How to Make a Doggie Door More Secure

For pet owners wishing to give their dogs the freedom to come and go as they please, a doggie door is a convenient solution. Many pet owners, however, have concerns about the security of a dog door. Wild animals and pests can come in through the doors if they're not properly secured; doors for large breeds can be large enough to allow even humans easy access to a home.

Things You'll Need

  • Motion-sensor-triggered light
  • Warning sign
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a pet door that can be mounted a few inches off of the floor. This minimizes the size of the entry point for the dog door and makes it harder for a human to crawl through.

    • 2

      Lock your pet door at night and when you are away from home. Most pet doors come with a sliding plate that can be lowered over the door and locked in place with a deadbolt.

    • 3

      Install a motion sensor just above the door in which your pet door is mounted. Anytime someone comes within range of the dog door, the motion sensor will automatically turn on a security light.

    • 4

      Consider hanging a "beware of dog" sign at entry points to your yard. Potential burglars may think twice about the size and viciousness of the dog that may be nearby.

    • 5

      Consider a specialized pet door that is keyed to a radio sensor that you attach to your pet's collar. Such doors unlock only when the remote sensor is within 15 feet.