PET DOORS SOLVE A VARIETY OF DOG PROBLEMS

Learn how to choose the ideal pet door for your dog. Electronic pet doors, patio pet doors, and more.

I don't normally quote my mom in articles, but the other day she brought up an interesting topic. While discussing her energetic young Miniature Schnauzer, she mused, "I just don't understand how any dog owner can get by without a pet door." Wise woman, my mom.

BENEFITS OF A PET DOOR

Pet doors are a cheap and easy way to solve a variety of dog-related issues, including:

* Indoor Soiling: Most dogs don't want to potty in the house. When a mature dog (over 1 year old) has an indoor soiling problem, it's usually because he hasn't learned an effective way to communicate that he needs to go outside. A pet door solves this problem by giving your dog immediate access to the outdoors.

* Revolving Door: While some dogs have a hard time communicating when they need to go outside, others learn the skill a little too well. A dog that incessantly barks or scratches to go outside — and then to be let back in — is almost as frustrating as a dog that eliminates indoors. With a pet door, your dog can let himself in and out... and in... and out...

* Home Alone: Workdays seem to grow longer all the time. A common complaint I hear from dog owners is how guilty they feel leaving their dog home alone for long stretches without access to the outdoors. Work is stressful enough without adding guilt. Relieve the stress (and your dog's bladder) by installing a pet door.

HOW TO CHOOSE A PET DOOR

There are a LOT of different pet doors on the market. So, how do you know which is the ideal pet door for you? Consider these factors as you shop:

Where will I install my pet door? If you plan to install your pet door through a wall, you need a pet door that includes a tunnel designed specifically for that purpose. Likewise, if you intend to install your pet door in a sliding glass door, you should choose a Deluxe Patio Pet Door.
How large is my pet? It's important to choose a pet door that's appropriately sized for your dog. A pet door that's too small can be uncomfortable and discourage use. Also, remember that if your dog is still a puppy, you should purchase a door based on the size you think he will reach as an adult.
What is my pet's temperament? If your dog is active or large, you should probably consider an aluminum frame, like the PetSafe Aluminum Freedom Pet Door. Plastic-framed pet doors break more easily than metal and aren't designed to withstand heavy, long-term use.
Am I worried about animals other than my dog using the door? If you live in a rural area — or if you're just worried about animals other than your own using your pet door — you should consider an electronic pet door that opens only for your dog.
How important is security? If you're often out of town, or if you just want extra peace of mind, look for a pet door with keyed locks that are accessible only from inside your home. Some pet doors even include metal panels you can screw on when you are away for extended periods.

INSTALLING A PET DOOR

For many people, installation is what stops them from getting a pet door. In reality, pet door installation isn't much of an obstacle. If you don't have the skills, tools, or desire to install a pet door yourself, you can easily find a handyman or pet professional in almost any market to do it for you. Installation through an existing wood or metal door will probably cost somewhere in the range of $150 - $250 , depending on where you live (installation through a wall is pricier).

If you wish to avoid the issue of installation altogether and you have a sliding glass door, look into PetSafe's Deluxe Patio Pet Door. Patio pet doors insert into an existing sliding glass door, and installation requires nothing more than a few well-placed screws.