The 15 Best Dog Doors of 2024

Your dog should not have to wait to go out when he has to go but you cannot be there for him 24/7. So, a dog door can make things easier on both of you. Why not let your pooch decide when he needs to go so he does not have to go find you and let you know he wants out. After all, sometimes you are busy.

Some dog doors are really amazing with smart apps that you can let your pup in and out while you are not even home but these can be expensive. Then, there are the ones that are really inexpensive but can do the job really well anyway. You can even get a dog door for windows, sliding doors, and the wall. But the best dog door for you just depends on your individual needs. 

After evaluating more than 30 dog doors, I chose the “High-Tech Pet Power Pet Electronic Pet Door” as my favorite because you also do not have to worry about the batteries going dead or the electricity going out because it has both. It is very durable and has won awards for being so energy efficient and durable.

But I understand you might have different needs, whether you’re looking for a smart dog door or a door for your giant breed. That is why I prepared a shortlist of our dog doors that address different styles & needs. 

Before we dive into the review section below, we’ll explain the risks and benefits of installing a dog door, we’ll guide you step by step on what you should know before buying, and what criteria you should use to make the best selection for your needs. 

In addition, we’ll answer some common questions from dog parents, and give you some tips on how to train your dog to use this new door. 

So let’s get started.

Dog Door: The Good & The Bad, What Should You Know

Getting a dog door may be the first thing you think of after you get a new fur baby. But before you go cutting a hole in the back door, you need to consider the pros and cons of having one of these incredible inventions. While we think dog doors are woof-derful, they may not be for everyone. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of dog doors:

Benefits

• Convenience: Dog doors are convenient for both you and your pet. Not only does your pup have the opportunity to go out when he needs to, but it also means you do not have to stop whatever you are doing to let him out. It also keeps your pooch from scratching up the door. 
• Emergency Escape: We all worry about our pets when we leave them home alone but you cannot stay home 24/7/365. What happens if there is a fire? If you have a dog door, you do not have to worry about that anymore because your fur baby can let himself out in an emergency.
• Health Benefits: It is not good for pets to hold it when they have to go so having that door gives them the chance to go when they need to. No need to go find you and bark or scratch on the door. And it is also good for if he is outside and it starts storming so he can come back inside. 
• Variety: They have a variety of awesome choices now so you do not have to get one of those holes with the plastic flap. Unless you want that. 

Drawbacks

• Unwanted Visitors: Having that dog door makes it easy for your dog to come and go but it can also be an open door to other animals. Your neighbor’s dog may decide to come over for dinner or the resident raccoon could follow your pooch to his indoor stash. For this, you are going to need one of those special safety doors that only allow your pups in and out. 
• Safety Concerns: If you have a large enough dog door (or a small enough crook), your dog door could make your home easier to break into. But don’t worry, you can get safeguards to stop that from happening too. 
• Doggie Issues: Your dog may not like it or he may have trouble figuring out how to use it. 
• Weatherization: Some doors are not as weather-resistant as others and can let in the cold or hot air. You have to make sure they are insulated. 

What You Must Know Before Buying a Dog Door

Before getting that dog door, make sure you get one that is going to do everything you need it to. If you have a giant breed, you need a giant dog door. And if you are worried about break-ins or unwanted guests, you want to look for the dog doors that prevent both of these issues. There are other things to consider as well. We will go over some of the issues you need to think about.

Step 1: The Door Has to Suit Your Dog Needs 

If you have more than one dog or have a huge breed of dog, you need a special dog door. You need to make sure the dog door you get is right for your specific needs. For instance, get out that tape measure and figure out exactly how big your dog really is. You do not want him getting stuck in the door.

• Measure Your Dog: Small, Large Or Giant Breed? 

Once you have that tape measure, go find your fur baby and get the specifics you need for the new dog door. First, get your pooch to stand up straight and find the highest point on his back. This should be right between the shoulders at the back of your dog’s neck. Measure from here to the floor. 

• The flap of the dog door should be at least one inch taller than your pet. 
• The step-over height should be less than 1/3rd of your dog’s height. Try to make it as low as possible so your pooch can get in and out easily, no matter how old he gets. 
• Test the width by blocking off a part of the doorway and leaving an open space about the width that you are planning. Call your dog through and make sure he can easily get in and out. 
• Another good idea is to make a cardboard replica and see if your pooch is able to go in and out of it easily. 

