Best Electronic Dog Doors 2020 – Buyer’s Guide and Reviews

If you’re the proud owner of an adventurous pet, an electronic dog door can be the best way to allow your pet for secure access to the outside of the home without your physical existence. Quality electric pet doors for dogs come with all unique features including easy setup, weatherproof structure, impact-resistant telescopic frame, heavy-duty flaps, sliding door panel, magnetic closure and so on.

Nowadays, microchip dog doors are also available to work with a wide range of area. It is very secure, connects only recognized pet ID for proper access. Here, we have reviewed top 10 automatic doggie doors including sliding glass and electronic microchip doors.

Our team of experts even recommend models for cats that offer cost-effective solutions for small dogs. So, to make your best decision to read all product reviews with helpful buying guide we put together about best electronic dog doors.

Top 10 Best Electronic Dog Doors in 2020 – Comparisons

10 Electronic Dog Door in 2020 – Reviews

1. Our Top Pick – PetSafe Electronic Dog Door Review

Top Pick

PetSafe Electronic SmartDoor Dog and Cat

It offers 3 programmable modes: automatic, locked and unlocked, collar activated with smart key

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PetSafe’s Electronic SmartDoor is one of the most popular electronic dog doors you can buy online. It is easy to install; offers automated access for your pooch and comes with everything you need to operate. The automatic door package provides you the SmartKey pet tag which allows your pet special access to this entry and exit portal.

This automatic door comes with completely programmable functions which use radio-frequency technology. It provides selective entering and existing facilities with automatic locking functionality. It can also read all distinctive signals of SmartKey which worn on the pet’s collar and activates the battery power-driven flap to unlock.

The good thing is that this electronic dog door can be installed on any door whatever its thickness or length. If the door is unusually thick, you can purchase tunnel extensions to adjust it. Since the door is battery operated, so you don’t need to worry about increasing your electric consumption. It is also available as a wall installation kit, and you can use it if don’t want to put in your door.

Many pet proprietors looking to buy this electronic smart door as their first choice due to its low price, double size options, and available install kit. This model offers multiple size options which allow you to accommodate any pet. There are five keys includes with this door which makes it enough easier for every pet. Due to its flexible design, you can install it both inside and outside.

Key Features:

• Programmable for up to 5 pets
• Radio frequencies connect with LED light indicators
• Weatherproof and 5 smart keys tags available
• Allows automated access of your pets
• Convenient for dogs and their owners
• Battery operated and power-consuming

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2. Runner Up – PetSafe Wall Entry Pet Door Review

Runner Up

PetSafe Wall Entry Pet Door for Dogs and Cats

It allows your pet to enter and exit effortlessly, without facing trouble of frequently opening the door

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The name says this door is aluminum and very effective solution for your pet needs. We have listed it as our runner up which allows dogs to go in and out without continuously having to open the door. The double-flap design features double replaceable flaps those eliminate the severe effects of weather and present high energy efficiency. The used frame is made by strong and durable aluminum ensures long-term using.

This pet door is specially designed for wall installation and easily can be installed in either interior or exterior. So, place the door anywhere you have a free inside or outside wall area or at the garage, kitchen, mudroom or anywhere. Here the double flap construction with strong magnets confirms outstanding insulation factor. Moreover, the durable aluminum frame and non-rusting locking closing panel also give your dog the freedom it deserves.

PetSafe Wall Entry is a cheap, decent and secure product in the market and available in small, medium and large-sized. Here the telescopic tunnel system sandwiches the wall and the double-flap system create a chamber that holds the cold weather instead of directly allowing inside the home. It allows using two locking panels to ensure complete protection and safety.

The installation is very easy but requires some carving knowledge as you need to cut a wall opening. In this case, you should choose a safe area on the wall without any pipes or wires. You need proper tools like a drill, cutting device, drywall saw and similar others for cutting the wall and mounting the unit. The telescoping door allows 4.75 inches to 7.25 inches thick wall for installation. Overall it is a wonderful product within the lower price range but provide the best output.

Key Features:

• Strong and durable aluminum frame
• Telescoping tunnel fits 4.75 in. – 7.25 in wall thickness
• Available two replaceable flaps provide sufficient energy efficiency
• Easy installation process
• Recommended for pets up to 40 lb

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3. Best Budget – BarksBar Original Plastic Door Review

Best Budget

BarksBar Original Plastic Dog Door

Most inexpensive dog door made of aluminum and plastic but sturdy enough to last a long time

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Though we have recommended the BarksBar as budget-friendly dog door but considering quality it comes with all top-rated materials with luxury convenient. This premium electric door keeps your pet healthy and active without having to open it ever again. It’s smooth, glossy and no option about crawling and flying insects. The magnetic closing system helps to firmly keep the door shut.

