Regardless of what type of dog door you are looking for, and where you want to install it, this guide should be very helpful for you
We’ve put together a list of the best dog doors and best pet doors to save you time and effort researching them yourself.
You’ll find a top rated dog door list, links to individual reviews of the door brands and models, as well as a buyer’s guide.
You can quickly find out what pet door best suits your preferences and your pet/s.
Let’s check them out!
(NOTE: this is a general information guide only, and is not professional advice, or a substitute for professional advice. A qualified vet or animal expert is the only person qualified to give you expert advice in regards to your pet/s)
Best Dog Doors & Pet Doors
Our top picks for the best dog doors and pet doors are:
Regular Pet Doors
For Installation Into Doors
- PetSafe Plastic Pet Door (on Amazon)
- Ideal Pet Products Designer Series Original Plastic Pet Door (on Chewy)
- Ideal Pet Products Original Plastic Pet Door (on Amazon) – for pets up to around 120lbs, and has a flap size of up to 15 inches wide x 20 Inches high for the biggest model
- BarksBar Plastic Dog Door (on Chewy)
- BarksBar Original Plastic Dog Door (on Amazon) – for pets up to 100lbs, and has a flap size opening of 10.5 inches wide x 15 inches high
- PetSafe Freedom Aluminum Pet Door (on Chewy)
- PetSafe Freedom Aluminium Pet Door (on Amazon) – pet door for door mounting. Biggest size has a 13 3/4″ W x 23 3/4″ H flap opening, for pets up to 220lbs
For Installation Into Walls
- PetSafe Wall Entry Aluminum Pet Door (on Chewy)
- PetSafe Wall Entry Aluminium Pet Door (on Amazon) – pet door for walls. Biggest flap opening size is 10 x 15 inches, for pets up to around 100lbs
- PetSafe Wall Entry PVC Frame (on Amazon)
Read more about dog doors specifically for wall installation in this guide
Heavy Duty &/Or Weatherproof Pet Doors
*Note – some doors are strong, some have security features like a security panel or lock, and some are insulated, weatherproof and energy efficient. Check each dog door for it’s individual features before buying.
Door Installation
- PlexiDor Performance Pet Doors Dog Door Installation (on Chewy), or PlexiDor Performance Pet Doors Door Mount Dog & Cat Door (on Chewy)
- Door Mounted Plexidor Dog Door (on Amazon) – strong and secure pet door, with largest size offering a flap opening of 16 inches wide by 23 3/4 inches high, for pets up to 220lbs
- Security Boss MaxSeal Pet Door For Doors (on Amazon) – Insulating, Sealing and Security Pet Door. Largest size flap opening is 15 3/4 inches wide x 32 inches high, for extra large to Giant dogs
- Endura Flap Double Flap Door Mount Pet Door (on Amazon) – energy efficient dog door. Extra Large model has a 12″ w x 22″ h flap opening, for extra large to Giant dogs
- Ideal Pet Products Ruff Weather Dog Door (on Amazon) – insulated pet door. Largest size has a flap opening of 15 inches wide by 23.5 inches tall, for pets up to around 120lbs
- Perfect Pet The All Weather Energy Efficient Dog Door (on Amazon) – insulated pet door. Has a 15 inch x 23.5 inch flap opening, for pets up to around 120lbs. Can buy with a wall kit for wall installation too
- PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door (on Amazon) – energy efficient pet door. Biggest model has a 10 1/8 inches width by 16 1/4 inches height flap opening, for dogs up to around 100lbs
- Extreme Performance Locking Secure & Rustproof Aluminum Dog Doors for Exterior Doors (on Amazon)
Wall Installation
- PlexiDor Performance Pet Doors Wall Mount Dog & Cat Door (on Chewy), or PlexiDor Performance Pet Doors Dog Door Wall Installation (on Chewy)
- Wall Mounted Plexidor Dog Door (on Amazon) – strong and secure pet door, with largest size offering a flap opening of 16 inches wide by 23 3/4 inches high, for pets up to 220lbs
For dog doors for hot or cold weather, and for heavy duty, or lockable/secure dog doors – check out these guides:
Best Weatherproof, Insulated and Energy Efficient Dog Doors
Best Dog Door For Both Cold Weather and Hot Weather
Best Lockable Dog Doors, & Dog Doors With Security Panels
Best Heavy Duty Dog Doors That Are Strong, Or Chew Resistant
Electronic & Automatic Pet Doors
- SureFlap Microchip Pet Door (on Amazon) – electronic small pet door. Flap opening of 7 inches wide x 6.7 inches high
- Wall Mount Plexidor Electronic Dog Door (on Amazon), and Door Mount Plexidor Electronic Dog Door (on Amazon) – electronic/automatic pet door with up to a 12 3/4 inches wide by 20 inches high flap opening, for pets up to around 125 lbs
- High Tech Power Pet Door (on Amazon) – electronic pet door. Has a flap opening of up to 12-1/4 by 16 inches, and is for pets up to 100 lbs
Dog Doors For Extra Large Breeds
Read more in this guide about dog doors for XL & Giant breeds.
