6 Reasons to Buy a Smart Pet Door For Your Dog Today

Written by Kaleigh Moore
Updated: July 14, 2023
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A Smart Pet Door can be a game-changer for you and your dog. Finding ways to simplify our lives is crucial in an increasingly busy world. A smart pet door offers your canine companion the freedom to move in and out as they please while giving you peace of mind.

Imagine no more rushing home to let your dog out, even when the weather is uncooperative. The advantages of a smart pet door extend beyond mere convenience. With advanced security features and customizable access options, these doors cater to your lifestyle and your pet’s requirements.

So, why hesitate? This article delves into six persuasive reasons to buy a smart pet door for your dog today. Keep reading as we uncover how this minor upgrade can transform your and your pet’s interaction with your home, enhancing life for both parties.

What Is A Smart Pet Door?

A smart pet door typically uses technology to grant dogs or cats access in or out of your home. Equipped with advanced features, these doors provide convenience and security for both you and your pets.

Smart pet doors mainly rely on Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. They detect signals from your pet’s embedded microchip or a compatible RFID collar. With automatic locking and opening features, timers, and security functions, these doors ensure only specific pets can enter or exit.

Usually battery-powered or plugged into a wall outlet, smart pet doors sense your pet’s presence through an RFID tag or microchip. They unlock when pushed open by your pet or automatically open as your pet approaches the sensor, creating a seamless experience.

Irish Terrier bursting out of flower bush.

Smart pet doors, powered by batteries or wall outlets, detect your pet’s presence using RFID tags or microchips for convenient access.

©iStock.com/Svetlana Evgrafova

Why you should get a Smart Pet Door For Your Dog?

Are you tired of constantly opening and closing the door for your furry friend? A smart pet door can be the perfect solution. Here’s why you should consider getting one for your dog.

Convenience for You and Your Dog

The percentage of homes in the US with at least one pet is astounding at 70%. By enabling them to easily transition between indoor and outdoor areas, we can improve their quality of life. Smart pet doors are a cutting-edge solution that provides convenience to pets and their owners. 

Say Goodbye to Midnight Potty Breaks

Waking up in the middle of the night to let your dog out can be exhausting and disruptive to your sleep. With a smart pet door, you can finally enjoy uninterrupted rest. By allowing your dog to come and go as they please, you are freed from the responsibility of nighttime potty breaks. Embrace a smoother routine that leaves you and your pet well-rested and content.

Grant Your Dog the Gift of Independence

Traditional pet doors can be restrictive, often necessitating manual opening and closing by pet owners. Smart pet doors, on the other hand, empower your dog with the independence to access the outdoors without relying on you. This saves you time and fosters a sense of autonomy for your canine companion. They’ll relish exploring the yard, playing, or soaking up some sunshine whenever desired.

Reduce Household Accidents and Maintain Cleanliness

One common concern for pet owners is the potential for accidents in the home. Most accidents occur when pets are locked inside or outside for extended periods. Smart pet doors address this issue by providing your dog continuous access to indoor and outdoor areas. With the freedom to move between these spaces, you’ll experience fewer accidents and enjoy a cleaner, more sanitary living environment.

Puppy beside wet area

Smart pet doors solve the problem by offering your dog unrestricted entry to both indoor and outdoor spaces.

©New Africa/Shutterstock.com

Health and Exercise Benefits

As pet guardians, our top priority is to look after the physical and emotional welfare of our cherished four-legged family members. A smart pet door does a fantastic job of ensuring they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. 

Tackling Obesity and Encouraging Exercise

A key advantage of an intelligent pet door is its potential to aid in preventing obesity and associated health problems in dogs. Indeed, regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight and decreasing the risk of conditions such as diabetes and heart issues. 

Furthermore, an intelligent pet door gives your dog access to the outdoors, allowing them to engage in physical activities whenever they desire. This freedom promotes regular exercise, which is crucial for a fit and content dog.  It also lets you know, as a pet owner, how much of time your pet spent outdoors or stayed indoors.

Alleviating Stress and Anxiety Through Outdoor Freedom

A smart pet door not only fosters physical wellness but also enhances the mental well-being of your pet. Dogs restricted indoors for extended periods may experience stress and anxiety, resulting in destructive behaviors and diminished quality of life. An American Veterinary Medical Association study revealed that dogs with outdoor access displayed fewer signs of stress and anxiety than those kept solely indoors.

Letting your dog use a smart pet door lets them relish the mental stimulation of being outside and immersed in nature. This exposure to fresh air and novel experiences can significantly decrease stress and anxiety levels in your pet.

