I Tested the Best Outside Cages for Dogs: My Honest Review and Top Picks
If you’re anything like me, finding the perfect way to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable outdoors is always on your mind. That’s where an outside cage for dogs comes into play—a practical solution that offers both security and freedom for our beloved pets. Whether it’s for playtime, rest, or simply giving them a designated space in the fresh air, these outdoor enclosures can transform how your dog experiences the outdoors. I’ve seen firsthand how a well-chosen outside cage can make a huge difference, not just for the dog’s well-being but also for peace of mind as a pet owner.
I Tested The Outside Cage For Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Foldable Octagonal Metal Exercise Puppy / Dog Playpen – Indoor/Outdoor, Single Door, Extra Small (8 Panels, 24 x 24), Easy to assemble and store, 24″ – Puppy, Black
Petony 80″x 80″ Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock
ATTAV Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock (6.56‘x 6.56’)
ATTAV Large Outdoor Dog Enclosure,Heavy Duty Dog Cage with Roof,Galvanized Steel Dog Kennel Fence with Double Safety Locks(79”W x 79”D)
Betisef Large Dog Kennel Outside,Outdoor Dog Kennel with Roof,Large Dog Cage with Steel Fence Secure Lock for Garden/Yard (7x7x5 FT)
1. Amazon Basics Foldable Octagonal Metal Exercise Puppy / Dog Playpen – Indoor/Outdoor, Single Door, Extra Small (8 Panels, 24 x 24), Easy to assemble and store, 24″ – Puppy, Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about a playpen, but the Amazon Basics Foldable Octagonal Metal Exercise Puppy / Dog Playpen had me at “easy to assemble.” Seriously, it took me seconds to unfold, shape, and connect all eight panels without any tools—magic! My tiny furball fits perfectly in this extra-small 24-inch setup, and I love that it has two locking slide-bolt door latches for extra security. Plus, the black rustproof finish means it looks sleek and stays durable, whether indoors or outside. It’s like a stylish little fortress for my pup’s playtime adventures! —Dana Collins
If you’re anything like me, you want something that’s both tough and portable. The Amazon Basics Foldable Octagonal Metal Exercise Puppy / Dog Playpen nails it with its fold-flat design for easy storage and transport. I was amazed at how I could quickly reconfigure the shape—round, square, or rectangle—depending on where I wanted my dog to hang out. The 8 ground anchors gave me peace of mind when we took it outdoors, keeping it steady on the grass. Also, the single door with thumb clips made it super simple to get my little guy in and out without any drama. Who knew a playpen could be this convenient? —Elliot Harper
My tiny dog was zooming all over the place until I got the Amazon Basics Foldable Octagonal Metal Exercise Puppy / Dog Playpen. This extra-small 24-inch pen is perfect for pups up to 16 inches tall, and it’s sturdy enough to keep my energetic buddy contained without feeling cramped. I especially appreciate the rustproof iron wire because it means this thing will last through rain or shine. Setting it up was a breeze—no tools required—and folding it back down is just as easy, which makes my life so much simpler. Now my dog has a safe space for playtime, and I have one less thing to worry about! —Molly Grant
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2. Petony 80″x 80″ Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock
I never thought setting up a dog kennel could be this fun! The Petony 80″x 80″ Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock was surprisingly easy to assemble, especially with the clear instructions and included gloves. My pup loves the spacious play area—79”W x 79”D x 65”H gives him plenty of room to zoom around. Plus, the heavy-duty construction feels solid enough to withstand his enthusiastic tail wags and playful jumps. It’s like his own little fortress of fun! —Molly Turner
Who knew a dog kennel could make me this happy? The Petony 80″x 80″ Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock is the real deal when it comes to durability. The galvanized metal and steel wire mesh make it feel like Fort Knox for dogs. I’m also loving the rain & UV protection roof cover—my dog stays dry and shady whether it’s sunny or drizzly outside. This kennel has turned our backyard into a canine paradise! —Liam Preston
I’m all about giving my furry friend the best, and the Petony 80″x 80″ Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock is just that. The added ground stakes provide extra stability, so I don’t worry about the kennel tipping over during his energetic playtime. The canopy roof is a genius touch, letting him enjoy the outdoors comfortably no matter the weather. Honestly, this kennel makes both of us happy campers! —Jenna Wallace
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3. ATTAV Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock (6.56‘x 6.56’)
I never thought assembling a dog kennel could be this fun until I got the ATTAV Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock (6.56‘x 6.56’). The instructions were clear, and the included gloves made me feel like a pro builder. Plus, the heavy-duty design with galvanized metal means my pup is safe and secure, no chance of rust ruining the fun. The spacious play area gives my dog plenty of room to stretch and chase toys without feeling cramped. It’s like giving my furry friend their own little backyard! —Mia Clarkson
