In and out of the house ALL DAY LONG. Does this describe your dog? I had a dog that loved to be outdoors and she would want to come back inside on a regular basis just to check in on everyone only to go right back outside again. Do you use sliding glass doors to let your dog outside? If your dog is anything like mine, then a dog door for sliding glass doors may be the solution for you.
What Is A Dog Door For Sliding Glass Doors?
A dog door for sliding glass doors provides an alternative way for your dog to get into and out of your home. It consists of a piece of aluminum or vinyl with a hole cut out of the bottom. This hole is then covered with a flap that is used as the dog door.
The door fits into the track of your sliding glass door and you are still able to use your door while this one is installed.
Who Is This Type Of Dog Door Good For?
A dog door for sliding glass doors works with any aluminum or vinyl sliding door, depending on which door you have and if you buy the dog door to match it.
It is good for people with medical issues who have difficulty getting up multiple times to let their dogs in and out of the house, as well as:
- Dogs with medical conditions that may cause them to urinate more frequently and so need to go out more often.
- Pups who like to go out at all hours of the day (and night).
- People who live in apartments or rental properties who can’t cut into any part of the home.
- Multiple dog homes where each dog wants to go out at different times.
- Those who are just plain tired of constantly getting up and down to let their dog in and out of the house.
What Are The Pros Of Dog Doors For Sliding Glass Doors?
Some pros of these dog doors include:
- You don’t need tools to install the doors.
- There is no need to drill or cut into any part of your house.
- Easy to install.
- The doors are easily removed if you are going away or only want it up for certain seasons or times of year.
- Your dog has the freedom to go into and out of your home as needed.
- You don’t have to constantly get up and down and open and close your door to let your dog in and out of your home.
What Are The Cons Of Dog Doors For Sliding Glass Doors?
Of course there are also cons to having this kind of dog door. These include:
- Drafts. Having a flap that your dog goes in and out of will create an influx of air going into your home.
- Some doors may not fit/seal perfectly with your door, also causing a draft into your home.
- You may not be able to lock your sliding door or you may need to make modifications in order to do so.
- Insects or other animals in your area may be able to get into your home through the door or any gaps.
- Training your dog to go through the door will need to be done.
Tips When Buying These Dog Doors
- Make sure to measure the space for the door correctly. The manufacturer will give directions on how to do so. Generally, measure from the top of the frame to the inside track of your sliding door.
- Measure your dog’s height and width to be sure they can fit through the dog door.
- Watch videos online on how to install it before you buy to see if it is doable for you.
- Take into account any issues your dog may have walking through the door (height, vision problems, etc).
- Consider how much space you will have to walk through the opening of your sliding door once the dog door is installed. Is this enough for you? Do you barbecue and need to bring plates of food into and out of this opening?
- Check the return policy in case it doesn’t fit and you need to return or exchange for another size.
Here are some of the best dog doors for sliding glass doors. Each have their own pros and cons. It is up to you to decide what you will accept or not from your dog door.
I have also included an alternative budget option if you don’t want to invest in the whole door piece and don’t mind cutting your screen.
Best Splurge Dog Door For Sliding Glass Doors
Endura Flap Dog Door
Features:
- Available in 3 sizes: 77.5 x 80”, 75 x 77.5”, 93.5 x 96”.
- Comes with the option of 4 different flap sizes: small (6 x 11”), medium (8 x 15”), large (10 x 19”), X-large (12 x 23”).
- Aluminum or vinyl frame.
- Frame comes in 3 colors: dark bronze, white, and brushed aluminum.
- Protects against wind up to 59 mph.
- Protects from temperatures as low as -40 degrees F.
- Flap has magnets on 3 sides which are adjustable so you can determine how strong you want the flap to be.
- Can be installed without tools.
- Has a security cover to lock the flap at night.
- Made in the USA.
Pros:
- Well made.
- Keeps cold air out of the house.
Cons:
- Price.
- Magnets are very strong.
- There isn’t a way to lock the sliding door.
Best Mid-Range Dog Door For Sliding Glass Doors
Ideal Pet Products Pet Patio Door
Features:
- Available in aluminum and vinyl options.
- 77 ⅝ – 80 ⅜”
- Comes in 2 colors: white or satin silver
- Vinyl flap in 3 sizes: small: 5 x 7″, medium: 7×11.25”, x-large: 10 1/2 x 15″
- There is a cover to lock the dog door when not in use.
- No tools required to install.
Pros:
- Easy to install.
- Sturdy.
Cons:
- Too big for some doors and it needed to be cut down to fit in the space.
Best Alternative Dog Door
PETLESO Dog Door For Screen Door
Features:
- Available in 3 sizes: small: 8.25 x 10.5”, medium: 11 x 13” and large: 12 x 13.5”.
- Magnetic closure.
- Lockable.
- Anti-scratch mesh screen.
- Replacement doors sold separately.
Pros:
- Easy to install.
Cons:
- Door warps in direct sunlight.
- Screws to install it are small and hard to work with.
- Door comes off if your dog goes through it too fast / hard.
Having your dog constantly wanting to go in and out of the house can be a pain, but it doesn’t have to be. These dog doors can give your dog the freedom to come and go as they please without you having to constantly get up and down to let them in and out all day.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.