Articles

5 Things to Consider Before Purchasing A Dog Door

by Michelle C. Motivational Speaker

You may be looking for a way for your dog to come and go from the house on his own, whether you're tired of playing doggy doorman or you need a way for your dogs to go outside to potty while you're at work. Pet door installation which can be installed permanently or temporarily if you're renting, giving your dog access to your yard while you're away, could be the answer. However, before you run out and buy a pet door, there are a few things you should know.

Dog doors have advanced to the next level.

The days of a simple flap are long gone; nowadays, you can buy a dog door that scans your dog's microchip and opens only for him.

This will not only keep visiting dogs out of your house, but it will also keep wildlife out–or if your dog door is extra-large, a burglar out.

If you have multiple pets, you can limit access to keep cats inside while your dog comes and goes–or keep one dog recovering from surgery or an injury from using the door while the other uses it.

You may have to teach your dog to utilize the door.

Some dogs are more receptive to the concept of the dog door than others. You may have to teach your dog to utilize the door.

Take it carefully and make it enjoyable for your dog, as with any training.

Invite a friend to join you in training and, with one of you on each side of the dog door, use a favorite treat to train your dog, starting with just the dog door opening and the flap removed.

Step by phase, allow your dog to go at his rate while keeping an eye out for signs of stress before moving on to the next training step.

You'll add the flap once your dog is comfortable going back and forth through the dog door opening.

A dab of peanut butter on the flap will encourage your dog to get his face right up to it, which is an important step toward him being able to open it on his own.

Dog doors are no longer just for doors.

You probably picture one permanently installed in an exterior door when you think of dog doors. Although this is the most popular option, it is not the only one.

Wall-mounted dog doors are available, which require cutting a hole in the exterior wall to allow your dog access to the lawn. For this type of door, professional installation should cost between $100 and $200.

DIYers and renters can install sliding patio doors with dog doors. The new dog door fits into the track and is secured to the frame, but you can easily take it with you if you move.

It's all about the size.

Dog doors come in various sizes, from small to extra-large, so there's one for every dog.

However, when choosing a size, don't just think about your dog right now. Is your dog still growing if he's young?

Would you get a dog of the same size or smaller if you later adopted another dog?

Let's face it: a dog door is an expensive purchase, especially when installation costs are factored in. It's safer to go up in size if you think you'll eventually add a larger dog to your family; a smaller dog can easily use a larger dog door, but it doesn't work the other way around!

While upsizing has its benefits, if you have a very small dog, consider the weight of the flap; some flaps have magnetic snaps that help with energy efficiency but can make the flap more difficult to open for smaller dogs.

When making your decision, keep home security in mind.

If you require a larger dog door, take the time to compare security features before deciding.

Extra security is provided by electronic dog doors that read your dog's microchip or special dog tag.

Manual locks allow you to lock the door at any time, even while traveling.

Tinted flaps keep potential burglars from peering into your home to see if there are any two- or four-legged residents.

Dog doors are a great way to allow your dog to go outside to potty while you're away, which is especially important as your dog gets older. Make sure your dog door is a good fit for years to come by comparing the growing number of models on the market.


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About Michelle C. Innovator   Motivational Speaker

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Joined APSense since, April 28th, 2018, From Clifton, United States.

Created on Jan 12th 2022 06:02. Viewed 188 times.

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