We all know how significant spending time outdoors is for our dogs and cats. If you want to allow your pets to freely go in and out of your home, pet doors are the perfect solution. We have gathered a list of the best pet door models you can find on the market to make your choice easier.
Keep reading to find out all about the latest trends, such as electronic or custom-made doors or some of the more old-fashioned models, like wall-mounted doors. We have tested and compared all of them for your convenience.
As every pet’s needs vary, depending on their breed and size, there isn’t one ideal model. We’ll also give you some tips on how to determine the most suitable pet door for you.
Types of Dog Doors
If you want to enable your cats and dogs to come and go as they please, a pet door should be your next purchase. They are very convenient if you spend a lot of time outside the house or have multiple pets that tend to go out at different times.
Furthermore, there are different dog door types, depending on your needs. For example, if you are worried about energy conservation, especially if you live in a very cold or hot area, a weatherproof model would be your best choice.
Once you install the gate for a dog, we should emphasize, you can expect a lot more dirt, especially in the pet entrance area. Even though it takes only a few minutes to clean, we all know how muddy our pets, and especially dogs, can get when outside the house.
There are different types of pet doors:
- Electronic — that is the most recent innovation in the industry. These doors are automatic and easy to use, especially recommended if you have more than one pet. They are much more energy-preserving than the other types, and consequently, a little pricier.
- Door-Mounted — these are exterior models you can install in the front or back door.
- Wall-Mounted — these are among the best doggie doors due to their sturdiness and secureness. As their installation can be complicated and time-consuming, we advise hiring a repairer to do it for you.
- Window — you can choose among a built-in model or a regular door mounted onto windows. Among other advantages they offer, they are also easy to install and maintain.
Our Top 3 Best Pet Friendly Doors Recommendations
1. PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door
Features
- Three-flap optimized design
- Flaps have a magnetic catch
- Door stays closed even during stiff winds
Price: From $119.95
2. Endura Flap Pet Door for Doors
Features
- Wind and waterproof model
- Embedded magnets on flap & frame
- Environmentally friendly materials
Price: From $339.99
3. PetSafe Patio Pet Panel Door
Features
- Customizable model
- Quality aluminum frame
- A closing panel
Price: From $144.00
The Best Doors for Pets for 2021
Sureflap Microchip Pet Door
Price from $220.99
Pros
- Easy setup and variable locking modes
- Pets’ microchips or collars scan to prevent unauthorized animals from entering
- Handy LCD screen
Cons
- Suitable only for small dogs
You can fit this pet door into a door, window, or wall. It is specifically designed for small dogs and cats as its dimensions are 7 in by 6.7 in.
The automated lock timer adjusts when the door locks and unlocks, giving your pet controlled access to the outdoors. This feature is especially convenient if you spend long hours outside the home.
The scanner on the electronic dog door ensures that only your pets can enter the house. The identification microchips’ unique codes make it impossible for other intruder animals to get in.
Furthermore, this model doesn’t require additional work on the scanner as it is compatible with all worldwide chip formats. In case your pet isn’t microchipped, they can use a unique Sure Flap RFID Collar Tag to operate the door. You will get one tag with the purchase and can separately buy additional ones.
This doggy door is suitable for multiple pets households because you can connect it to 32 different microchips. In addition, the door will only require four C-cell batteries for up to a year, and it has a battery level indicator on the LCD screen.
The screen also displays the pet door locking modes. You can set them manually or automatically using the timer function. That is among the best electronic models available, and it comes in two colors — white and brown — and a three-year warranty.
High Tech Power Pet Electronic Dog Door
Price from $349.99
Pros
- Easy setup and variable locking modes
- Pets’ microchips or collars scan to prevent unauthorized animals from entering
- Handy LCD screen
Cons
- No timer feature
This door is a permanent wall panel installation that has a direction sensing system, activating only when your pet is on a direct approach. That means the door won’t unlock if your dog plays or sleeps near it.
It also features a four-access control setting — Full Access, Blocked Access, Out Only, or In Only. It even has a motor-driver vertical sliding door that automatically opens and closes for your pet.
It is among the best electronic dog door models due to its dual-range controls, so you can adjust it when you are inside and outside.
There isn’t a flap that any stray animal could open to get in. Plus, the deadbolt loft provides additional security against intruders. It is wind and waterproof, helping you save money on the bills. This model is available in two sizes — medium and large.
A possible downside is the confusing installation instructions. We recommend carefully examining this large dog door beforehand or hiring a professional to install the door.
PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door
Price from $119.95
Pros
- The three-flap design is excellent for optimizing your energy bill
- Flaps have a magnetic catch
- The door stays closed even during stiff winds
Cons
- The plastic option isn’t as durable as aluminum
You can choose the material for this door — aluminum or plastic. This model improves insulation thanks to the three-flap design, and the door corners are enforced with aluminum for higher security.
Thanks to their design, these energy-efficient doggie doors prevent drafts during winter and excess heat from entering during summer. The magnetic catch between the frame and flaps enhances power saving.
This door is excellent if you want to give your pet the freedom to go in and out whenever they want. Additionally, it is also perfect for multiple pet owners.
There are four different sizes to choose from for this excellent large breed doggie door. It is effortless to install, and you will get a one-year warranty when purchasing this model.
Endura Flap Pet Door for Doors
Price from $339.99
Pros
- Wind and waterproof model
- Embedded magnets on the flap and the frame
- Environmentally friendly materials
Cons
- Long installation time and difficult adjustment of the magnetic stripes
This door features a flexible flap design that is safer than the other more rigid models because it eliminates any dangers of pinching your pet while entering or leaving. Magnets are embedded in the flap and the frame, giving the door a firm seal that surpasses the one in ordinary doors.
What places it among the best pet door models is that it ensures that the room temperature will remain the same no matter how cold or hot the weather is. Additionally, this door consists of three sealed units with a dual-pane construction thicker than regular glass.
The flap swings freely, preventing flexing and cracking. You can choose between one and two-flap options. Furthermore, it has been tested to withstand winds above 50 miles an hour.
Still, you can even add more magnet strength if you feel like it. The flaps are transparent, making sure your pets see where they are going. If you want an exterior door with a dog door, we definitely recommend this model.
The door is made of non-toxic and recyclable material, so it is environmentally friendly. Furthermore, it is even treated with a UV retardant. The model has a low step-over, so it is excellent for dogs of different sizes and heights. This door is designed, engineered, and manufactured in the US.
PetSafe Wall Entry Pet Doors with Telescopic Tunnel
Price from $123.35
Pros
- Magnetic closure ensures energy efficiency
- The double flap enhances weatherproofing
- The full-steel frame is very durable
Cons
- The screws aren’t the best quality
- The installation requires some expertise
That might be the best pet door for homes where installation to an entry or a side door isn’t practical. This model encourages exercise and independence, and it provides your pets with the freedom to go in or out when they want to.
The telescopic tunnel accommodates walls between 4 ¾ and 7 ¼ thick. Still, you can buy compatible extension kits for thicker walls. Its PVC frame is durable and withstands UV exposure.
The double flap design provides energy efficiency and weatherproofing. Moreover, a slide-in enclosing panel adds extra insulation when your pet isn’t using it.
The installation can be challenging, but you shouldn’t have trouble if you follow the detailed step-by-step instructions. There are different sizes to choose from — small, medium, and maintenance specialist large dog doors. This model is manufactured in the US.
Endura Flap Wall Pet Doors
Price from $509.99
Pros
- Adjustable to different wall widths model
- A locking cover
- The flexible magnet design ensures energy efficiency
- The double-flap option provides even higher energy perseverance
Cons
- The locking cover requires some space left on the top
This model is an energy-efficient solution, as it is very weather-resistant and durable. The door is eight inches deep, and you can trim it down to the width you desire.
We consider this model to be one of the best dog doors. It features a flexible magnet design that is durable and weatherproof, helping you save on your energy bill. Furthermore, the frame and the inside tunnel are made of high-quality aluminum.
The flap isn’t rigid but soft, and even the sides are flexible, so the flap doesn’t snap nor shrink during cold weather. The full-length magnet that goes all the way down on both sides and the frame and across the bottom ensures a firm closure.
The flap has a hinge at the top, saving the wear on the top side, making it last longer. It is a locking dog door model with a cover to enhance weatherproofing and security when your pet isn’t using the gate.
The door is available in four sizes, from small to extra-large, and two colors — black and white. You can also buy a version that has a flap on both sides.
PetSafe Patio Pet Panel Door
Price from $144.00
Pros
- Customizable model
- Quality aluminum frame
- Very durable tempered glass
- A closing panel
Cons
- The flaps on these of the best-rated pet doors can open in a very windy weather
That is a horizontal sliding window with a pet door at the bottom. As a customizable model, it allows you to adjust the panel height. Namely, the top piece has springs inside, so all you have to do is push it down or pull up.