Aluminum & Vinyl Sliding Glass Door Pet Doors
- PetSafe Freedom Aluminium Patio Panel Sliding Glass Door Pet Door (on Amazon) – for aluminum sliding glass doors. Largest model flap opening size is 10 inches wide x 16 inches high, with an 8 inch rise below, for pets up to around 130lbs
- Ideal Pet Products Fast Fit Aluminum Pet Patio Door (on Amazon) – Fits 77.6 Inch To 80.4 Inch Tall Sliding Glass Aluminum Door
- Ideal Pet Products Vinyl Sliding Glass Door Pet Door (on Amazon) – for vinyl sliding glass doors. Extra Large flap opening size is 10.25 inches wide x 15.75 inches high, for pets up to around 120lbs
Window Sash Pet Door
- Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Sash Window Pet Door (on Amazon) – for window sashes. Biggest size has a 10.5 x 15 inch flap opening, for pets up to around 120lbs
Screen Door Pet Doors
- Ideal Pet Doors Screen Guard Pet Door (on Amazon) – for screen doors with a screen guard. Extra Large size has a flap opening of 10-1/2″ x 15″ for dogs up to around 90lbs
Best Dog Doors & Pet Doors: Reviews
You can also find individual reviews for each brand of dog door listed above here:
Ideal Pet Products Original Plastic Pet Door – Reviews Guide
BarksBar Original Plastic Dog Door – Reviews Guide
PetSafe Freedom Aluminum Pet Door – Reviews Guide
PetSafe Wall Entry Aluminum Pet Door – Review Guide
Plexidor Pet Doors – Reviews Guide
Security Boss MaxSeal Pet Door – Reviews Guide
Endura Flap Double Flap Door Mount Pet Door – Reviews Guide
Ideal Pet Products Ruff Weather Pet Door – Review Guide
Perfect Pet The All Weather Energy Efficient Dog Door – Reviews Guide
PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door – Reviews Guide
SureFlap Microchip Pet Door – Review Guide
Plexidor Electronic Dog Door – Reviews Guide
High Tech Power Pet Door – Reviews Guide
PetSafe Freedom Aluminum Sliding Glass Door Pet Door – Review Guide
Ideal Pet Products Vinyl Sliding Glass Door Pet Door – Review Guide
Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Sash Window Pet Door – Review Guide
Freedom Pet Pass Dog Door Review
Other dog door reviews:
Autoslide Pet Door Review Guide
Hale Pets Pet Door Review Guide
Carlson Pro Pets Royal Pet Door Reviews
We’ve also listed some of the best dog doors for specific purposes here:
Best Dog Doors For Two Different Sized Dogs
Best Dog Doors For Renters & Rental Properties
Best Doors With A Dog Door Already Built In & Installed
Best Heavy Duty Dog Doors That Are Strong, Or Chew Resistant
Best Lockable Dog Doors, & Dog Doors With Security Panels
Best Dog Doors For Extra Large and Giant Dog Breeds
Best Dog Doors For Small Dog Breeds
Best Dog Doors For Wall Mounting and Wall Installation
Best Electronic and Automatic Dog Doors
Best Weatherproof, Insulated and Energy Efficient Dog Doors
Best Dog Door For Both Cold Weather and Hot Weather
Best Dog Door For Sliding Glass Aluminum Doors
Best Dog Door For Sliding Glass Vinyl Door
Best Dog Door For A Sliding Screen Door
Best Dog Doors For Aluminum Sash Windows
Best Dog Door For A Screen Porch Or Screen Enclosure
Best Dog Door For A Brick Wall or Exterior Wall
Best Dog Door For A Garage Wall
Best Dog Door That Installs Without Cutting A Door
Best Dog Doors & Pet Doors: Buyer’s Guide & FAQ
What Is A Dog Door?
It’s a door for dogs that allows them to enter and exit inside and outside areas by themselves by passing through the door.
What To Check Before Buying A Dog Door?
With any type of pet door that you are looking at, you’ll want to check in the product description, and/or product manual provided by the manufacturer:
– what the dog door is designed for
– what it’s made of
– the size of dog the dog door can be used for
– what surface (door, wall, window or other) the dog door can be mounted on
– the thickness, width and height of door, window or wall the dog door can be mounted on
– how the dog door functions and works
– any maintenance or other factors you have to consider for long term operation and use of the dog door
Types Of Dog Doors (& What They Are Used For)
Some of the most common types of dog doors, along with what they might be used for, might include:
– Regular plastic and aluminum framed dog doors
Usually a cheaper more affordable dog door that comes with a basic plastic or aluminum frame.
