Playtime should be a vital part of your dog's life at every stage. Canines demand constant stimulation and physical activity from puppyhood through maturity, all of which are provided via play, whether with toys, other dogs, or their owners. Regular play allows them to socialise, learn what they can and cannot accomplish, control their inclinations, and satisfy their needs productively and enjoyably. In a word, playtime promotes your dog's well-being and keeps them happy and healthy.
Of course, although no one can question the necessity of recreation for dogs, no one can argue that the hectic schedules of most pawrents make it tough to constantly find a pleasant method to assist your pet to burn off extra energy. You can't allow your energetic puppy to run around the house and injure himself, or chew on your shoes and belongings out of boredom.
Which is why dog and puppy indoor playpens are a wise investment for any pet parent, new or experienced. Having a mobile and adaptable area in your house to isolate your pet might be a true lifesaver for both you and your dog. You'll have a dog-friendly space for your pet to rest and have fun without needing to worry about them being uncomfortable.
What Is a Dog Playpen?
A dog playpen is made up of panels that form a square or rectangle. These panels are usually made out of metal wire or plastic mesh and can be folded down or collapsed when not in use. The panels can be connected by hinges so they fold against each other when not in use, or they may simply rest against one another when placed together. A sliding door allows pets to enter and exit the enclosed area at will while keeping them safely contained within the pen while they play, eat or sleep. Some dog playpens models come with windows so owners can look inside without letting their pets escape!
Pen Size
Before you buy a dog playpen, you should consider the size of your dog and how much space he needs to run around. The size of the pen should be at least as big as your dog's head height. This ensures that they have enough room to move around and play without feeling cramped or crowded. The larger the area, the more comfortable a dog will be.
It's also important to consider whether your pooch has any special needs or medical conditions that require extra space or a certain type of flooring. Some dogs may not like slippery floors, for example, and some may need more than just a soft surface to rest on after playing for hours.
Dog Pen Material
Indoor dog playpens are made of different materials. Some are made of plastic, others are made of metal, and the rest are made of wood. The most common are the plastic ones. They come in many different colours, shapes and sizes. They also have many features that make them easy to use and easy to clean.
The plastic ones can be used indoors or outdoors depending on your preference and need. They come with a wide variety of slots for you to place toys inside so your pet can play with them while he is inside the pen.
There are some metal playpens available in the market but they don't have many options when it comes to design or colour choice. They usually come with one design only and this might not be suitable for you if you want something that matches your home décor perfectly.
The wooden ones are beautiful but they may not be as durable as their counterparts because they are prone to scratches and cracks if not handled properly or if they fall accidentally onto hard surfaces like concrete floors.
Limit Isolation
If you're considering buying an indoor pet playpen, it's important to keep in mind that they're not a replacement for a dog crate. Some dogs seem to enjoy them and don't mind being confined, but others will hate it.
It's also important to keep an eye on your dog's behaviour while using the pen. If he or she is showing signs of anxiety — whining, pacing, panting — take some time to figure out why. Is he or she too hot? Is there too much noise in the house? Is your dog bored?
If your pup isn't enjoying his or her time in the playpen and is showing signs of stress or anxiety, limit their time in it as much as possible and consider getting him/her a dog crate instead.
Benefits Of a Dog Pen
- Helps Potty Training - dogs need to be trained not to eliminate in their pen and sometimes this requires confinement for short periods (up until they learn their lesson).
- Separation Anxiety - if you work outside the home and your pup has separation anxiety, a playpen may help him feel more secure by keeping him in one place while he waits for you to return home from work.
- Chewing Habit - dogs tend to chew on things when they get bored and having something safe for them to chew on can keep this behaviour under control.
Final Thoughts
The doggy playpen is an excellent investment not only for you but also for your beloved dog. Any time you happen to be away from the house, you can always count on your pet to be entertained and happy while they're kept safely in their special space.
