Best Electronic Dog Door [For Wall or Sliding Glass Door]

A dog door can make your life a lot easier, if you have a pet that’s constantly wanting to go in and out of the house. Unfortunately traditional dog doors can also make your home vulnerable to pests or even human intruders entering your home uninvited. Finding the best Electronic pet doors solve this problem by opening only for your pet, while keeping others out.

They identify an electronic signal on your pet’s collar or in an implanted microchip. When the programmed chip comes into range of the sensor on the electronic dog door, it will allow access control for that pet.

Once you start shopping, you’ll find a wide variety of electronic pet doors with different price points, different sizes, and features like compatibility with sliding doors, so you may be wondering what is the best electronic dog door for your needs. Below are some considerations for when you’re buying an electronic dog door, and then we’ve reviewed seven options to help you find the best choice for your home.

What to Look for When Buying an Electronic Dog Door

Pet Size, Type, and Personality

When you have multiple pets in the home, buy the electronic door that’s suitable for the biggest one. Make sure that it won’t be hard for smaller pets to operate, though. If you have an old or young pet, consider any physical problems they might have using the automatic dog door. Finally, if your pet is nervous around noises or dislikes new things, make sure you choose an electronic dog door that minimizes the chance of those issues.

Construction material

Higher quality construction usually comes with a higher price tag, but can pay off over time. Consider energy efficiency and durability in the construction of your dog door, and check prices on replacement parts, if they’re available.

Security

You’ll want to be sure your new doggie door doesn’t make your home vulnerable to criminals or to neighborhood animals that might want to get at your pet’s food. Look for strong locks that can’t be broken easily. Some high-end automatic dog doors come with extra security features like metal security panels or alarms, so evaluate how much security will make you feel safe after your pet door is installed.

Installation

If you are not handy or don’t have a lot of tools, installing an electronic pet door might be more challenging than you expect. Read the instructions carefully before you order any automatic pet door . If you don’t want to install it yourself, consider hiring a professional or look into sliding glass door panel dog doors that don’t require tools to install. 

Energy Efficiency

When you cut a hole in your home, you’re bound to sacrifice some energy efficiency. However, you can minimize the loss by making sure you’ve purchased a doggie door with quality construction to protect against drafts. Some dog doors are made specifically with energy efficiency in mind, and come with additional features like double flaps or weather stripping. Depending on your climate and the location installation, investing in an energy efficient dog door can save you money in the long run.

Microchip

If you’re hoping to control access to your automatic pet door, a microchip directional sensing system automatic dog door is a great option. It can work with your pet’s implanted microchip or a key that attaches to their collar. If an animal without the pre-programmed microchip approaches, the door will not unlock, meaning your home stays safe from unwanted visitors.

Remote Controlled Electronic Dog Doors

Some electronic doggie doors allow you to control their operation from work or vacation by means of a smartphone app. This is a great option for people whose schedule might be unpredictable or who want to have a high degree of control over their pet’s location when they’re away. It can even be good for people with larger homes to save them having to lock or unlock a door on a stationary panel.

Programmable Timers

If you’re a person who wants to set time limits on when your pet can access their electronic dog door, a timer-enabled model will give you the control you’re looking for. This is best for pet owners who want to allow their pet to have access to their door at the same time every day.

Now that you have an idea of what to look for, here are some automatic pet door options to consider:

 

PetSafe Electronic SmartDoor – Collar Activated Dog and Cat Door – Small to Large dogs

This PetSafe SmartDoor – Collar Activated Dog and Cat Door is an electronic pet door that operates by unlocking when your pet comes nearby wearing the included waterproof SmartKey attached to the dog collar. After your pet pushes through the unlocked door flap, it will swing closed and automatically lock behind them. The lock on this door is meant to prevent any other animals from using the door if they don’t have the SmartKey.

Features

1. Programmable lock
2. Includes one SmartKey; extra SmartKeys can be purchased
3. Battery indicator
4. Flap dimensions: small – 5.5” x 7.875”;  – 11” x 16” for large dogs
5. Easy door installation; wall installation with conversion kit
6. Can be used with up to five pets
7. Battery operated
8. Detailed installation and troubleshooting manual included

Benefits

This door is reasonably priced compared to competitor electronic dog doors. The larger size can accommodate pets that might be too big for other electronic dog doors. The white frame and plexiglass door flap lend this item a sleek appearance which blends in with most interior design. Users recommend this product for its easy installation and operation.

