Buying guide for best sliding glass doggy door
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For anyone who gets tired of letting their dog in and out when it’s time to play or go potty, a pet door makes life much easier. But instead of purchasing a new door with a cut-out for family pets, you can add one to your existing sliding glass door. The best sliding glass doggy doors provide easy access to your yard or outdoor space, so dogs can come and go on their own without dragging you away from whatever you’re doing.
Sliding glass doggy doors typically feature a sturdy frame with a flap that lets pets pass through, which can withstand even the most exuberant zoomies. The open portion of the door can be secured, though, so you don’t have to worry about raccoons or other wild animals entering your home. Some models are even automatic, sensing when your pet is near and sliding open to allow them access. Most doggy doors also feature insulation to keep the cold or heat from getting inside your home, depending on your climate.
After considering many top sliding glass doggy doors, our favorite is the PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door. It installs in one piece, making it easy to take with you if you move, and has an opening large enough for dogs weighing up to 100 pounds. The aluminum frame and shatter-resistant tempered glass also make it highly durable.
Which sliding glass doggy door is best?
PetSafe One-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door
Best Build Quality
Door Size Compatibility: 13.375” W x 75.88-80.69” H | Pet Door Opening Size: 10.25” W x 16.375” H | Installation Type: Semipermanent | Frame Material: Aluminum | Glass Type: Tempered glass
With a weather-resistant aluminum frame and shatter-resistant tempered glass, the PetSafe One-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door is one of the most durable and best-built among the models we considered. It also makes security a priority with a security lock that lets you lock your sliding door when the doggy door is in place, as well as a closing panel that allows you to control your pup’s access when necessary. Additionally, the door has a magnetic closure that helps keep cold drafts or summer heat from entering your home. The flap itself is made of UltraSeal all-weather material that also helps reduce energy loss.
This doggy door is a versatile option because it allows for two installation options, so you can opt for drilling or simply screwing the panel into place. Because it can be installed without damaging the door frame, it is ideal for apartments or rental homes because you can easily remove it and take it with you when you and your dog move. The door’s panel is also adjustable, so it can easily fit sliding door tracks ranging in height from 75.88 to 80.69 inches. It’s also suitable for installation on the right or left door.
Its opening is large enough to accommodate bigger dogs, too. Pets weighing up to 100 pounds and having a shoulder height of up to 19.5 inches can fit through the 10.25-inch-wide-by-16.375-inch-tall door, so large breed dogs like German shepherds and Labrador retrievers can easily make their way through the opening.
Ownpets Dog Screen Door
Best Value
Door Size Compatibility: 14” W x 16” H | Pet Door Opening Size: 12.2” W x 14” H | Installation Type: Semipermanent | Frame Material: ABS | Glass Type: NA
One of the most affordable models we considered, the Ownpets Dog Screen Dog gets rave reviews for its build quality, performance and overall value. It has an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic frame that is very sturdy and features reinforced screws to improve its durability. The plastic door panel also prevents your pups from scratching and damaging your screen door when they’re in a hurry to get outside.
The installation process is fairly simple because the doggy door installs directly on the screen rather than in the door. However, it does require cutting a hole in your existing screen door, so you’ll need to replace the screen if you want to remove the doggy door in the future. The simple installation also allows you to install the door in a screen window that’s low to the ground if that’s more convenient for your pets.
The door’s opening is large enough to comfortably fit most small to medium dogs, including Boston terriers and French bulldogs. Its flexible movement lets pups pass through easily and prevents damage if animals run through during a case of the zoomies. It also has a self-closing design with a built-in magnetic seal that keeps the weather and insects out after your dog passes through. It even has a lock at the side that lets you keep your pets inside at night or when you’re not home.
Endura Flap Thermo Panel Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors
Best for Cold Climates
Door Size Compatibility: 14.25” W x 74.74-77.75” H | Pet Door Opening Size: 10” W x 19” H | Installation Type: Semipermanent | Frame Material: Aluminum | Glass Type: Low-E, energy-efficient glass
For those living in colder climates, the Endura Flap Thermo Panel Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors can help keep the chill out of your home when your dog is coming and going, even during winter. It has an aluminum frame and a weather seal draft stopper that help insulate your home in temperatures as low as -40 degrees and winds up 50 miles per hour. It also features low emissivity (Low-E), energy-efficient glass that can keep your dog inside during colder months and block it from entering during warmer months to help keep your heating and cooling costs down.