This medium-sized dog door can handle pets up to 100lbs with quick and easy access. It is also quick and easy to install within around 25 minutes and fully functional. The self-locking panel offers extra protection against the weather. The flaps and frame both are durable and the metal construction on all four sides reinforce its strength and longevity.

The locking mechanism of this door is also a legal point of consideration. The magnet flap automatically swings back and lock the door and the flap materials are also strong enough for repeated use. This is good for pet owners who are not handy and just want an easy pet door system.

It is one of the best features of electric dog door considering the low price. The stylish design match with any home decor and the weatherproof construction protects from wind, rain, water, and ice. It will not wrap very soon even under extreme temperature.

The plastic and aluminum lining ensure better durability. It is more affordable compared to other products on the market. So, it will my top recommendation if you are looking for the best dog door on a budget.

Key Features:

• Very strong and durable despite its cheap price range
• Designed with thermoplastic with aluminum lining
• Offers proper lining with its soft and flexible vinyl flaps
• Available draught-proofing magnetic flap
• Durable design and suitable for dogs up to 100lbs
• Flap Size: Height: 11.25″ – 15″, Width: 7″-10.5″
• Great value for money

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4. Best Automatic Electronic Dog Door – Solo Pet Doors Review

The solo automatic electronic pet door is an extra-large door ideal for large dogs come in 10 different sizes. It is completely automatic and manufactured in the USA by maintaining the highest quality for over 25 years. This door is absolutely safe for your pet because it closes slowly using only gravity. It also keeps your mind in peace when you stay outside because there is no chance to invade your home unwanted intruders.

This extra-large electronic dog door will release you from opening and closing the door to your dog. It becomes locked securely in the closed position for ensuring extra security. An available pet tag sensor helps to activate the pet door attach to the pet’s collar without any batteries. As it comes with 10 various sizes, so fit for the smallest to largest pets.

This high-tech pet door is fully functional and when it senses the pet tag the motor turns an elevator that winds up the cord. Same time the steel locking pin withdraws and the door highs up for the dog to pass. Again, when it needs the door to come down, definitely it unwinds from this pulley without any downward force. This Solo door is triggered by a magnet and it is very inexpensive if lost.

Solo electric door for dogs come with a one-year warranty from the date of purchasing. If you detect any manufacturer’s defects within the warranty period, they must replace your purchase without any charge. You may return your total investment within 30 days if they fail for a proper replacement. This dog door reduces accidents and helps to prevent long-term problems like bladder infections and UTIs. Pet proprietors also become tension free and happy to use the door regularly.

Key Features:

• Fully automatic door for dogs and cats opens and closes on its own
• Prevents intruders from accessing your home
• Available in 10 different sizes for your easy selection
• Triggered by a magnet and no batteries required
• Easy to install, very safe and gentle
• One-year warranty from the date of the purchasing

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5. Best Electronic Doors for Larger Dogs – PlexiDor Performance Pet Doors Review

Plexidor is the Best Electronic Door for Larger Dogs ensures the ultimate convenience and security. This door is constructed with all strong, safe and energy-efficient materials provide you total freedom. Like others, it also allows your dog to go outside as needed and makes your dog happy and healthy.

The Plexidor uses Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology, where the sensor reads the pre-programmed code to automatic open and close the door. It can detect your pet and allow solely but keep other animals outside. You can control the time how long the sliding door will remain open or close smoothly.

The composite panel moves like a mini electronic garage door and acts as a security door when not using. The waterproof collar key weighs only 0.4 ounces and sets onto the dog’s collar. It is easier to set the program for using and provides years of pleasure for both your family and pet. This large electronic door allows pets up to 125 pounds and safe even when you have babies around.

This door is extremely energy efficient saves up to 10% of the energy bill and a good choice if you can overlook the price tag. It is directly wired through your electrical system which makes the door durable and safe. Finally, you will get 5 years of limited residential warranty for this Plexidor pet door and it is genuinely manufactured in the USA.