Pros

1. Reasonable price
2. Waterproof SmartKey included
3. Modern, unobtrusive design
4. Accommodates up to five SmartKeys
5. Operates using standard D-cell batteries
6. Easy installation
7. 1 year limited warranty
   US-based customer service team available by phone or email

Cons

1. Noisy unlocking mechanism
2. Only two sizes – small and large
3. Unit – short battery life
4. SmartKeys too large for small pets
5. SmartKeys batteries fall out and proprietary
6. SmartKeys not durable
7. Plastic frame hinges weak and break easily
8. Not energy efficient/drafty
9. Doesn’t always function as expected

Who is this best for?

This is a good choice for homes with one to five pets. Works well for larger dogs that like to swim or often get wet, since the SmartKey is waterproof and submersible.

The MUST Know, True Facts

Metal appliances and metal doors can interfere with the radio frequency signal of the SmartKeys and cause the door not to function properly. It’s recommended to choose an installation location that is at least a few feet away in order to avoid issues with operating the PetSafe smartdoor / Electronic SmartDoor – dog Collar Activated Dog and Cat Door.

Note that the locking mechanism on this door is only designed to keep out animals other than your pet, and isn’t meant as a security device against break-ins. The large size of this door could be used by a human with little difficulty, so keep in mind your need for security when choosing this pet door over other, more secure options.

Check Carefully because… / Things To Be Aware Of /What to watch out for with this product?

This door swings closed on a hinge, which in some cases caused dogs with longer tails to get their tails caught in the door. While some other electronic dog doors have safety features to prevent the door closing on any obstruction, the PetSafe Electronic SmartDoor – Collar Activated Dog and Cat Door functions like any flap door in this respect.

The SmartKey used to activate this door was reviewers’ main source of complaint. The size is too large for smaller pets, and they’re easily damaged. The proprietary battery has a higher price than similar batteries, and they can only be purchased from PetSafe which is inconvenient.

One other problem reported by several reviewers was that this door will unlock when the SmartKey is not near the door, or conversely did not open as expected when their pet approached. They mentioned that the door takes a while to register that the SmartKey is in or out of range of the door. Since the locking mechanism was described as a “loud clunk” by some reviewers, it’s possible that this would be especially bothersome if this is installed in or near a bedroom and your pet uses it at night.

Crucial Tips

You can program the door to open for 1 to 5 SmartKeys, so it’s a smart choice for homes with several pets. You can also use this product to prevent some pets from accessing the door while allowing others to come and go using their SmartKey.

The door unit operates using standard D-cell batteries, which means you can locate it anywhere without worrying about a power source. You might consider investing in rechargeable batteries since the cost to replace them could add up over time.

Conclusion

The majority of users gave this door high marks for convenience and affordability, but there were some negative reviews of this product, especially regarding the SmartKey. It may not be the best electronic dog door for your home if your pet is sensitive to loud sounds or new experiences, since training dogs to get used to using the door can be an issue. As with any electronic pet door, you’ll also want to consider installation location carefully and measure both your installation area and your pet to make sure the size is suitable for your needs.

High Tech Pet Power Pet Electronic Pet Door

The High Tech Pet Power Pet Electronic Pet Door is suitable for pet owners who don’t mind spending a little more to get the best technology for their home. High Tech Pet is a leading name in pet-activated electronic pet doors, and they offer safety and convenience beyond most of their competitors. You can feel confident in purchasing this door since it comes with a limited lifetime warranty and US-based customer service to assist you if any issues arise.

Like most other electronic pet doors, this model opens with a special dog collar transmitter that activates the automatic door. Unlike other pet doors, this one opens automatically when your pet approaches. That means your pet does not need to push this door open, which many animals dislike. It will not touch them as they walk through.

Features

1. Auto open and close
2. Four programmable access control modes: In Only, Out Only, Full Access or Closed and Locked
3. Door or wall entry installation
4. Flap dimensions: large – 12.25” x 16”; medium – 8.25” x 10”
5. Slim, modern design
6. Energy efficient and extreme weatherproof
7. Comes with one MS-4 water resistant dog collar
8. Accommodates any pet up to 100 pounds
9. Bulletproof Lexan door

Benefits

This Electronic Pet Door comes with a lot of safety features. Like other electronic doors, it uses a proprietary sensor to be sure that animals other than your pet cannot use the door. The directional ultrasonic directional sensing system means that the door will open only when your pooch or cat approaches, but not if they are relaxing nearby or walking past the door. The sensor does not interact with electronic signals from appliances, home security systems, or other devices. You can use the MS-4 or MS-5 ultrasonic collar to operate High Tech Pet’s other pet-activated devices, such as electronic fences.