Usually made to fit regular thickness wooden doors, or thinner type walls.
Might be good for people on a budget, or people looking for a basic pet door.
– Wall mounted dog doors
Wall mounted dog doors are either specifically designed for wall mounting, or are door mounted dog doors that can be bought with a wall tunnel extender or wall adapter kit and installed on a wall.
They can usually be installed on walls of different types like brick, cladding, stucco etc.
They can usually be installed on walls of different thicknesses.
– Electronic and Automatic dog doors
Electronic and automatic dog doors stay closed unless they are activated when their sensors pick up a pet approaching with either a microchip, collar id tag or an ultrasonic collar.
They are usually either battery operated, or powered by a power outlet which they are either plugged into or hardwired to.
Different electronic dog doors have different settings they can be programmed to.
– Weatherproof, insulated and energy efficient dog doors for cold or hot climates
Weatherproof and insulated or energy efficient doors are usually have one or more of the following:
Made of an energy efficient material such as structurally molded plastic for example
Have double or triple flaps
Have strong magnetic closure and brush seals around the dog door opening
Have a flap that has a high R value
Seal very well
…. They are usually made to keep cold weather, drafts, and snow/chill out.
They can also be used for hot weather climates.
– Heavy duty dog doors
Heavy duty and/or secure dog doors usually have one or more of the following features:
Are made of a heavy duty metal frame
Have a locking mechanism, sometimes with a key
Have a solid slide in or clip in close off panel to close off the door
They are great for people who want strong or higher security dog doors.
– Aluminum and vinyl sliding door dog doors
Sliding glass aluminum and vinyl door dog doors can be secured into an aluminum or vinyl framed sliding door.
They are usually easy to install and remove as you don’t need to cut or modify the existing sliding door permanently.
You pick the size of dog door based on the top to bottom track height of your existing sliding door.
They can also lock into your existing sliding door.
Just make sure humans have enough room to fit through the sliding door when the dog door is installed.
– Aluminum and vinyl window sash dog doors
Aluminum window sash dog doors are perhaps the quickest to install and remove of all the dog doors. They are also a great temporary or ‘no cutting’ type option. You don’t have to modify your existing windows.
They fit into the existing sash, and like the sliding door dog doors, you simply tighten and secure them in, and get the height and width right.
There’s currently no vinyl window dog doors, but there is an aluminum window one.
– Screen door dog doors
Screen door dog doors can either be installed into a screen door’s mesh, or into a screen door guard screen.
The guard screen models are usually more secure and stronger
– Chew resistant dog doors
Chew proof dog doors might have hardened panels in the dog door opening instead of soft vinyl flaps.
This limits a dog’s ability to chew anything on the dog door.
An example of a dog door with hardened Plexidor panels that open up saloon style
Where Are Dog Doors Mounted and Installed? (Mounting Locations)
Some common places dog doors may be installed are:
Regular household doors
Internal household walls
External household walls
Aluminum sliding glass doors
Vinyl sliding glass doors
Aluminum window sashes
Screen doors
The dog door product description provided by the manufacturer should tell you where you can install or mount the dog door.
What Size Dog Door To Get For A Dog
The dog door product description provided by the manufacturer should tell you how to measure the dog door for your dog.
So, follow these sizing and measurement instructions first and foremost.
But in general you may measure by:
Measuring the width or circumference of the rib cage
Measuring from the floor to the top of your pet’s shoulders
Make sure the flap opening on the door, and the pet door opening itself is big enough for your pet based on these measurements
You want to install the dog door at a height that takes into consideration your dog’s floor to shoulder height, but the dog door opening itself is also wide enough to allow your dog to fit through at it’s widest point – which is his/her rib cage.
Your dog should be able to comfortably step over the bottom lip/frame of the dog door, and use the dog door comfortably.
Considering The Surface You Are Mounting Your Dog Door On
For regular doors and walls, you’ll need to cut out a rough opening that is the right size for the dog door you want to install.
For sliding glass doors and windows sashes, you need to take into account the height and width of the existing tracks and doors/windows, so your dog door can fit inside them.
Consider the size of the dog door, and make sure you can fit and secure it into any existing door or window, and with a sliding door for example, still use the existing door for human use.
For example, you may need to take into consideration the width of a wall, or the amount of space you have on a wall to install the pet door product.
How To Install A Dog Door
The dog door manufacturer should tell you how to install the dog door, and give you detailed instruction and a manual/guide on how to do so. They may also provide an installation video online.
So, follow this as a priority for the specific pet door that you buy.