• Single Dog Or Multiple Pets? If you have more than one pet, you need to make sure that all the fur babies can get in and out without any trouble. Your large dog may be afraid to go through if the space looks too small so give him an inch or two so he will feel safe going out. Just make sure that the space is big enough to accommodate the largest pet in the house. 
• Your Dog’s Age & Ease Of Opening: 
  • What does the dog have to do in order to open the door?
  • Will he need any special training? 
  • Any health conditions?
  • Senior with a joint health problem that is having a hard time, so the door should be installed low. 
• Your Dog’s Age & Ease Of Opening: Similar to us humans, as your dog ages, his ability to do some things can be limited so you need to consider that when buying a dog door. After all, your pooch may be a puppy today, but in 10 years he may not be able to maneuver that high step-over or confusing heavy dog door. Here are some things to think about. 
• How easy is it to open the door? No matter whether you have a tiny toy terrier or a huge hound, you do not want it to be too hard to open the door because then your dog may be more hesitant to use it. The easiest door for your pet to use is one that has a flap that is easy to push through but big enough to have plenty of room to fit. 
• Will you have to give your pooch any special training? Some dog doors can be a bit more confusing than others so you may have to give your pooch a training session before he is comfortable with it. Some dogs get the hang of it right away like they have been using a dog door forever while others may need a little more help.
• What if your dog has health conditions? For dogs with health issues like arthritis you need to make sure the step-over is as low as possible. Most of the dog doors on the market require several inches from the base of the door or wall you are using while others can be installed with just a tiny step.

Step 2: Different Dog Doors For Different Needs

There are different dog doors for different needs. If you have small children, you definitely need a dog door that is able to be secured so they cannot get out. And if you have an anxious or nervous dog, you should get one that is easy to use and has as much space as possible. Here are some other things to think about.

• Animal Intruders: No matter where you live, there are always going to be stray dogs and cats to worry about. But if you live in a rural area, you also need to worry about the wildlife like raccoons and possums that can make their way into the dog door. And in some areas, you may also have to worry about alligators that come in looking for a snack. 
• Children: For little ones, a pet door can be an easier escape than a regular door. They do not have to worry about a doorknob or lock. They can just crawl through the hole in the door like the dog does. As funny as this sounds, it really does happen and it can be very dangerous. You may have dog-proofed your yard, but it probably is not toddler proof. If you have steps or a pool, a dog door may be an accident waiting to happen.
• Heavy Chewers: All dogs like to chew but some dogs are extreme chewers. You do not want him chewing up the dog door flap. The first thing to do is to make sure your pooch has plenty of chew toys that are safe for him to chew on. You can also spray the door with bitter apple spray or citronella spray to deter them. If these do not work, you may need a dog trainer or a chew-proof flap.
• Insulation/Weatherproof: Dog doors come in many sizes, shapes, and types. If you live in an area that gets cold or hot, you need to make sure your new dog door is not going to raise your electric or gas bill. Cold weather dog doors, which also help with hot weather and wind, are the only solution. And don’t worry, there are plenty of them. 
  • Magnetic seal doors use magnets to keep the door shut completely but let your pup go in and out. 
  • Heavy-duty material with insulation will protect your house from the cold and heat. Get one that is made from low-temperature tolerant material. 
  • Weatherstripping is another thing to look for that will keep out the wind and weather. 
  • Double flap doors are also great for keeping that extreme weather outside where it belongs. 
• Installation Location: Anywhere You Need Them: Over the years, dog doors have really changed. Gone are the days that you had to put a hole in your back door to let your dog go through a plastic flap. Nowadays you can put them just about anywhere and the technology is so much better that you can even install them in windows. Here are some of the options:
  • Special dog doors for sliding glass doors that fit into the track
  • You can install some on the wall rather than a door so he is confined to one section of the yard
  • Interior pet doors that lead from one room to another
  • Lightweight doors that you can install in a screen door
  • Doors you can put in an open window

Step 3: Dog Door Placements, Styles & Mechanism Options 

Whether you need a door that only allows certain pets in and out or one that keeps kids inside, you can find something for every need. 

They have electronic smart doors that only allow your dogs in and out using a microchip, magnetic or ultrasonic sensors, radiofrequency, or an RFID.

In addition, there are dog doors for sliding glass doors that fit into the track, some you can install in the wall, doors for screen doors, and even some you can install in a window. 

How does a smart dog door work?

There are five main types of smart dog doors, which are almost all used with a collar that your pet wears. The only exception is the one that works with the microchip in your pup’s back. But they are all smart enough to only allow your pet through the door and not the neighbor’s dog or local raccoon.