In addition, this door helps keep your home safe since it comes with an unbreakable Lexan polycarbonate door that’s stronger than other vinyl or plastic frame doors. The Pet Power Pet Electronic Pet Door also features an automatic door deadbolt lock that activates whenever the door is closed, keeping your home safe from intruders.

This automatic door also has a safeguard built in to prevent it from closing if the door encounters any obstacle. It doesn’t begin to close until your pet’s sensor is out of range, so older, slower pets can take their time entering or exiting. The door closes with gravity instead of a motor, so your pet will be safe from injury.

Pros

1. Mobile app lets you control door access when you’re away from home
2. Protects your home from other animals and humans
3. Built-in safety features
4. Directional sensor
5. Energy efficient extreme weatherproof seal
6. High-strength molded ABS composite frame
7. One year full warranty and limited lifetime warranty
8. US-based customer service team

Cons

1. Transmitter collar is too large for small pets
2. Frightening for some pets at first
3. Only two different sizes available
4. Included transmitter collar is water-resistant but not water-proof
5. Proprietary collar batteries must be purchased from High Tech Pets
6. Noisy opening and closing
7. High base price
8. Expensive accessories to customize

Who is this best for?

If you have a pooch or cat that refuses to use a traditional flap-style dog door, this might be a good solution for your home. Also if you prefer the convenience of a “smart” home, this is the best electronic dog door to match other home automation devices. 

Must Know, True Facts About the High Tech Pet Power Pet Electronic Pet Door by High Tech Pet

Due to the advanced features of this door, it naturally comes with a higher price tag than some other traditional or electronic pet doors. Users have noted that they need to replace the collar more often than they expected, and the cost can add up over time.

If you were to encounter any issues with the High Tech Pet Power Electronic Pet Door, you can rest assured that you’re covered under the High Tech Pet warranty. They will replace or repair any defective product for free for the first year, and that includes free shipping. For pet products that are returned after the first year, replacement products will be provided at a fifty percent discount off the retail price.

Check Carefully because… / Things To Be Aware Of /What to watch out for with this product?

You’ll need to consider power options when purchasing this Power Pet Electronic Pet Door. You can use the included AC adapter in a regular wall outlet, if there’s one near where you’re installing. Using only this option could cause your pet to be locked out if you lose power, so High Tech Pet also offers a rechargeable battery backup option.

You also have the option to use only battery power, giving you freedom to install this door farther away from outlets. It’s recommended that you purchase two batteries in this case, so one can be charging while the other is in use.

As with any door or wall installation, you should carefully choose and evaluate where you want to install this electronic pet door. You will need to consider electrical options to power the door, and decide if a wall or a door installation is more suitable. The product comes ready to install in a door. If you want to install this dog door in a wall, you will need to purchase a wall entry telescoping tunnel adapter separately. You’ll also need to check the wall for hidden wiring or plumbing before you start to cut it.

Crucial Tips

If your pet is not used to an electronic dog door, the sound of this door opening and closing may take some getting used to. Using treats and encouragement, most pets are able to use this door within one day.

Be aware that the signal may work differently based on the reflectiveness of the material at the base of the door. You can adjust the range control settings for inside and outside after you experiment with what works best, which should allow for ideal opening conditions. 

Conclusion

High Tech Pet Power Pet Electronic Pet Door will appeal to homeowners who like to have advanced features for their pooch, but don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on a pet door. When this door functions correctly, owners and pets adore it. There’s room for improvement with the collar transmitter. 

This product gives the pet owner total control of their pet’s access in and out of the house, while still maintaining the safety and security that they desire. Pets love the freedom to go in and out as they please, and owners love that they don’t have to spend the time and energy to open the door for their pets.

SureFlap Microchip Pet Door

This SureFlap Microchip Pet Door allows you to program your pet’s existing implanted microchip or a microchip collar so that only your cat or small pooch can use the door. It keeps wild animals and neighborhood pets locked outside while your pet comes and goes freely. It’s compatible with all common microchips.

