large Extra Tall best for?

This is the tallest of the doggie gates on our list, making it perfect for anyone with a Great Dane or other giant breed (or simply a dog that is capable of jumping surprisingly high!)

Pros

  • Stands tall at 105cm
  • Super durable iron construction
  • Can be extended with additional panels

Cons

  • Has to be wall mounted

Pet Barrier Adjustable Gate

Pet Barrier Adjustable Gate

The final recommendation on our list, the Pet Barrier Adjustable Gate is one of the best adjustable tension gates we found. It is easy to install and thanks to the 10cm extension panel, it can be adjusted to fit almost any doorway or stairwell.

The walk through door boasts both auto-close and stay-open features, so it's a super convenient gate for anyone that wants to pass through freely without having to use the double locking mechanism each time.

It is also really sturdy and is made from metal and ABS plastic, so you know it'll hold steady against pushing and pawing. It comes with an innovatively designed U-shape part as well that allows you to easily install the gate around bannisters and other awkward areas.

Key specifications & features

Size/dimensions 75cm-95cm width/77cm high
Material Metal and ABS Plastic
Dog gate type Pressure mounted
Adjustable Yes
Locking mechanism Yes

What do our experts say about the Pet Barrier Adjustable Gate?

This is a gate that is packed with features that give you excellent value for money. The included extension panel allows you to move the gate between rooms as needed, while the U-shape part is an excellent added bonus for those awkward areas. We also liked how strong the pressure mounting was and, paired with the metal and ABS plastic construction, offered peace of mind over security and stability.

Who is the Pet Barrier Adjustable Gate best for?

The Pet Barrier Adjustable Gate would be best for anyone looking to install dog gates into awkward spaces as the U-shape offers a mounting option that many other gates do not. It would also be good for wider spaces and strong dogs.

Pros

  • Expandable up to 95cm
  • Auto-close and stay-open feature
  • Double locking system
  • Innovative design
  • Made from strong materials

Cons

  • Initial assembly may be difficult for some people