• Microchip: These types of dog doors are made to open when your dog is nearby. They can read the microchip that is embedded in your dog’s back between his shoulders. However, these are only good for small dogs right now because the placement of the chip is a problem in larger pups. 
• Magnetic Sensors: The magnetic sensor door is unique in that the only one who can go through the door is the one wearing the collar. One problem is that these types of doors need batteries so you have to keep fresh batteries in it so your pooch does not get locked out or in. You should also not use this kind in metal doors.
• Ultrasonic Sensor: Another one that uses a special collar, this one uses a high-frequency sound that the collar emits to open the door. You can adjust the microphone on the door to make it higher or lower sensitivity to get it to open from a shorter or longer distance too. The collar may malfunction if they get too wet and this one also takes batteries like the magnetic one. Don’t worry, the sound in the collar is too high to bother your pooch.
• Radio Frequency: For multiple pet homes, this type of dog door works with a frequency like the ultrasonic one does but it is programmable to work with up to five different collars. However, it is also sensitive to water and needs batteries. 
• RFID: This one is highly durable so they cost a bit more than the others but like the others, it works with a special collar. There is a special chip in the collar to open the door only for him. But this one does not need batteries and the collar is waterproof. 
• Other Smart Features: Many smart dog doors now work with an app on your smartphone or with Alexa or Google Home. With the app, you can turn on or off the dog door from anywhere right from your phone. Let your dog out or in with the touch of a button. Others let you tell Alexa or Google Home to let your dog in or out so you do not have to deal with it when you are busy.

Step 4: Common Types of Dog Doors 

What kind of door do you need? Every dog is different as is every home and every situation. If you have a traditional dog door, you can just install it in your front or back door. However, if you do not have a door that leads to where your dog can be safe outside, you can use a different kind of dog door. Here are the most common types of dog doors: 

• Door-Mounted: The most common dog door is the one that you install in an exterior door. It is usually made of an aluminum or plastic frame with one or two flaps that your dog can pass through. These are the easiest to install. However, they are also the easiest for pests and other unwanted guests to get through. They do not work well to keep the heat or cold out of your home either. And they will not stop your toddler from following your dog out back to play.
• Wall-Mounted: When considering where your pet will go out, you also have to think about where he will come in. For example, your dog may come in with dirty paws and probably will not wipe his feet on the way in to your freshly cleaned kitchen floor. You may consider installing a dog door into the wall so it leads to a different part of the house that can handle this better like a utility room or basement.
• Window-Mounted: This kind of door typically sits in the track of your window so your pooch can go in and out through the window. It is usually a piece of glass held in place by your window with a dog door built right into it. They work with either a sash window or a horizontal window and are easy to install. But remember that it has to be in a good spot where your pooch can reach and don’t forget that they have to come in the same way so make sure he can go in and out before installing.
• Sliding Glass Door: These are really cool but cost more than your average dog door because it has to be made tall to fit your door. It is a long glass or aluminum panel that sits in your sliding glass door track with a dog door built into it. No need to cut any holes in doors or walls.
• Screen Door: Easy and cheap, the screen door dog door is great for those days when you like to keep the door open to feel the breeze but do not want bugs or other pests in your house. Just cut a hole in the screen and install the flap and you are ready to go. 

Step 5: Material & Durability

Depending on where you live, you may need a strong dog door to keep the weather out. Not to mention it has to be strong enough to withstand your fur baby running through it at top speed 10 times a day. They make dog doors out of many different materials but these are the most common.

• Vinyl Flaps: These are the most common and inexpensive. But they do vary in price and effectiveness depending on the thickness and durability. A cheap thin vinyl flap may be easy for your pooch to go through but it is also easy for the wind and weather to get through. 
• Magnetic Flaps: A simple invention that makes a very good door for inclement weather, magnetic flaps keep the wind out but let your pet through too. These work by having metal frames that snap back into place with magnets around the door. Make sure the magnets are very strong but not too strong for your pet to get through. Most are adjustable so you can change the strength as your pup gets older.
• Double Flaps: Two flaps are better than one, right? Of course they are. With two flaps, your pooch goes out one and the other one is still closed and vice versa when they come back in. However, they are not as weather-resistant as the magnetic flaps. 
• Plastic Flaps: Probably the least expensive, these are made of PVC material and are not as durable as vinyl. They will need to be replaced more often than vinyl and cannot keep out the air as good as others. 
• Curtain Flaps: These are just plastic or vinyl strips that can be cut to fit a hole in the door for your pet to go in and out. They are very inexpensive but they need to be replaced often and they are not at all energy efficient.
• K9-Composite, Aluminum/Steel: Made from a material that is similar to the windshield of an airplane, this is the most energy efficient type of dog doors that you can find. They last for up to 30 years. They are made in different styles so you can get a temporary one for the sliding glass door or a permanent one for the wall. These are very expensive but they last fur-ever.

Step 6: Design

Dog doors come in all shapes and sizes so it can be difficult to decide on one. They have the ones that come in different colors, some that are just white, and even some with aluminum frames that look really fancy. Or they have doors that you can paint to match your door or wall or wherever you are putting it. 