High-speed low-angle shot capturing the exhilarating sprint of a Jack Russell Parson dog

Long periods of indoor confinement can cause stress and anxiety in dogs, leading to destructive behavior and reduced quality of life.

©Ammit Jack/Shutterstock.com

Pet Safety

Pet safety is crucial, especially when it comes to weather conditions. Extreme temperatures pose risks to your dogs. Smart pet doors offer an ideal solution for keeping them safe in hot and cold weather.

During hot days, pets can suffer from heat stroke and dehydration. Allowing indoor access helps keep them cool during the summer months. Similarly, small pets are vulnerable to cold weather, so having the freedom to move in and out of the house is essential.

Consider installing a smart pet door in your laundry room to provide a safe retreat while maintaining cleanliness. This option ensures your pet has shelter during bad weather or unexpected storms. Dogs may become frightened or injured during thunderstorms, especially when alone.

Improved Security

Improved security is a top reason to purchase a smart pet door for your dog today. With these innovative doors, you won’t have to worry about unwelcome visitors. They are only open for pets with a registered microchip or collar tag.

This feature effectively prevents other animals or intruders from entering your home. You can rest easy knowing your space is protected. Moreover, your dog will enjoy the freedom of coming and going as they please.

Additionally, specific smart pet door models offer extra security features. Lock timers allow you to set specific times for the door to be operational. Alerts notify you whenever your pet enters or leaves the house.

A peaceful scene of a German Shepherd dog enjoying a restful sleep on a cozy bed.

You can schedule lock timers to control access times and receive alerts when your pet enters or exits the house.

©Stephm2506/Shutterstock.com

Easy Installation and Integration

Easy installation and integration make smart pet doors a must-buy for your dog today. These doors are compatible with various types and sizes of doors, windows, and walls. This adaptability ensures a perfect fit in your home.

Additionally, smart pet doors integrate seamlessly with existing innovative home systems. This connection allows you to manage your pet’s access effortlessly. Experience enhanced home functionality with this feature.

The user-friendly setup process simplifies the installation experience—no need to worry about complicated instructions or time-consuming tasks. Follow a few simple steps, and your smart pet door is ready to use.

App control adds convenience to your daily routine. A few taps on your smartphone let you monitor and control your pet’s movements. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your furry friend stays safe and secure.

Enhancing Your Home’s Resale Value

Boost your home’s resale value by investing in a smart pet door for your dog. This innovative feature instantly appeals to potential buyers, showcasing a modern, pet-friendly living space. Moreover, it sets your property apart from the competition.

A smart pet door demonstrates that you prioritize convenience and security. It allows your pets to enter and exit while keeping unwanted intruders out easily. Consequently, this advanced feature can significantly increase your home’s appeal.

Furthermore, incorporating a smart pet door highlights your commitment to a technologically advanced lifestyle. Prospective homeowners appreciate the integration of cutting-edge technology in their living spaces. As a result, this minor investment may lead to higher offers when selling your home.

A dog looking out the window.

A smart pet door showcases convenience and security, granting easy access for your pets while keeping intruders out.

©sophiecat/Shutterstock.com

Types of Smart Pet Doors for Your Dogs

Smart pet doors come in a variety of styles and materials. Choose a door to match your decor, lifestyle, and budget. Here are some popular options:

Upgrade Your Home with Wall-Mounted Doors

Wall-mounted smart pet doors offer a sturdy and secure option for your dog. Ideal for homes with shorter paths to the yard, these doors require a hole in the wall and may need professional installation or a skilled DIYer.

Classic Convenience: Door-Mounted Options

When you think of pet doors, door-mounted models likely come to mind. These popular options attach to the lower half of standard doors and are available in various styles. Ensure compatibility with your door’s material and design before installation.

Enjoy Advanced Technology with Electronic Doors

Electronic smart pet doors provide added convenience and security. These doors open and close using different mechanisms, such as chips on your dog’s collar or sensors that detect your pet’s approach. Some even allow you to program access times for extra control.

A close up photo of a doxiepoo puppy

These doors use various mechanisms like collar chips or sensors to open and close, offering control over your pet’s access.

©iStock.com/Wirestock

Elegant Solutions: Sliding Glass Doors

For homes with patio doors, sliding glass pet doors offer an attractive solution. Installed into partially open patio doors, these models typically don’t require professional installation. However, they can be more expensive due to the necessary glass panel for the door track.

How to Choose the Best Smart pet door for your dog

DIY or Professional Installation

Choosing the best smart pet door for your dog involves considering installation options. DIY or professional installation can make a significant difference in both appearance and functionality. It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of each method to ensure a secure, visually appealing, and long-lasting pet door solution.