The door is also easy to install, allowing you to choose from three different height options and a sliding mechanism compatible with most sliding door models. It doesn’t require drilling, but you may need a screwdriver to adjust the panel. Because you don’t have to drill into your sliding door’s frame, this doggy door is another excellent option for renters because it’s easy to remove and doesn’t involve any permanent changes to the door frame.
If you’re concerned about security issues, the door has a C-clamp lock that can keep wild animals and intruders out or your pets inside when you want to keep an eye on them. Many pet owners also appreciate that the Endura Flap doggy door is manufactured in the United States and backed by a lifetime guarantee that ensures your pup can zoom through the door for years.
Power Pet Electronic Dog Door
Best Smart Pet Door
Door Size Compatibility: 14” W x 75-80.25” H | Pet Door Opening Size: 10.25” W x 16.375” H | Installation Type: Semipermanent | Frame Material: Aluminum | Glass Type: Dual-pane low-E glass
For pet owners who prefer a high-tech approach to letting their pets in and out, the Power Pet Electronic Dog Door is a perfect option. This Wi-Fi-enabled model is fully automated, allowing you to control the door from anywhere you have a Wi-Fi-connected device. You open and close the door through the app, as well as activate and deactivate its sensors, leave the door open and even create up to 20 timers that determine the precise times your pup is allowed in and out.
Additionally, this smart pet door also comes with an ultrasonic collar that activates the door’s open function when your dog approaches — and because it opens automatically, it is an excellent choice for pets that are nervous about pushing through the flaps on manual doors.
The door also features dual-pane Low-E glass, which helps keep the cold out of your home in the winter and the heat out in the summer. The heavy-duty aluminum frame has a powder-coated finish to increase its durability and allow it to withstand all types of weather. In fact, the extra-rugged design can block all drafts, including hurricane-force winds, so your home remains comfortable no matter the season.
According to users, the installation process is slightly more complicated than other doggy doors. However, it still takes less than an hour. It is compatible with nearly all sliding glass doors, though, so it can work for most homes. However, this door is best suited for smaller pets, with an opening generally accommodating animals weighing up to 25 pounds.
Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door
Best for Small Pets
Door Size Compatibility: 13.375” W x 77.625-80.375” H | Pet Door Opening Size: 7” W x 11.25” H | Installation Type: Tool-free | Frame Material: Aluminum | Glass Type: Tempered glass
For small pets weighing up to 35 pounds, the Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door is the perfect fit. It has a sleek aluminum frame that’s not only durable but also provides a clean, modern look for your patio doors. Its clear, tempered glass panel allows you to maintain a view of your yard, patio, deck or balcony and is safe for pups even when they have the zoomies. The door also includes weatherstripping to help seal along the door and keep drafts and cold weather from getting inside your home.
Users appreciate how straightforward the installation process is. The brand even has a video on its YouTube channel that provides a step-by-step installation walk-through if you have any questions. The door doesn’t require drilling or screwing into your sliding door’s frame, either, so it is easy to remove and won’t do any damage, making it an excellent option for renters.
The door’s flap is flexible, so most pets can use it comfortably. It has an animal lock-out slide that allows you to control your pup’s access, as well as a security lock to maintain your home’s safety. However, users point out that you can’t lock your sliding door when the doggy door is installed, so you’ll need to purchase a lock bar.
Dragon Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors
Best for Medium-sized Pets
Door Size Compatibility: 13.625” W x 76.81-81” H | Pet Door Opening Size: 7.06” W x 13.06” H | Installation Type: Semipermanent, tool-free | Frame Material: Aluminum | Glass Type: Tempered glass
With its just 7-by-13-inch opening, the Dragon Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors makes it easy for medium-sized pups up to 19 inches tall to get in and out of your home. Its sturdy black aluminum frame has a stylish, modern look and features durable tempered glass to keep your pets safe. The door has a two-flap design that helps keep the cold and heat out of your home to reduce heating and cooling costs. The flaps are also made of weather-resistant, UV-protected material, so they are highly durable and hold up well when even the most excited pets run through them.
