Dog Door Sizes: A Guide to Selecting the Right Fit

Posted on Aug 29th, 2023.

Welcoming a furry friend into your home is a joyous experience, but it also comes with a few logistical considerations, especially when it comes to dog door sizes. 

As your trusted partner in pet door installation, Furry Friends Pet Doors understands that providing your canine companion with the freedom to come and go is essential for their well-being. 

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the nuances of selecting the perfect dog door size for your four-legged family member.

Read on!

The Importance of Dog Door Sizes

Imagine the dog door as a gateway to a world of possibilities for your canine companion. A properly sized dog door grants your dog the freedom to move in and out with ease, facilitating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. When the door is sized correctly, your dog can come and go without restrictions, allowing them to explore, play, and enjoy the outdoors as they desire.

The Pitfalls of Incorrect Dog Door Sizing

Choosing a dog door that's too small can lead to a host of complications that impact both your dog's quality of life and your own. Here's what could happen if the dog door size isn't right:

• Restricted Movement: A door that's too small can create a cramped passage, making it uncomfortable for your dog to move through. This restriction can cause frustration and even deter your dog from using the door altogether.
• Physical Discomfort: Squeezing through a tight opening can cause physical discomfort for your dog, potentially leading to joint strain or injuries over time.
• Hesitation and Anxiety: Dogs are sensitive to their surroundings. If a dog door feels intimidating due to its size, your dog might hesitate to use it, leading to anxiety and a reluctance to go outdoors.
• Accidents Indoors: An undersized door might result in your dog not being able to make it outside in time for bathroom breaks, causing indoor accidents that can be frustrating for both you and your pet.
• Avoidance Behavior: Dogs are creatures of habit. If they encounter discomfort using the dog door, they might start avoiding it altogether, missing out on the outdoor experiences they crave.

The Perfect Fit for a Happy and Healthy Canine

On the flip side, selecting the right dog door size sets the stage for a harmonious coexistence between your dog and the pet door. A door that matches your dog's size and dimensions provides them with the freedom to engage in natural behaviors, whether it's chasing a ball, exploring the yard, or simply basking in the sunlight.

When your dog has ample room to move through the door comfortably, they're more likely to embrace the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This, in turn, contributes to their mental and physical well-being, as they can engage in activities that keep them mentally stimulated and physically active.

The Benefits of Pet Doors

Pet doors are essential for your dog well-being. They offer a multitude of benefits beyond just convenience. 

Here are a few ways pet doors contribute to the well-being of both your dog and your household:

• Physical Exercise: Regular outdoor access allows dogs to stretch their legs, exercise, and maintain a healthy weight.
• Mental Stimulation: Exploring the outdoors stimulates a dog's senses, keeping them mentally engaged and happy.
• Elimination: Timely access to the outdoors means no more accidents indoors, leading to a cleaner living space.
• Reduced Boredom: Dogs left indoors for long periods can become bored and anxious. A pet door keeps them occupied and content.
• Freedom: Your dog won't have to rely on your schedule for bathroom breaks or playtime, granting them autonomy.

Choosing the Right Dog Door Size

Selecting the appropriate dog door size is a task that requires careful consideration. Here's how to ensure you make the right choice:

1. Measure Your Dog

Measure your dog's height from the floor to their shoulders, and their width from shoulder to shoulder. These measurements will help you determine the minimum width and height the door opening should be.

2. Consider Potential Growth

If you have a growing puppy, consider their potential adult size, considering the average height and width of your dog's breed. Opting for a slightly larger door can accommodate their growth.

3. Choose the Right Size by Breed

Different breeds come in varying sizes. Research the average height and width of your dog's breed to make an informed decision. Explore our size chart for some general size recommendations.

4. Account for Mobility

If your dog is elderly or has mobility issues, a slightly lower door might be more accessible for them.

Furry Friends Pet Doors Size Guide

At Furry Friends Pet Doors, we recognize that every dog is unique. That's why we offer a range of 12 different standard dog door sizes to suit a variety of breeds and preferences. In addition to our standard sizes, we also provide customized pet doors tailored to your dog's specific dimensions.

Our pet door frames are crafted from a special aluminum that's stronger than steel, ensuring durability and security. We offer pet doors that can be installed through walls, along with security doors featuring a flexible and bulletproof polymer pin lock. This ensures that larger pet doors are not only secure but impenetrable.

Our noncorrosive magnets keep the vinyl flaps in place when not in use, maintaining insulation and protecting against the elements. Around the edges of both frames, you'll find insect protection, so unwanted visitors stay out.

It's worth noting that our pet doors are not only designed for your pet's comfort but also for your security. Our doors are designed to prevent unauthorized access, boasting a 5-year warranty for added peace of mind. In case the flaps wear out over time, we offer free replacements to keep your pet door functioning optimally.

Conclusion

Choosing the right dog door size is a decision that directly impacts your dog's comfort and happiness. As the go-to source for premium pet doors, Furry Friends Pet Doors is dedicated to providing solutions that enhance your dog's quality of life while complementing your home.

To discuss the perfect dog door size for your furry friend or to explore our range of pet doors, get in touch with us at (770) 905-0689 or via email at [email protected]. We're here to ensure your pet's well-being and offer solutions that seamlessly integrate into your home.