Firstly, consider the risks of DIY installation. Inexperience may lead to damaging your home and reducing its value. On the other hand, professional installation guarantees a polished result, preserving your investment. Additionally, professionals ensure optimal security by avoiding incorrect installation that could compromise safety. Opting for professional installation provides peace of mind with a secure, weatherproof, well-executed smart pet door.

Location

While doggie doors typically open to a yard, limiting yourself to that option is unnecessary. For instance, a laundry door can restrict access and minimize excited dogs in main living areas.

Pet doors can be installed in various spots like windows, sliding doors, timber doors, glass doors, and security screen doors. A double-door installation allows access through both security and timber doors simultaneously. Consider bedroom doors, back doors, or bathroom windows as potential installation locations.

Location plays a critical role in picking the ideal smart pet door. Examine different options to find the perfect solution for your home. Choose a spot that provides convenience and safety for you and your pet.

Border Collie breed dog sitting in a peaceful garden setting

Pet doors can be installed in windows, sliding doors, timber doors, glass doors, and security screen doors, offering flexibility and convenience.

©Olga Aniven/Shutterstock.com

Options for Non-Permanent Pet Doors for Renters

Renters can benefit from smart choices that avoid lasting alterations to their homes. Let’s explore some excellent solutions for your dog.

  • Consider pet doors for sliding screen doors. These provide a semi-permanent, removable option that won’t break the bank. They’re easy to install and remove, ensuring your rental stays damage-free.
  • Another great option is installing a pet door in glass windows or doors. This choice works well for renters with cats too. The best part? It’s simple to replace and leaves no permanent changes when you move out.

Your Dog’s Height

Your dog’s height is crucial in selecting the perfect smart pet door. Firstly, ensure the door is available in a size that allows your dog to pass through easily. You’ll find doors tailored for large dogs, small dogs, and those offering various sizes.

To avoid mishaps, measure your dog’s height and compare it to the door’s dimensions. This simple step ensures your dog can safely and comfortably use the smart pet door.

Ownership of the Building

Ownership of the building you live in is a significant factor when considering the installation of a smart pet door. If you own the property, you can modify entrances as needed. However, consider the restrictions and permissions required before making any changes if renting or living in a shared space.

Start by discussing your plans with the landlord or building management. Make sure to obtain written permission for door modifications before proceeding. This step will prevent potential disputes and ensure a smooth installation process.

Consider discussing your intentions with other residents or neighbors if you live in a shared space. Their input might influence the choice of smart pet door or its placement. Collaboration can lead to more seamless integration of the pet door into the shared environment.

A cute dog looking up.

Modifying entrances is usually possible, but tenants or those in shared spaces should check restrictions and obtain necessary permissions before making any changes.

©iStock.com/ablokhin

Pros and Cons of Smart Pet Doors

We cannot deny the convenience of smart pet doors. But it’s important to consider both sides before installation.

Pros of Smart Pet Doors

  • Enjoy increased pet freedom: Smart pet doors allow your furry friend to be more active, reducing boredom and the likelihood of destructive behaviors like chewing and scratching furniture.
  • Focus on your tasks: No constant interruptions to open and close the door for your pet, giving you more time for other activities.
  • Enhanced insulation: Smart pet doors offer better weather seals, ensuring improved insulation compared to traditional models.
  • Suitable for all sizes: Whether you need a large or small electronic dog door, there’s a size available for every pet.
  • Extra protection: These doors help keep unwanted wild animals and pests out of your home.

Cons of Smart Pet Doors

  • Adjustment period: Your dog may take some time to use the smart pet door.
  • Security concerns: A sizeable electronic dog door could be a potential security risk.
  • Dirt tracking: Increased freedom means a higher chance of your dog bringing mud and dirt into your home.
  • Power consumption: Smart pet doors require additional resources, as the motor needs the power to run effectively.
  • Additional costs: Installing or changing the door can involve extra expenses.
  • Warranty issues: Installing a dog door might void the manufacturer’s warranty on your door.

The benefits of convenience, freedom, and protection are compelling reasons to switch.

Embrace the Future: Upgrade to a Smart Pet Door Today

Opting for a smart pet door for your dog today paves the way for your furry family member’s more enjoyable and fulfilling life. By making this choice, you’re offering them a sense of autonomy and confidence. 

By investing in this innovative technology, pet owners can enjoy peace of mind while providing their pets with the freedom and independence they deserve. Embrace the future and unlock a world of possibilities with a smart pet door today.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Christopher Teixeira/Shutterstock.com

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