We’ve provided some general information on different pet door installation locations below:
General
– Installing a regular door, wall, aluminum sliding door, electronic dog door and so on, all require slightly different requirements and considerations
But in general you may install by:
1. Deciding whether you will do a DIY install or pay a professional to help you (if you don’t think you have the technical knowledge yourself)
2. Planning where you will install the dog door and making sure you have everything in the existing area that you need to install the new dog door
For example, an electronic dog door may need a power outlet/source, a sliding dog door may need a big enough sliding door and certain bottom to top track height, a wall mount dog door may only fit in a certain thickness wall, and so on!
3. Get the dog door kit and make sure everything you need is in there like the door, frame, tunnel, hardware, cutout guide/template, weatherproofing strips and so on.
Buy any additional hardware, sealant, timber packing and framing etc. that you need from a hardware store
4. Make sure you have the right tools for the install such as a cutting tool, a drill, a screwdriver (can be phillips head or sometimes a non standard screw is included in the kit so check this), a measuring tape, and so on.
5. In the kit you get when you buy the pet door, that should include a template to mark out the pet door on the wall or door you are installing it into
Measure and plan where and how you will install the dog door and at what height. You may need to mark it.
Consider the height of your dog, the height of the lip of the dog door, and make sure you are installing the dog door at a height that is comfortable for your dog to walk through.
6. Next step will involve cutting out the door or wall you intend on installing the dog door on
For regular dog doors you might remove the whole door from the hinges, drill holes, cut out a section of the wall or door (with a jigsaw), insert and fix a frame or tunnel extender into the wall or door, and then fix the pet door onto the frame (and seal and weatherproof it). You’d then put the whole door back on the hinges. Some pet doors may require additional steps compared to this process
For sliding door dog doors you may just need to snap and secure the dog door into the frame without cutting
Automatic dog doors may run on batteries, or need to be plugged into or hardwired into a power source
And so on for each type of dog door, and mounting location
If installing into a wall – be careful of cables, and especially live power sources.
As a general note, make sure you keep order documents and receipts, and read the warranty before and after installing the dog door in case there are any issues.
Installing into other specific locations may involve the follow considerations (although, follow the manufacturer installation instructions as a first priority):
Installing in a wooden or timber door generally involves:
Removing the door from it’s hinges
Marking where you want the dog door to go on the door
Cutting out the rough opening
Putting in place one side of the dog door frame
Putting the other side in place and fixing the two sides together through the fixing points
Re mounting the door on the hinges
Fixing the dog door flaps to the dog door
Weatherproofing the dog door
Installing in a wall generally involves:
Marking where you want the dog door to go in the wall
Cutting the wall section out
Installing a tunnel/wall extender in the wall if required
Mounting the dog frame in the wall and fixing/securing it
Securing the flaps to the door
Weatherproofing the dog door
Installing in a sliding glass door (aluminum or vinyl) generally involves:
Knowing the height from top to bottom track of your sliding glass door – order an adjustable sliding glass dog door that will fit
Knowing the width of your sliding glass door
Fitting the dog door in between the top and bottom track
Tightening the dog door into place, and fixing it
Getting the dog door latch or slide bolt working with the existing door
Weatherproofing the door
Installing in a screen door generally involves:
Screen door dog doors usually come as models that go straight into the screen mesh, or sit on a screen guard
Either way, you have the fix the dog door over the mesh or screen guard and cut out the interior section of mesh or guard
Installing in a french door generally involves:
French doors are usually made of timber and glass and can be a tricky installation – a professional may be required
You usually cut out or remove the timber and glass sections, and install the door like you would a wooden door
You have to make sure the finish around the glass and timber looks neat
Installing in a storm door generally involves:
Similar installation to a wooden door except you are dealing with storm door door material. They are also similar to a french door in that installation can be tricky trying to retrofit into different materials, so professional installation may be required
Installing in a security door generally involves:
Similar installation to a wooden door except you are dealing with security door door material. They are also similar to a french door in that installation can be tricky trying to retrofit into different materials, so professional installation may be required
Installing in a metal door generally involves:
Similar installation to a wooden door except you are dealing with metal door door material
Installing in an aluminum window generally involves:
Similar installation to a sliding glass door except you are dealing with an aluminum window
The dog door fits in between the window casement and tightens and fixes in places
You have to make sure to get the width and height right with these dog doors
They are usually super quick to install and remove as you need to
Training Your Dog To Use A Dog Door
Not all dogs are comfortable with using dog and pet doors straight away.
You may need to do some basic positive reinforcement puppy or dog training with treats and praise to encourage your dog to use the door, and get them to associate using it with a positive experience.
A manufacturer should provide you with instructions on how to train your dog to use the door and get them familiar with it as well. They may also have a training article or video on their website or YouTube channel.