Features

1. Can store up to 32 microchips
2. Larger size than the SureFlap cat door fits large cats and small dogs (not suitable for large dogs)
3. Compatible microchip number types: 9 digit (Avid Secure), 10 digit (FDXA) and 15 digit (FDXB)
4. Battery powered using 4 C batteries
5. Curfew mode
6. Flap dimensions 7” x 6 11/16”
7. Install in door, wall, or window
8. One RFID collar tag included
9. Low battery indicator

Benefits

One advantage of this door over alternative pet products is that you don’t need to add another transmitter to your microchipped pet’s collar. It can save money to replace batteries or lost transmitter tags, and reduces the risk of your pet being accidentally locked out if he or she loses their collar.

Curfew mode allows you to set the door to lock and unlock automatically at specific times. This is convenient for people who want to allow their pets in or out at the same time every day when they’re away from home, or while they’re asleep. 

Pros

1. Compatible with pet’s existing microchip or included RFID tag
2. Curfew mode
3. Affordable
4. Remembers registered microchips even when batteries are removed
5. Up to 12 months battery life
6. Three year warranty

Cons

1. For small pooches or cats only; no larger size available
2. Not raccoon proof
3. Trouble with scanning RFID chips in some pets
4. Drafty

Who is this best for?

Households with small, microchipped pets.

The MUST Know, True Facts

SureFlap Microchip Pet Door owners have sometimes reported that their pet’s chip failed to activate the door. Most likely this occurs because the microchip is in the pet’s neck or has migrated farther back, and isn’t in range to activate the sensor on the door. 

This product can be installed in a door, wall, or glass. Note that you’ll need to purchase additional installation accessories for walls or glass installation.

Check Carefully because… / Things To Be Aware Of /What to watch out for with this product?

If you’re considering this pet door because you have a problem with raccoons getting into your home, be aware that some reviewers said raccoons could open this door from the outside. As you’ll know if you’re familiar with them, raccoons are persistent and clever. Because of the function that allows all pets to exit, the door swings out freely without locking. That means raccoons are able to pull the door towards the outside to gain entry to some homes.

Crucial Tips

Please note that the SureFlap Microchip Pet Door design is specifically for keeping unwanted animals from entering your home, but it does not control which pets can exit. Any pet can freely leave the home through this door when it’s unlocked since there is a microchip reader on the exterior of the door only. 

This pet door wouldn’t be suitable if you’re trying to limit access for some pets while allowing others to go in and out freely. SureFlap makes another model of this door that limits both in and out access. Be careful when purchasing to make sure you get the one that suits you.

Conclusion

This is a reasonably priced electronic door that works well for most people, provided they understand then intended functionality of the door. If having a curfew mode timer is important when you consider which is the best electronic pet door for your needs, this might be the ideal choice for you.

SureFlap – Sure Petcare Microchip Cat Flap, White, Scans Pet’s ID Microchip on Entry

This door is the smaller version of the SureFlap Microchip Pet Door, intended for smaller cats only. Like other SureFlap microchip doors, it works with your pets’ existing implanted microchips or the included RFID collar to ensure that other animals cannot use this door to enter your home. It is compatible with all common microchip types.

Features

1. Uses 4 AA batteries
2. Low battery indicator
3. Install in door, wall, or window
4. Flap dimensions: 5.59”  x 5.39”
5. Two color options – white or brown
6. Locking mechanism
7. Compatible microchip number types: 9 digit (Avid Secure), 10 digit (FDXA) and 15 digit (FDXB)
8. 4-way manual lock
9. Stores up to 32 microchips

Benefits

This door can save you money over the long term since you don’t need to replace collar transmitters or worry about batteries when you use your pet’s microchip implant. It’s great for multi-cat homes since it can store up to 32 identities.

Pros

1. One button programming
2. Uses your pet’s existing RFID chip
3. Deters intruders like raccoons or possums
4. Collarless operation
5. Easy installation
6. Easy to program
7. Battery life up to one year
8. Battery operated
9. Three year warranty

Cons

1. No timer; must be programmed manually
2. No curfew mode
3. Does not come with RFID collar tags; available for purchase separately
4. Not energy efficient
5. Small opening
6. Noisy unlocking mechanism can scare pets
7. Not raccoon proof

Who is this best for?

