As a dog owner, you know how important it is to give your dog the freedom to go outside when they need. For a long time, traditional flap-style dog doors have served this purpose fairly well. But the main problem is they can allow any animal into your house – even a determined intruder!

That’s where smart dog doors come in. These high-tech pet doors use microchip recognition, collar tags, or app controls to let only your dog in and out—while keeping unwanted animals and intruders out. They also keep in the warmth, and keep out the wind, rain and cold.

So if you’re tired of constantly opening the door for your dog, or you’re frequently away from home, or you just want a safer, more convenient way to let your dog enjoy the outdoors, a smart dog door might be perfect for you.

In this guide, we’ll cover how they work, their benefits, installation tips, and how to choose the right one for your home. We’ll then look at the top 5 smart dog doors for your consideration. So let’s dive in and explore how this great new technology can make life easier for both you and your dog.

A smart dog door is a high-tech pet door that allows your dog to enter and exit your home while keeping unwanted animals out. They are equipped with mechanisms that allow only authorized pets to use them. They do this by way of unique identifiers such as microchip recognition, collar tags, or even apps on your phone. 

Unlike conventional flap doors, smart dog doors can:

• Restrict access to authorized pets only.
• Integrate with smart home systems for remote monitoring and control.
• Provide customizable settings for schedules and permissions.

These doors are designed to offer your pet autonomy while giving you peace of mind regarding their safety and the security of your home.

The best doors also have weatherproof seals and insulation to prevent drafts, keeping your home comfortable year-round.

Smart dog doors utilize various technologies to manage your pet’s access:

Microchip Recognition

Many smart dog doors are equipped with microchip readers that detect your dog’s existing identification microchip. When your dog approaches the door, the sensor reads the microchip and grants access if it’s an authorized ID. This method eliminates the need for your dog to wear additional accessories. 

App Integration

Advanced smart dog doors connect to your home’s Wi-Fi network, enabling you to control and monitor the door remotely through a smartphone app. Features may include:

• Real-time notifications when your dog uses the door.
• Remote locking and unlocking capabilities.
• Setting specific access schedules to restrict use during certain times.

RFID Collar Tags

Some systems use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, where your dog wears a collar with an RFID tag. The door’s sensor detects the unique signal from the tag, allowing entry only to pets with recognized tags. This ensures that stray animals cannot enter your home.

For instance, the PetSafe Smart Door allows your dog to go outside and come back in when the door is activated via their unique collar key. It allows entry for up to 5 pets – as long as they are wearing their own collar key – making it perfect for multi-pet households.

Investing in a smart dog door offers numerous advantages:

1. Enhanced Security

By restricting access to only your pets, smart dog doors prevent stray animals or potential intruders from entering your home. This controlled access is a significant upgrade from traditional dog doors.

2. Convenience

Smart dog doors eliminate the need for you to manually let your dog in and out. Whether you’re at work or busy with household tasks, your dog can move freely, reducing stress for both you and your pet.

3. Great For Your Dog

A smart dog door gives your dog the freedom to go outside whenever they need, reducing stress and boredom. With automatic access, they can enjoy fresh air, exercise, and bathroom breaks on their own schedule—this is especially helpful for high-energy dogs and senior dogs. A smart dog door can also help a dog who suffers from separation anxiety. (You may want to read our guide on How To Help A Dog With Separation Anxiety).

4. Energy Efficiency

Many smart dog doors are designed with insulated flaps and secure sealing mechanisms to prevent drafts, helping to maintain your home’s temperature and reduce energy costs.

5. Customization

With app-controlled models, you can set specific permissions for each pet, create schedules, and receive usage notifications, allowing for a tailored experience that suits your household’s needs.

Installing a smart dog door can be a do-it-yourself (DIY) project, but it depends on the type of door and your handyman skills. Many models are designed for easy DIY installation in standard doors and come with detailed instructions and templates.

