How to Pick the Right-sized Dog Door

If your dog is a really large breed like a Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Great Pyrenees, or even a Mastiff, you don't really need a dog door.

Dog doors are convenient for everyone, but if they are too large or too small, then both you and your dog won't be happy with it. Changing a dog door is not only inconvenient, but it is also expensive because you have to change your entire door for that. So, to prevent incurring extra costs, here are tips on how to choose the right-sized dog door.

Please Note: When you are taking measurements, your dog needs to be standing on all fours so that you can measure him accurately.

So, for example, if the measurement between each shoulder blade is, let's say, 20 cm, then the width for your dog door should be around 22-23 cm.

Always keep an extra inch or two above your dog's back so that he does not get accidentally injured while entering and exiting the dog door.

The step-over height is the height at which the panel for the dog door is installed. If you want a higher step-over height, then you need to measure your dog from the ground till the middle of his front limbs, add an inch, and then select the height.

A higher rise is best suitable for medium- to large-sized dogs. If you have a smaller dog, then it is best if you go in for a low rise step-over height. To measure the height, all you need to do is take measurements from the ground up till his accessory carpal bone.

► When selecting the size of the dog door, especially if your dog is still a puppy, choose one that will be suitable even when he reaches his fully-grown size.

► Never choose a door that is the exact fit, that is, if your dog's shoulders and back rub on the installed panel, then do not choose it. Too large and small doors are also a bad idea.

► Always perform a cardboard check to finalize the size of your dog door. All you have to do is take your dog's measurements, cut out a door on a sturdy cardboard box, and practice with it.

► If your dog can enter and exit the cardboard door comfortably without brushing his shoulders and back on it, then you should get a door of the same specifics.

Ensure that your dog doesn't have to crouch too low while entering and exiting from the door, to prevent any strain on his back, shoulders, and neck. With the advancement in home security technology, many dog owners are opting for electronic dog doors that open and close by receiving signals from a radio identification chip, which is put on the dog's collar.

Also, remember to have the dog door installed properly and in the right location so that with time, it does not collapse or break.