Owners of small cats who are already microchipped. Dog owners who are looking for a door that controls entry but not exit.

Must know, true facts

Several cat owners reported that it was easy to teach their cat to go out, but more difficult to get them to come back in. One reason is that there’s a noise of the mechanism unlocking that can be frightening to pets until they get used to it.

Pets also have to get close enough to the sensor in order for it to read their microchip. For some pets, they have some trouble understanding this concept which is different for going in and going out. It may take some patience and training to get your pet to use this door consistently.

Check Carefully because… / Things To Be Aware Of /What to watch out for with this product?

This product works with all the most common types of microchips, but may not work with older RFID codes including those that begin with 000, 010, 020. We recommend checking your pet’s number to make sure it’s compatible before purchasing this product. In the case of pets without a microchip, they can use an RFID collar tag instead. You can check your pet’s microchip on the SurePet website.

Crucial Tips

Some pet owners who bought this door specifically to protect against raccoons or stray cats being able to enter their home were disappointed to find that dexterous animals are able to reach their paws in and pull the door open. This is because the lock is not designed to prevent the door opening outward, due to the selective entry design. If you are specifically looking for a product that’s raccoon-proof, this may not be the best electronic dog door for your needs.

Please note that this door comes ready to install in a door, but you’ll need to purchase a telescoping tunnel
extender for a wall entry installation, or a mounting adaptor if you’re planning to mount it in glass.

Conclusion

This product may be the best option for an electronic dog door that will only be used by small pets. It is reasonably priced and works well for most people. It requires less effort to install than other electronic dog doors, since it doesn’t need a power source and has a small profile. 

Cat Mate Elite Microchip Cat Door With Timer Control

The Cat Mate Elite Microchip Cat Door uses your pet’s existing RFID implanted microchip to allow them access to enter the door. The frame for this door has a unique LCD display and manual controls on the panel for you to change your pet’s access type. It will display the current lock status, where your pet is (in or out), and the last use time for up to three pets.

Features

1. Uses existing RFID microchip or Cat Mate ID disc (sold separately)
2. 4 way electronic lock
3. Flap dimensions: 7.0625” x 8.0625”
4. Magnetic closure
5. Controls entry via RFID but all pets can exit
6. Transparent polymer flap system
7. Programmable for up to 9 pets
8. LCD display
9. Timer function automatically locks and unlocks based on your preferred settings
10. Operates with 4 AA batteries

Benefits

This electronic pet door has several advantages that set it apart from competitors. It allows you to set a timer to control your pet’s access by keeping your pet in or out your preferred schedule. It can also show you where your pet is – inside or outside – based on the last time the pet used the door. It also displays the time of your pet’s most recent entry or exit.

Note this pet location feature works for up to three pets, although the door can be programmed for up to nine different RFID codes. This is because there is only room to show three pets on the display.

Pros

1. Easy to register microchips
2. Affordable
3. LCD display
4. Tracks up to three pets’ location (in or out only) and time of last use
5. Timer to automatically change locking mode
6. Battery operated
7. Long battery life
8. Three year warranty

Cons

1. Small opening
2. Only one size available
3. Not raccoon proof
4. Difficult to program using the LCD screen and buttons
5. Instructions are difficult to understand
6. Concerns about longevity
7. Delay to read microchip and unlock
8. Doesn’t read microchips consistently

Who is this best for?

Owners of small pets who appreciate being able to see when their pet last used the door and whether the pet is inside or outside. Dog owners who want a timer built into their pet door. Homes that don’t have raccoon issues.

Must know, true facts

Cat Mate Elite Microchip Cat Door’s timer works in tandem with the electronic locking system so you can set it and not worry about constantly locking and unlocking the door. For example, if you wanted your pets to stay inside at night you could set the timer to “In Only” at 9 PM. Once your pet entered, they would not be able to exit again until the time you set the door to unlock again.

Reviewers noted that it was somewhat difficult to program the timer because of the location of the display and buttons, and that instructions were not totally clear. This product probably best suits someone who will not change the timer frequently.

Check Carefully because… / Things To Be Aware Of /What to watch out for with this product?

Some users noted that the noise of this door unlocking can scare some pets until they get used to using it. There is a training mode that keeps the door unlocked while you teach your pet how to use the door. This can be helpful for dogs and cats that haven’t used an electronic door before.