Step 7: Energy Efficiency

You will want to make sure your dog door is not going to keep costing you money after you install it. Because some dog doors can let in more cold air than an open window. However, there are some really efficient dog doors on the market. It all depends on the design of the door. And the government is on your side because they require manufacturers to follow some strict rules about efficiency if they want to put that on their advertising. 

According to the law, for a dog door to be considered energy efficient it has to pass some requirements. It has to fit as tight as paw-sible using some kind of magnetic strip and have materials inside it like fiberglass or polyurethane foam. For those that fit into glass doors, they have their own set of rules like having two panes of coated glass that have a non-toxic gas between the panes for insulation. Here is what to look for:

• It should have an airtight seal on the frame, weatherstripping, a double flap, or an insulated flap
• The door should seal securely and fit tightly
• It should have magnets around the flap to keep out high winds and drafts
• The door should function just as good in extreme cold or hot temperatures

Step 8: Installation Process

You do not want to get a dog door that is so difficult to install that you end up not using it or installing it wrong. While many of them are fairly easy to do for even those who are not mechanically inclined, some can be really complicated. But if you read the directions and it seems like you can do it, there are some things you need to gather before getting started like:

• Some type of saw like a jigsaw
• A pocket knife or hobby  knife
• Painting or masking tape
• Scissors
• Level
• Tape measure
• Drill
• Pencil
• Eye protection
• Pet door kit

Remove your door from the hinges and use the stencil from the pet door kit to drill holes in each corner but make sure it is at least three or four inches from the bottom of the door. Then connect the dots by drawing from one dot to the other and use the saw to cut on the lines. Install the dog door as the package instructs and then put your door back on. 

Our 2024 Top Best 15 Best Dog Doors   

After reviewing more than 30 dog doors using the criteria mentioned above, we chose 15 that we think are the best for you and your dog: 

High Tech Pet Power Electronic Pet Door

• Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) plastic and heavy-duty aluminum
• Durability: Very durable
• Weatherproof: Yes
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: Silent
• Warmth: Extremely efficient
• Warranty: Yes, one year full warranty and limited lifetime warranty
• Best for: Our Top Pick Overall / electronic dog doog

As seen on HGTV and new shows, the Power Pet doors are the best-selling dog doors in the world. It comes with a pet collar that lets your dog go in and out as he pleases. But you also have the power to keep him in during storms or late at night and you can set a range so you can have it open when your dog gets close or a bit further away. 

The collar is completely water-resistant and submersible so you do not have to worry about rain and has four settings including In Only, Out Only, Full Access, and Closed/Locked. It comes in medium and large. Panel size is 8-1/4 by 10 inches for fur babies up to 30-pounds and 12-1/4 by 16 inches for dogs up to 100 pounds.

What We Like: 

• Has two sizes
• It is very safe
• It has battery and AC power

What Dogs Love about it?

• They can come and go as they please
• It is easy to use

What We Don’t like:

• The price is very high

BarksBar Original Dog Door with Aluminum Lining

• Material: Plastic with vinyl flap and aluminum lining
• Durability: Durable
• Weatherproof: When it is locked
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: With the panel in
• Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
• Best for: affordable dog door

This is a nice-looking affordable dog door that does more than some of the more expensive ones. It is simple to install, has a magnetic closure for weather resistance, and has dual locks on the closing panel to keep out unwanted guests. This is also how to keep your pup in when you need him to stay inside.

The frame is 9.75 inches wide by 14.75 inches tall and the flap is 7 inches wide by 11.25 inches tall. It is only recommended for pups up to 40 pounds but they do sell a larger one that is for dogs up to 100 pounds. 

What We Like: 

• The price is great
• The aluminum frame looks sharp
• It is very easy to install

What Dogs Love about it?

• It is easy to use
• Fun to run through

What We Don’t like:

• The magnets are only on bottom so it is not completely weather resistant until the locking panel is on
• They only offer a 30-day warranty

PetSafe Extreme Weather For Large Dogs Up to 100lbs  

• Material: Plastic and vinyl
• Durability: Very durable
• Weatherproof: Very
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: Very good
• Warranty: Yes, for one year
• Best for: Dog door for large breeds

This one has three flaps to keep out the weather even when the locking panel is not on. The inner flap is insulated to keep the air outside where it should be making it 3.5 times more energy-efficient than single flap doors. The snap-on closing panel will keep your pup in when you want him in and out when you want him out. 

The frame is paintable to match your door. It can accommodate dogs up to 100 pounds with a flap opening of 10.25 inches wide and 16.25 inches high. They do have other sizes but not for large dogs and the price is not bad for what it offers.

