Many families with independent pups turn to the best dog doors for assistance. Taking your dog out frequently when you’re on a busy schedule can be tricky sometimes, so if your dog is able to let themselves out now and then, it’s a huge time-saver. While a dog door should never be used as a permanent replacement for walks, it can give your dog a little more freedom. Hopefully, it will prevent accidents and will give your dog more excitement.
What are Dog Door Used for?
When most people think of dog doors, they think of a little door inserted into their human-sized door. In most cases, this is correct, but dog doors have become much more popular and much more high-tech. Yet, they’re not suited for every dog or every lifestyle.
You should really only use a dog door if you have a fenced-in yard or an invisible fence if your dog is well-trained. You should also trust that your dog will be on their best behavior outside. This means no digging holes, barking at neighbors, or eating unknown objects. Using a dog door is like putting full trust in your dog, so it’s a big decision to make.
The main reason most humans use dog doors is so their dogs can go to the bathroom whenever they need to. But it’s not as simple as you’d think. Most dogs will need to be taught to use the dog door, so they won’t just pick it up on cue. You’ll need to be patient and positive when showing your dog how to go in and out of it.
When choosing a dog door, you need to take your time. The size and security of the door matters greatly. If you install a door only to find out that it’s too small or unsafe, then that could be lots of money wasted. Luckily, there are also some options that are less permanent, but they’re still a big investment. So, consider all the factors before purchasing the best dog door for your pup.
Best Dog Doors to Choose from
Since dog doors are such a big decision, we’ve decided to narrow down your search a bit. Here are six of the best dog doors for dogs that are more independent.
#1 – PetSafe Freedom Aluminum Dog Door
This traditional dog door inserts into any doors that are between 3/8 inches and 2 inches thick. It can be purchased in four different sizes, all of which have a white frame. The frame is made with reinforced aluminum, so it should last long. The flap is flexible and tinted, just like similar products. You can insert a slide-in closing panel for when you want to keep your dog inside or if you want to prevent wild animals from getting inside.
Pros:
- It comes in four sizes.
- It has a slide-in closing panel.
- It’s easy to use.
- It lasts long.
- The flap is lightweight for small dogs.
Cons:
- It’s not completely weather proof.
- It could come without instructions.
- It comes with cheap screws.
#2 – PetSafe Freedom Aluminum Patio Panel Sliding Door
Unlike the other PetSafe door, this one doesn’t require you to cut any holes in your home. It’s a panel that’s designed to attach to a sliding patio door. You just have to open your patio door as far as needed, and then attach this dog door panel. It’s one of the best dog door options because of how easy it is to use and install. The flap is tinted and magnetic to keep the hot or cold air out of your home. It also has a slide-in closing panel to keep your dog inside if needed. The frame is built with weather resistant aluminum. It comes in five sizes, with two different measurement options. It can also be purchased in three different colors.
Pros:
- It requires no cutting for installation.
- It’s great for renters.
- It has a magnetic flap.
- It has a slide-in closing panel.
- It comes in five flap sizes.
- It comes in two measurements.
- It comes in three colors.
Cons:
- It only works for sliding doors.
- It won’t line up with every door.
- It’s expensive.
#3 – Ideal Pet Products Ruff-Weather Pet Door
This is one of the best dog doors for pups who live in areas where the weather gets cold. It has a sturdy frame with a double flap style, which prevents cold weather from getting inside. Each vinyl flap also has magnetic closure. The door even has a slide-in closing flap in case you want to keep your dog inside. The frame is made of sturdy plastic, and it can be adjusted to fit most doors. It can be purchased in four different sizes to better fit your dog’s needs.
Pros:
- It has double flaps.
- It works well in cold weather.
- The flaps have magnetic closure.
- It has a slide-in closing flap.
- It comes in four sizes.
Cons:
- It’s difficult to install.
- Some rain could get through.
- It comes with low-quality bolts.
#4 – High Tech Power Pet Electronic Pet Door
The High Tech Power Dog Door differs from similar products because it’s electronic and provides more security. It can be installed into most doors or even walls. It’s a motor-driven door that’s activated by a MS-4 ultrasonic dog collar. It will only open if your dog is walking directly toward the door, not if they’re just wandering nearby or sleeping in the area. It automatically locks with an airtight seal, keeping the weather outside. You can choose the setting it’s on for added safety: “in only,” “out only,” “full access,” or “closed and locked.” It only comes in two different sizes.
Pros:
- It’s electronic.
- It’s activated by your dog’s collar.
- It only turns on when your dog walks toward the door.
- It’s weather proof.
- It has four modes.
- It comes in two sizes.
Cons:
- It’s very expensive.
- It might not last long.
- It could arrive damaged.
#5 – SureFlap Microchip Pet Door
The SureFlap Pet Door is another electronic pet door that only opens when it reads your dog’s microchip. This prevents stray animals from getting inside. You will need to know your dog’s microchip number though, so you may need to contact your rescue or vet to find out that information. However, if your dog doesn’t have a microchip yet, you can also use a programmable collar tag. It can be installed on most doors, windows, and walls. It uses replaceable batteries, and it has a light that flashes when the batteries are running low. It seems to only be available in a small size with a white frame at the moment.
Pros:
- It’s electronic.
- It uses your dog’s microchip to let them inside.
- It can use a programmable collar tag too.
- It alerts you when batteries are running low.
- It’s quiet.
Cons:
- It could malfunction.
- It might not come in large sizes.
- It doesn’t have a setting for individual pets.
#6 – PetSafe Plastic Pet Door with Soft Tinted Flap
This PetSafe product is fairly similar to the PetSafe Freedom Aluminum Dog Door, but with minor differences. This one also needs to be installed by cutting a space in your door, but it has a plastic frame, which is designed to be easily painted to match any door. It has a soft, flexible flap that’s slightly tinted. It also has a snap-on closing flap in case you want to keep your dog inside. It can fit on any doors between 1/16 inches and 2 inches. It comes in four different sizes, all of which are a little more affordable than similar products.
Pros:
- It can be painted to match any door.
- It has a snap-on closing flap.
- It’s easy to use.
- It’s more affordable.
- It comes in four sizes.
Cons:
- It’s not completely weather proof.
- It can be difficult to install.
- The quality could vary.
Does Your Dog Need a Dog Door?
Do you have a fenced-in yard? Does your dog behave well without being told what to do? Do they know where to use the bathroom, even when you’re not around? If those things are true, then your dog might benefit from having a dog door. If you trust your dog to go outside and do their business without getting into trouble or bothering those around you, then they should be able to use a dog door with no problems.
However, it’s always important to remember that dog doors are not just a convenience. Sure, they can be good for your dog if you work long hours, but your dog should not always be expected to use it. You should still take your dog on walks and spend plenty of time with them. A dog door is just to give your dog a little extra freedom, so it should never be used as a substitute for love and attention.