Crucial Tips

Note that this door does not distinguish between different pets’ RFID codes or allow for programming based on code. For example, if you had an adult cat that you wanted to allow free access at any time but a younger cat that you wanted locked inside at night, there’s no way to set different limits between pets. If that’s a feature that would be important for you, be aware this door will not fulfill that need.

Conclusion

Many reviewers had an issue with the selective entry feature of this door which allows any animal to go out, but only recognized animals to come inside. It’s important to be aware that this is a design feature of several electronic dog doors, but it does seem to make the door more vulnerable to raccoons since they are easily able to pull the door open from the outside.

Overall, this is an affordable option that will appeal to homeowners who want to have the option to set a timer and have their pets’ access automatically controlled. Its LCD display and location tracking set it apart from competitors.

PetSafe Interior and Exterior Cat Door – Microchip RFID Pet Door – 4-Way Locking – Big Cat – Works With up to 40 Programmed Pets

The PetSafe Microchip RFID Pet Door gives your pet freedom to come and go, but allows you to control the access mode using the manual lock. The sensor on this door reads your pet’s existing implanted microchip, so you will not need to purchase collars or tags for your pets to operate it. If your pet does not have a microchip already, you can purchase a collar key separately from PetSafe.

Features

1. Manual 4-way locking system
2. Reads pets’ existing RFID microchips
3. Flap dimensions: 7.125” x 7.5”
4. Remembers up to 40 pets
5. For interior or exterior door installation
6. For small pets up to 17 pounds (8 kg)

Benefits

In combination with the RFID entry, you can use the manual lock for four different modes: in only, out only, in and out, or fully locked (no in or out). This might be the best electronic dog door for a home that has a large number of small pets, since it can store up to 40 RFID chips in its memory.

This door is one of the least expensive electronic pet doors available. It costs about the same as a traditional flap door.

Pros

1. Operates using existing microchip implants
2. Affordable
3. Large memory capacity for multi-pet homes
4. UV sun protection and weather-stripping
5. Operates with standard AA batteries
6. US-based customer service

Cons

1. Difficult to install
2. No size option for larger dogs
3. Door sticks open
4. Not energy efficient
5. Replacement parts not available
6. No timer or curfew mode available – only manual locking
7. Plastic frame materials are easily broken
8. Doesn’t operate consistently
9. Difficult to lock and unlock

Who is this best for?

Homes with multiple small pets that already have implanted microchips. Pets that dislike wearing collars. Pet owners who are looking for a less expensive electronic pet door option.

Must know, true facts

This PetSafe Microchip RFID Pet Door reads the most common type of implanted microchip, the FDX-B 15-digit chip ID. Some older microchips may be a different type, so be sure you double-check your pet’s microchip for compatibility before purchasing this electronic dog door.

Be aware that the sound of the lock disengaging can be confusing or frightening to some more skittish pets. This item could also read the microchip and unlock even if your pet is just walking by or relaxing nearby, which could annoy owners and pets with unnecessary noise.

Check Carefully because… / Things To Be Aware Of /What to watch out for with this product?

If you’re considering installing this pet door in a metal door, you should be aware that metal can interfere with the RFID signal or radio frequency signals!. PetSafe sells an adapter for use with metal doors. The telescoping tunnel adapter will insulate the sensor, meaning it should be able to read your pet’s RFID chip more easily.

Crucial Tips

Some homeowners who installed this door for their cats were surprised to find that their cat was able to bypass the locking mechanism by hooking their claws under the door and pulling. A dexterous animal like a raccoon could likely do the same. If the ability to firmly lock this door is important, you might consider an additional barrier such as a piece of scrap wood to cover the opening.

Conclusion

PetSafe Interior and Exterior Cat Door – Microchip RFID Pet Door – 4-Way Locking – Big Cat could be a good option for dog owners looking for an affordable RFID dog door that works with their small pets’ microchips. Aside from the low purchase price, you can also save money since there are no collars or tags to buy or maintain with this product.

On the other hand, at this low price point there are the expected issues with the quality and durability of this item. You’ll want to balance the features of this door, including possible negative points, with the priorities for you and your pet. 

 

CEESC Cat Flap Door Magnetic Pet Door with 4 Way Lock for Cats, Kitties and Kittens, 3 different Sizes and 2 Colors Options

This CEESC Cat Flap Door is the cheapest item on our list, likely because it does not have any electronic components. It’s available in three sizes and two colors. The clear flap has a magnet closure to keep it in place when your pet is not using it, and there is a 4-way manual lock so you can control your pet’s access.