So if you’re comfortable using basic tools like a drill, jigsaw, and screwdriver, you can likely install one yourself in a couple of hours.

If, however, you want to install your smart dog door in a sliding glass door or a wall, then it’s best to consult a professional.

If you are ready to do it yourself, then here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Measure Your Dog To Determine The Size Of Door You Need

Accurate measurements are crucial to ensure the door fits your dog comfortably. So before you purchase your smart dog door, make sure your dog is standing, then measure their width and height, adding a couple of inches to each measurement to determine the appropriate door size.

2. Choose the Right Location

Select a location that is easily accessible for your dog and convenient for you. Most smart dog doors are installed into an exterior door leading to a fenced yard or secure outside area.

Ensure there are no obstacles on either side of the chosen location that could hinder your dog’s movement.

3. Gather Necessary Tools

Depending on the door model and installation surface, you may need:

• Drill
• Jigsaw
• Screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Caulk or weatherproof sealant

4. Follow Manufacturer Instructions

Each smart dog door comes with specific installation guidelines. It’s essential to:

• Use the provided template to mark the cutting area.
• Cut the opening carefully, following the outlined dimensions – drill a hole at each corner and then use a jigsaw to cut along the lines.
• Remove the cut out section and then smooth the edges of the opening with sandpaper.
• Install the door frame securely with the screws and fittings provided, ensuring it’s level and properly aligned.
• Seal any gaps with caulk to prevent drafts and moisture intrusion.

5. Test the Door

Before finalizing the installation:

• Test the door’s functionality to ensure it opens and closes correctly.
• Check the sensor’s responsiveness with your dog’s microchip or RFID tag.
• Ensure the app connectivity (if applicable) is stable and operational.

Introducing your dog to a new smart door requires patience and positive reinforcement. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition:

1. Familiarization

Allow your dog to explore the door while it’s propped open. Encourage them to pass through using treats and praise, helping them associate the door with positive experiences.

2. Gradual Introduction

Once your dog is comfortable, activate the door’s locking mechanism. Encourage your dog to approach the door wearing their microchip or collar tag, allowing them to see how it operates.

3. Positive Reinforcement

Reward your dog each time they successfully use the door. Consistent praise and treats will reinforce the behavior.

4. Monitor Usage

Initially, supervise your dog’s use of the door to ensure they understand how it functions. Make any necessary adjustments to the settings to accommodate their learning process.

Choosing the right smart dog door can enhance your pet’s freedom and your own quality of life! So here are our recommendations for the five top-rated smart dog door for you to consider:

The High Tech Pet Power Pet Electronic Dog Door uses an ultrasonic collar to detect your dog’s approach, opening automatically for hands-free access. 

Pros:

• Automatic Operation: Utilizes an ultrasonic collar to grant your dog secure access.

• Weatherproof Design: Features an airtight, weatherproof seal to maintain home insulation and energy efficiency.

• Enhanced Security: The auto-locking mechanism prevents unauthorized entry, keeping stray animals out.

• Sturdy Construction: Built with a robust frame and durable materials, ensuring longevity and reliability.

• Pet Safety: The door panel weighs under 2 lbs and closes gently using gravity, making it safe for pets.

• Easy Installation: Designed for straightforward setup, allowing pet owners to install it without professional assistance.

Cons:

• Higher entry price than some other smart dog doors.

Our next choice is the PetSafe Electronic Smart Door which gives your dog secure, key-controlled access with a programmable SmartKey.

Pros:

• Selective Entry and Exit: Utilizes a programmable SmartKey attached to your pet’s collar, ensuring only authorized pets can access your home.
• Durable Construction: Made from robust materials that resist wear and tear, ensuring longevity.
• Multiple Pet Compatibility: Supports up to five SmartKeys, making it suitable for multi-pet households.
• Energy Efficiency: Features weather-resistant sealing and an automatic locking mechanism to prevent drafts and conserve energy.
• Easy Installation: Designed for straightforward installation in standard doors, with clear instructions provided.
• Battery Operated: Operates on battery power, eliminating the need for wiring and allowing flexible placement.