However, these are some general steps you might follow to train a dog to use a dog door:
1. Once the dog door is installed, make sure the flaps are removed (as some dogs are scared of the flaps, or what is on the other side if the flaps are opaque)
2. Have your dog on one side of the door, and you sit on the other side with either a food reward or their favorite toy or item and encourage them to come through
3. Once your dog comes through the door, reward them with the treat or toy, and praise them. It may help if you do this training with a partner so they can encourage and guide the dog through the door
4. Next you want to re-fix/install the flap/s back onto the dog door and tape them up or hold them up (so your dog can still see through the door to the other side
5. Again, encourage your dog to come through and reward them when they do. This should get your dog comfortable with having the flap/s on the door, without actually having the flaps down
6. Lastly, have the dog door flaps fully down, and encourage your dog to come through it. Reward them when they do
7. With the flaps fully down, a dog might stick their head through, but not come all the way through with their body. In this instance, you may choose to praise them verbally and pat them, but only reward with their toy or a food treat if they come fully through the door
Overall, what you are trying to do is positively reward your dog, familiarise them gradually with the dog door, and train using repetition – all of which should let your dog know how to use the dog door in a positive way.
Dog Doors For Small Dogs
Some dog doors that might be good for small dog doors might include:
- Ideal Pet Products Original Plastic Pet Door (on Amazon) – for pets as small as 2-12lbs, with the smallest flap opening size of 5 x 7 inches
- BarksBar Original Plastic Dog Door (on Amazon) – smallest model is for pets up to 40lbs, with a flap opening size of 7″ x 11.25″
- PetSafe Freedom Aluminium Pet Door (on Amazon) – smallest size is for pets under 15lbs, with a flap opening size of 5 1/4″ W x 8 1/8″ H
- Small Dog Mate Dog Door (on Amazon) – for dogs and cats with with a floor to shoulder height of up to 14 inches
- PetSafe Wall Entry Aluminium Pet Door (on Amazon) – for pets up to 15 lb.. Flap size opening is 5 1/8 by 7 1/2
For a dog door for a small dog, make sure:
A small dog can walk through the opening when considering the height of the door from the floor
A small dog can clear the lip height of the pet door (the bottom of the pet door frame)
Dog Doors For Medium Sized Dogs
Most dog doors should be suitable for medium sized dogs.
But, check the dimensions of your medium sized dog, and match them to the sizing instructions or sizing chart for the dog door you are looking at.
Dog Doors For Regular Wooden Doors
Wooden doors are usually regular solid core or hollow core doors found on the exterior or interior of the house.
They are usually a standard thickness of somewhere between 1 to 2 1/2 inches thick.
Most standard dog doors are designed to fit standard wooden doors.
See the top rated list above.
Dog Doors For Glass Panel Doors
This entirely depends on what type of glass panel door you have, and where you are mounting the dog door on the existing glass panel door i.e. in timber, or in an existing glass panel frame.
Make sure you pick a dog door that can be installed into the material of the door you are installing the dog door on.
Dog Door For A Balcony Door
The best dog door for a balcony depends on the type of door you have going out to your balcony.
Will you be installing it into a balcony sliding door, regular door or even perhaps a wall that runs out onto the balcony for example?
Go back to the top of this guide and check out the top rated list for the different types of dog doors.
If you have a sliding door going out to your balcony, you might like to check out these dog doors first:
- PetSafe Freedom Aluminium Patio Panel Sliding Glass Door Pet Door (on Amazon) – available in two adjustable height models, the 76 13/16″ – 81″, and 91 7/16″ – 96″
- Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Sliding Glass Door Pet Door (on Amazon) – available in one adjustable height model, the 93-3/4″ To 96-1/2″
Dog Doors For French Doors & French Glass Doors
With french doors being made usually of glass and timber, there may be some custom installation that is required for your pet door, and it may even be wise to get a professional contractor to do it for you if you don’t have the technical installation skills yourself.
Pick a dog door from the list at the top of this guide that can be installed on the type of french door you have. You’ll find the intended use of the dog door in the product description.
Dog Doors For Patio Doors & Patio Sliders
Patio doors could be sliding aluminum or vinyl glass doors, regular glass panel doors, french doors, and sometimes standard doors.
So, when you pick a dog door – make sure you read the installation instructions and mounting directions, and make sure the dog door can be installed to the type of door that you have in your patio area.
