1. Solo Pet Doors Electronic Dog Door
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Solo Pet Doors Electronic Dog Door
Specifications
- Dimension: 10” x 8” x 4”
- Other sizes available:
- Door/Wall mount: Both
- Included pet collar:
- Weatherproof:
- Material: 2”x4” anodized aluminum tubing and LEXAN
your pets will enjoy their freedom while you will be able to control the program through the settings. You won’t have to worry about the safety of your pooch, because the door activates with a
magnetized pet tag and closes slowly and gently thanks to gravity.
Secure and Safe
Not only does it close slowly, thus giving your pet time to enter and exit with no problem, but it also can be locked in the closed position if you don’t want your dog to go out at night. You can be assured that as long as it is locked in place, there will be no intruder in your house.
Pet tag
Coming with a free pet tag sensor, it can be attached with magnets, as the pet tags are waterproof and do not require batteries. So, your dog can run and play around in all types of weather, and the tag will stay securely attached to the collar. Just to stay on the safe side, get a second pet tag, in case your pet enjoys its freedom a little bit too much and ends up losing it.
Different sizes
Available in 10 different sizes, no matter what species your dog is, it can be adapted and customized to fit your furry friend perfectly. Be sure you measure your pet correctly, as it is an important factor in determining what door size will best fit. To do so, measure from the top of your pet’s front shoulders to the floor and this will give you the proper door opening size.
PROS
- Easy to use and install
- Comes in different sizes
- Can be installed on walls or doors
CONS
- Some complained about the motor not closing the door perfectly
- There were some complaints about it not being time resistant.
Verdict
It is available in 10 different sizes, so you can easily pick the one that fits your pet size best, and it comes with a free, waterproof pet tag for your dog. Additionally, it can be locked in a closed position, so you won’t have to worry about unwanted guests during nighttime, while thanks to its silent activation, it won’t bother you when your dog uses it. Additionally, it can be installed on doors or in walls, so it’s up to you how you want to set it up.
2. Freedom Pet Pass Dog Door
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Freedom Pet Pass Dog Door
Specifications
- Dimension: 18” x 18” x 18”
- Other sizes available:
- Door/Wall mount: Both
- Included pet collar:
- Weatherproof:
- Material: Rugged, insulating, cellular PVC, and aluminum frame
Giving an
airtight and weatherproof seal to your dog-door it is a truly draft-free pet item, as it is also lab-certified for its great sealing and insulation system and it works even for
temperatures as low as -40°F or as high as 160°F. Equipped with an easy –to –use locking clear acrylic security panel, you can decide when to completely lock it and when to let your pet wander.
It is door-mounted and it was designed with the highest efficiency in mind because thanks to its 2-in-1 DoubleMap flap system, it offers you face-to-face magnets that seal around the entire perimeter. Not only are they strong and resistant, but the frame is also made of rugged and insulating cellular PVC, with a 3000X more R-factor than the aluminum used in other dog-door frames. Made to last and endure, it is a combination of elements that offer it durability and time resistance.
PROS
- Long-lasting
- Weatherproof seal
- Strong magnets
CONS
- Depending on how old your dog is, it might need some help to use the door
- Some complained about it being not time resistant
Verdict
It comes with an airtight and weatherproof seal, so you won’t have to worry about wind, rain or snow entering your house together with your dog. It can work even in extreme conditions, with the temperatures going as low as -40°F or as high as 160°F. It can also be locked from inside, thanks to the control panel it comes with, allowing you to set it up so only your dog can go inside.
3. High Tech Pet PX-2
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Specifications
- Dimension: 18” x 6” x 47”
- Other sizes available:
- Door/Wall mount: Both
- Included pet collar:
- Weatherproof:
- Material: Wind and weatherproofed ABS plastic
this vertically sliding door is activated by an MS-4 ultrasonic collar, so it will open whenever it senses the pet approach it directly. It will successfully
detect the difference between your pet just wandering around or sleeping next to the door and when it truly wishes to go out or come inside. Offering a
4-way access control, you can set it according to your preferences on ‘In Only’, ‘Out Only’, ‘Full Access’ or ‘Closed and Locked’.
While your dog will be able to come and go freely, its friends will not be allowed in. Wind and weatherproofed with an airtight seal, the automatic deadbolt locking adds a higher security level. Since it moves up and down, you can mount in an hermetically sealed groove for an even better air-tight closure. The panel comes in the size of your pet, so be sure you measure it correctly when you choose one. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the collar, as the door comes with a free MS-4 collar inside.