What We Like: 

• The triple flap is pawesome
• Your big dog can fit through it easily
• The snap-on panel keeps your pup from using the door when needed

What Dogs Love about it?

• The flaps are soft and easy to push through

What We Don’t like:

• The template is a bit off
• It has plastic screws

Security Boss Giant Breed Patio

• Material: Aluminum frame and vinyl flap with safety glass upper window
• Durability: Very durable
• Weatherproof: Yes
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: Yes
• Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
• Best for: Dog door for giant breeds

The security boss door is easily slipped into your sliding glass door tracks and comes in a range of sizes to fit just about any opening. You will not need any tools at all to install this door. And the flap is 15 inches wide and 28 inches high so even the most giant breed dogs like Great Danes and Mastiffs can get through easily. 

The dog door panel is held in place with adjustable spring-loaded top and bottom sections that fit securely to keep out the weather. And the lock will keep intruders out. The security panel will keep your pooch on one side of the door or the other when needed and it is sturdy for those behemoth dogs. There are 12 sizes from 70 inches high to 99 inches high and they even sell extensions if needed.

What We Like: 

• There are a lot of sizes to fit any door
• It is super easy to install
• You can remove it when you want to use the door again

What Dogs Love about it?

• He can go in and out with ease

What We Don’t like:

• The price is very high
• There is only one flap

SureFlap – Sure Petcare – Microchip Pet Door

• Material: Plastic
• Durability: Very durable
• Weatherproof: Waterproof
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: Quiet
• Warmth: Energy efficient
• Warranty: Yes, for three years
• Best for: Smart Dog Door

With this dog door, only your fur babies will be allowed to go through due to the smart technology built into it. There is a sensor in the door system that stays locked and shut until a dog (or cat) with the right RFID chip comes near. If your pet does not have a chip, the SureFlap has RFID code tags for their collar to let them in and out. And you can program it through an app on your phone. 

The door is easy to install with just a few steps and you can program it simply by following the instructions in the guide or follow the prompts on the door. The door opening is 6 11/16 inches high by 7 inches wide and is able to be installed in walls, windows, or doors. It is compatible with 9 (Avid Secure), 10 (FDXA) and 15 (FDXB) digit microchip numbers. You will also need four C batteries to keep it working so that is important to note. 

What We Like: 

• It has a curfew mode so Fido cannot go out all hours of the night and keep the neighbors (and you) awake barking
• It will only let in pets with the right codes
• It is very nice looking 

What Dogs Love about it?

• It is easy to use
• It does not make loud noises

What We Don’t like:

• It only works for small dogs and cats
• The batteries can stop working and lock your pup outside (or inside)

Ideal Pet Products Deluxe Aluminum Door with Telescoping Frame

• Material: Aluminum frame and acrylic flap
• Durability: Very durable
• Weatherproof: Mostly
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: Somewhat
• Warranty: Yes, for one year
• Best for: Durable dog door

If your dog is a bit “ruff” with his toys and dog doors, this door is for you. The deluxe aluminum frame is strong enough to stand up to your bungling buddy so you do not have to worry about having to buy a new one every year. 

The deluxe door comes in three sizes. The measurements for the medium is 7” x 11.25”, extra-large is 10.5” x 15”, and the super large is 15” x 20” so you can be certain that you get the right size for your best friend. The slide-in locking panel will keep your pup in and the unwanted visitors out so you can feel safe at night.

What We Like: 

• It is very durable
• It looks nice
• Can fit just about any dog

What Dogs Love about it?

• It is easy to use

What We Don’t like:

• Larger and giant breeds will not fit

Ideal Pet Products Store

• Material: Aluminum
• Durability: Durable
• Weatherproof: Not unless the door cover is on
• Easy to Install: Very easy
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: Somewhat
• Warranty: Yes, for one year
• Best for: Door for Windows 

The sash window dog door is fur-fect for any dog from three to 75 pounds. It fits in any sash window and is simple to install. No measuring or cutting is needed. All you have to do is open the window, put the sash in there, and close the window on top of it for a snug fit. The sides are spring adjustable so it can be adjusted for any size window and most sizes of dogs.

The flap does not require any kind of collar or chip for your fur baby so they can come and go as they please. The measurements for the small is 5” x 7”, the medium is 7” x 11.25”, extra-large is 10.5” x 15”, and the super large is 15” x 20” so make sure you get the right size for your fur baby.

What We Like: 

• Super easy to install
• No collar or chip needed

What Dogs Love about it?

