Updated March 2024
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Considerations
- Size of pet
- Flaps
- Security
What you need to know
Installing a pet door in your house is a great way to give your pets more independence, and saves you from opening and closing the door on repeat. Here’s what we look for in a pet door:
Size of pet
Each pet door will tell you how to ensure you pick the right size of door for your pet. Make sure you think about the placement of the opening, so that all pets, short and tall, can fit through. Take time to measure your pet so you can buy the appropriate size.
Flaps
The flap on a pet door is what will allow your pet to enter and exit. It is also the thing that will protect your house from the outside weather and pests. Some flaps come with higher insulation levels, which will help cut down on temperature loss and noise. Clear flaps are preferred as pets want to know what is on the other side, and a flexible door is safer than rigid doors for your pet. Also, look for magnetic closures to create a good seal and limit wind and pests entering your house.
Security
Because you are adding another entry point to your home, you need to think in terms of security. Some pet doors will be big enough to allow children through. Make sure care is taken to place the door in an appropriate location, teach your children not to use it, and monitor small children at all times. Some pet doors can come with electronic locking devices that can be paired with one in your pets collar, to only allow approved pets to activate the door. Most pet doors come with a hard plastic cover that slides in to close off the door at night or while you are away. Additionally, you must choose between a wall built in, or a sliding glass door pet door insert. Pet doors that are placed in your sliding glass door may affect the efficiency of the door lock. Make sure to read the manuals carefully and use appropriate measures to lock your door.
CritiPicks
| Our Pick | Link | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Baboni 3-Flap Pet Door for Wall | Amazon | $159.99 |
 |
PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pt Door | Amazon | $179.95 |
 |
SureFlap - Sure Petcare Microchip Pet Door | Amazon | $222.19 |
Listed prices are accurate at time of review.