Key Features:

• Uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology with auto-lock
• Made with very secure and durable materials
• The composite door panel automatically opens and closes
• No batteries required
• Made in the USA with 5 years warranty
• It can weigh up to 125 pounds for dogs and all cats

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6. Best Secure Electronic Dog Door – SureFlap Review

SureFlap is the best secure electronic dog door comes with a microchip and more suitable for small dogs and large cats. The Radio Frequency Identification works to read your pet’s entrenched ID microchip and allows for access. The microchip is compatible with all common types like 9, 10 or 15 digits.

You can install it on walls, windows or doors with all available accessories. This SureFlap Pet door uses 4 C non-rechargeable alkaline batteries for 12 months estimated life. The low battery indicator flashes red when comes in low. Finally, this electronic pet door would be a great gift for small dog breeds.

Key Features:

• Making safe spaces for homes for their pets
• The microchip sets on the exterior of the pet door only
• Manual lock prevents your pet from leaving or entering into the house
• It can store up to 32 pet identities in memory.
• Three years warranty

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7. Best Dog Door for Sliding Glass – PetSafe Freedom Aluminum Review

Petsafe Freedom is the Best Dog Door for Sliding Glass and it is easy to quick-install. It is not necessary to cut the walls or doors for its proper setup. In this case, you have to find out the perfect size according to your dog and room with a suitable color.

The colored flexible flap uses a magnetic closure to keep your room cold and heats the outside of the room. You can securely control the slide-in closing panel and maintain your pet’s access to the outside of the door. This sliding glass door is absolute for apartments where you can easily move it with you.

PetSafe Aluminum Sliding Glassdoor is made with weather-resistant aluminum ad shatter-resistant tempered glass. It ensures optimum security for your pets and keeps them happy and healthy.

Key Features:

• Energy-efficient, strong and durable
• Allows pet proprietors to control their pet’s access
• Easily move on and re-install
• Available variety of color and sizes
• Guaranteed quality

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8. Best Electronic Door for Medium to Large Dog Breeds – High Tech Pet Review

The motor-driven power pet doors activated by MS-4 ultrasonic collar and best for medium to large dog breeds. It comes with a directional sensing system which helps to open the door only when the pet is on a direct approach. There are 4 available ways to access the control like you can select from In Only, Out Only, Full Access or Closed & Locked.

This High-Tech pet door features a translucent, bulletproof, super-strength panel for optimum security. The air-tight panel quickly moves on upward when your pet approaches. The panel does not swing out but completely mounted for air-tight closure. The mounting arrangement prevents intruders to kick out the door.

Key Features:

• Totally wind and weather-proof
• Comes with the air-tight sealing system
• Available optional backup battery
• Contain multi-functional collar for X-10 dog fence system
• Suitable for pets up to 100lbs

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9. Best Electronic Door for Small Dogs – Dog Mate White Door Review

Dog Mate Electronic Door is best suited for small dogs and cats. It’s a stylish door designed to allow easy access for your pets. It has a safe and secure 4-way locking mechanism which completely controls your dog’s movement.

Undoubtedly it is a budget-friendly electronic dog door and very easy to install. The Dog Mate door also offers strong and sturdy locks to control your pet’s movement. Like others, it is very simple to install and operate. Otherwise, it contributes to maintain the temperature inside your home and restrict the access of germs and water.

Key Features:

• Comes with 4-way locking system and control pet’s movement
• Allows pets up to 14-inch shoulder height
• Ideal as all doors and thin panels
• Very quick and easy to install
• Very affordable pricing

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10. Best Electronic Door Collar Key – PlexiDor Performance Pet Doors Review

PlexiDor Electronic Collar Key comes with the art RFID technology where the sensor reads the code to automatically open and close the door only for pets which equipped with a pre-programmed collar key. All unauthorized pets are not allowed to access through this door. The PDE units come with double collar keys.

The collar key is completely waterproof and weighs just 0.4 ounces. The door can adjust to control how long the panel remains open or close. It is easier to program and use thoroughly. PlexiDor comes with 5 years warranty and offers a 90-day money-back guarantee for any defects.

Key Features:

• Designed with the aluminum tunnel that joins both interior and exterior frame
• Wall units can be installed up to 12 inches thick walls
• Ensures maximum energy efficiency
• Manufactured in the USA
• Offers 5-Year warranty
• Weighs dogs up to 125lb
• No batteries needed

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Things to Consider When Choosing an Electronic Dog Door

The best electric dog doors come with some special features like easy setup, used materials, safety, microchip identification, and similar others. Poor quality doors may compromise with the security and insulation of your home. So, to make the right choice, here we discussed some essential considerations when choosing a quality dog door.

