Best Dog Doors For Your Pup

A dog door is a pretty simple device. A dog owner simply has to push a button or pull a string to open a simple metal mesh screen that will allow your pooch to access his or her territory without going through a doorway.

It’s an inexpensive way to ensure your four-legged friend has easy access to food, water, and the toilet, as well as a place to lay down for a rest.

Dog doors aren‘t just for protecting your dog from intruders. They can also be helpful in calming anxious dogs. But dog doors are so common and easily available that choosing the right one can be overwhelming. That's why we're here.

We aim to answer all your shopping questions with our top recommendations and in-depth shopping guides. If you‛re ready to buy a dog doorway, check out the product list above for our favorites.

For everything you need to know about choosing a good dog gate, just keep reading.

Dog Doors Tips

We've listed a few things you should consider before buying a dog door for your pup. Consider the age of your dog.

If your pooch is younger, he might not have the strength or coordination to open a standard door.

Look for a feature that makes your life easier. Some dog doors have sensor gates that open with a button rather than a pull chain.

A pull-chain dog gate won't open your pet’s mouth as wide as a push-gate will. Does your little guy chew toys? If so, look for dog chew-proof doors.

Many dog jaws are too large for small dogs to bite through. Dogs are intelligent animals with strong jaws. To make sure your gate doesn't bite off more than it breaks, choose a model with an adjustable latch or mesh.

It will prevent your best buddy from gnawing all the way through the door's frame.

Dog Door Considerations

The primary consideration when choosing a dog door is the stability and ability to close securely. Dogs have strong jaws, so an unbalanced door will be difficult to open and close. Another consideration is ease of installation.

Dog doors are usually constructed from metal or plastic. Metal dog doors require a bit more skill and strength to install. In some cases, you can grind out the holes yourself. Plastic doors can be installed by most individuals. As long as the seams are sealed, the installation is usually quite easy.

If you are installing the door in an area with limited access, a plastic door could be easier to set up. Most dog gates are designed to be used with a chain link fence. However, some dog owners prefer a rope or chain gate.

A dog gate with an adjustable strap is easier for some users to use. With a hinged gate, it is easy to raise or lower the gate to adjust for different sized dogs.

Dog Door Prices

• Inexpensive

You can find inexpensive door collars for dogs for as little as $5. At this price, the collar should have some type of clip for security and be made of a soft material like vinyl or nylon. However, you may find some fabric-covered collarcars in this range.

• Mid-range

In the $10 to $20 range, your options expand to include metal or plastic collard covers for your canine companion. Most collards in the middle range will have clip or hook closures to secure your pooch’s mouth in place. Many will be color coded to indicate a particular color for better visibility.

• Expensive

At $25 and above, it's all about the features. If you're looking for a stylish, high-tech device that offers the greatest amount of security possible, expect to pay $30 or more.

You‘ll find dog door security systems with bells and whistles like motion sensors, multi-dog alarms, and removable collas. You could also check sliding glass doors.

Features To Look For In Dog Doors

Dog doors range in design from simple and functional to ornate and highly decorative. For those who want to outfit their pooch with the best of the breed, you'll need to consider the following features before you make a purchase.

• Material 

In addition to a dog door’s style, it should be made of materials that are durable and weatherproof. The material will also dictate the level of security your dog will receive or an aesthet look like sliding glass doors. Some materials are easy to wash, but for tougher options, opt for a waterproof material.

• Size 

Dog door sizes vary, and this comes in handy if you want something that can accommodate your canine companion or family member. Just in case you were to forget to measure it, a large door is the ideal size for both outdoor patio door and indoor use.

• Dog Door Types 

There are two types of dog doors you can opt to have: the hinged and the swing. Hinged Dog Ears: These dog gates feature a hinge that allows for easy opening and closing.

• Pros

Easy to open and close ideal for outdoor or indoor Use as a secondary door for passing goods Hinges can be easily installed or removed

• Cons

Not always water resistant not suitable for cold weather stiff hinges may be hard to close Hinge may crack or break after frequent use. Sturdy hinges can last for years, especially if treated Cons.

Not ideal for small dogs or those with limited mobility not guaranteed to remain closed for extended periods can be difficult to install.

All About Dog Doors

Dog doors are often referred to as swing doors, as they swing open and shut to allow your pet to access a fresh and clean area to relieve himself or herself.

When shopping for a dog door, you will want to consider how many steps your dog will need to take to get to the door and whether a high-pile model will provide enough space for him to walk through.

Some dog doors like sliding glass door will have a small step at the top that is sufficient, while other models offer you the option to choose from several different lengths and angles.

The height of your chosen dog doorway will be important, especially if you have pets of different heights.

Most dog owners prefer dog staircases with a height range between four and six feet, which gives your canine companion enough room to climb up and down.

Smaller dog steps will usually provide more room for your pets, however.