Perfect Dog Doors For Large Dogs In 2022
Finding the perfect dog door for large dogs takes time as you have to look around at the limited options. Most manufacturers focus on average-sized dog doors due to the available market and cost of production.
With most large dogs being powerful chewers, you need a door with well-built materials that can withstand any impact. It should also be strong enough to handle the weight and size of your furry buddy.
Good news, you don’t have to go through the tedious process of looking around for the right large dog door. We have done it all for you. Here’s your comprehensive guide to dog doors for large dogs, irrespective of your budget and dog security and comfort needs.
Types Of Dog Doors
You can choose from several dog doors depending on your needs and preferences. They include:
Door In Door
These dog doors come as a kit ready for installation in the lower portion of the door. They are often easy to set up yourself, except for glass storm doors, which might require special expertise and tools.
Avoid cutting holes in the door during installation, as it can lead to the voiding of the warranty. Instead, invest in a polished, cohesive look by choosing the doors that have in-built pet access already set up at the factory.
Through The Wall
From time to time, you may want to introduce a dog door to a wall where one doesn’t exist. Maybe you want to take advantage of the lighting or need better access to your porch. Creating a space and then installing the door on the wall is the easy way out.
While you may freak out about the prospects of the wall, most doors don’t compromise the stability of the building. However, walls thicker than the common 2×4 might need special attention.
Regular Dog Door
The standard or regular dog doors are the common ones made to fit exterior doors. There are also some designed for interior doors. Ensure you match the door type to its design; don’t use an interior design for the exterior door.
A typical regular dog door is made of a metal or plastic frame and a vinyl door flap. It can also have an additional panel for locking when needed.
Sliding Doors
These are specially designed dog doors to fit sliding doors. They are easy to install as you don’t have to make cuts or holes when fitting. Instead, you place it in the space between the wall and the door.
Most sliding doors have flexible flaps like regular ones, with some also having lock panels.
Screen Doors And Porches, Dog Doors
Screen doors and porches are designed to fit in the screened-in style of the door. They are a little hard to choose the right one as you have to find the best design without compromising on being rigid enough to hold big dogs.
Style doors are some of the most efficient screen and porch doors. They allow for easy in and out of the dog’s passage and often have magnets to keep the door locked after use.
Factors To Consider When Buying An Extra Large Dog Door
With limited top-quality options available on the market, choosing a dog door for your large dog can be time-consuming. Here are some factors you need to consider to save time and energy.
1. Locking Mechanism And Security
The dog door you purchase is more than just securing your dog. You will sometimes need it to stop the dog from going through it. That’s why you need one with a strong locking panel.
While some dog owners go for cheaper doors to save money, most tend to need more adequate locking panels. This can be a risk you don’t want to take.
Your dog door should guarantee your security and that of the dog. It should effectively keep away criminals, wild animals, and other intruders.
2. The Size Of Your Dog
You need a comfortable dog door that fits your dog perfectly. Ensure you measure the dog before you order to ensure it will fit. At the same time, you must pay attention to the manufacturer’s weight and height limits directions.
Remember to get a door that leaves a little wiggle room for your dog. This way, you won’t have to worry about replacements if it adds weight.
3. Materials And Durability
Large dog doors come in a wide range of materials, including aluminum, plastic, vinyl, metal, and glass. Choose a durable material you don’t have to replace every other time. You should also go for the “chews” that can withstand stronger chewing from large dogs.
4. Location
Where you live determines the kind of dog door you purchase. Extreme climates and weather conditions require a sturdy door. Find an airtight door with some kind of seal, like a magnet. These help keep out rain, snow, or extremely hot or cold air.
5. Warranty
Most large dog doors are expensive, and a warranty guarantees the expenditure is worth it. Look for extended warranties lasting for years. The more a manufacturer believes in their product, the longer the warranty.
Best Dog Doors For Large Dogs
Here are some of the best dog doors for big doors that will prove value for money.
Best Overall – Petsafe Extreme Weather Aluminum Dog Door
A dog door that offers security and proper conditions simultaneously is definitely a win. The Petsafe extreme weather aluminum dog door also comes with a durable frame that lasts for an extended period. It has a closing panel to contain the dog whenever needed and three flaps to retain heat or for air conditioning. The 3-flap system is easy to clean and prevents snow or moisture from getting inside.
The PetSafe Extreme Weather dog door stands out for its ease of installation. It also has a paintable plastic frame for customization and all the hardware needed for installation. It’s compatible with all door types.
The PetSafe dog door is available in various sizes to cater to different dog sizes.
Pros
- Available in different sizes
- Snap-on closing panel
- Durable
- Three flaps for heat and cold protection
Con
- You might have to replace the flaps after some time.
Click here to purchase the dog door on Chewy.