Compatible with most sliding door track heights and widths of at least 1 inch, the door is quick and easy to install. It doesn’t require drilling or any tools, so it works well for apartments, condos and other rental properties. The panel has a spring mechanism at the top that allows you to adjust its height to fit your sliding door, making it an even more versatile option. It also includes weatherstripping that you can apply along the edges of the panel to block drafts and other weather issues.
In addition, the doggy door has a C-clamp lock that allows you to lock it to keep your home secure. It also includes a durable closing cover that keeps your pets from using it when you need to limit their access to your outdoor space. Unfortunately, like the Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door, the Dragon model doesn’t allow you to lock your sliding door when installed, so you may need to invest in a lock bar.
Liberty Pet Door for Sliding Glass Door
Best for Large Pets
Door Size Compatibility: 18.375” W x 80-81.5” H | Pet Door Opening Size: 13” W x 28” H | Installation Type: Semipermanent, tool-free | Frame Material: Vinyl | Glass Type: Safety glass
If you have a German shepherd, Labrador retriever, golden retriever or other large breed dog, this Liberty Pet Door will let your pup pass through easily. Its XXL flap measures 13 inches wide by 28 inches high, so it can comfortably accommodate pets up to 40 inches tall. The vinyl frame and translucent flap are durable enough for even the most exuberant dogs and hold up well in year-round weather. Its panel is also made of high-quality safety glass, so you can trust your pets aren’t in danger when using the door.
Like the Dragon Pet Door, this Liberty model offers a simple, tool-free installation that doesn’t damage the sliding door frame, making it ideal for apartments and rental homes. The flap has a magnetic closure that keeps it securely in place when not in use, so you don’t have to worry about drafts. It also includes a C-clamp lock to prevent your sliding door from moving when the door is installed, as well as a cover to prevent your pets from using the door when you want to limit access.
Additionally, the Liberty Pet Door’s panel is adjustable, allowing you to make it taller or shorter based on the height of your sliding door. The doggy door is also made in the United States and supported by a three-year warranty against issues arising from defects in the materials or craftsmanship, so you can have peace of mind when you invest in your doggy door.
Autoslide Automatic Dog Door
Best Automatic Pet Door
Door Size Compatibility: 38” W (height not available) | Pet Door Opening Size: NA | Installation Type: Semipermanent | Frame Material: Aluminum | Glass Type: NA
The Autoslide Automatic Dog Door is a unique automatic pet door that can convert your existing sliding door into an automatic one that responds to your pup. It is only triggered to open in response to an RFID Autoslide Pet Sensor, which is easy to attach to your dog’s collar. You can program the door to only open wide enough for your pets to fit through, so you don’t have to worry about children getting out. It also works with the Autoslide app, which enables you to open the door or restrict your pet’s access to the yard when necessary.
Despite its higher-tech design, the installation process for the Autoslide dog door is pretty straightforward. The brand also has an installation video on its YouTube channel, which user reviews found very helpful. Unlike some other doggy doors on our list, installing the Autoslide on your sliding door doesn’t affect your ability to lock it, so you can trust that your home is secure even when your dogs can come and go into the yard on their own.
The Autoslide pet door is compatible with Amazon Alexa, so you can also use voice commands to open it for your pups. It comes with two pet tags with RFID transmitters, allowing the door to accommodate up to two pets at a time. However, you can purchase additional tags from Autoslide if you have more than two dogs at home.
How we analyzed the best sliding glass doggy door
At BestReviews, we’ve researched many pet and doggy doors over the years. To determine our top sliding glass doggy door picks, we consulted customer reviews from various online retailers to help us narrow our list to the most popular models.
We also evaluated the features that were most important to pet owners, so we could determine which doors met their demands. Overall, we researched over a dozen doggy doors and selected the top models based on ease of installation, build quality and durability, ease of use, insulation and overall value.
