How to Choose the Best Pet Friendly Storm Door for Your Home
Installing a pet friendly storm door is a simple DIY project to help make you and your pet's life easier. With the freedom to easily go outside for potty breaks and play, your pet will enjoy more independence while you enjoy less scratching, whining and accidents in the house.
Learn about all the important considerations to make before purchasing a storm door pet door for your furry friend.
What to Consider Before Buying a Storm Door with a Pet Door
As you start exploring dog-friendly front door solutions, the first step is to measure the opening of your entryway, but it’s also important to measure your pet. While storm doors with built-in pet doors often have recommended weight limits included on the package, some dog breeds have wider shoulders that could make it tricky to use the doggie door — even if they’re within the weight limit.
Measure your pet’s height and width to ensure they’ll fit in the door before you buy it. If you have a puppy, you should also consider your pet’s age and their growth potential. While a standard size opening may work for most breeds, your puppy may need a bigger door in the future based on their breed.
Why You Shouldn’t Cut Your Existing Storm Door
Many homeowners buy standard storm doors and plan to install their own pet door after the fact. However, cutting your door to install a makeshift pet door can lead to leaks and will often void your warranty. Buying a Larson storm door with a doggie door will save you the hassle of a difficult DIY project, protect your warranty and give your pet more freedom — without sacrificing your home’s curb appeal. Larson pet doors also include a slide-in security panel so you can let your pet in and keep unwanted critters out.
How Your Pet’s Personality Affects Door Choice
Just like humans, our pets have different likes and dislikes, and it’s helpful to keep your pet’s personality in mind when selecting a door. If you have a reactive dog that barks at walkers, wildlife and delivery drivers, then a glass storm door with a pet door might not be the best fit. A standard storm door with a built-in pet door prevents your dog from seeing every single squirrel in your yard, while still giving them the freedom to go in and out as they please.
On the other hand, if your dog loves to bask in the sun, a fullview glass door with a pet door would be a great fit for your home. Larson Pet Fullview doors feature a doggie door with glass side panels so your pet can peek outside. If you want the same features of a pet door with the added enjoyment of a breeze, then a Pet Breeze screen door is for you. These doors conveniently let your dog out and a fresh breeze in with a puncture-resistant PetScreen® that withstands daily wear and tear from pets.
How to Train Your Pet to Use a Doggie Door in a Storm Door
While some pets pick up on using a doggie door in a storm door fairly quickly, your pet will probably need some time, training and patience as they get used to their newfound freedom. Many pets aren’t accustomed to moving door flaps or going in and out of their home on their own, so it’s important to slowly introduce them to how the door works. Positive reinforcement with praise and lots of treats is a great way to train reluctant pets on how to use the door.
A pet friendly storm door is more than just a convenience — it’s a smart upgrade that benefits both you and your four-legged family member. With the right measurements, thoughtful consideration of your pet’s habit, and a bit of training, you’ll be well on your way to a smoother daily routine and a happier home for everyone.
FAQs
What size pet door do I need for my dog?
To find the right size pet door, start by measuring your pet's width and height and confirming their weight. Larson pet doors are designed with different size pet flaps to suit a range of breeds — from small cats and to larger dogs. When selecting a door, be sure to check the weight limit and size of the pet flap to confirm it will fit your furry friend.
Are Larson pet doors secure against wild animals?
Larson pet doors are built with security in mind. Storm doors with built-in pet doors include a slide-in security panel so you can let your pet in and keep unwanted wildlife out when the dog flap isn't in use.