Whether your dog is a puppy just learning how to manage stairs, or a senior dog struggling with their vision, you need a safe dog gate for stairs. These gates can protect your pet from accidental falls and injuries or from getting somewhere they aren't supposed to be.
Choosing the best gate is challenging, because you need to make sure it's tall enough and sturdy enough to deter your dog from jumping over it, but also easy to move for the human members of your family.
Not all dog gates are equal, and the safest gate for a young Pomeranian will differ from one for a full-grown Husky. You need to consider the height, durability, locking mechanisms, and gate mounting options.
If your dog is a jumper, choose the tallest gate available. Some breeds like Huskies can clear five-foot fences. If you have a bigger dog, try to mount the gate a little higher on the wall as they grow. A 29" gate will deter smaller breeds like Yorkshire terriers.
Evaluate the materials used to build your gate. Large dogs can build up significant speed when running. A gate built with flimsy materials may break with the weight of a bigger dog. Opt for a gate made from solid wood, aluminum, steel, or high-density thermoplastic. If you have a lighter dog, a plastic or polyester mesh gate is sufficient and can make the unit more portable.
Determine which way you want the gate to mount to the wall. Some units permanently attach to your wall with drywall screws, while others use pressure-mounting. The permanent, or hardware-mounted, ones are sturdier but require tools for installation. Pressure-mounted gates are easier to move to other locations and are the ideal choice for rental properties.
The last thing to consider is how easy the gates are to open and close. Some gates open electronically, while others operate manually. Look for child-proof locking mechanisms if you plan to use the gate for both your toddlers and pets. Many models offer one-handed latches that use a button to unlock the gate and automatically lock upon closing.