Size of the Dog

The right size of your pooch is the most important things you should consider while buying an electric dog door. You should provide sufficient space for your dog to pass through the door without any trouble. So, it is vital to measure your dog’s proper size so that you can offer more passageway for easy movements.

Ideally, the door’s height should be at least 2 inches higher than the level of the dog’s shoulders. So, if you have multiple pets, then measure your tallest pooch before fixing the door size. For width measurement, again consider 2 inches to the dog’s width at the shoulder or the hips. Additionally, for a growing puppy consider the growth of your pooch and imagine how much it becomes reach. Finally, buy a door that is closest to your dog’s ideal size.

Construction Material

Most of the dog doors are made of varying materials like aluminum or plastic. Generally, aluminum products are durable and long-lasting, although some premium plastics are also adequately strong. Manual doors have a simple flap opening system, though many come with multiple flaps your dog needs to push through the flaps when wants to pass through the door. These types of doors come with a manual lock and you need to activate it manually when your dog go out or come into the house.

On the other hand, electronic dog collars automatically lock and unlocks through the smart key. There are few separate smart keys can be attached to the collar and allow for the great control over pets to access through the door. Some electric dog doors allow you to set curfew times for automatic locks at times when you are not willing to let your dog go outside.

Security

Security is another vital consideration for both pet and humans. In this case, the majority of the dog gates are too small for a human to fit through. The serious thing is to ensure that, someone can’t put their hand through the flap to find a key.

The soundless installation would be a good idea when it comes to home security. For children’s security, you should activate the lock of the dog door to prevent them from getting outside. It is quite important if you have a pool, stairs or open garden. You should also ensure the prevention of local wildlife from entering.

So, you may agree that dog doors come with a range of security features, some have just simple flap and no locking mechanism. On the other hand, others have locks with sliding panels. As we think, the electronic dog doors only open and close when pets come with unlocking collar.

Installation

Pet door installation is quite simple and even you don’t need to be a professional to do it. Normally dogs are designed to install in a regular process but some dogs are special for exterior walls. These are telescopic, need to adjust with the wall width and comes with sliding glass and windows.

So, you should consider what is the right option for you because it is really important to consider the installation type regarding your accommodation. Wall dog doors are becoming popular day by day but it required to cut the wall to set the door and need to call a professional. Sliding glass doors or windows are probably the best options if you are not willing to create a hole in the wall.

Energy Efficiency

It is one of the major considerations for pet owners who have got a dog door with increased energy costs. It should avoid installing all poor energy-efficient doors due to allowing more cold air into the room and generating a higher energy bill.

So, you should check the overall construction of the electric dog and confirm it is well-protected and gins a proper seal on the frame to stop warm or cold air to entering your home from outside. Sometimes multiple insulated flaps create an air pocket between the outdoor and home also cause of energy efficiency.

Now, some electric doors also feature extra convenience to improve energy efficiency. They come with magnetic flaps, and secure lock can also be helpful for improving energy. So, it is also important to choose a door with energy efficiency.

How Does an Electronic Dog Door Works?

Basically, electronic dog doors work in the same way as the automatic garage door. Technically, these doors operate by making communication between the two sensors on the door and your dog’s collar. When the door’s sensor receives signals from the transmitter of the doggie collar, this mechanism allows your pooch to either enter or exit through the passageway. There are different types of devices newly added with the complete electronic door system and here we will try to give you a brief explanation about some of them.

Microchip

Microchip technology sets with the collar which is worn by your dog to operate the door. When the pet with microchip comes near to the electronic door, it unlocks automatically. Some dog doors have a built-in microchip in it which you can add with the existing dog’s collar. There are huge advantages include with a microchip or smart key system mostly prevent access to unauthorized animals.

Direct Sensing System

It is not necessary to unlock the dog door every time. This system helps to open or close the door when the dog simply walks to the door. You can also modify the access control and fixed when and how the dog should use the door. For applying the limit, the door doesn’t allow your dog in or out normally and the door won’t open from the outside to keep your dog at the inside.

Remote Control

It makes easier to access the door within a large range of area even from the other side of the house. You can also set a timer so that the dog can only access the door when you want. To prevent your dog from barking outside in the midnight, you can lock the door during night hours.