Best Premium – PlexiDor Weatherproof Dog Door
The PlexiDor performance pet door is one of the most impressive choices when looking for a worthwhile large dog door. It comes with shatter-resistant plexiglass panels, which are secure and durable compared to plastic flaps. With this door, you never have to buy replacement flaps again.
The weatherproof door is designed with heavy-duty springs and hardened aluminum. It can withstand extreme abuse and frequent use, even from the most powerful dogs.
This dog door has a lock, key, and steel security panel for ultimate security. It is big enough to hold dogs weighing up to 100 pounds. You can also opt for the extra-large version, which can fit dogs up to 220 pounds.
Pros
- Multiple sizes to choose from depending on your dog’s size
- Easy to install
- Shatter-resistant panels
- Value for money
Con
- Considerably expensive
Click here to purchase the dog door on Chewy.
Best Affordable – Trixie Pet products 2-Way Locking Dog Door
Buying a large dog door does not mean you have to spend a ton of money. You can still find top-quality doors at an affordable price, as is the case with the Trixie pet products’ 2-way locking door. The door has superior features like a metal frame to keep intruders and wildlife out. It has two flaps and works perfectly to keep the room warm on cold days.
Another thing that stands out about the dog door is its long-term warranty. Unlike most dog doors in the same price range that tend to have a 1-year warranty, this one has three. It’s also easy to install, as you only need a few tools to complete the work.
Pros
- Affordable
- Long warranty
- Metal frame for durability
Con
- It does not come with magnets; however, you can always add them.
Click here to purchase the dog door on Amazon.
Best Sliding – Petsafe sliding 81-in Glass Pet Door
Are you looking for a large dog door with fuss-free installation without significant modifications to your wall? Get the Petsafe sliding 81-in glass pet door. You can install it permanently using the included hardware or temporarily without drilling or cutting your patio panel frame.
Its bronze frame is durable and can withstand various weather conditions.
This pet door is perfect for rental homes due to its ease of installation and removal. It is designed with shatter-resistant tempered glass and a magnetic closure that helps keep hot weather and cold drafts out.
Pros
- Rental friendly
- Energy efficient
- Durable
- Replacement flaps are available.
Con
- You need additional hardware for recessed sliding glass doors.
Click here to purchase the dog door on Chewy.
Best Locking Mechanism & Security – PlexiDor Performance Dog Door with Lock and Key
PlexiDor takes pride in being one of the leading extra strong dog door makers in the market, and this door lives up to their reputation. It comes with a cylinder lock and key on a steel panel, which you can lock up during long periods of non-use. The steel frame reinforces the door for solid security, making it intruder-proof.
The door can be installed into studs, cement, or brick block walls up to 12 inches thick. Its heavy-duty and highly durable springs are well hidden in the main frame, thus creating a minimalistic look.
The door comes with a unique salon-style opening, making it easy to use when the dog is coming in or out. It can withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions while maintaining the room’s temperature. Its superior energy-saving capabilities also ensure you save some money on your utility bills.
Pros
- Lock on steel plates for maximum security
- Made of anodized aluminum that can withstand high impact and adverse weather conditions.
- Resilient and durable
- Easy to clean
Con
- Quite Expensive
Click here to purchase the dog door on Amazon.
Best Value For Money – BarksBar Plastic Dog Door
If you are looking for a top-quality dog door at a reasonable price, then the BarksBar Plastic Dog Door is your best bet. It has superior features that make it chew- and bite-free making it ideal for regular use. Its plastic and aluminum construction is durable, and its minimalistic design will blend seamlessly with your decor.
The door has a vinyl flap with a magnetic closure for the dog’s comfort. Moreover, its soft, flexible flap allows your dog to go in and out of the room as it pleases. You can also opt for the removable, self-locking slide panels to protect against extreme weather and control your dog’s movement.
Pros
- Affordable
- Removable security panel
- Bite and chew proof.
- Easy to install
Con
- Weak magnetic closure strip
Click here to purchase the dog door on Chewy.
Extra-Large Dog Doors FAQs
Can a person fit through a large dog door?
Most of the extra-large dog doors are big enough that a human can fit through. While it might be good for you if you need to fix something, it can be a security concern.
Keep the premises safe by installing safety features like locking panels or microchip collars for the dogs.
You can also opt for automatic doors that only open when the dog approaches. At the same time, remember to keep the system secure for humans who need it.
Can I install my large pet door into glass?
While most large dog doors are known for fitting into walls, you can install them in glass. However, in most cases, you will need a professional to help you. Never attempt to cut the glass window or door yourself.
How do I train my dog to use the dog door?
Buying a large dog door does not guarantee your dog will start using it instantly. You have to first train them to use it. While at it, give them treats and rewards to get them more involved.
You can then determine how the dog prefers to use it, whether going in or out. Encourage their preferred method; with time, they will get used to the door and utilize it both ways.