Security Tips If You Use a Doggie Door

For pet owners who have a doggie door, home security can sometimes be a concern. After all, just about everyone has seen a movie where a robber uses someone's pet door to gain entrance to a house. This is not just a cinematic possibility. It's a real one. Any compromised lock or door can be an invitation to thieves, but by taking a few precautions when installing and choosing a doggie door, your house can remain secure, and your pets can continue to have access to the yard.

  1. Size

    • One major security concern with doggie doors is they are often so large that a small person could squeeze through. Of course, these extra large doors are designed for large dogs, so unless you have a great Dane, you probably do not even need the largest size. Many people try to accommodate the size their dog will eventually reach, and end up overestimating the size of the door needed. In fact, you only need a door wide enough so the dog can fit its shoulders through, and about the height of the dog's back. Generally, recommended weights and sizes are listed on the box, so you can figure out at the store exactly what size will be best. Remember, you can always get a slightly larger pet entrance, but without replacing the door itself, you cannot downsize.

    Placement

    • The placement of the dog door is critical because no homeowner wants to call attention to this possible method of breaking and entering. Dog doors are traditionally placed on a back door leading to a fenced-in yard, which not only makes sense for your pet, but is also safer because thieves will have to look around to find the door. If you do not have a fenced-in yard, choose a side door or other entrance that is not readily visible from the road. It is possible to find pet doors that can be installed in the wall or window as well. When installing a pet flap, make sure that you place it correctly on the door itself. One that is too high or far to one side could allow someone to stick an arm in and unlock the door. Generally, a pet flap should be in the middle of the door, about 2 inches from the bottom.

    Types

    • Perhaps the most important home security consideration for those with doogie doors is what type of device is used. There are many types of pet flaps. Though the majority of basic dog doors have some kind of lock, this is not the case for all of them, so you need to be sure of what you are buying. Most pet flaps can be set for four actions: swinging both ways, only to the outside, only to the inside and completely locked. Setting the door to only swing outward when you are not home will mean that the pet will not be able to let himself back inside, but at least you will know that your house is safe, and your dog has not left you any presents to clean up. For those who are more concerned about their pet's mobility than the cost of a dog door, there are more advanced designs available that can only be accessed by the pet itself. A device on the collar controls the door, so when your dog wants through, he can go, and the door will seal and lock after him. Large collar controlled doors generally sell for hundreds of dollars, but are well worth the peace of mind they guarantee.