Pet Doors for Cats & Dogs

Why are some doggy doors more expensive?

More expensive doggy doors offer improved insulation, better warranties, enhanced aesthetics, and more durable components, thereby reducing long-term maintenance costs.

Which dog doors are suitable for extreme weather?

The Patio Pacific Endura Door with the double flap option and the double flap Hale models perform exceptionally well as dog doors for extreme weather conditions.

How can I close my pet door at night?

Most dog doors provide a feature for closing when not in use, like the “slide-in” covers with Endura Flap Pet Doors. The Hale offers a "sideload" option for doors with obstructions above.

What does a side load option entail on dog doors?

A side load option allows a locking cover to slide through the side of the frame, which is useful for avoiding obstructions above the doggy door.

Are doggy doors secure?

While most doggy doors come with robust locking covers, they can't completely prevent a determined intruder. However, additional devices like the Watchdog Security cover can enhance the security of your pet door.

What are some economical doggy doors?

Economical doggy doors include the Dragon Pet Door, Magnador 2 Way Pet Door, the PetSafe Freedom Dog Door, and the Ideal Original or Designer Series Ruff Weather Dog Door.

What size dog door should I purchase?

Choose a dog door size based on your pet's size. The top of the flap should sit 1 inch above your tallest pet's back. Ensure the width and height are comfortable for all your pets.

How can I determine the size of the hole to cut in my door for the dog door?

Dog Door Size Charts provide the “rough cut-out dimension” for each dog door. Avoid making cuts until you've consulted the installation instructions and templates provided with your doggy door.

Which dog door should I get for a Great Dane and an 8-pound Yorkie?

Hale doors work well for varied pet sizes due to the easily pushable flap. Electronic dog doors are another option to prevent the smaller pet from pushing a large-sized flap. Measure both pets for a comfortable fit.

Can I use the same dog doors for cats?

Yes, smaller dog doors or specific cat doors like the Cat-Mate 235, Cat Mate Elite 305, or 221 Large Cat Door can be used for cats.

What is a 4-way lock?

A 4-way lock, present in dog doors with rigid flaps (like the one in the PetSafe 4-Way Locking Big Cat Door for Doors), allows for four settings: In-Only, Out-Only, Locked, and Open, enabling control over your pet's movement.

Will a dog door let my pet in and out?

Yes, dog doors allow both entry and exit. Some models offer control over inside or outside only access, especially smaller cat doors with 4-way locks or larger electronic doors.

What is a simple door suitable for a large cat?

We suggest the Cat-Mate 221 or the Ideal Large Cat Flap for large cats.

How can I get a doggy door that lets the dog out but keeps the cats inside?

An electronic dog door, like the PetSafe Smart Door or High Tech Power Pet Smartphone Controlled WiFi Pet Door for Doors, can achieve this. Non-electronic options like the Endura Flap Pet Door also exist, though they may not guarantee cats can't use them.

Is there a dog door for Extra Large Breeds?

Information on dog doors for Extra Large Breeds is missing.

Can I install a pet door in a French door?

Yes, dog doors can be installed in French doors using the Utah Pet Access French Door Glass Insert. Other options include using the Hale Custom Dimension door, replacing the glass or using preinstalled dog door glass units like Pet Door Guys Through Glass Doors.

Can I install a pet door into a garage door?

Yes, though not recommended due to potential issues. Suitable pet doors for a garage door include Endura Flap pet doors and doors with rigid flaps like the Cat-Mate 221 or Dog Mate.

Does the door thickness matter for dog door installation?

Door thickness does matter when installing a dog door. Certain dog door models are designed to accommodate a range of door thicknesses. Check the specifications of the dog door model you're interested in for details.

Can a pet door be installed in glass?

Yes, installation in glass is possible. However, you'll need help from a professional glass company. There are pre-made pet doors like the Pet Door Guys Through Glass Doors, or you could replace the glass to accommodate a pet door.

Are pet doors secure against intruders?

Most pet doors come with a sturdy locking cover, making it harder for intruders to enter. Nevertheless, a pet door alone cannot guarantee complete security. Consider additional measures such as the Watchdog Security cover.

What pet doors are suitable for thin materials like screen doors?

Many pet doors accommodate thin materials. For example, the Endura Flap starts at zero and fits standard door dimensions. Shims can help create the necessary thickness for thin doors.

Can a pet door be installed in a fire door?

Pet doors are not fire-rated but can be installed in a fire door. Always consult your insurance agency before making such an installation.

Do pet doors come in different colors?

Yes, brands like Hale and Pride offer pet doors in colors including bronze, white, satin, tan, black, and adobe.

Are there pet doors suitable for large breeds?

Yes, doors like the Extra Large Hale Door are great for large dogs like Bernese Mountain Dogs and Great Danes.

Are there any pet doors specifically for indoor use?

Yes, the Cathole for Interior Wood Doors is an excellent choice for indoor use. It doesn't have a flap and is perfect for hiding food or a litter box from dogs.

Can a pet door be installed in a garage door?

Yes, however, consider the safety of your pet in an area with moving vehicles. Certain products like the Endura Flap pet doors and rigid flap doors like Cat-Mate 221 or Dog Mate can be installed in a garage door.

Are there doors with aluminum frames?

Yes, brands like Patio Pacific, PetSafe Freedom, Pride, Hale, Gun Dog House door, and Mason Company Pickwick offer doors with aluminum frames.

What pet doors are recommended for thin storm doors?

The Patio Pacific Endura Flap and PetSafe Freedom or Plastic versions are ideal for storm doors. Other options can be found on our Pet Doors for Storm Doors page.

Can I install a pet door in a door with panels (French door)?

Yes, pet doors can be installed in French doors. Options include using a Hale Custom Dimension door or replacing the glass to install a pet door.

What pet doors are good for rental properties?

We recommend temporary installation pet doors such as the Ideal Fast Fit Patio Pet Door, which doesn't require a cut in your door or wall, or the Thermo Panel 3e, which provides excellent insulation.