Dog Door Safety

A dog door allows a pet to move freely in and out of a house or patio area without the help of a human. Typically seen as a common flap that dogs can push open with their nose, dog doors also come in a variety of setups that utilize electronic, hinged or spring operated mechanisms. Because dog doors are usually left unsupervised, many safety features should be noted when deciding what kind of door is best for your pet.

  1. Measuring the Correct Size

    • Dog doors must be the correct size for your pet; otherwise they can be at a high risk for injuries. Measuring the dog from his shoulders to the floor and the width of his widest point will give you the correct measurements for the appropriate door. Pets should not have to stoop low or step up when using the dog door. Common injuries that dogs can receive from a poorly measured door include scrapes, bruises, fractures and even broken bones.

      If deciding what size dog door is best for a new puppy, use measurements for the dog door that coincide with what size the puppy will be when a full-size adult. This will decrease any chances of having to continue changing the door as the pet grows.

    Dog Training

    • Training a dog to properly use a dog door is a paramount safety issue. Dogs must learn that the door will work both ways by undergoing simple training techniques. To begin the training process pet owners can pin the top of the flap to the door so that it remains open. This will allow dogs to learn how to freely walk in and out of the door independently. After the dog understands that the door can be used both ways, coax the pet to use the door with the flap down. Standing on the outside and simply prodding or poking the flap will encourage the dog to access the door. Rewarding the dog on regular intervals will help keep them motivated to use the new door.

    Security

    • Using a large dog door could potentially allow intruders access to your house, placing residents at a high security risk. To make sure a home is secure, dog door users can purchase different security systems and signage to help keep intruders out. A simple security system attached to windows, doors, gates and fences of your home can alert emergency personnel of any potential intruders. This will allow your dog to still be able to utilize the dog door when you are not at home. Simple signs can also warn intruders of potential danger when entering your home due to your dog. "Beware of dog" signs can be found at your local hardware store.

      Dog doors also come complete with a locking mechanism that can be set during the night or when you do not want your pet venturing into the backyard or patio area.

    Types of Dog Doors

    • Selecting the correct door for your pet will help keep safety risks at a minimum. Electronic dog doors are a great way to keep pets and residents safe. Pet owners can attach a mechanism to their dog's collar that electronically opens the door when the pet approaches. This will not only help keep out any intruders but will also keep the pet safer when moving through the door way by reducing any chances of getting stuck or caught.

      Manual dog doors usually come furnished with magnets on the bottom of the flap that allow the door to stay closed when not in use. These devices reduce the amount of drafts and insects entering your home.

    Children and Dog Doors

    • When using a dog door pet owners should supervise children at all times. Children can be at a high risk of injury as they may attempt to crawl through the door and get stuck or injured. If your backyard has a swimming pool or other dangerous items purchasing an electronic dog door is the best way to increase safety. The dog door will then open only when the dog approaches, keeping your child safely inside the home.