Key features to consider
Size and fit
Dog size compatibility
A doggy door’s size is the most important feature to consider when shopping, so you can be certain that it’s large enough to comfortably accommodate your pet. You’ll need to determine your dog’s height by measuring from the floor to the top of the shoulder, as well as the width across the chest, to ensure that your pet can fit through the door. Some doggy doors also provide sizing guidelines based on your pup’s weight since heavier dogs require a larger opening than a small breed. Large breed dogs usually pass through the door with greater force, so a model with a greater maximum weight limit will typically be more durable.
Most brands offer multiple size openings for their doors, with options ranging from small to extra-large based on your pet’s breed. Generally, it’s a good rule of thumb to allow an additional three or more inches in height and two inches in width around the opening, so your dog can get through easily, even when running.
Height adjustment for sliding door track
Since sliding glass doggy doors are designed to fit an existing sliding door track, finding a model sized appropriately for your door’s track is just as important as choosing one that fits your dog. Many brands offer adjustable panels that can fit a range of door heights, usually between 75 and 96 inches. If a panel is too tall, it won’t fit in your door. However, if it’s too short, it won’t be secure enough for your pet to use.
To ensure your doggy door will fit, measure your existing sliding door frame from the top of the rack to the bottom. Since most sliding glass doggy doors are adjustable, you’ll have some flexibility within a few inches.
Track compatibility
Many sliding glass doggy doors are made to fit standard sliding door tracks. However, other models may only fit a specific width. For example, some doors are designed for tracks that are at least an inch wide, while others only fit tracks that are 1.5 inches or wider. If the doggy door panel is too wide, it won’t fit in your door’s track. On the other hand, if the panel is too narrow, it won’t be secure.
Measuring your track’s width is pretty straightforward. Use a tape measure to stretch across your sliding door’s bottom track to ensure it matches the doggy door’s requirements.
Our top picks: Size and fit
- PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door: This doggy door can fit pets weighing up to 100 pounds, making it ideal for even larger breeds. Its height is adjustable within an approximately 5-inch range, so it can fit a variety of tracks.
- Ownpets Dog Screen Door: This doggy door goes in the screen of a sliding door, so you don’t have to worry about your track height and weight. Its opening is smaller, though, so users find it best for small to medium breeds, including French bulldogs and Boston terriers.
- Endura Flap Thermo Panel Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors: This sliding glass doggy door only fits tracks that are at least 1 inch wide, but its adjustable height gives it some versatility. Its opening is perfect for pets up to 27 inches tall, so even large breeds dogs like German shepherds and golden retrievers can fit through it.
- Power Pet Electronic Dog Door: This doggy door fits most sliding glass tracks and offers over 5 inches of adjustable panel height, making it highly versatile. The door is only designed for pets weighing up to 25 pounds, though.
- Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door: Requiring a track at least 1 inch wide, this doggy door isn’t compatible with as many sliding doors as other brands on our list. Its panel height can be adjusted, but the opening only accommodates pets weighing between 13 and 35 pounds.
Material and durability
Aluminum frame
Sliding glass doggy doors generally have either vinyl or aluminum frames. Those with vinyl frames are usually cheaper but aren’t as sturdy or durable as aluminum frames.
Aluminum-framed doors are the best option for long-term durability, especially for those who have active pets or live in a harsh climate. Like vinyl, it is resistant to rust, rot and decay. However, it is stronger than vinyl and can stand up to frequent use more effectively.
Tempered glass
Sliding glass doggy doors usually have a glass panel at the top that allows them to blend in with your existing sliding door. While standard glass doors are typically cheaper, those made with tempered glass are shatter-resistant up to four times stronger than traditional glass doors. If you have a particularly exuberant dog, you’ll definitely appreciate the peace of mind that a tempered glass panel provides.
Pet door flap material
A doggy door’s flap material is another important consideration, affecting both its durability and ease of use for your pet. The best flaps are made of sturdy, weather-resistant materials like rubber or vinyl. These materials can hold up to frequent use and won’t crack or warp when exposed to the elements. They both have some flexibility, too, so they’ll move easily when your dog runs through the door, making it more comfortable for your pup to use.