• They can run in and out without worry
• There is no noise

What We Don’t like:

• It does not keep the cold out very well
• It costs a lot for what it is

PetSafe Pet Screen Door 

• Material: Plastic frame and mesh screen
• Durability: Durable
• Weatherproof: No
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: It is for use with the screen door open
• Warranty: Yes, for one year
• Best for: door for screen doors

One of the easiest dog door to install, this one is fast and simple. Just use the template to measure the hole and then cut the screen to fit. Snap the frame in place and it is done. However, many users have found that the pieces do not stay together very well so they drilled a hole in each corner and kept it in place with nuts and bolts.

This dog door comes in two sizes, small and large. The small is 9.25 inches high and 8 inches wide and the large is 10.25 inches tall and 17.13 inches wide. Since it is for a screen door, it will not take a lot of abuse by large dogs barreling through it but it works well for normal use. 

What We Like: 

• The price is great
• It is easy
• It comes in two sizes

What Dogs Love about it?

• He can run in and out through the screen or just stand and look through it
• It is easy to open

What We Don’t like:

• It needs nuts and bolts to keep it together

PetSafe Freedom Aluminum Patio Panel Sliding Glass

• Material: Weather resistant aluminum and shatter-resistant glass
• Durability: Very
• Weatherproof: Yes
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: Yes
• Warranty: Yes, for one year
• Best for: door for sliding doors

This is a great dog door for any sliding glass door. All you have to do is slide it into the sliding door’s tracks and secure it with the t-brackets and locking bar that come with it. You do not have to cut holes in anything and as long as you have a drill for the brackets, that is all you need. This makes it perfect for renters

And it comes in 10 different sizes. There are two adjustable sizes that can be maneuvered up to 80.70 inches tall for one and up to 96 inches for the other and each of those have small, medium, large, large tall, and x-large flaps. The small is 5”x8”, the medium is 8”x12”, large is 10”x16”, large-tall is the same as large but higher off the floor, and the x-large is 14”x24”.

What We Like: 

• It comes in white, satin, or bronze
• The insulation keeps the weather outside where it belongs
• It can handle dogs up to 220 pounds

What Dogs Love about it?

• He gets to run through the door all day long

What We Don’t like:

• May not fit all door tracks

PetSafe Wall Entry Pet Doors with Telescoping Tunnel

Material: PVC frame and vinyl flap

Durability: Durable

Weatherproof: Yes

Easy to Install: Not really

Lock Feature: No

Noise Level: None

Warmth: Yes

Warranty: Yes, for one year

Best for: wall-mounted dog door

If you are handy with tools, you should not have any trouble installing this door into your home but for those without these skills, you may need to hire a handyman. Cutting through the wall is a big job for most people and depending on what your home is made of, it can be a serious job. But once it is installed, it is great. 

The telescoping design lets your dog travel through the wall and into the yard easily and it has two flaps with magnets so it traps the air outside. There are three sizes so it can accommodate most any dog breed. The small is for dogs under five inches wide and eight inches tall, medium fits pooches up to eight inches wide and 12 inches tall, and the large can handle pups up to 10 inches wide and 16 inches tall. 

What We Like: 

• There are several sizes to “chews” from
• It is energy efficient

What Dogs Love about it?

• He can go out and play when he wants to

What We Don’t like:

• It may require special tools or a handyman to install
• There is no locking system

PERFECT PET The All-Weather Energy Efficient Dog Door

• Material: Double vinyl flap and plastic frame
• Durability: Durable
• Weatherproof: Yes
• Easy to Install: Not too bad
• Lock Feature: No
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: Yes
• Warranty: Yes, for one year
• Best for: energy efficient dog door

With the innovative double vinyl flap, this door has a pocket of air between them to keep out the weather. The slanted insulated frame is also a big factor to keeping out the cold. You can even get a kit from the company to install it into a wall instead of the door. And the flaps are clear so your pooch can see what is going on out there before he goes out.

It comes in four sizes. The small is 5”x9.25”, the medium is 7.25”x13”, the extra-large is 9.75”x17”, and the super large is 15”x23.5”. The weight limit for the frame is up to 12 pounds for the small, up to 35 pounds for the medium, up to 90 pounds for the extra-large, and up to 120 pounds for the super large.

What We Like: 

• The double flap is good for keeping the wind out
• It comes in many sizes

What Dogs Love about it?

• He can see through the flap

What We Don’t like:

• It is a bit more difficult to install than the others
• Does not have a locking feature

PetSafe Plastic Pet Door for Dogs 

• Material: Plastic frame and vinyl flap
• Durability: Fairly durable
• Weatherproof: Pretty much
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: No
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: Somewhat
• Warranty: Yes, for one year
• Best for: traditional dog door

The plastic pet door is a good dog door for a traditional door opening. All you have to do is use the template to mark the outline and then cut through the door. The frame Is held in place with nuts and bolts for a secure fit although there is not much for insulation and it only has one flap, it is magnetic. The plastic is paintable so you can match your door. 