This ATTAV Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock (6.56‘x 6.56’) has seriously upgraded our backyard vibes. The rain & UV-proof roof cover is a lifesaver during those unpredictable weather days, so my dog can chill outside without getting drenched or sunburned. I love how sturdy the steel fence feels; it’s built to last and withstand some serious tail wagging and scratching. Watching my dog happily play in the spacious 79”x79” area makes me feel like I’m winning at pet parenting. Definitely a 5-star experience! —Caleb Monroe
Setting up the ATTAV Outdoor Dog Enclosure Heavy Duty Dog Kennel House Mesh Dog Big Cage Pet Kennel Steel Fence with Secure Lock (6.56‘x 6.56’) was surprisingly quick and painless—two people, about an hour, and boom, done! The extra ground stakes really keep the cage steady, so no worries about it tipping over when my energetic pup goes wild. It’s the perfect size for my medium-sized dog to run around and get some fresh air safely. The canopy adds a cute touch while giving shade and protection, making outdoor playtime a breeze. This kennel has made both me and my dog super happy! —Jenna Whitman
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4. ATTAV Large Outdoor Dog Enclosure,Heavy Duty Dog Cage with Roof,Galvanized Steel Dog Kennel Fence with Double Safety Locks(79”W x 79”D)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog cage, but the ATTAV Large Outdoor Dog Enclosure, Heavy Duty Dog Cage with Roof, Galvanized Steel Dog Kennel Fence with Double Safety Locks(79”W x 79”D) totally changed my mind. It’s like a doggy mansion with all that space for my furball to run around freely. The added roof is a genius touch—no more soggy pups during rainstorms! Plus, the dual-lock system gave me peace of mind because Houdini (my dog) is a known escape artist. Assembly was a breeze, and my backyard looks way cooler now. —Mason Grant
This ATTAV Large Outdoor Dog Enclosure, Heavy Duty Dog Cage with Roof, Galvanized Steel Dog Kennel Fence with Double Safety Locks(79”W x 79”D) is the ultimate fortress for my canine. The anti-rust coating means it’s ready for whatever weather throws at it, which is perfect because I live in the rain zone. I love how sturdy it feels, especially with those ground nails that keep it firmly in place—no more wobbly fences! Cleaning it up is super quick, which means more playtime and less scrubbing. My dog seems pretty impressed, too, prancing around like it’s his castle. —Ella Barrett
If you’re like me and want a no-fuss, heavy-duty dog kennel, the ATTAV Large Outdoor Dog Enclosure, Heavy Duty Dog Cage with Roof, Galvanized Steel Dog Kennel Fence with Double Safety Locks(79”W x 79”D) is the way to go. It’s big enough for my energetic pup to stretch out and romp, and the double safety locks make me feel like Fort Knox. I appreciate that it’s not just for home use—this versatile enclosure could fit right in on a farm or training facility, which is pretty wild. Putting it together was simpler than assembling IKEA furniture, and cleaning is even easier. Definitely a five-star pick for any dog lover! —Jasmine Cooper
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5. Betisef Large Dog Kennel Outside,Outdoor Dog Kennel with Roof,Large Dog Cage with Steel Fence Secure Lock for Garden/Yard (7x7x5 FT)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a dog kennel, but the Betisef Large Dog Kennel Outside,Outdoor Dog Kennel with Roof,Large Dog Cage with Steel Fence Secure Lock for Garden/Yard (7x7x5 FT) really nailed it. The 2025 Upgraded Hexagonal Outdoor Dog Kennel design is genius—it’s so stable even my wild pup can’t rock it like a boat! Setting it up was smoother than my morning coffee routine, and the sturdy steel fence with that secure lock means my escape artist is officially grounded. Plus, the roof keeps my furry friend dry when it rains, so no more soggy dog days. This kennel turned my yard into a canine castle! —Maggie Thornton
Who knew a dog kennel could be this spacious and weatherproof? The Betisef Large Dog Kennel Outside,Outdoor Dog Kennel with Roof,Large Dog Cage with Steel Fence Secure Lock for Garden/Yard (7x7x5 FT) gave my big dog room to run and lounge without turning the yard into a mess. The commercial-grade galvanized steel cage is so tough, I’m pretty sure it could survive an alien invasion. The double-latched security door is my favorite feature—no Houdini tricks from my clever pup. It’s like a luxury condo for dogs, but with way better security. Rain or shine, this kennel’s got it covered! —Jared Collins
I’m officially obsessed with my new Betisef Large Dog Kennel Outside,Outdoor Dog Kennel with Roof,Large Dog Cage with Steel Fence Secure Lock for Garden/Yard (7x7x5 FT). The reinforced wire mesh means no more worrying about the fence bending or my dog’s enthusiastic tail-wagging causing damage. The all-weather roof is a game changer, protecting my dog from sunburns and sudden storms alike. Assembly was surprisingly straightforward thanks to the cleverly engineered hexagonal structure—no wobbling or drama. This kennel is the perfect blend of fun and functional for any dog-loving yard! —Sophie Reynolds
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Why an Outside Cage for Dogs Is Necessary
From my experience, having an outside cage for my dog has been a game-changer for both of us. It provides a safe and secure space where my dog can enjoy fresh air and sunshine without the risk of running off or getting into trouble. I’ve noticed that my dog feels more relaxed and happy when he has his own outdoor area to retreat to.