Features

1. Brushed lining for quiet operation
2. Magnetic closure
3. Extreme weather resistant ABS construction
4. Flap dimensions: small/medium 6.18” x 6.30”; large 7.08” x 7.48”
5. Transparent flap system
6. Available in black or white
7. Three sizes – small, medium, and large

Benefits

Pros

1. Easy installation
2. Affordable
3. Quiet
4. Two colors and three sizes available
5. Waterproof rain seal
6. Easy to lock and unlock
7. Access control settings
8. Magnet closure keeps door in place

Cons

1. Easy for pets to force open locked doors
2. Weather stripping falls off
3. Construction quality
4. Cats can open locked door
5. No replacement parts available
6. Blows open in strong wind
7. Difficult to engage and disengage locks

Who is this best for?

Homes with cats or small dogs, where there is no concern about other animals intruding. Pet owners who don’t want to spend too much on a pet door. 

Must know, true facts

This flap door comes in three sizes, from small to large, but note that this is marketed as a cat door. Even the largest size will not accommodate dogs unless they are cat-sized or smaller, so check the listed dimensions carefully.

Unlike some other pet doors, this one doesn’t include a template for cutting a hole in your wall or door. Instead, you’re instructed to make your own from some cardboard or heavy paper. Despite this, most reviewers said this product was easy and intuitive to install. 

Check Carefully because… / Things To Be Aware Of /What to watch out for with this product?

This product comes with a weather stripping brush around the frame of the flap which is glued into place. This helps protect your home against drafts to increase energy efficiency. Unfortunately several reviewers note that the weather stripping causes some problems since it can be too stiff for pets to push open easily. The door can also get stuck in the open position.

Also, the glue that holds this weather stripping can come loose from the frame and block the door from opening or closing at all. Obviously if your pet is outside when that happens, it can be dangerous. We’d recommend using your own high-quality adhesive to get glue this material in place more firmly. Alternately, if you’re not concerned about keeping this product airtight, you could remove the weather stripping and the door flap will swing freely.

Crucial Tips

The four way lock consists of two simple tabs that can slide into place preventing the door flap system from being pushed one way or the other. So, you could allow your pet to have free access in and out, or you could choose in-only or out-only access. Finally, you can lock both sides so the door cannot be used in either direction.

Before installing this doggy door, make sure to check the included screws. A few reviewers mentioned that the screws provided to install this door were not long enough for their needs. This was true even when the installation was on an interior door.    

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a doggy for your small dog or cat without a lot of bells and whistles, this might be a good option for you. While it doesn’t provide the level of security against other animals that you’d get with an electronic doggy door, this pet door allows you several locking options.

 

Plexidor Large Wall Mount PDE Electronic Pet Door in White [Safe & Sturdy]

The sturdy construction Can handle dogs up to 125 lb

Hardened Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) panel works like an electronic garage door by sliding up and down

Super light weight Waterproof collar key weighs less than 1 oz, works without batteries and can be snap attached to dog’s collar.

Safety feature will not let it close if it’s obstructed by a Child or a dog!

Security feature: When inactive Door is always securely locked with a ¼ inch stainless steel deadbolt.

2 PDE collar keys.
1 touch programming to change 1000s of codes
Timer can be set for how long the doggy door is open

Can be Installed into
Stud,
brick,
block or
cement walls
up to 12 inches thick.

Hardened Aluminum frames with a baked on powder coated finish.
Comes in white or bronze.
Durable and scratch resistant
Made in the U.S.A.
5 years limited residential warranty.

Will not interfere with the radio frequency ranges of
wireless dog fences (underground or overground)
home security systems
or other wireless devices

Other comparable options on the market…

Solo Pet Doors Automatic Electronic Dog and Cat Door

Waterproof magnetic collar key activated door
Frame 24″ hight by 12″ width
Solo pet doors come in 10 sizes!
Made in the USA
Default to locked position automatically for safety and security of your house from intruders or invaders!

Ideal Pet Products E-Z Pass Electronic Pet Door

Dual plastic frame
RFID (Radio Frequency ID) Sensor collar access control
See through, 7″ x 9″ strong Lexan flap
Use inside or outside the house
Stress free installation

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