Our top picks for the best dog doors for Patio Doors or Patio Sliders are:
Regular Pet Doors
- Ideal Pet Products Original Plastic Pet Door (on Amazon) – for pets up to around 120lbs, and has a flap size of up to 15 inches wide x 20 Inches high for the biggest model. Fits door thicknesses of 1 1/4 inch thick to 2 inches
- BarksBar Original Plastic Dog Door (on Amazon) – for pets up to 100lbs, and has a flap size opening of 10.5 inches wide x 15 inches high. Fits door thicknesses of 1 1/4 inch thick to 2 inches
- PetSafe Freedom Aluminium Pet Door (on Amazon) – pet door for door mounting. Biggest size has a 13 3/4″ W x 23 3/4″ H flap opening, for pets up to 220lbs. Fits doors between 3/8″ and 2″ thick
Aluminum & Vinyl Sliding Glass Door Pet Doors
- PetSafe Freedom Aluminium Patio Panel Sliding Glass Door Pet Door (on Amazon) – for aluminum sliding glass doors. Largest model flap opening size is 10 inches wide x 16 inches high, with an 8 inch rise below, for pets up to around 130lbs
- Ideal Pet Products Vinyl Sliding Glass Door Pet Door (on Amazon) – for vinyl sliding glass doors. Extra Large flap opening size is 10.25 inches wide x 15.75 inches high, for pets up to around 120lbs
Screen Door Pet Door
- Ideal Pet Doors Screen Guard Pet Door (on Amazon) – for screen doors with a screen guard. Extra Large size has a flap opening of 10-1/2″ x 15″ for dogs up to around 90lbs
You can read more about some of these types of dog doors in these guides:
Best Dog Door Sliding Glass Aluminum Doors
Best Dog Door For Sliding Glass Vinyl Door
Best Dog Door For A Sliding Screen Door
Dog Doors For Metal Doors
If you read the product description of the pet door they should tell you one or both of these things in relation to the door it can be installed/mounted on:
– the type of door the pet door can be mounted on – it should either say all doors, or specifically a metal door (or specifically NOT a metal door if it can’t be installed on one). The Endura Flap Double Flap Door Mount Pet Door (on Amazon) for example can be installed on all doors including solid core doors, hollow core doors, metal doors, storm doors, panelled doors, and french doors
– the thickness of door the pet door can be mounted on (so you know what thickness of metal door it can be mounted to)
It also helps if you read the installation guide/manual provided by the manufacturer before you buy the pet door – they usually give you more information on the type of door it can be mounted on, and how you might approach installation for doors made of different materials.
Installing A Dog Door On A Metal Door
No installation information is a substitute for the manufacturer’s instructions and installation guide/manual that they provide – so you’ll want to read that.
But specifically with metal doors, you want to consider:
– that you have the correct tools and equipment or fixings to be cutting and fixing a dog door to a metal door
– that you are complying with any safety regulations when you install to a metal door i.e. some metal doors may be fire doors and installing a pet door on them may breach fire compliance regulations – so check this
Some people choose to do a DIY installation, whilst others choose to a dog door professionally installed.
Dog Doors For Storm Doors
Storm doors can come in a few different designs and materials, which is important to know when finding the best dog door for a storm door.
Types Of Storm Doors
Storm doors can come in a range of materials including but not limited to:
Solid core timber/wood
Metal and steel
Aluminium
Aluminum and glass
PVC
+ more
They can also come in different designs with for example glass panels just at the top, glass at the top and bottom, no glass etc.
How To Know Which Pet Door To Get For A Storm Door?
If you read the product description of the pet door they should tell you one or both of these things in relation to the door it can be installed/mounted on:
– the type of door the pet door can be mounted on – it should either say all doors, or specifically the type of door you have (or specifically NOT the type of door you have). The Endura Flap Double Flap Door Mount Pet Door (on Amazon) for example can be installed on all doors including solid core doors, hollow core doors, metal doors, storm doors, panelled doors, and french doors
– the thickness of door the pet door can be mounted on (so you know what thickness of metal door it can be mounted to)
It also helps if you read the installation guide/manual provided by the manufacturer before you buy the pet door – they usually give you more information on the type of door it can be mounted on, and how you might approach installation for storm doors made of different materials and designs.
Installing A Dog Door On A Storm Door
No installation information is a substitute for the manufacturer’s instructions and installation guide/manual that they provide – so you’ll want to read that.
But specifically with storm doors, you want to consider:
– that you have the correct tools and equipment or fixings to be cutting and fixing a dog door to the material and
– that you are complying with any safety regulations or protecting the properties of the door when you install to a storm door e.g. some metal storm doors may be fire doors and installing a pet door on them may breach fire compliance regulations – so check this
Some people choose to do a DIY installation, whilst others choose to a dog door professionally installed.
Professional installation can be a good option when the storm door has a unique or tricky design that involves customising the pet door installation.
Magnetic Dog Doors
Magnetic dog doors are simply pet doors that close and seal with magnets, usually attached to the flap or opening of the pet door.
Magnetic dog doors can be good because they help seal the dog door flap closed to stop bugs, wind and the cold or outside elements coming in.