PROS
- Quick and easy control
- 4-way access control system
- Wind and weatherproof airtight seal
CONS
- Some complained about the short life of the batteries used to power up the collar
- There were some complains about the collar range
Verdict
A great item that offers a large customization scale whenever the comfort of you and your pet are involved, it can get a bit pricy to change the collar batteries , especially if your dog likes to wander around. However, with several functions to make up for it, it is a must-have if you wish only the best for your dog.
4. PlexiDor Medium
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Specifications
- Dimension: 13 ¾ ” x 15 ¼ ” x 12”
- Other sizes available:
- Door/Wall mount: Door
- Included pet collar:
- Weatherproof:
- Material: Dual thermo-pane hardened acrylic panels, heavy-duty aluminum frame
It is made to be installed into 1.5 -2 inches thick doors made of wood, fiberglass, steel or glass, and it comes in
4 different sizes according to your pet size and 3 different colors. Time resistant, durable and long-lasting it comes with 10 years warranty that will guarantee your investment won’t break apart too fast. Featuring durable, shatter-resistant saloon-style door panels, you can be sure there will be no cold or wind that will enter your house during the change of seasons, as it provides you only with the best
insulation.
It is lined with a high-density weather seal, and you can install it into your wall, as well, with the help of a separate conversion kit. Made for all types of dogs, all you have to do is correctly measure your pooch and chose the size that will fit it perfectly, small, medium, large or X-large. It has a SmartKey function with a key ring for your pet to be recognized as soon as it comes close.
PROS
- All size available
- Time resistant
- Easy to use and install
CONS
- Some complained about it not being tightly insulated
- There were some complaints about its overall lifespan
Verdict
It can resist time and changing weather conditions, thanks to its high-density weather seal, and it can be installed in the door or the wall, depending on your needs and preferences. It comes in 4 different sizes, so you can easily buy one that fits your dog’s size, while thanks to the SmartKey, only your dog will be able to enter the house.
5. SureFlap MicroChip Pet Door SUR101
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SureFlap MicroChip Pet Door SUR101
Specifications
- Dimension: 11.1” x 10.3” x 4.7”
- Other sizes available:
- Door/Wall mount: Door
- Included pet collar:
- Weatherproof:
- Material: Hardened ABS with insulated, UV-protected flap
It works best with your pet’s already existing microchip or by using the SureFlap RFID collar tag supplied with the product. It offers you the freedom of
adding a curfew to it by selecting the time when you want it to lock and unlock. Requiring 4 C cell batteries to work – they are not included – it can
store up to 32 different pets and collars in its memory. It comes in two sizes: small – with the opening measuring 5.5 in x 7.87 in and large 11 in x 16 in.
Moreover, be sure your pet’s shoulders are no wider than 6 and a half inches circumference of their waistline while the widest point should be no more than 20 and a quarter inches. It can programmed with only a touch of a button, and it can be installed in doors, windows, and walls. A mounting adaptor is required for glass installation while a tunnel extender may be needed for wall installations. It only has a one-way filter while there is no restriction to pets getting out and you can set it to be completely locked, or, on a timer.
PROS
- Sturdy and weather resistant
- Easy to use and install
- Able to program and customize its settings
CONS
- Some pets might not appreciate the unlocking noise it makes
- There were some complaints about it not being time resistant
Verdict
It can store up to 32 different pets in its memory, so you can rest assured that all your dogs will be able to use it. Additionally, it comes with a timer, so you can easily set it to close by itself at a specific hour, according to your needs. Moreover, it can be installed in the door or the wall, depending on your preferences, but you’ll have to make sure it fits your pet.
6. PetSafe PPA11-10711
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Specifications
- Dimension: 3.2” x 17.8” x 4”
- Other sizes available:
- Door/Wall mount: Door
- Included pet collar:
- Weatherproof:
- Material: Hardened ABS
It is a great acquisition for households with multiple pets, as it is able to store up to 5 of them in its memory. Featuring a
programmable selective entry, exit and auto-locking options, it will work wonders even in rainy conditions as it is waterproof. Only the pets wearing the SmartKey can go in and out, able to be locked down during night time, you don’t have to worry about unwanted ‘guests’. You might need to get a supplementary Wall Install Kit if you opt for a wall installation.
It also comes with 3 different colors and 4 different sizes. Using radio-frequency technology, It is able to read the signal from your pet’s collar, thus triggering the opening of the door. When your pet is no longer near the door, it will lock back into place. But be sure you measure your pet correctly, so you will buy a fitting door for it.