Our top picks: Material and durability
- PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door: With a weather-resistant aluminum frame and shatter-resistant tempered glass panel, users love how durable and sturdy this doggy door is.
- Ownpets Dog Screen Door: Unlike the other models on our list, this doggy door doesn’t have a glass panel and instead installs directly in a cut-out in your sliding screen door. The frame is made of a durable plastic material, though, and users are impressed by how sturdy it feels.
- Endura Flap Thermo Panel Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors: Not only does this doggy door have a heavy-duty aluminum frame, but it also features Low-E glass to help keep the cold out in the winter and the heat out in the summer. It has dual flaps, too, that provide excellent insulation.
- Power Pet Electronic Dog Door: Users are big fans of this doggy door’s heavy-duty aluminum frame because its powder-coated finish boosts its durability and corrosion resistance. It also has a dual-pane Low-E glass panel that helps keep the cold and heat out of your home.
- Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door: This doggy door features an aluminum frame that pet owners find impressively sturdy. The tempered glass panel also makes it a safe choice for more excitable dogs.
Security features
Locking mechanism
You don’t want to worry about your doggy door leaving your home unsecured, so most sliding glass models have a locking mechanism to secure it when your pup isn’t using it. Some use your sliding glass door’s existing lock, but others include a separate lock for additional security. Look for a doggy door with a lock that’s easy to use and sturdy enough that intruders cannot break in.
Panel locking pins
In addition to a standard lock, some doggy doors include locking pins that you can place at the top or bottom of the frame for increased security. That allows you to lock the panel with the doggy door, as well as the entire sliding door. Some sliding glass doggy doors leave you unable to lock your existing sliding door, so these pins are especially handy for those models.
Security cover
Most sliding glass doggy doors have a locking security panel designed to cover the pet door flap when not in use. The cover can keep out intruders and unwanted critters like squirrels and raccoons, but it also lets you keep your pets inside when you want to limit their access to your outdoor space.
Our top picks: Security features
- PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door: This door comes with a latch kit that allows you to lock your existing sliding door even when the panel is in place. Pet owners also like the security cover, which makes it easy to keep the flap secure.
- Ownpets Dog Screen Door: This doggy door for sliding screen doors has an upgraded slide lock that’s easy to use and effectively secures the flap. However, some pet owners found the lock can break after a few months of regular use.
- Endura Flap Thermo Panel Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors: This doggy door features both a C-clamp lock and a molded plastic locking cover, making it a highly secure option.
- Power Pet Electronic Dog Door: In addition to its standard lock, this automatic doggy door also includes a vacation lock that provides extra security if you’ll be out of your home for extended periods. The fact that the door only opens when a pet sensor collar is detected protects against squirrels and other animals getting inside your home.
- Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door: When this doggy door is installed, the existing sliding glass door no longer locks, so a separate security bar is needed. However, pet owners appreciate its plastic slide cover, which allows you to limit pet access.
Energy efficiency
Weatherstripping
The best sliding glass doggy doors come with weatherstripping that helps insulate the panel and around the door flap. That improves the door’s energy efficiency by preventing hot air from escaping into your home in the winter and cool air in the summer, so you can keep your energy costs down. Weatherstripping is typically applied before the doggy door panel is installed in your sliding door’s track to ensure a tight seal is created along all the edges.
Insulated flap
If you live in an area that sees extreme heat in the summer and/or cold in the winter, you’ll want to look for a doggy door with an insulated flap. Some models even have dual flaps that provide an additional insulation layer to keep your home comfortable. You can also find doggy doors with dual-pane glass, which features an air pocket between the two layers of glass that offers increased insulation to help maintain your home’s air temperature year-round.
Magnetic seals
Most pet door flaps have a magnetic seal around their edges, ensuring they close firmly behind your pets after they pass through. A magnetic closure helps keep the cool air in your home during warmer months and the warm air inside during the colder months. It also prevents the flap from blowing open in heavy winds.
Our top picks: Energy efficiency
- PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door: Users are fans of the magnetic closure on this doggy door that secures the flap after pets pass through. However, some find that the flap can blow open on particularly windy days.
- Ownpets Dog Screen Door: Because this doggy door is meant for sliding screen doors, it doesn’t have the same insulation features that other models on our list. However, it has a magnetic closure that keeps it from blowing open on windy days.