Cons:

• Collar Key Size: The SmartKey may be a little bulky for very small dogs.
• Learning Curve: Some pets may require time and training to become accustomed to the door’s operation.

The PetSafe App-Controlled Smart Pet Door gives you  dog secure, key-controlled access with a programmable SmartKey.

Pros:

• App-Enabled Control: Manage your pet’s access remotely through the My PetSafe® app, allowing you to lock or unlock the door and set individual schedules for multiple pets.
• Selective Entry and Exit: The door uses a Pet Door Key attached to your dog’s collar, ensuring only authorized pets can enter or exit.
• Real-Time Notifications: Receive updates on your pet’s comings and goings, door lock status, and battery life directly to your smartphone.
• Weatherproof and Energy-Efficient: Features dynamic weather sealing and a multi-point locking mechanism to prevent drafts and maintain energy efficiency.
• Multiple Pet Management: Supports multiple pets, with the ability to purchase additional Pet Door Keys and set individual schedules for each pet.
• Versatile Installation Options: Available in Medium and Large sizes, it’s suitable for various door or wall installations.
• Dual Power: The door is powered by batteries when you buy it –  or you can buy an optional wall adapter to run it from a power outlet.

Cons:

• Battery Dependency: Some users have noted that the door requires battery replacement every 6-10 months.
• Learning Curve for Pets: Pets may need time to adjust to the door’s operation, as they must wait for the door to recognize the key before it unlocks.

The SureFlap Microchip Pet Door is a sturdy choice that is easy to install in an exterior door. It uses your dog’s microchip to grant access. Alternatively, you can purchase a Smart tag to attach to your dog’s collar.

Pros:

• Selective Entry: Utilizes your pet’s existing microchip to allow access, preventing unwanted animals from entering your home.

• Ease of Installation: Designed for straightforward installation with clear instructions, making it accessible for most DIY enthusiasts.

• Curfew Mode: Features a programmable curfew timer, enabling you to control when your pet can enter or exit, enhancing security and routine management.

• Battery-Powered Convenience: Operates on batteries, eliminating the need for wiring, and allowing flexible placement.

• Sturdy Construction: Built with durable materials to withstand regular use and provide longevity.

• Prevents Intrusions: Effectively keeps out stray animals and pests, ensuring only your pet has access.

Cons:

• Noise Concerns: Some pets may be startled by the clicking sound of the locking mechanism, requiring a short period of adjustment for them to be comfortable with it.

• Cost Considerations: The initial investment is higher compared to standard pet doors, which may be a factor for budget-conscious pet owners.

The PlexiDor Electronic Pet Door is a top-of-the-range door that has the smoothest door operation out there. It uses a collar key to grant access to your dog and comes with a 5 year warranty.

Pros:

• Secure Access: Utilizing RFID technology, it ensures that only pets wearing the programmed collar key tags can enter, keeping out unwanted animals.

• Low Maintenance Collar Tags: The water-resistant collar key tags are lightweight and do not require battery replacements, offering convenience and reliability.

• Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials, this pet door is designed to withstand regular use and various weather conditions.

• Energy Efficiency: The door features effective weather sealing, helping to maintain your home’s insulation and reduce energy costs.

• Comprehensive Warranty: The product comes with a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind and assurance of quality.

• Responsive Customer Service: Users have praised the company’s customer support for being helpful and responsive to inquiries and issues.

Cons:

• High Cost: Some customers find the price point to be higher compared to other pet doors on the market.

• Wall Mount: This door fits into a wall, so may be challenging to fit by yourself.
  

Hopefully, you can see that a smart dog door is a real game-changer for dog owners, offering security, convenience, and peace of mind. They also make life easier for you while giving your dog the freedom to come and go safely. We hope this guide has answered your questions and given you the advice you needed.