We tested 6 products and found the TOOCA RV Outdoor Dog Fence to be the best portable dog fence for camping and RVing.
Camping with rambunctious dogs can be a real challenge, as any adventurous pet owner can attest. Even the most well-behaved pooches can be tempted to ignore your commands when they have the whole wide world to distract them. That’s why it’s best to keep them under control when they’re not confined to the RV.
An RV dog fence is the ideal solution. Your pet’s movements won’t be restricted as they would with a leash or tie-out, but they’ll still be contained in a safe area. This will keep them from chasing passersby, squirrels, birds, or whatever other distractions might happen by.
In our guide, you’ll learn how a dog fence for camping can enhance your outdoor experience. If your pet could talk, she would surely agree.
1. TOOCA RV Outdoor Dog Fence –Best Overall
2. Nova Microdermabrasion RV Kennel Fence –Best for Fast Setup
3. YAHEETECH RV Dog Exercise Fence –Best for Frequent Use
4. BestPet RV Portable Dog Fence –Best Sizing Options
5. Giantex Portable Dog Play Pen –Best for Large Dogs
6. MidWest Homes for Pets MaxLock Portable Exercise Pen –Best Security
The TOOCA fence earns top marks for several reasons. It’s well-constructed, with an automatic door locking device to help keep Fido from escaping. In addition to being a useful camping resource, it can be used indoors when you return home. The fence is also very easy to assemble, so you can start enjoying your favorite outdoor activities that much sooner.
Keep reading to find out more about the TOOCA portable dog fence and how it climbed its way to the top of our list.
Our Top Pick
Best Portable Dog Fence For Camping: Product Review Guide
1. TOOCA RV Outdoor Dog Fence—Best Overall
The automatic locking device is reason enough to consider the TOOCA model. Your dog won’t be able to escape from pushing against the door, which is the main reason most people consider using a dog fence for camping in the first place. The mechanism works remarkably well, even with large or energetic dogs.
The fencing uses iron tubing and thick outer edging to keep the structure stable when it’s in use. Combined with the lock feature, this makes the TOOCA RV dog fence one of the safest ones we tested.
Its uses aren’t limited to camping and RVing, either. The unit could also in handy if you need to confine the dog to a designated indoor area, whether you’re at home or visiting guests. The lower portion of the fencing features a rubber gasket, so there’s no need to worry about scratching the floors.
The product’s sole drawback is the fact that it doesn’t fold up easily for storage. While it’s easy enough to assemble, it might not be the best choice if your camper is on the smaller side.
2. Nova Microdermabrasion Kennel Fence—Best For Fast Setup
You can put this unit together without using any tools. It can be assembled in minutes, which makes it extremely appealing to busy RVers who need to keep the dogs amused while they set up camp.
The fencing is exceptionally durable, too, with a coated finish that makes it impervious to rust. That means you can expect to use it for many years, even if you’re a full-timer.
The panels are designed to allow for many different configurations, so it’s suitable for rugged terrain. Rubber feet and secure metal stakes ensure that the unit will remain in place while it’s in use, and rounded edges help to protect your dog from cutting himself on the fencing.
3. YAHEETECH Dog Exercise Fence—Best For Frequent Use
The YAHEETECH is constructed of sturdy iron, which holds up well over years of frequent use. Despite its heft and durability, it also folds up easily for storage and transport. Even smaller rigs should be able to accommodate this structure.
The door offers easy access as well as a lock, so the fencing remains fully secure when the dogs are inside. Additionally, you can choose from three different sizes and four panel amounts to create an RV dog fence that will suit your individual needs.
Like the TOOCA model, this one can be used both inside and out. Be forewarned, however, that the company can be lax in the packaging and shipping department. Make sure all the parts are included before you take this product on the road.
4. BestPet RV Portable Dog Fence—Best Sizing Options
The collapsible design of the BestPet makes it the ideal fit for the RVing lifestyle. It’s also very lightweight, so moving it from place to place should be a snap.
The unit comes with simple and straightforward assembly instructions as well, so setup is quick. Its heavy-duty construction helps it stay in place without toppling over, although the quality wire contributes to a higher-than-average price tag.
The best aspect of the BestPet is the sheer number of configuration options. You can choose from 6 different sizes, making it easy to construct fencing that suits your needs.
5. Giantex Portable Dog Play Pen—Best For Large Dogs
If you have a big dog (or even more than one), the 48-inch version of the Giantex pen might be your best bet. It also comes in a 40-inch model, which is still suitable for most larger breeds.