- Endura Flap Thermo Panel Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors: This doggy door may be the most energy-efficient on our list, designed to provide effective insulation in temperatures as low as -40 degrees. The panel also features Low-E glass to block UV rays and maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
- Power Pet Electronic Dog Door: This doggy door’s glass panel is made of Low-E glass for energy efficiency. It also includes full weatherstripping that helps insulate the door.
- Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door: Pet owners are impressed with how effectively the magnetic closure keeps this doggy door sealed but were disappointed with the included weatherstripping’s effectiveness.
Ease of installation
Tool-free installation
Many sliding glass doggy doors are so easy to install that you don’t even need any tools. Instead, you simply slide the panel into your existing sliding door track, secure it and adjust the height to fit your door. These doors are ideal for renters because they don’t require any permanent damage to the door frame. You can also easily remove the door when it’s not in use.
Other models may require drilling into your sliding door frame to attach installation hardware. These doors often require permanent installation, so they are a greater commitment and only suited for homeowners.
Adjustable height
As we discussed previously, most sliding glass doggy doors feature an adjustable height to fit various door frames. That makes installation much simpler because you only have to adjust the panel’s height adjustment locks to adjust a spring mechanism that shortens or lengthens it. However, you want to be sure that any doggy door you choose has a height adjustment mechanism that keeps it stable, so it won’t wobble in the frame every time your pet runs through it.
Installation instructions
You’ll have a much easier time installing a sliding glass doggy door if it includes clear, step-by-step instructions that walk you through the process. Some brands even offer online video tutorials that can be particularly helpful if you don’t do many DIY projects or aren’t handy with tools. Some pet owners appreciate models that provide customer support if you have questions or run into issues during the installation process.
Our top picks: Ease of installation
- PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door: This doggy door offers two installation options, so you can choose between a more permanent setup or a damage-free installation for apartments and rental homes.
- Ownpets Dog Screen Door: Pet owners find the installation process for this doggy door to be very easy, but it requires cutting a hole in your existing screen door.
- Endura Flap Thermo Panel Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors: With three height ranges, this door is pretty straightforward to install. It doesn’t require any permanent damage to your door frame, either, so it’s perfect for renters.
- Power Pet Electronic Dog Door: This doggy door is one of the most complicated to install among the models we considered, requiring an electric drill, three different drill bits and a Phillips screwdriver. The brand has a step-by-step installation video that can help, though.
- Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door: Pet owners appreciate the brand’s installation video, making the setup very easy. It doesn’t require any tools, either.
Aesthetics and design
Minimal impact on sliding door functionality
While a sliding glass doggy door is usually pretty easy to install, you don’t want a model that limits your sliding door’s functionality. The best sliding glass doggy doors allow you to use the door as normally as possible so both the humans and pets in your home can use it comfortably. You may also prefer a model that allows you to lock your sliding door normally without purchasing a separate lock bar.
Low profile
You don’t want a doggy door that stands out like a sore thumb next to your existing sliding glass door. Many models are designed to blend seamlessly with your door, offering different frame finishes, such as white, bronze, silver or black. That allows you to choose a door that matches the rest of your home’s aesthetic while still providing easy access to the outdoors for your pet.
Glass transparency
If you still want to maintain the views through your sliding glass door, look for a pet door with transparent or semi-transparent materials. Many have glass panels at the top, so you can still maintain your home’s outdoor view above the pet door flap.
Our top picks: Aesthetics and design
- PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door: This pet door’s tempered glass panel maintains your outdoor views and helps it blend in with your existing sliding glass door.
- Ownpets Dog Screen Door: This doggy door requires cutting a hole in your existing sliding screen door, so it doesn’t blend as well as other models on our list. It doesn’t affect the door’s functionality at all, though.
- Endura Flap Thermo Panel Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors: With a glass panel and a black frame, this pet door is a perfect choice for homes with a dark sliding glass door. However, it prevents you from locking the slider, so you may need to purchase a lock bar.
