DIY: Dog Door

If you have a dog, then you have probably considered installing a dog door. A dog door gives your dog the ability to come and go when she wants to. Your dog will love the freedom; you will enjoy not having to be on call to open the door for her. Installing a dog door is an easy project that can be completed with tools commonly available at your local home improvement store.

  1. Choosing the Right Dog Door

    • The dog door you choose should be big enough for your dog to fit comfortable through the opening. Measure the width of your dog's shoulders and the distance between the top of his shoulders and his chest. Choose a door that is larger than these measurements. If you have a puppy, leave plenty of room for him to grow. An older dog may need a larger opening so that he doesn't have to step as high or duck to get through it.

    Marking the Dog Door

    • Your dog door should have a template included, but if it doesn't, you can make one out of a large piece of paper. Include markings for any holes you will need to drill. Position the template on the door so that it is centered and the bottom of the template is a about the same height as your dog's chest. Tape the template in place.

    Cutting Out the Dog Door

    • Drill pilot holes in each corner of the template large enough for the jig saw blade. Use a square to make sure the drill is completely straight. Cut out the opening with a jig saw, following the template, but only cut halfway through the door. Transfer the template to the other side of the door, line up the pilot holes and tape it in place. Use the jig saw to cut the rest of the way through the door. Cutting the dog door opening out in two steps helps prevent the jig saw from splintering the wood.

    Installing the Dog Door

    • Turn the door so that the exterior side is facing up. Caulk around the edge of the dog door opening with exterior-grade caulk. Insert the inner and outer portions of the dog door, with the hinged side at the top, and press them in place. Secure the two pieces to each other and the door using the included screws. Wipe off any extra caulk.