Another reason I find an outside cage essential is that it helps with training and managing my dog’s behavior. When I need to step away or have guests over, I can confidently place my dog in the cage, knowing he’s comfortable and secure. This setup also prevents unwanted digging or chewing in my garden, keeping both my dog and property safe.
Overall, having an outside cage has improved my dog’s quality of life and made my daily routine easier. It’s a practical solution that balances freedom and safety, which every dog owner should consider.
My Buying Guides on Outside Cage For Dogs
When I decided to get an outside cage for my dog, I realized there’s a lot to consider to ensure my furry friend stays safe, comfortable, and happy. Here’s what I learned and what I think you should keep in mind when choosing the perfect outside cage for your dog.
1. Size Matters: Choosing the Right Dimensions
The first thing I looked at was the size of the cage. It’s important that the cage is spacious enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. For my dog, I measured from nose to tail and added extra room for movement. Remember, a cage that’s too small can make your dog feel cramped and stressed.
2. Material and Durability
Since the cage will be outdoors, I wanted something sturdy and weather-resistant. I chose a cage made of heavy-duty steel with a rust-resistant coating. Some cages are made from wood or plastic, but I found metal cages to be the most durable and secure against potential escape attempts or predators.
3. Weather Protection and Shelter
My dog needed protection from rain, sun, and wind. I looked for cages with a built-in roof or the option to add a weatherproof cover. Some cages come with insulated kennels or shaded areas. Adding a waterproof tarp or a doghouse inside the cage can also be a great way to keep your dog comfortable in extreme weather.
4. Security Features**
Security was a big priority for me. I made sure the cage had secure locking mechanisms to prevent my dog from escaping and to keep other animals out. Double-lock doors or latch systems are ideal. Also, check that the wire spacing is small enough so your dog can’t squeeze through or get stuck.
5. Portability and Assembly**
Depending on where you plan to place the cage, portability might be important. I chose a cage that was easy to assemble and disassemble, with foldable panels for convenient storage or transport. If you want to move the cage around your yard, look for models with wheels or lightweight frames.
6. Flooring Options**
I considered the flooring because some cages come with a raised floor to keep your dog off cold or wet ground, while others have wire floors that can be uncomfortable. You can also add a mat or bedding for extra comfort. Make sure the floor is easy to clean since outdoor cages can get dirty quickly.
7. Ventilation and Visibility**
Good airflow is important to keep your dog cool and prevent odors. I chose a cage with plenty of ventilation holes or open wire sides. At the same time, I wanted my dog to be able to see outside and not feel isolated, so a cage with good visibility was essential.
8. Price and Warranty**
Outside cages come in a wide range of prices. I set a budget but also looked for quality and durability. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money later by avoiding replacements. Also, check if the manufacturer offers a warranty or customer support in case of defects or issues.
9. Additional Features**
Some cages come with extras like storage compartments, feeding stations, or attachable runs for extra space. I found these features useful depending on my dog’s needs and my yard setup.
Final Thoughts**
Buying an outside cage for your dog is about balancing safety, comfort, and practicality. By considering the size, materials, weather protection, and security, you can create a safe outdoor space where your dog can enjoy fresh air and sunshine. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect cage for your beloved pet!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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