The opening measures 9 inches in width and 12 inches in height, its cutout is 11 and 1/2 inches in width, and 13 and 5/8 inches in height. The overall dimensions are 13 and 3/4 inches in width, and 15 and 1/4 inches in height. It comes with a 10-year warranty and a free eXtreme dog fence, and a pet grooming and massaging glove.
PROS
- Large and sturdy
- Time resistant
- Easy to use and install
CONS
- Some complained about the range of recognition sensor
- There were some complaints regarding its time resistance
Verdict
It can register up to 5 different pet tags, providing you with flexibility in case you have more than one dog. Additionally, it comes in 4 different sizes, so you can choose the one that fits your pet best. It has a programmable selective entry, exit, and auto-locking options. So, you can be sure that only the pets wearing the tags will be able to enter the house. It is also waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about rain or seasons.
7. Plexidor PDE WALL LG WH
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Specifications
- Dimension: 17.1” x 12” x 54.6”
- Other sizes available:
- Door/Wall mount: Both
- Included pet collar:
- Weatherproof:
- Material: PDE hardened ABS
It is able to fit any standard exterior house door, and it can be installed into stud, brick, block or cement exterior walls up to 12 inches thick, as well. It can accommodate dogs up to 125 pounds, and it includes an aluminum tunnel that connects the interior and the exterior frame. It is
made from PDE hardened ABS, and it measures 17.1 by 12 by 54.6 inches, and it weighs 32 pounds.
It uses RFID technology to read the pre-programmed code to automatically open and close the door for your pet as long as it wears the collar with the key – it comes with 2 keys. The door can be adjusted to control how long the panel stays open and it can be plugged into a standard, 110v household power outlet, thanks to its 6-foot long cord. The collar key is waterproof and it weighs only 0.4 pounds, thus it will not inconvenience your pet.
The door has 4 sizes, small (2-4 inches), medium (4-6 inches), large (8-10 inches) and extra-large (12-14 inches), to be able to accommodate your pet. Be sure to measure your pet correctly to choose a unit that will fit. It comes with a 5-year warranty and 90 days money back guarantee.
PROS
- Easy to use
- Several options to fit your pet
- Comes with 2 keys
CONS
- There were some complaints about it not being reliable
- Some complained about it being noisy
Verdict
It provides you with a great way to keep away stray animals and cold wind. You can easily program it to stay open, and only the pets wearing the key will be able to come and go. It comes with 2 keys, and it can be easily be plugged into a 110v outlet.
Different Types
Electronic dog doors are a great addition to anyone’s home. Not only will it make your pet happy, giving it more freedom and options for exercises and ‘bathroom breaks’, but it will benefit you too, because you will not have to interrupt your actions to open the door for your pet.
New VS Old
While traditional dog doors are still being used, their modern version is safer and more secure for your pet and your house. Since there are several wild animals that are nocturnal, thus being active while you sleep, you, surely, will want your house to be secure from sudden, unwanted visits from such animals. An electronic door offers you exactly that, as it will open only if your pet approaches it. Any other type of animal will stay out, be it friendly or not, so your sleep and security will not be compromised.
The Best One for Your House
With many Items on the market nowadays, it might be difficult to settle only on one option. Usually, the simpler the model, the simpler its use, and it works in this case, as well. While there are opinions from both sides, those who wish for a more technology-driven model and those who prefer the simple model, you have to take into account a few things when you decide to get one.
- Place. Where do you want to put it? Do you want to place it on your wall or in your door? Depending on its place, you can determine the basic measures it will have, according to the thickness of your wall or door.
- Dog race. While the place itself is quite important, you have to be sure it fits your dog. Be sure to measure your dog correctly, as you don’t want to buy a door that will not fit. To do that, measure the width of its upper shoulders and how round its chest is. Some pets, despite being from the same race, might have different conformations, so check before you buy.
Owning a Dog Door
While some might ask ‘Why would I need a dog door if I can easily open it myself?’, we assure you that by owning a dog door your life and your pet’s life will be much easier. So, if you’re not already determined to buy one, take a look at these features, it will surely make you change your mind.
- Safety. Animals have a way and tendency to get into houses uninvited. By keeping your door open for your pets to freely come and go so will other animals. And, surely, you won’t be happy with an uninvited ‘guest’ in your house all of a sudden.
- Easy access. Since your pet already has a microchip injected by the vet, for easier tracking, you can easily program the door to open only for your pet and no other. Plus, if you happen to own more than one, a dog door can be easily programmed to remember more than one pet.
- Insulated flaps. Keeping your door open, or owning a flapping dog door will not keep heat and warmth inside your house during winter, nor will it keep the rain out during the rainy season. More energy-efficient oriented, an electronic door will seal any gaps and will prevent air from passing through.
