Installing a dog gate is a great way to keep your furry friend contained in certain areas of your home. However, some dog gates can end up damaging walls if they are not installed properly or if they are made from materials that can scratch or dent drywall. As a dog owner, you’ll want to choose a gate that is easy to install, safe for your pet, and won’t damage your walls.
When shopping for a dog gate that won’t damage walls, there are a few key things to consider:
- Material – Look for gates made of wood, metal, or high-quality plastic that won’t easily scratch walls. Avoid cheaper plastic models.
- Mounting method – Pressure-mounted gates that expand to fit are ideal for rentals or homes where you can’t drill holes. For more security, opt for hardware mounted with protective wall cups.
- Gate design – Gates with a wide base or protective rubber bumpers will prevent damage from constant dog contact.
- Your dog’s size – The larger your dog, the more abused the gate will get. Opt for a sturdy, high-quality gate.
Some of the best dog gates that won’t mar or dent walls include:
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Wood Dog Gates
Wood dog gates are often the most aesthetically pleasing choice and are less likely to damage walls than metal gates. However, they can be pricey and are best for dogs that won’t chew.
Pros:
- Attractive natural look
- Sturdy and durable
- Less likely to scratch walls
- Often hardware mounted for safety
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not chew proof
- Can be heavy and bulky
Best Wood Gates:
- Carlson Pet Wood Gate – A classic wooden gate with a walk-through door. Hardware mounts included.
- Richell Wood Freestanding Pet Gate – Freestanding hardwood gate with rubber feet to protect floors.
- Regalo Easy Step Wood Gate – Budget-friendly wooden gate with a hold-open feature.
Metal Dog Gates
Metal dog gates are very durable, chew-proof, and ideal for rambunctious large dogs. Look for designs with rubber bumpers to prevent wall damage.
Pros:
- Very sturdy
- Chew proof
- Easy to clean
- Long-lasting
Cons:
- Can be heavy
- May scratch walls if no bumpers
- Less attractive than wood
Best Metal Gates:
- Carlson Extra-Wide Walk-Through Gate – Sturdy steel gate with rubber bumpers to protect walls.
- Regalo Easy Step Extra Tall Gate – Budget-friendly heavy duty metal gate.
- Richell Deluxe Décor Metal Gate – Decorative bronze metal gate great for large breed dogs.
Plastic Dog Gates
Plastic dog gates are lightweight, affordable, and available in a wide range of colors and sizes. Be sure to choose a high-quality plastic that won’t easily crack or scratch walls.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Lightweight
- Easy to install
- Fun color options
Cons:
- Prone to chewing and cracks
- Cheap models may damage walls
- Not as sturdy or durable
Best Plastic Gates:
- Superyard Colorplay Gate – Fun, colorful panels fold into different shapes.
- Summer Infant Decorative Gate – Neutral colored plastic gate with auto-close feature.
- Regalo Easy Open Gate – Sturdy vinyl gate with handle included.
Pressure Mounted Gates
Pressure mounted dog gates attach securely to door frames or openings without damaging walls. They are super easy to install but not quite as sturdy as hardware mounted gates.
Pros:
- Very easy to install
- Can be moved around easily
- No tools or hardware needed
- Don’t damage walls
Cons:
- Not quite as sturdy
- Can only be used in openings
- Some models may still scratch
Best Pressure Mounted Gates:
- Regalo Easy Step Walk Through Gate – Sturdy pressure mount gate with included extensions.
- Summer Infant Multi-Use Gate – Tall metal gate with dual-locking system.
- Evenflo Soft and Wide Gate – Mesh fabric gate designed for doorways.
Hardware Mounted Gates
Hardware mounted dog gates screw directly into studs or the wall for maximum safety and security. They cause minimal wall damage if installed properly.
Pros:
- Very secure and sturdy
- Can be used anywhere, not just openings
- Great for rambunctious large dogs
- Protective wall cups prevent damage
Cons:
- Must be installed into studs
- More complicated installation
- May damage walls if installed incorrectly
Best Hardware Mounted Gates:
- Carlson Extra Tall Hardware Mount Gate – Heavy duty metal gate ideal for big dogs.
- KidCo Safeway Gate – Customizable hardware kit allows you to adjust sizing.
- North States Superyard Gate – Sturdy metal gate with wall cups included.
Gate Material Comparisons
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Attractive, sturdy, doesn’t scratch walls | Expensive, not chew proof |
| Metal | Very sturdy, chew proof, long-lasting | Can scratch walls, heavy, unattractive |
| Plastic | Inexpensive, colorful, lightweight | Prone to cracks and chewing, may scratch walls |
Key Considerations
Here are some final tips for choosing a dog gate that won’t damage walls:
- Look for protective features – Gates with rubber bumpers, wide bases, or wall cups help minimize contact with walls.
- Buy the best quality you can afford – Cheap plastic gates are more likely to crack and scratch. Spend a bit more on quality materials.
- Match mounting method to your home – Pressure mounting preserves walls in rentals. Hardware mounting is most secure for active large dogs.
- Check the manufacturer guidelines – Follow all height and weight restrictions to avoid accidents and damage.
- Supervise your dog initially – Make sure they are using the new gate properly before leaving them unsupervised.
Conclusion
The best dog gates that won’t damage walls are made from high-quality wood, metal, or plastic and have features to prevent wall contact like rubber bumpers. Look for sturdy construction without cheap, thin, or flimsy materials that could scratch or dent drywall. Match the gate material and mounting method to your specific needs. And be sure to follow all manufacturer guidelines for safe installation and use. With the right dog gate, you can give your furry friend more freedom while also protecting your walls.