- Power Pet Electronic Dog Door: This automatic dog door’s glass panel isn’t as large as other models on our list, so it may not blend in as seamlessly. You’ll also need to install the universal lock assembly to lock your sliding glass door with it in place.
- Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door: While this doggy door can fit seamlessly with many sliding doors, it does reduce the walk-through space for humans when installed.
Door access and usage
Dual flap vs. single flap
Many sliding glass pet doors feature a single flap over the opening. These can work well in milder climates but often don’t provide enough insulation in harsher climates. If you live in an area that experiences extreme heat or cold, a doggy door with dual flaps is a better choice. It can better insulate your home for the heat and cold to help reduce energy costs. Some single-flap doors allow you to purchase an additional flap separately and install it if you need extra protection.
Automatic doors
While most pet doors are simple manual models that open when your pup runs through, you can find advanced electronic pet doors that automatically open for your pet when they approach, using a sensor in your pet’s collar. Some also have a connected app that allows you to open and lock the door from your smartphone. This type of door offers improved security, but you’ll pay significantly more than you would for a manual model.
Training your pet
While using a doggy door may seem like a pretty simple concept, some pets can be fearful of the design. In nearly all cases, there will be a learning curve for your dog or cat, so you’ll want to choose a model that will be easy for your pet to learn to use. Look for a model with flexible flaps that move smoothly, so they can pass through without any resistance. That’s why getting the size right is crucial, too.
Our top picks: Door access and usage
- PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door: Pet owners are pleased with how quickly their pups learned to use this door, though it may take some training with treats.
- Ownpets Dog Screen Door: Most pets learn to use this dog quickly, but some owners found they needed to leave the flap off for a few days to get their animals used to the opening.
- Endura Flap Thermo Panel Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors: This pet door’s dual flaps provide excellent insulation and can withstand even heavy wind.
- Power Pet Electronic Dog Door: This doggy door’s automatic design works well with the included pet tag, but some owners find the app isn’t as functional as they’d like.
- Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door: Pet owners are fans of this door’s flexible, smooth-moving flap because it makes it easy for pets to learn to use.
Noise reduction
Quiet closing mechanism
If you have a nervous or sensitive dog, a doggy door with a quiet-closing flap can make life much easier for both you and your pup. Some models can make loud noises when they open and close, which can startle anxious pets. You may even find your dog or cat is unwilling to use the door if it makes too much noise.
Our top picks: Noise reduction
- PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door: Some users find this door’s flap is pretty loud because the magnetic strip at the bottom can hit the frame when it closes.
- Ownpets Dog Screen Door: This doggy door has a lightweight flap that is fairly quiet when it swings, making it perfect for sensitive pets.
- Endura Flap Thermo Panel Pet Door for Sliding Glass Doors: This door’s dual flaps are somewhat heavy, so they can be fairly loud when opening and closing.
- Power Pet Electronic Dog Door: Users note that this door makes a somewhat futuristic noise when it glides shut but isn’t overly loud.
- Ideal Pet Products Modular Pet Patio Door: Like the PetSafe door, this model’s flap can be pretty noisy when swinging open and closed because of the magnetic closure hitting the frame.
Additional considerations
Number of pets
If your home has multiple pets, you’ll need to find a doggy door that comfortably accommodates the largest animal. However, you don’t want to choose a model with an opening that’s too high off the ground for smaller pets to use. Additionally, if you have more than one pet using the door regularly, you should consider whether it is durable enough for heavy use.
Rental-friendly options
If you rent your home, choose a sliding glass doggy door that doesn’t require permanent installation, so you can easily take it with you if you move. Your rental agreement likely doesn’t allow any permanent damage to your sliding door frame, so look for a pet door that doesn’t require any drilling.
Replacement parts
Over the life of your doggy door, its flap or weatherstripping may eventually wear out. Check if the manufacturer of any model you’re considering offers replacement parts you can purchase so you don’t need to replace the entire door when it shows minor signs of damage.
Our expertise
Jennifer Blair has covered home, kitchen and pet products for BestReviews since 2017. She has written over 50 articles on pet-related products, including pet grooming tools, dog harnesses, pet gates and more. At home, she has a rescue dog named Brandy, who is still learning to use her own doggy door.