Magnet

There are two available types of collar mainly works on the principle of magnetism. The first one normally pulls a lever within the door to control the access of the door. It doesn’t need any battery power to run the magnet. The other type comes with a mechanism in the door which creates a magnetic field by the collar key. Though it is a sensor need batteries to run.

Ultrasonic Waves

These microchips use high-frequency volume to make communication with the sensor of the door. Through this technology, you can simply adjust the sensitivity of the signals. Devices, those are highly sensitive produce ultrasonic signals and cover large distance whereas lowest possible settings cover a shorter distance. Generally, these come in waterproof versions and require batteries to operate.

RFID Signals

Radio Frequency Identification signals are the newest technology senses the presence of RFID-embedded devices within a particular electromagnetic field. In this case, a sensor on the door detects the signal coming from the dog’s collar. These signals can be the form of radiofrequency works within the magnetic field formed by the collar. So, RFID is the most preferred methods of allowing pooches since only those have authentic RFID information.

Common Benefits of Electric Dog Doors

Dog door installation is the preliminary step of dog owners. Normally, it seems that dog doors are nothing more than easy passageways for our pets. But these come with a number of advantages to doing so. Here we will try to include some of them.

• Provide More Comfort to Your Dog

If your pet feels pressure for urinating, it can be too much uncomfortable for him to hold it. In this case, if you stay out at work, your pooch will have to hold it off until you come back at home. A dog door always helps your dog to go to the toilet as its own necessary (a pet camera may also helpful). Additionally, a dog door provides your dog with authentic access and optimum security to come in or go out of the room for any outside activities.

• More Opportunities for Playing, Exercising and Mental Stimulation

Free access through the door means more playtime, exercise, gaming, and entertainment for your pooch. It can provide efficient mental relaxation to your pet by allowing at the outside world throughout the day. It is also important to ensure that, your yard or garden is completely secured for your pet moving. Even you can also pass your leisure with them and allow them for running, jumping or whatever they like to do.

• Reduce the Possibility of Accidents

When your beloved pet strays from home, it can be shocking for both of you. Primarily, quality dog crates can help to ensure your dog’s security but sometimes it may cause of few behavioral problems of your dogs. Modern electronic dog doors can release you from these incompatibilities. When pooches don’t have anyone to play inside the home, let them go to enjoy the outside world through the doggie door.

• Save time and diminish anxiety

In reality, you are not the doorman to your pooch. It is not only your duty to open and close the door for your dog’s access. A dog door can make the task easy by giving them access to the outdoors even while you sleep or stay outside. So, it brings superb convenience for you and saves time.

Final Verdict

The electronic dog door is an outstanding collection for a dog owner who has a proper fencing system around the yard. It saves time because most of the electronic door prevent your dog to go outside when you leave your home for the day. Even if you are at home, it also needs to make sure a well-security so that you feel free for the dog when he moves around the boundary side.

Modern electronic doors come with a microchip and can detect dogs within a certain range of area. Sliding glass doors are appreciated for their simple installation and these do not require to cut out anything from the doors or walls. So, purchase the most suitable electronic doggie door regarding your budget, accommodation, pet size and behavior to ensure safe and happy living.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the electronic dog door?
Answer: An electronic dog door allows your dog to go in and out without your concern. It helps to protect unauthorized animals to access with your fur friends.

Question: How does an electric dog door works?
Answer: There are different mechanisms for separate models. Normally, you can set a timer so that only your dog receives the permission to go out to the backyard or come into the room without your existence. Other dog doors also come with microchip for authentic detection.

Question: How many basic types of dog doors?
Answer: There are two types of dog doors are available and these are:

1. Regular dog doors: Usually, these are cheaper and have an opportunity of accessing unauthorized animals with your pet.
2. Electronic dog doors: These are quite expensive but only allow authorized dogs.

Question: How to install an electronic dog door?
Answer: The installation process may vary, based on the specific model. Such as, sliding glass doors never require to cut walls like others for installation. So, it is vital to measure your dog’s size before finalizing the door.

Question: Does a dog door safe for home?
Answer: Most of the electric dog door come with a lock or sliding facilities to ensure security. You can also set a door where only your dog can get permission to access. So, electric dog doors are highly secured for both your presence or absence.

Sources:

• Install any electronic dog door, lowes.com
• A microchip inside, en.wikipedia.org
• Pet doors, en.wikipedia.org