Doggy Doors –Installing & Getting Your Dog to Use It!

by Bonnie Durtnall

Doggy doors are one way of keeping your house peaceful and your dog content. If you install one, your pet can go in and out when he or she needs to. It means you can stay inside, working or taking care of business while your dog does his or hers. Once the dog has one and knows how to use it, whining to go out will be a thing of the past.

Types

There are two basic types of doggy doors. One is the simple dog-powered operated door. It is a flap of metal, plastic or rubber. It hangs by hinges from a metal frame. You can attach it to your traditional wooden exterior door, a glass patio door or an outer wall.

It works on this principle. Your dog pushes the flap. It moves with him or her and he or she can go inside or out. The dog gains free access. He or she can enter and exit at will, although you can close it for security reasons.

Electronic dog doors serve the same function. You pet can go in-and-out. The major difference between the two types of doors is the mechanism of control. Your dog does not push it open with paws, shoulders or nose. Your canine wears a “smart” key. The door senses the key and opens. Unlike manual doors, only your pet can come in and go out.

Installing

Installing a doggy door is not difficult. You need to do the following:

• Measure the dog. Be accurate.
• Purchase the appropriate door to fit your dog. Make sure you have the appropriate tools to work with.
• Remove the door. Place it where you can cut safely and cleanly.
• Measure the door and mark where the dog is to go – remember the base of the doggy door is not level with the door’s bottom. It is about your canine’s chest height.
• Using the correct tools, cut out the shape of the doggy door.
• Install the frame. Place the hinges and hang the doggy door then replace the human door. Sealant may be necessary.

Using the Door

Your dog is not likely to know how to use the door immediately. It may take time and energy on your part. It will require dog training.

You need to go to the door. Call the dog to the flap. Order him or her to stay. Go outside, open the flap and call them through. This may not work immediately. Be patient and, when in doubt resort to other means.

If calling does not work, coax. Use a favorite toy or a treat. Lure your puppy through. Exert all the qualities you use in dog training. It may be challenging, but think of the rewards.

Once the dog is outside, play with him or her for a while. Wait while they do their thing. When it is time to go inside, reverse the process, coaxing the animal inside. Repeat the process a few times. Pin the door up to help encourage exiting and entering. When you feel the canine has “got it” drop the flap and see what happens.

The process will differ somewhat with an electronic door. The basic idea and method of dog training, however, will remain constant.

Final Comments

Over time, your pet will be zipping in and out. This will allow you to relax, knowing your pet is not waiting on your whims. The process of installation and training may be slower for some breeds than others. In the long run, your patience will be a virtue as your dog enjoys time and again controlling another aspect of his or her life. Doggie doors are truly a benefit for both you and your pet.