1. Decide where the gate will sit

Pick the exact spot: inside the door frame, between two walls of a hallway, or at the top or bottom of the stairs. Both sides need a solid surface to screw into: a wall, a door frame or a stair post. Skirting boards (baseboards) are fine; tell us about them in the order notes.

2. Measure the width at three heights

Measure the opening from surface to surface at roughly 10 cm (4 in), 35 cm (14 in) and 60 cm (24 in) from the floor. Walls are rarely perfectly parallel. Use the smallest of the three numbers.

3. Enter the opening width, not a gate width

Type the smallest measurement into the configurator in inches or centimetres. Do not subtract anything: we build the gate narrower than the opening to fit the hinges and latch, and we confirm the final dimensions by email before production.

4. Choose the height

Our standard height is 27.5 in (70 cm), which suits most toddlers and small-to-medium dogs. For larger dogs, confident climbers or the top of a staircase, consider 30-36 in. Heights from 20 to 48 in are available.

5. Check for obstacles

Radiators, door handles, light switches and skirting boards that stick out can affect where the gate swings. Mention anything within 10 cm (4 in) of the opening in the order notes, or email us a photo; we are happy to check it with you.