Our top picks for the best magnetic dog doors are:
Regular Pet Doors
- Ideal Pet Products Original Plastic Pet Door (on Amazon) – for pets up to around 120lbs, and has a flap size of up to 15 inches wide x 20 Inches high for the biggest model
- BarksBar Original Plastic Dog Door (on Amazon) – for pets up to 100lbs, and has a flap size opening of 10.5 inches wide x 15 inches high
- PetSafe Wall Entry Aluminium Pet Door (on Amazon) – pet door for walls. Biggest flap opening size is 10 x 15 inches, for pets up to around 100lbs
- PetSafe Freedom Aluminium Pet Door (on Amazon) – pet door for door mounting. Biggest size has a 13 3/4″ W x 23 3/4″ H flap opening, for pets up to 220lbs
Heavy Duty &/Or Weatherproof Pet Doors
- Security Boss MaxSeal Pet Door For Doors (on Amazon) – Insulating, Sealing and Security Pet Door. Largest size flap opening is 15 3/4 inches wide x 32 inches high, for extra large to Giant dogs
- Endura Flap Double Flap Door Mount Pet Door (on Amazon) – energy efficient dog door. Extra Large model has a 12″ w x 22″ h flap opening, for extra large to Giant dogs
- Ideal Pet Products Ruff Weather Dog Door (on Amazon) – insulated pet door. Largest size has a flap opening of 15 inches wide by 23.5 inches tall, for pets up to around 120lbs
- Perfect Pet The All Weather Energy Efficient Dog Door (on Amazon) – insulated pet door. Has a 15 inch x 23.5 inch flap opening, for pets up to around 120lbs
- PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door (on Amazon) – energy efficient pet door. Biggest model has a 10 1/8 inches width by 16 1/4 inches height flap opening, for dogs up to around 100lbs
Aluminum & Vinyl Sliding Glass Door Pet Doors
- PetSafe Freedom Aluminium Patio Panel Sliding Glass Door Pet Door (on Amazon) – for aluminum sliding glass doors. Largest model flap opening size is 10 inches wide x 16 inches high, with an 8 inch rise below, for pets up to around 130lbs
- Ideal Pet Products Vinyl Sliding Glass Door Pet Door (on Amazon) – for vinyl sliding glass doors. Extra Large flap opening size is 10.25 inches wide x 15.75 inches high, for pets up to around 120lbs
Window Sash Pet Door
- Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Sash Window Pet Door (on Amazon) – for window sashes. Biggest size has a 10.5 x 15 inch flap opening, for pets up to around 120lbs
Screen Door Pet Doors
- Ideal Pet Doors Screen Guard Pet Door (on Amazon) – for screen doors with a screen guard. Extra Large size has a flap opening of 10-1/2″ x 15″ for dogs up to around 90lbs
Dog Doors For Security Doors
With a security door usually being made of an outer metal layer and an inner metal mesh, installation may be a little trickier than on a normal door.
How to know which pet door to get for a security door?
If you read the product description of the pet door they should tell you one or both of these things:
– the type of door the pet door can be mounted on – does it mention security doors?
– the thickness of door the pet door can be mounted on – does it fit the thickness of your security door?
It also helps if you read the installation guide/manual provided by the manufacturer before you buy the pet door – they usually give you more information on the type of door it can be mounted on, and how you might approach installation for doors made of different materials.
Installing a pet door on a security door
No installation information is a substitute for the instructions in the installation guide/manual provided by the dog door manufacturer. So, make sure you read this.
But in general, with a security door, you are going to have to cut the outer metal and the inner mesh of the door to install the pet door.
You’ll also have to fix the pet door to the security door.
Some people choose a DIY install, whilst others choose to get a professional contractor to help them if they don’t have the technical installation skills themselves.
Best Removable & Temporary Dog Doors
The best removable and temporary dog doors allow you to install and remove them quickly.
They also enable you to install the doors without cutting or permanently modifying your existing house door – which minimises damage.
Some removable & temporary dog doors include:
Aluminum & Vinyl Sliding Glass Door Pet Doors
Aluminum
- PetSafe Freedom Patio Pet Doors for Sliding Doors (on Chewy)
- PetSafe Freedom Aluminium Patio Panel Sliding Glass Door Pet Door (on Amazon) – for aluminum sliding glass doors. Largest model flap opening size is 10 inches wide x 16 inches high, with an 8 inch rise below, for pets up to around 130lbs
- Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Modular Pet Patio Doors (on Chewy)
- PetSafe Sliding Glass Pet Door, Aluminum (on Chewy)
Vinyl
- Ideal Pet Products Vinyl Sliding Glass Door Pet Door (on Amazon) – for vinyl sliding glass doors. Extra Large flap opening size is 10.25 inches wide x 15.75 inches high, for pets up to around 120lbs
Aluminum Window Sash Pet Doors
- Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Sash Window Pet Door (on Amazon) – for window sashes. Biggest size has a 10.5 x 15 inch flap opening, for pets up to around 120lbs
Magnetic Screen Door Pet Door
- Flux Phenom Reinforced Magnetic Screen Door (on Amazon) – fits doors up to 38″ or less in width and 82″ or less in height. Easy to install and remove with black thumbtacks and a weather resistant hook, and loop backing. A full size door pet door
Double & Triple Flap Dog Doors
Most dog doors are single flap, which provides one point for the dog door to seal/close.
