Encourage Your Pet to Be Active by Installing the Best Dog Door in Your Home
A dog door, also known as a doggie door, is a small entrance that allows pets to enter and depart a building without the assistance of a person. Originally just holes, the modern version is a hinged and typically spring-loaded panel or flexible flap, with some being controlled electrically.
Though dog doors are very convenient and useful, to get your hands on the leading dog door in 2024, you need to know which one will fit your needs and requirements. This buying guide will talk about all the relevant details that you must look for to choose the right dog door.
Dog Doors Buying Guides
What Features Should You Keep In Mind While Looking for the Best Dog Door?
Let’s look at some of the important features you should look into to choose the ideal dog door.
Mounting type
The mounting type suitable for you depends on where you plan to install the dog door. There are several places that dog doors can be mounted, and these include the wall, on the door, or glass. Also, decide if you’ll install the door yourself or pay an installer.
Quality
Aim for solid, high-grade materials and a tight seal when choosing a dog door. The quality of the right dog door usually depends on the components and materials. Be cautious of fragile mounts and plastic. Choose a door that has been made from premium quality materials and is sturdy so that you won’t need to replace it very soon.
Security features
The best dog doors come with security features such as the option to lock the door when not in use and electronic sensing doors that only open when a particular electronic dog collar is worn. The dog is not shocked by these collars! They serve as a door unlocking mechanism. Not only are these useful but also keep your dog safe; hence you might also want to look for security features for the ideal dog door.
Size and shape
Measure the broadest portion of your dog, whether it’s the shoulders or hips, and leave around two inches of clearance on all sides when choosing the right size. Generally, it is also a good idea to consider the size of the door according to the dog’s size when it is fully grown.
Durability
Cut a hole in an existing door, wall, or window, which will cost hundreds of dollars to repair or replace. Because there’s no going back once the hole is made, it’s in your best interest to invest in a high-quality pet door that will last for a long time. Look for brands that offer a warranty and sell replacement parts such as flaps.
Locking mechanism
Most brands have a locking mechanism: a whole slide-in panel that closes the door or a little locking latch on the side. Although slide-in panels are slightly more secure, locking latches can be set to allow in-only or out-only access.
Cost
The cost of a dog door varies depending on the style, size, materials, and location. Depending on the site, a tiny, simple dog entrance can cost anywhere from $100 to $400 to buy and install. It can cost up to $2,000 or more to add an extended, electronic version.
Installation
Different types of doors are available for various applications. For instance, pet doors are made for glass installations that are oddly circular and feature a slim frame (because it is much easier to cut a round hole in glass).
Due to the delicate nature of glass, most businesses would only create glass pet doors for dogs weighing up to 15 kilograms. If you have a big dog, you may wish to move it to a different location.
5 Top Dog Door Reviews
PetSafe Plastic Pet Door for Dogs
– Best OverallThe first unit on our list for best dog doors is PetSafe pet door for cats and dogs. The door is designed for pets up to 40 lb, and the flap opening measures 8 inches in width and 12 1/4 inches in height. It gives your pet freedom to decide when to play without you opening the door without the required assistance.
It is made from plastic; however, it does not compromise durability. It is compatible with wood, PVC, metal, interior, and exterior indoors. It has a paintable frame to match the door with your interior. Moreover, it comes with replacement flaps. Lastly, it also features a snap-on closing screen, which allows you to regulate your dog’s access.
- It has a return policy.
- It comes with replacement flaps.
- It is durable.
- Installation can take time
Ideal Pets Dog Door
– Runner UpNext up, the Ideal pets’ dog door features an impact-resistant frame made from premium quality materials to ensure its durability. It measures 2.13 x 8.94 x 14.88 inches and is made of flexible vinyl, making it long-lasting and reliable. Moreover, you can install this dog door quickly and easily.
This dog door comes with a floating bottom threshold for a perfect seal each time. Its lock-out slide feature helps keep your dog safe when left unsupervised. Moreover, the product is available in 4 different sizes and is ideal for both; cats and dogs. Overall, this unit is easy to use, durable and comes at an affordable price.
- It is easy to install
- It has good width
- It is flexible and hence durable
- Won’t last if exposed to harsh weather
BarksBar Original Plastic Dog Door
– Honorable MentionNext up, the Ideal pets’ dog door features an impact-resistant frame made from premium quality materials to ensure its durability. It measures 2.13 x 8.94 x 14.88 inches and is made of flexible vinyl, making it long-lasting and reliable. Moreover, you can install this dog door quickly and easily.
This best dog door comes with a floating bottom threshold for a perfect seal each time. Its lock-out slide feature helps keep your dog safe when left unsupervised. Moreover, the product is available in 4 different sizes and is ideal for both; cats and dogs. Overall, this unit is easy to use, durable and comes at an affordable price.
- Thermoplastic- impact resistant frame
- It comes with a weatherproof vinyl flap
- Easy installation
- Installation can take time if you’re new
NAMAN Pet Door
– Also ConsiderIf you are looking for a reliable dog door, you might want to get your hands on the Namsan pet door. This pet screen door is authorized by Namsan and is made from quality ABS material, making it durable and sturdy. The inside flap opening of this dog door measures 12 x 14 inches, whereas the outside frame size is 14 x 16 inches.
Moreover, it comes with an upgraded version of the sliding device that makes it easier for pets to go in and out freely. The added screws and nuts make it stable and prevent falling off. It comes with two tabs for locking with door screen installation. Lastly, it comes with a handy installation guide to make the process easier for you.
- It is durable
- Easy to install
- Nuts make it stable
- Suitable for small to medium-sized dogs
Endura Flap Pet Door Double Flap
– Also Consider
The Endura flap dog door offers the best way to increase your home’s insulation while also giving your pet the flexibility to go outside on their schedule. It measures 6×11 inches. It boasts heavy-duty metal framing that securely fits into walls ranging from 2″ to 8″ thick, ensuring durability and lifespan even in the most extreme winter and summer months.
The best feature of this dog door is that it comes with the option of both; a single and double flap door. Moreover, this dog door is available in various sizes and colors to complement your house. Also, it is known to be one of the most energy-efficient and weather-resistant choices available in the market these days.
- It is wind resistant
- It comes in various colors and sizes
- It provides installation
- Limited color options
People Also Asked
A: A human cannot fit through a tiny or medium-sized pet door; hence you don't need to worry about your house getting robbed because of having a dog door.
A: Pet door flaps should be an inch or two over the top of your pet's back, not the head. Measure your pet's height from the withers (top of the shoulders) to the floor. Keep in mind that your door will not be flush with the floor.
A: Dog doors are a terrific method to allow your dog to go outdoors to potty while you're gone, which is especially crucial as your dog gets older. Make sure your dog door is a good match for years to come by evaluating the growing variety of options on the market.