Dog Doors
From LoveToKnow Dogs
Dog doors come in different shapes, sizes and types of materials. Whether you have a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, a pet door exists that will work for your pooch. Dog doors can be placed in walls, windows, French doors, screen doors, wooden doors, patio doors and alongside sliding glass doors. Some doors are electronic and are operated by a computer chip or sensor in your dog's collar, while others have a flap that your dog opens or closes by simply stepping through. You can buy dog doors at your local pet store, hardware stores and online.
Why Install a Doggy Door
Dog doors are convenient for people with fenced yards. Without fences, pet doors are a bad idea. You do not want your precious pooch aimlessly wandering the neighborhood. With a pet door, your dogs can go in and out as they please. They do not have to rely on you to relieve themselves or to go outside to chase squirrels. If you work long hours, Fido will no longer be at home pacing the floor and holding his bladder. He can let himself out! When you are at home, a dog door can mean the end of the human yo-yo game, as you constantly get up and go to the door to let your pooch in and out. It can mean the end of accidents in the house and scratched walls and doors as your pet tries to tell you he needs to go.
Styles
No matter how the fence is attached to your house, a dog door exists that will work for you. These products can run as low as $25, to a staggering $1,000. The more bells and whistles a door has, the more expensive it will be. Simple doors made from plastic and operated by your pet going through it are on the low end of the spectrum. Doors made to go through walls and glass are at the high end. Electronic dog doors open when your pet, who will need to wear a special collar, approaches the door. The "key" in the collar sends a signal to the dog door. The door closes and locks after your pet goes through it.
Pick the Right Size for Your Pet
Make sure to buy a dog door that will match the size of your dog when it is fully grown. If you buy a puppy-sized door, you will spend additional time and money for several replacements as the dog grows. Also, if you have more than one dog, make sure to buy a dog door that is big enough for your largest dog. The opening should be wider than the widest part of your pet and should be tall enough for your dog to walk through. Measure from the top of the legs, as most dogs bend their head down as they go in and out of a pet door.
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