- Curfew, timers and locks. You want your pet to be able to freely roam outside, but be home by a certain time? Nothing easier, as smart dog doors, come with a way to time and program a curfew. Thus, your pet can easily go inside the house, but it will not be able to exit it after the programmed hour.
- Easy use. If you prefer to have everything controlled from your phone, you will be delighted to know that certain electronic dog doors can be monitored from your phone app. You can track how many times your pet comes and goes, thus giving you more details about its health.
If you own cats and dogs, and you don’t want to have your cat use the dog door, you can simply do so with these tricks:
- Train your kitty – teach it not to use the dog door, and let it know you do not allow such behavior.
- Use electronic doors – since the dog will the one with the chip, thus the only one to be able to open the door, your cat will not be able to escape
- Make a flapper – cats tend to be quite lazy and do not like to make an effort to get something. When your cat will try to open the flapper with its paws, the material will not move and the cat will understand it’s not for it to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
?How do I use it?
There are two types of doors – those that work with a microchip, or those that work with a collar. Install the door according to the instruction manual it comes with, place the collar, or dog tag on your dog, and set the door according to the parameters you see fit. It will recognize only the chip/collar you wish to and it will only allow the pet wearing it coming and going freely in and out of the house.
?Where can I install one?
It depends on where you wish to place it. Many come with both door and wall models, so it’s entirely up to your preferences.
?What size should I buy?
One that fits your dog. Measure your dog in height and width beforehand, and make sure you buy the right model for your dog breed. While some dogs might be able to pass even through small dog doors, others will not.
?How is the door powered?
A magnetic door requires no power source to open or close, and neither does the key. Others require batteries or AC power from a wall outlet.
?If the door has a rigid, motorized flap, can it hurt my dog?
No. Once the flap senses that something is blocking the path, it will go back up, so your dog won’t get stuck inside.
Troubleshooting
Problem |
Solution |
The door panel goes up and down nonstop |
The wire harness as well as the circuit board requires replacing. You can either do it yourself if you’re knowledgeable, or ask for professional help. |
The range is too short |
There are two main reasons this could happen. Firstly you can check the collar of your dog and replace it if necessary. Secondly, you should check and replace the main circuit board if damaged. |
Sometimes the door opens by itself |
Usually this happens when your dog passes too close to it. To prevent this from happening, reduce the range of the sensor from the door’s settings. |
The door doesn’t respond to the collar key |
Put the door on the automatic mode and check if the key had been recognized by the door. If not, program it. Reset the door’s range and try again until the door recognizes the key. Also, check the key’s and the door’s batteries and ensure they are fresh. If the condition doesn’t ameliorate, check for other electrical devices which might interfere with the door. |
The door will not lock |
Ensure the flap is completely closed and positioned correctly, before attempting to lock the door. |
Verdict
An automatic dog door will enhance both yours and your pet’s life, as you won’t have to always keep an eye on its ‘additional friends’, nor will you have to worry about the weather. Even more, you’ll have total control over your pet’s ‘outings’, allowing you to select which animals come into your home and when. While all the above-mentioned models will provide you and your pet with peace of mind, there are some which differentiate from the others through some features:
Best Overall
: Solo Pet Doors Electronic Dog Door
Regardless of what size your pet is, Solo Pet Doors’ Electronic Dog Door will surely have the right size for your furry friend. Moreover, it has a wall and a door model, so you can easily select the one that fits your house best. It also provides you with waterproof pet tags, so you don’t have to worry about your dog running in the rain, and it comes with a close-position lock, which will prevent unwanted ‘guests’ from entering your house.
Our Choice
: High Tech Pet PX-2
It provides a 4-access way, providing you with full control over how and when your pet comes and goes. Wind and weatherproof, you don’t have to worry about the elements making a mess of your house, as the door will close by itself as soon as your pet has left its vicinity. Smart, thanks to its ultrasonic system, it will detect when your pet wants to return home, or when it just wanders around. Additionally, it comes with a door and a wall version, so you can easily place it wherever you want.
Best Budget-friendly
: PetSafe PPA11-10711
If your budget won’t allow you to spend a lot of money on pet doors, fear not, as PetSafe comes to your rescue. Not compromising quality for money, it can keep in its memory up to 5 different pet tags, ensuring none of your pets will be left outside. It comes with 3 entry modes, providing you the ability to select between whenever you wish to. Additionally, there’s no reason to worry about the weather, s it is weatherproof and rainproof, ensuring your house will stay clean and dry throughout the year.
Best Budget-friendly
