How to Set Up a Puppy Playpen

Do I Need a Pen When Bringing Home My New Dog?

Having a designated area where your new family member feels safe while you can’t keep an eye on them is essential for maintaining your sanity during those first few weeks. As your puppy learns what they can and cannot chew on, and as they improve their potty training, you can gradually give them more freedom. However, starting with a playpen provides a much-needed breather, ensuring they are safely contained while you attend to other tasks.

In some cases, it’s crucial, especially if your older dog may not be entirely thrilled about having a younger companion. Keeping them separated during the initial weeks allows both dogs to adjust and feel comfortable with the new dynamics, preventing unnecessary tension or behavioral issues from unsupervised interactions.

You can set up a playpen that snugly fits a small crate and a potty area while still leaving ample space for play. Additionally, using baby gates or similar barriers can help section off certain areas of your home, keeping off-limits spots safe for a young puppy.

Do You Need Floor Protection?

There are plenty of flooring options to consider. If you’re looking for something waterproof and sturdy enough to stay in place, or a surface that can shield the floor from a sliding playpen while also providing a non-slip area for your puppy, you'll want to make cleaning up accidents easier, too. Garage flooring can be an excellent choice; however, keep in mind that it might not hold up well once your puppy starts chewing, as the spongy material can be easily gnawed on and ingested. During the initial weeks, though, it can work quite well.

What to Put in the Pen?

The primary principle is to include only items in the pen that are safe for the puppy. While a small puppy may not cause much damage initially, as they grow, they can destroy and swallow toys or chewing materials, which can result in an emergency vet visit. Consider what your new dog can destroy or get tangled in, and only allow those items outside the pen when you are supervising. Also, be sure to check for any cables they might reach from the pen.

Bed/Blankets

Investing in a foam bed for a puppy is probably not the best idea, as there is a good chance they will destroy it. They could also swallow the filling or other parts, leading to an emergency vet visit. It's better to use old towels and blankets for puppies until they are past the teething stage. If you prefer to buy something for your puppy to sleep on, a fleece dog mat may be a good option, as it has fewer components they might swallow. Just keep a close eye on them, as they may still chew it up.

Another great alternative is a chew-resistant elevated bed. This durable bed can withstand moderate chewing and digging. The corners should be made of plastic or aluminum, covering the access to the fabric, making it more challenging and less tempting for the dog to chew. It is padded for comfort and easy to wipe clean in case of an accident.

Litter Box or Pee Pads?

If your young puppy has not yet received its full vaccinations and you don’t have a private yard, having a designated potty area is advisable, so you will need to start potty training indoors. In my experience, a litter box is easier for puppies to understand than pee pads, as it provides clear boundaries for where they should potty. Many dogs tend to transition to carpet when pads are removed since it resembles the appearance and texture of a pee pad. The litter, being a different surface, helps with this transition.

Since this will only be used for the initial few weeks until your puppy receives its vaccinations, purchase the cheapest under-bed plastic storage box you can find. It should be low enough for them to step in easily but spacious enough for them to turn around and find the perfect spot. For filling the potty box, consider using pine shavings or pellets, as the latter is easier to clean than shavings.

Water Bowl

You can start with a heavy-bottom, non-slip water bowl placed on a mat on the floor. If your puppy enjoys splashing around in it, consider adding a water bucket that can be hung from the pen or crate. You can secure it to the crate with a carabiner.

Crate

While a crate is optional, many people find it beneficial. Some utilize it more than others, while some may not see the point if they already have a playpen. I strongly recommend crate training because there may be instances where your dog needs to stay in a crate, such as when visiting the vet (especially if an overnight stay is required due to illness), traveling (e.g., by plane), during natural disasters, or when having company over. Introducing the crate and completing crate training at home will help your dog adapt to being in a crate when necessary.