The fencing offers a heavy-duty metal construction that helps to keep active dogs contained. It’s weather-resistant and rustproof, so you can take it on extended vacations without worrying about damage from the elements.
This pen also features rounded edges similar to the ones on the Nova model, helping to keep Fido from scraping himself on the metal. The door has a double lock that prevents even the most persistent pooch from escaping the enclosure.
Be forewarned that this is the priciest model listed here. You’ll have to decide for yourself whether its positive attributes are worth the cost.
6. MidWest Homes for Pets MaxLock Portable Exercise Pen—Best Security
Most dogs are naturally curious, but some have an unquenchable zest for life that makes them difficult to contain. The MidWest Homes MaxLock model provides a useful solution to this problem.
The double-latch door keeps dogs from thrusting their way to freedom, and the material is solid and reliable. It also features a black E-coat finish that helps to preserve the integrity of the fencing throughout years of use. A 1-year warranty is offered with every purchase, but it should last much longer than that.
This is also one of the most affordable units listed here. If you’re on a budget, we would strongly recommend this dog fence.
Buying Guide
In this section, we’ll talk about the features you should look for in an RV dog fence, along with other important considerations.
Key Features
Cost
Find a model that fits within your chosen budget. These structures are available in a range of sizes and styles, so it should be easy to find one that you can afford. As a general rule, smaller fences are less expensive than larger ones, but it’s possible to find good deals on fences of any size.
Size
If the structure isn’t large enough to contain your pet, it isn’t worth the money. Make sure to buy the right size. Fortunately, many companies offer a variety of sizing and configuration options to make your decision easier.
Don’t forget to take height into account. The last thing you want is to invest in a fence only to find that your pet can jump right over it. You’ll also need to consider whether or not the unit will fit inside your rig when it’s packed down for storage and transport.
Construction
Heavy-duty material is the key to a successful dog fence for camping. You want to buy an enclosure that will safely contain your pet (or pets) for many seasons to come. It’s even better if the exterior has been treated with a weather-resistant or rustproof coating.
Configuration
Think about your dog’s personality. Does he love to dig? Is he uncomfortable in confined areas? You can buy a structure that has a solid floor to discourage digging, which could keep him from worming his way out through the bottom. If he doesn’t like the sensation of being shut in, look for an open enclosure that will allow him to enjoy the sights and sounds of the wilderness.
Door
The door is one of the most vital aspects of an RV dog fence. It provides you with a way to retrieve your pet when it’s time to let her out, but it can also offer an effective means of escape if the unit is of lesser quality.
Be forewarned that many fences have narrow doors that won’t allow your pet to enter and exit the enclosure with you by her side. That’s why it’s a good idea to familiarize them with the concept before taking them along on a camping trip. Otherwise, you mind end up lugging this expensive and bulky equipment along for no reason.
Ease of Assembly
Some models contain instructions that are confusing and difficult to follow. During your research, look for reviews that mention easy-to-read instructions. When it comes time to set up the unit, you’ll be glad you planned ahead. You can also purchase a pre-assembled unit, but these can be problematic when you’re traveling in a camper.
Other Considerations
Why buy a dog fence?
These structures will keep your dog from wandering off and bothering other campers and/or wildlife when you’re parked for the night. Because they can be folded down for transport, they won’t take up too much room in your rig. If you love having your dog with you when you travel, this could be an excellent investment.
Is there more than one type of RV dog fence?
Yes. Some of the units we’ve listed can be used both indoors and outdoors, as we’ve indicated. The indoor models will contain your pet within a confined area within the camper, keeping her from damaging the furniture or carpeting. They’re also suitable for home use.
Others are meant for outdoor use only. They’ll keep your hound from running away when you’re enjoying the campsite. This will benefit both you and your dog, as well as any nearby campers.
Some smaller models are meant only for puppy training, and are not covered on our list. They’re designed to show puppies where they should go to relieve themselves. These are too small for full-grown dogs and should be considered only if you have a new puppy that isn’t housebroken yet.
Isn’t it impractical to pack a huge structure like that in the camper?
Not if you buy the right model. Most of the models on our list will fold down to make transport easier. Many of them are also very lightweight, so a single person can erect and deconstruct the pen without outside help.
In Conclusion
The TOOCA model is the best portable dog fence we tested. Although it doesn’t pack down as well as some of the competition, it’s a reliable and durable unit that should last for several years.
It’s also very secure, providing peace of mind even if your pets are on the rambunctious side.
Best of luck, and happy camping!
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