The small is for dogs under five inches wide and eight inches tall, medium fits pooches up to eight inches wide and 12 inches tall, the large can handle pups up to 10 inches wide and 16 inches tall and the x-large is good for dogs up to 13 inches wide and 23 inches tall. It also has a closing panel for when you want your pup to stay inside.

What We Like: 

• It is easy to install
• There are four sizes to choose from

What Dogs Love about it?

• Running in and out is fun

What We Don’t like:

• It is not very energy efficient
• There is not locking system

PETLESO Dog Door Screen

• Material: ABS plastic
• Durability: Very durable
• Weatherproof: Yes
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: Yes
• Warranty: Yes, for one year
• Best for: Magnetic Closure Dog Door

For a screen door, this is one of the best as far as sturdiness goes. The magnet system is also a lot better than most and the price is incredibly cheap. It looks adorable too with the see-through paw print on the flap that your pooch can look through. The slide locks on the bottom are great to keep your dog in or out when needed and when it is locked, you will not have any unwanted visitors like raccoons or the neighbor’s cat. 

Since it goes on a screen door, it is not really made for weather resistance but it does a good job of it anyway. And it comes in two sizes, 8.25 inches wide by 10.5 inches tall and the other is 12 inches wide by 13.5 inches tall. So, it is not really for a large dog, but it works for small and medium pups. 

What We Like: 

• The paw print is cute
• The slide locks are cool
• The magnets work great

What Dogs Love about it?

• They can look out through the paw print
• It is easy to get through

What We Don’t like:

• It is only for small and medium breeds

Endura Pet Door Double Flap Wall Mount  

• Material: Aluminum frame and vinyl flaps
• Durability: Very durable
• Weatherproof: Yes very much
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Yes
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: Very much
• Warranty: Yes, for 15 years
• Best for: Double flap dog door

This is one dog door that is different as it is rated to keep the weather out up to negative 40 degrees and keeps out wind gusts up to 50 miles per hour. The dual flaps have magnets on all sides for better protection and the magnet strengths are adjustable. It was tested in over three million trials with no damage too. 

It comes in four sizes. The small is six inches wide and 11 inches high, the medium is eight inches wide by 15 inches tall, the large is 10 inches wide by 19 inches high, and the XL is 12 inches wide by 23 inches tall. And you can get it in three colors: white, tan, or black.

What We Like: 

• Adjustable magnets strength
• Three sides of magnets for better weather protection
• The 15 year warranty means they stand by their product

What Dogs Love about it?

• They can run in and out with ease
• The flaps are easy to push

What We Don’t like:

• The price is very high

PlexiDor Performance Pet Door Door with Lock and Key

• Material: Aluminum and high-density nylon seal with a steel security plate
• Durability: Very
• Weatherproof: Very much
• Easy to Install: Yes
• Lock Feature: Very good
• Noise Level: None
• Warmth: Yes
• Warranty: Yes, for 10 years
• Best for: Dog door for heavy chewers

The saloon-style doors are made of thermopane and cannot be chewed up by an extreme chewer. The springs keep the flaps securely in place and the locking doors can only be unlocked from the inside with a key so unwanted guests are locked out and it even has a steel security door you can put on when you leave home. 

It is fully insulated and comes in silver, bronze, or white. The size chart is detailed and it comes in four sizes for dogs up to 220 pounds. The small is 6.5 inches wide by 7.25 inches high, the medium is nine inches wide by 12 inches tall, the large is 11.75 inches wide by 16 inches tall, and the XL is 15.6 inches wide by 23.6 inches tall. The installation height also varies but the chart and instructions make it easy to figure out. 

What We Like: 

• The unique door opening is great for all dogs
• It will accommodate dogs from tiny to giant
• The 10 year warranty means they stand by their product
• The steel security door and key lock are great

What Dogs Love about it?

• The doors are easy to open

What We Don’t like:

• The price is very high

Common Questions from Dog Parents

Is it easy to install a dog door?

Most doors are easy to install but some of them are more detailed. The typical door installs with just a few simple steps with typical household tools like a saw, measuring tape, and drill. The sliding door and window dog doors are the easiest and those that go into the wall are the most difficult. 

How high should a dog door be off the ground?

Although many dog doors have a set height from the ground of about three inches, we know it is more complicated than that because all dogs are different. So, here are the best heights from the floor to the bottom of the door:

• Small should be two to four inches up from the floor
• Medium should be four to six inches up from the floor
• Large should be eight to 10 inches up from the floor
• Extra large should be 12 to 14 inches up from the floor

How do you secure a dog door from an intruder?

