The idea of installing a dog door becomes increasingly attractive when you consider the benefits it offers for an active canine. Pet owners with irregular schedules, those who work unconventional hours, or simply those who cannot always attend to their dogs may find the notion of granting their pets access outside of designated times quite appealing.
While dog doors may not be the first item on your list of essential dog supplies, they offer numerous benefits and advantages. However, it’s essential to also weigh the drawbacks of installing a dog door in your home and carefully consider other aspects of this decision before making a purchase.”
1. The dog door must be properly sized for your dog
Being trapped anywhere is an unpleasant experience, but it’s even worse when there’s no one at home to help you out. Before beginning the installation process for a dog door, measure your dog’s chest width from shoulder to shoulder; this is the widest part of their body. You’ll also need to measure their height to ensure they can pass through without difficulty or awkwardness.
A dog door can offer numerous benefits for both dogs and their owners. While there are certain drawbacks to consider, as long as you’re aware of them and adequately prepare, everything should proceed smoothly.
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2. Your dog has a penchant for burrowing and escaping
In situations where you have a dog prone to digging under fences, traditional dog doors may not be the best option. Fortunately, there are dog doors available that feature a piece of plastic or metal that acts as a barrier. As long as it closes securely, you can rest assured that your dog won’t be able to climb over.
It’s important to remember that our canine companions are often more clever than we give them credit for. They observe our actions, including opening and closing pet doors, and may eventually figure out how to operate them themselves. Therefore, if you have a determined escape artist and are concerned about your dog’s ability to break free, consider locking the dog door and training your pet to refrain from digging.
3. Intruders pose a potential risk
While it’s true that intruders cannot enter your home through a dog door, a larger concern is the possibility of your pet going outside unaccompanied and being stolen.
Having the convenience of allowing your dog to go outside independently while you’re at work, without worrying about accidents or your pet holding their bladder for too long, is undoubtedly appealing. However, small dogs, in particular, are known for needing frequent breaks and unfortunately, they are also the most vulnerable to theft. However, dogs of all sizes can be at risk.
To address this issue, consider installing a monitoring system after setting up a pet door. This way, if any incidents occur, you’ll have evidence to provide to authorities. Additionally, residents in regions like Florida, where large reptiles may pose a threat to pets, especially during certain seasons, may want to reconsider installing a dog door altogether.
4. Your dog may bring unexpected items into the house through the dog door
Although dog doors are intended for canines, other animals in your household may also learn to use them. Predatory cats, in particular, are naturally skilled at finding ways around obstacles when on a hunting mission. If you have a mischievous cat, it’s advisable to collar them so you can keep track of their whereabouts, although this may not solve all your problems.
This issue can be especially problematic with cats, as they may bring small prey such as birds and squirrels into the house, which can become victims of their sharp claws. Before you know it, you may find these unfortunate creatures deposited under the couch, in the kitchen, or even under your pillow.
As for dogs, unless yours possesses the unique ability to act as a garbage compactor like some canines do, it’s not uncommon for them to bring in items they find appealing, whether it’s food or a particularly pungent toy, from the nearest trash receptacle.
5. Increased dirt accumulation is another concern.
With dogs freely entering and exiting through the dog door, especially during the winter months, a significant amount of dirt is inevitably tracked indoors. While this may not be the most pressing issue, there are several ways to address it. Consider placing floor mats both inside and outside the entrance to minimize the amount of dirt brought inside.
Another effective solution is to invest in an inexpensive dog-specific doormat, or even better, a pet-friendly carpet. While this may seem trivial, these products are specifically designed to trap dirt and debris from your dog’s paws, offering better protection than standard doormats. If the mat becomes visibly soiled, simply take it outside and shake it out, or give it a quick wash to refresh it.
6. Children may be tempted to use it.
In addition to other household members potentially utilizing the dog door, curious little ones may also be intrigued by their furry friend’s newfound exit route. However, it’s crucial to ensure that infants and toddlers are kept away from dog doors due to the various hazards they pose.
Although small children are old enough to communicate and comprehend, they may still be curious about this intriguing new contraption. It’s important to educate them about its purpose and potential dangers, emphasizing that it’s intended solely for use by dogs to prevent any accidents or injuries.
When children and pets share a home, it’s essential for everyone to become accustomed to the household rules and dynamics. Children attempting to interact with their dog through the door may inadvertently provoke a bite or injury from their pet. Therefore, patience and gradual acclimatization are key as both your child and your dog adapt to this new addition to the household.
It’s also important to consider environmental factors, such as living in regions prone to flooding like Houston, Texas, or many cities in Louisiana. In such areas, permeation issues should be taken into account when installing a dog door.
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These cautionary tales serve to ensure that everyone in the household is adequately prepared, allowing your dog to transition to using the door safely without any unexpected surprises. While your dog may not immediately take to using it, with time and patience, they should gradually become more comfortable with their personal access point.
