Best Portable RV Dog Fences for Camping

Published Categorized as RVs

Hey! This site is reader-supported and we earn commissions if you purchase products from retailers after clicking on a link from our site.

The best portable dog fences are durable, easy to assemble, and challenging for your dog to chew through. They can also survive through tough weather that might strike while you’re camping.

The tricky part, however, is finding these portable dog fences. How do you separate the best invisible dog fence systems from the bad? That’s what we’re going to cover below. Read all about our top picks and what we liked about each one.

Keep Your Pup Safe with These Portable Dog Fences

Best RV Dog FenceBest For:
North States MyPet Petyard Dog FencingPlastic Portable Invisible Dog Fence
Yaheetech Heavy Duty Foldable Dog FenceDurable Wireless Dog Fence
Petsfit Pop Up Dog PlaypenWireless Dog Fence for Small Dogs
BestPet Pet PlaypenEasiest Assembly Invisible Dog Fence
Paws & Pals Wire Pen Dog FenceMetal Extreme Dog Fence
IRIS Exercise Panel Pet PlaypenMost Versatile Invisible Dog Fence

Our Reviews of Each Dog Fence

Below, you’ll find our reviews of the six best portable wireless dog fence systems to keep your pup safe while you camp.

Best Plastic Portable Invisible Dog Fence

North States MyPet Petyard Dog Fencing

If you’re going to camp somewhere with unpredictable weather, consider this durable invisible fence. Users said it lasted for years through harsh conditions like heavy snow and storms. The mini door panel it comes with is great for small dogs to jump through. But if you need to accommodate a bigger dog, it is easy to switch with replacement doors.

Its plastic material also makes it lightweight. It’s simple enough to transport without hassle but not so light that your dog will knock it over. Keep in mind that agile puppies can jump over the 26” high panels, though. And the invisible fence grid means some small dogs will use it to climb over.

What you can do is connect all the panels to be freestanding or disassemble them to use in different parts of your RV. However, it does take a lot of pressure to disconnect the panel joints. So, take your time so you don’t crack the plastic.

North States MyPet Petyard Passage: 6.5 Ft. Wide...
  • [Worry-Free Safety]: MyPet 8-Panel Petyard Passage is a versatile outdoor or indoor dog fence with a...
  • [Lockable Pet Door]: This pet playpen features a clear lockable swinging door (9.5”Hx8”W) made...
  • [Spacious Enclosure]: This 8-Panel dog pen is 26” high & 6.5’ wide corner to corner, that's 34.4...

Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Highly customizable (can join new panels)
  • Durable through wind, snow, rain, and other weather
  • Panels have pads so they won’t scratch your floor

Cons:

  • Won’t contain big dogs
  • Some dogs use the panel grid to climb out
  • Plastic can crack during assembling

Most Durable Wireless Dog Fence

Yaheetech Heavy Duty Foldable Dog Fence

You can buy this invisible fence for between 8 to 32 panels. So whether you want a small crate or a wireless dog fence to wrap around your RV, you’re covered. It’s easy to assemble and tough enough to handle excited pets. Even if your dog rams into the side while playing, it’ll stay put.

One con of having a metal extreme dog fence, as a dog owner, is that it can develop rust. That might be good for one camping trip, but not if you want to reuse it under your RV awning. To solve for more outdoor use, consider looking for anti-rust paint that’s pet-safe.

On the other hand, the wire posts securing it to the ground could be thicker. Some reviewers used zip ties and stacks to help it stick to the floor.

Also, the door panel may be narrow for some large dog breeds, like Labradors. That means if your lab tries going through it, they might take the panel with them. Despite that, it can handle the roughest and rowdiest of pets.

Sale
Yaheetech Dog Playpen Outdoor, 8 Panel Fence 40"...
  • Great for Camping: The foldable and portable design of this puppy playpen allows for hassle-free...
  • Not Just for Dogs: This dynamic and expandable pet fence is not limited to dogs and is suitable for...
  • Creating Different Shapes: Each panel of this versatile dog playpen measures 27″ W × 39.5″ H....

Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Versatile panels to make a crate or lawn
  • Durable through extreme weather
  • Can contain big dogs

Cons:

  • Metal material makes it bulky and prone to rust
  • Wires can scratch indoor floors or decking
  • Joints may need reinforcement

Best Wireless Dog Fence For Small Dogs

Petsfit Pop Up Dog Playpen

This playpen doubles as a wireless dog fence and comfort zone for small dogs. It’s also perfect for traveling because you can fold it into a carrying case. Unlike the other dog fences here, this one comes with a flexible roof and floor attached. You can unzip them to give your dog a view of the night sky or keep it on to protect them from rain.

We also noticed that it’s easy to clean. This pet invisible fence comes with pockets to store pet accessories and a water bottle. You can thread the bottle end through the mesh ‘windows’ so your dog can drink whenever they need. When you’re packing up, it does take practice to learn how to fold it, though. And some anxious dogs chew through the zipper.

Still, the rest of the pieces are high quality, comfortable, and can stand through dogs playing inside of it. It might also calm down your dog, creating a protective nest for them to fall asleep outside.

Petsfit Portable Dog Playpen for for Large...
  • Ideal Size for Large Dogs: Measuring 45.5" L x 45.5" W x 28.5" H, this playpen is perfect for large...
  • Portable Design: This large dog playpen comes with a carrying bag for easy transport, sets up...
  • Excellent Ventilation and Stability: Featuring eight breathable mesh panels and two zippered doors,...

Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Foldable into a carrying case
  • Removable floor and roof
  • Comfortable enough for dogs to fall asleep

Cons:

  • Doesn’t include stakes to secure outdoors
  • Heavy chewers can break zippers
  • Hard to fold back up

Easiest Assembly Invisible Dog Fence

BestPet Pet Playpen

This wireless dog fence isn’t just easy to assemble for the dog owner but is also suitable for uneven terrains. The joints between each panel let you adjust the height of each differently. The material is lightweight and takes about 10 minutes for a person to set up alone. So, if you’re making a solo trip with your dog in a hilly area, this might be a good option.

It’s just as easy to disassemble, so it’s perfect for traveling. It also has a height ideal for big dogs like a Doberman. They can usually still peak their head over the invisible fence, but not jump over it.

We caution you to watch out for the wires in each joint, though. Some big dogs got their paws stuck in between them. Also, even though it’s sturdy, we think it could use zip ties and wire to help reinforce it into the outdoor ground. If you use this invisible fence, stick by your dog’s side to ensure they stay safe while you camp.

BestPet Heavy Duty Pet Playpen Dog Exercise Pen...
  • 【A LARGE SECURE AREA】Our puppy playpen is great and keeps your pets safe from others, plenty of...
  • 【CHANGE THE SIZE WITHOUT ANY TOOLS】Our puppy playpen design allows for multiple shape...
  • 【EASY TO SETUP】This dog playpen is a must have for any dog lovers. Quality of our pet playpen...

Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Stacks perfectly under an RV setup
  • Adjustable height is useful for hilly areas
  • Big enough to fit many dogs

Cons:

  • Wires at joints can hurt your dog if they’re alone
  • The door panel gate is narrow
  • Like all metal dog fences, it might get rust

Best Metal Extreme Dog Fence

Paws & Pals Wire Pen Dog Fence

This extreme dog fence has high-quality, thick metal frames to make campers feel secure. That does make it heavier, but also hard for your dog to escape. Another feature that makes it perfect for the outdoors is that it includes thick hooked wires for securing it to the ground.

You can assemble the pieces into a zigzag shape to make a rock-solid, freestanding iron fence. Keep in mind, though, that it’s not foldable. We know the description says it is, but we noticed many reviewers saying it wouldn’t fold flat on its own. You have to remove the pins between panels first.

Regardless, if you’re going on an extended camping trip, this one can make you feel secure. We only suggest having a setup buddy to take some of the weight off your shoulders.

Wire Pen Dog Fence Playpen - Pet Dogs & Cats...
  • PICK YOUR SET: Available in 24”, 32”, and 40” inches tall - All pen tube gates are...
  • DURABLE DOGGY PENS: Constructed from sturdy rust-resistant coated metal for increased longevity and...
  • WIRE PLAYPEN FENCES: The ½ inch heavy duty tube frame with an 8-panel design allows for a multitude...

Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Very sturdy – not flimsy at all
  • Strong for both big and small dogs
  • Attractive, high-quality metalwork

Cons:

  • Doesn’t let you fold it to move
  • Dogs may get paws stuck in joints
  • Heaviness makes it harder to carry

Most Versatile Invisible Dog Fence

IRIS Exercise Panel Pet Playpen

This invisible dog fence is both durable and good-looking. It’s a white, neutral color that won’t clash with your RV’s design. That’s especially important because you can disassemble its panels for indoor use. Put them all together for a circular playpen, or remove one to put a gate at your door. Both can be useful for camping in your RV.

Its thick plastic material makes it hard for heavy chewers to budge it. That material also makes it easy to transport.

Like all these dog fences, we should caution you about some things. The poles that join the barrier fence panels have little caps on them. They come off quickly and can pose a choking hazard to your dog. Some small dogs also use the panel grid to climb out. Finally, children can’t lean into it, or it’ll collapse.

Those details make it the best fit for little dogs or puppies. Consider using zip ties instead of caps to secure joints and keep small children away from the pen to fix them.

IRIS USA Dog Playpen, 8-Panel 34" Pet Playpen with...
  • MADE IN USA - Our exercise playpen with door for pet is excellent for dog play yards, play gates, as...
  • DURABLE- This playpen is made with durable, heavy-duty molded plastic and ready for playtime both...
  • EASY ENTRY- Save yourself from having to hoist up your pet every time you want to take them out of...

Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Pros:

  • Great for persistent and heavy chewers
  • The neutral white color makes it pleasing to the eye
  • Easy to assemble

Cons:

  • Dogs can climb out
  • We may need zip ties to secure panels
  • Tricky to fold

Recap: The Best RV Dog Fences


Factors to Consider When Buying a Portable Dog Fence For Your RV

We’ve covered some of the safest, most durable dog fences for camping with your dogs, but everyone’s needs are different. If you’re taking your dog on the road for the first time or don’t know which to buy, here are extra factors to help you make a decision on these fence systems.

Your Access

You don’t want your dogs to hop over the dog fence. Still, there might be times when you need to exit to set up your fire or tent. Some of these invisible fence doors are narrow but just big enough to let you through. If not, though, make sure you have a fence high enough to contain your dog but low enough for you to step through.

Exposure Time

We know that metal gets rusty when it’s exposed to humidity. If you want a metal fence but want to prevent this, you might want an awning. An RV awning will keep rain from hitting both your dog fence and your dog. As a side bonus, it’ll keep you cool on those hot summer days when you’re camped out. If that’s not an option, look for pet-safe anti-rust waxes to apply at the joints.

Portable Decking

Some of these fences are great for outside but damaging indoors. You don’t want metal wires scratching up shiny hardwood floors. The same thinking makes a difference to your RV decking. If your decking already has a hole pattern or grid, that might be perfect for securing fence wires. If not, though, you might prefer plastic over metal.

Digging

If your dog doesn’t like to be cooped up, they might try digging under the dog fence. That’s where playpens with zippable floors come in handy. If you have a big dog, portable decking might solve this problem for you. If you don’t, you can put a long carpet or rug inside the fence to discourage your dog from digging.

Final Thoughts

Portable fences for dogs will help us pet owners to relax, as they keep your dog both safe and happy as a full-time RVer. It can also help you keep an eye on your dog from your tent outside. Your dog can even camp next to you, with a door panel to reach you at any time. If you need one, make sure to check out our top picks for RV dog ramps as well.

You can pair a ground fence with a dog ramp under your RV door. That lets your dog come in and out of the patio when they want. It’s extra useful if they’re going to take a water break and then relieve themselves right after. Plus, it’ll stop your dog from wandering into other dogs on the campsite without supervision.

It’s good to reduce your dog’s anxiety in a new place. Before you get to your location, try to acclimate them slowly to the new fencing system. Especially with playpens, you want your dog to know what it is so they don’t feel cramped or surprised.

Remember, no ground fence is perfect. It’s best if you always keep an eye on your dog while you camp, so they don’t dog run into any trouble with their excitement. But with these picks, we think you can expect to have a great time with reliable fencing.

By Mike

Mike leads research, writes, and keeps the site up and running. He's worked on upgrades to an old class A Winnebago, vans, and other homes - wherever they are.