Most dog doors come with a locking kit or panel to keep intruders out. However, it is best to get an additional safety feature for use when you will be gone for some time. Sliding doors also have special kits you can buy to make the dog door more secure.

How big does my dog door have to be?

The flap of the dog door should be at least one inch taller than your pet and the step-over height should be less than ⅓ of your dog’s height. Try to make it as low as possible so your pooch can get in and out easily. 

Are dog doors a security risk?

Although some of the more inexpensive dog doors can be less secure, there are attachments you can get to secure any door. And the more expensive ones typically have a good locking system.

Do burglars use dog doors?

Most burglars will not try coming through a dog door mainly because they are afraid of being attacked by a large dog. For other burglars, they can be stopped with simple security devices. They will not continue to try to get in if it is not easily accessible.

What is the most secure dog door?

The PlexiDor Performance Pet Doors for Dogs and Cats – Door Mount Dog Door with Lock and Key not only has a lock and key but it has a steel security door to keep out anyone who tries to get in. 

Do wild animals come through doggie doors?

Very rarely do wild animals come through the dog doors if your dog is nearby. Most wild animals are afraid of dogs and will not even bother if they see or smell a dog. For those that do try to come in, it is usually at night and this is when you should put the security panel on to keep this from happening. 

Can a person fit through a dog door?

Although most people do not fit through dog doors, if you have a small child, they can get out through the door easily. This can be remedied with security gates and being extra aware of this fact. As stated above, most burglars will not bother. 

Are dog doors worth it?

If you are a pet parent, you know how hard it is for your fur baby to wait for you to get up to let him out if he really has to go. Having that dog door can make sure he does not have accidents and will ease your mind too. And if you use a smart dog door, you can even monitor the door from anywhere with an app on your smartphone. 

Do dog doors decrease home value?

As long as your dog door is not an eyesore and is sturdy and secure, it should not lower your home value. But if you are worried about this you can use one of the window or sliding door pet doors that are temporary and do not damage any part of your home. 

Do dog doors let bugs in?

Most dog doors are bug-resistant if you get a good one. Take a look at the security info on the package and make sure it has a good sealing flap or door system. The triple flap dog doors are good for this as is the saloon-style doors. 

How to Measure a Sliding Glass Door for a Pet Door?

To measure your sliding glass door, you need to open the door and use a tape measure to measure from the bottom to the top of your door. Make sure the tape is inside the track at the very bottom of the frame. You also need to measure the width of the track by measuring inside the track. 

At what age can a puppy use a doggie door?

As soon as your puppy is walking, he can use the dog door. In fact, the dog door is fur-fect for potty training your pooch. Just make sure your yard is puppy-proof with no small holes in the fence or dangers that puppies can get into.

Is my sliding door vinyl or aluminum?

The easiest way to tell is to tap it with a pen or your fingers. If it pings like a frying pan, it is aluminum and if it is a muted plunk, it is vinyl. You can also look at the thickness because most vinyl frames are wider. 

Protect Your Doggie Door: Security Tips For Using a Doggie Dog

If you were a criminal and wanted to break into someone’s home, would you choose a home with a dog door big enough for you to climb through? That may not be the best idea since that means they obviously have a large dog inside. But there are those who do not care or will just take their chances to get at what they want inside your home. Here are some tips to keep your dog door safe.

• Make sure it only fits your dog and nothing larger
• Get a dog door with a locking door cover
• Buy an electronic dog door that only allows in your dog with a collar or RFID chip
• Put your dog door in a location that criminals cannot see or get to
• Get a “Beware of Dog” sign even if your pup is lovable

Training Your Dog To Use The Doggie Dog 

Pet doors are a really useful and pawesome convenience for pet parents but what do you do if you put a dog door in and your fur baby will not use it? Well, first you need to find out why he is not using it. He may be afraid of it or you may have made it too small for him to get through comfortably. Then again, he may just need some training.

Try these tips:

• Go outside and hold a treat or toy in your hand to encourage him to come through
• If he does not come through, hold the flap open and call him, showing him a treat or toy
• If he does come through, make sure you give him a lot of praise
• Inside, pick him up and place him through the door if he is small enough
• For a large pooch, sit behind him and give him a little nudge from behind
• Keep the training sessions short, less than 10 minutes
• Do not force him through or scold him, just try again later

The Final Woof

No matter your needs, there is a dog door for you and your fur baby. The best dog door out of the ones here that we reviewed is the High-Tech Pet Power Electronic Pet Door. 

It is very durable and has won awards for being so energy efficient and durable. And the lifetime warranty means that it must be a good product because the company backs it up forever. 

You also do not have to worry about the batteries going dead or the electricity going out because it has both. And just about any dog can fit through this pawesome pet door.