The model fits two sizes of external doors, and it also comes in a variety of sizes, from small to extra large. This door features an aluminum frame made of tempered glass, and the pet door is the only part not made of glass.
That is a good option if you want a patio door with a pet door built-in due to the automatic magnetic closure that you can hear a click once it is shut. The door comes with a closing panel to restrict your pets from going outside.
This model is excellent if you are moving furniture or carrying something in the house. Also, it is perfect for renters and multiple pet households. Even though it is a little cheaper compared to others, this one of the best pet doors is definitely worth the money.
Ideal Pet Products Aluminum Sash Window Pet Door
Price from $108.00
Pros
- Easy to install
- Excellent for renters
- Fits a range of window sizes
- It comes in one piece
- You don’t need to cut the walls to install it
Cons
- Only available in white
- Unsuitable for windows that open horizontally
This model is perfect for all windows that open vertically, and it is recommended for pets up to 90 pounds. As they are mounted onto windows, these are among the best pet doors for cats.
The door is made of high-quality aluminum with a minimalistic white finish. The required minimum sash window height is 20.62 inches.
Both ends of this door are sliding panels, and are spring-loaded, so you can easily adjust them to your window. Simply loosen the knobs to release the spring mechanism. After that, all you have to do is tighten the window.
The sashes on these top-rated dog doors are also very easy to take out, making them perfect if you are renting your home.
There are two closing styles to choose from — a lockout slide or a four-way lock for added security. Further, the flap is made of clear vinyl, ensuring it is flexible and allows your pets to see where they are going.
These are some of the best-rated pet doors available, and they come in three lengths and five different flap styles — Cat Flap, Chubby Cat, and small, medium, or extra-large vinyl flap doors. Additionally, their customer service is available seven days a week.
Why Do You Need a Pet Door?
Choosing the best doggy door can be challenging once you notice the wide variety of options on the market. So, if you feel hesitant about making the purchase, here are some of the reasons why you should do it.
- If you spend a lot of time outside the house, it is only natural that your pet might want to spend some time outdoors while you’re gone. A pet door would allow that, however, always make sure that they are protected in your yard or patio.
- Another reason for exploring different dog door solutions is that sometimes it is much simpler to let your pet use the outdoors as their bathroom. Instead of using an indoor pet bathroom, it can be easier to train them to go outside whenever they need to.
- Cats are known to be loners and free-willed, so it is nice to provide them with the option to explore the outdoors even if you are not around.
- Finally, even if you spend a lot of time at home, pet doors are very convenient. For example, you won’t have to get up and open the door every time your pet wants to go outside.
Our Methodology for Choosing the Best Dog Door Models
The choice of the most suitable pet door depends on you and your furry friend’s needs. Still, we compiled this list of options considering a couple of crucial factors.
- First, the functionality — it is of great importance that the door is practical and easy to use.
- Diversity in mounting options — as you have noticed, there are many different types of pet doors, and we presented the best models of each.
- Affordability and energy conservation — you can make the best choice for your home depending on the available models.
People Also Ask
Nowadays, there are a lot of different types and models of pet doors on the market. So, the best option depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. For example, if you are a renter, you should search for a door that doesn’t require installing.
Still, as technology is rapidly progressing, electronic doors are becoming more widespread, and they are among the best and most efficient options. Still, their price is a little higher than most regular doors.
Even if you spend a lot of time around the house, it is more efficient for your pets to use the door to pass in and out. It is even more advantageous if you have multiple pets.
However, if you spend most of your day out of your home, dog doors are pretty much irreplaceable. That way, your pet won’t need to wait for hours to have some fun outside or use the bathroom.
Some models are specially designed to help maintain the room temperature. However, electronic doors are the best option for preserving energy, as they are wind and wearproof and provide additional insulation.
Still, if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on an electronic door, other options, like doors with magnetic flaps, are also great for all weather conditions.
We don’t consider dog doors a security threat, especially the models that offer additional locks. If you live in a high-risk neighborhood, you can buy an electronic door that allows you to set the timer for opening and closing the door.
Also, many models have a closing panel for added security and weatherproofing, so there is no need to worry about your or your pets’ safety.
There are many door manufacturers whose primary goal is safety. However, it seems like the electronic models are the most secure due to the timer for when you want them to be open.
For example, Sureflap Microchip Door is excellent for securing your home from burglars and unwanted animals. It has a system that recognizes your pets’ microchips and only lets them in or out.
High Tech Power Pet Electronic Door can also easily be the best pet door with its exquisite mechanism that only reacts when your pet is directly approaching the door and won’t open otherwise.