However, there are double flap and triple flap dog doors on the market.
Two flaps means two points on both sides of the dog door that can be sealed by the magnetic strips, instead of one point for a single flap door
With a triple flap door, the middle flap is usually a highly insulated flap that minimises drafts and the cold
So, double and triple flap dog doors usually provide multiple points to seal/close, and are usually better for weatherproofing, insulation and energy efficiency for both hot and cold weather
Dog door with double or triple flaps are:
- PetSafe Wall Entry Aluminium Pet Door (on Amazon) – pet door for walls. Biggest flap opening size is 10 x 15 inches, for pets up to around 100lbs
- Security Boss MaxSeal Pet Door For Doors (on Amazon) – Insulating, Sealing and Security Pet Door. Largest size flap opening is 15 3/4 inches wide x 32 inches high, for extra large to Giant dogs
- Endura Flap Double Flap Door Mount Pet Door (on Amazon) – energy efficient dog door. Extra Large model has a 12″ w x 22″ h flap opening, for extra large to Giant dogs
- Ideal Pet Products Ruff Weather Dog Door (on Amazon) – insulated pet door. Largest size has a flap opening of 15 inches wide by 23.5 inches tall, for pets up to around 120lbs
- Perfect Pet The All Weather Energy Efficient Dog Door (on Amazon) – insulated pet door. Has a 15 inch x 23.5 inch flap opening, for pets up to around 120lbs
- PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door (on Amazon) – energy efficient pet door. Biggest model has a 10 1/8 inches width by 16 1/4 inches height flap opening, for dogs up to around 100lbs
Dog Door For A Standard Exterior Door
Most dog doors are designed to fit standard exterior doors between about 1 to 2 1/2 inches in thickness, so you should be OK with standard doors for most pet doors.
Dog Door For Other Exterior Doors
If you are looking for the best dog door for an exterior door, you first have to ask yourself what type of exterior door you are looking to install/mount the dog door on.
For most people, it will be a standard solid core timber door, which might be anywhere from 1 1/4 to 2 1/4 inches thick (or around that range)
But, it could also be a sliding aluminum or vinyl door, or even a screen door.
There are pet doors for these specific doors too.
You can find a dog door in the top rated list at the top of this guide.
Dog Door Replacement Flaps
Some dog doors have replacement flaps available.
Usually, you’ll want to buy a dog flap that is the same brand as the dog door you have, and is compatible with the model of dog door you have (chekc the product description for confirmation).
You also have to consider getting the right size flap, and making sure the number of mounting holes in the flap match the door.
Some of the more popular replacement flaps on the market at the moment are:
- PetSafe Replacement Flap (on Amazon) – compatible with PetSafe Freedom Aluminum Pet Door, the PetSafe Plastic Pet Door, the PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door, the PetSafe Wall Entry Aluminum Pet Door and the PetSafe Freedom Patio Panel Pet Door
- PetSafe Pet Door Replacement Flap (on Amazon) – compatible with PetSafe Classic Pet Door, Deluxe Patio Panel Pet Door, old version of Wall Entry Aluminum Pet Door and old version of Larson Storm Door with Classic Pet Door
- Ideal Pet Products Replacement Flap (on Amazon) – new style replacement flap for Ideal Pet plastic and aluminum dog door frames
- Ideal Pet Products 3-Panel Airseal and VIP Pet Door Replacement Flap (on Amazon) – for ultra flex plastic and draft stopper dog doors
- Ideal Pet Products Replacement Flap For Ruff Weather Dog Door (on Amazon) – for ruff weather dog door. You get a single flap
What Is A Dog Door Insert?
A dog door insert is usually what people are talking about when they are referring to a dog door that goes into a sliding glass door.
This is because the dog door comes with a glass insert piece that goes above the door to fit into and match into the existing glass door.
Dog doors for window sashes do the same thing with window siding to match into the existing windows.
Having said that, some people call dog doors in general dog door inserts as well, like for example when referring to a dog door that can be installed or inserted to custom fit a french door made of wood and glass – where the glass and wood has to be custom cut away to install the dog door.
Other Potentially Helpful Resources About Pet Doors
Potential Pros & Cons About Pet Doors
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