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Best Smart Dog Doors for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best smart dog doors for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: June 28th, 2024

🐾If you’re tired of being your pet’s personal doorman, a smart dog door might be just what you need. These nifty doors let your furry friends come and go as they please, while keeping your home secure.

From microchip tech to app-controlled access, we’ve looked at the top smart dog doors available in 2024 to help you pick the right one. Dive into our top picks to find the perfect fit for you and your pet.

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Overall Best: PetSafe SmartDoor™

PetSafe, SmartDoor, Selective Entry, Automatic Locking, Multi Key, Energy Efficient, Programmable Pet Door - Large (Not WiFi Connected/App Enabled)

The PetSafe SmartDoor™ stands out as our top pick due to its impressive range of features and adaptability for pets of various sizes. Available in both medium and large sizes, it accommodates pets up to 100 lbs. Installation is versatile, supporting various door types including metal, PVC, brick, and wood. This smart door employs a key collar tag or your pet's microchip to grant access, ensuring only your pet can enter. Enhancements like Wi-Fi connectivity, app-controlled lock/unlock, and programmable schedules streamline and personalize the user experience.

Key Features:

Two sizes: Medium (10.8" x 14.3", supports pets up to 25 lbs) & Large (16.5" x 23.1", supports up to 100 lbs)
Durable plastic frame with a weatherproof seal
Microchip and key collar tag compatibility
Wi-Fi and app-controlled access
Programmable schedules
Battery-powered, with battery life indicator

Why We Love It: The blend of flexibility, strong security features, and smart home integration makes the PetSafe SmartDoor™ our top choice for 2024.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$267.14 at Amazon

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Runner-up: PlexiDor Performance Pet Door

PlexiDor Performance Pet Doors for Dogs and Cats - Door Mount Dog Door with Lock and Key - Bronze, Large Sizes

The PlexiDor Performance Pet Door earns the runner-up spot thanks to its robust construction and exceptional energy efficiency. Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, this pet door offers a secure, flap-free entry for your pets. Its heavy-duty aluminum frame and dual-pane design ensure excellent insulation, which is vital for energy conservation. Suitable for pets up to 125 lbs, this door can be installed in various door materials such as wood, fiberglass, and metal.

Key Features:

Heavy-duty aluminum frame with dual flaps for improved energy efficiency
Available in multiple sizes and colors
Scratch-proof and pet-safe
Option for plug-in or hardwire installation

Why We Love It: The durable build and weather-resistant features make the PlexiDor an ideal choice for larger breeds and homes in extreme climates.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$612.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the PlexiDor Large Bronze Pet Door? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How durable is the PlexiDor Performance Pet Door?

If you're looking into the durability of the PlexiDor Performance Pet Door, it's generally seen as a sturdy and secure option, particularly if you have larger pets up to 100 pounds. It's got a lock and key system, plus a steel security plate, which seems to handle regular wear and enthusiastic use quite well, according to the manufacturer's description. From what we've found, the PlexiDor does a pretty good job across different climates. It's especially appreciated in colder weather because it helps keep out drafts and maintain your home's warmth. This is thanks to its saloon-style thermopane panels, designed to open and close snugly. That said, if you live somewhere with really harsh conditions, a few folks have mentioned it might be worth adding some extra weatherproofing. For instance, installing side rails to better fit the metal security cover has been helpful for some. One thing to keep in mind is the price. It's a bit on the higher side, and some feel it should come with all parts included for optimal use, like the tracks for the locking plate. However, many still find it worth the cost for the added security and peace of mind. All in all, the PlexiDor Performance Pet Door gets positive marks for its durability and reliability. If you're okay with spending a bit more for quality, this might be a great option for your home. It offers a good mix of functionality and security, making it a solid choice for a pet entryway if you want something that lasts and keeps your pets safe.

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How secure is the PlexiDor Performance Pet Door?

When it comes to pet doors, most pet owners want something secure and durable. The PlexiDor Performance Pet Door (specifically the door mount version) seems to nail these priorities with its solid mechanical design. It's different from many other pet doors because it doesn't rely on electronics or batteries. Instead, it uses heavy-duty springs and thermopane panels that swing like saloon doors. This design not only keeps things simple but helps with insulation too, as noted in the manufacturer's product description. From what we've found, folks often praise the PlexiDor for its toughness and longevity. Many people have used it for years, even in households with more than one dog, without needing any replacement parts, which says a lot about how well it's made. Setting it up might take some effort, but the instructions are clear, so it's usually not too much hassle for most people. Once it's up, the door is built to withstand a good amount of use and weather. Security-wise, the PlexiDor is pretty well-equipped. It comes with a lock, key, and a steel security plate to help keep intruders out, which is reassuring. Some buyers go the extra mile and add more security with accessories like [security plate tracks](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsecurity%2Bplate%2Btracks%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) to make it even more secure, according to our research. It's also a good fit for bigger pets, handling dogs up to 100 pounds without compromising on its weather-resistant abilities. This means it shields your home from the weather and curious critters pretty well. If you're tempted by [electronic doors with RFID tech](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Delectronic%2Bdoors%2Bwith%2BRFID%2Btech%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for automatic opening, the PlexiDor does have those options, but this model sticks to a simple mechanical operation that many pet owners appreciate for its dependability. All in all, the PlexiDor Performance Pet Door offers a mix of durability, insulation, and security. It's a solid option for those who want a tough, secure pet door without getting into electronic gizmos. Whether you've got several pets or just want to keep the weather at bay, this door seems to cover the bases without fuss.

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How energy efficient is the PlexiDor Performance Pet Door?

The PlexiDor Performance Pet Door is known for being energy efficient, which is a relief if you're trying to keep your home comfortable while still giving your pet some freedom. Our research indicates that these doors have specialized panels that insulate well and block drafts. This keeps your home's temperature balanced better than some other pet doors out there. One feature that really stands out for energy efficiency is its saloon-style doors, which limit the amount of air that flows between inside and outside when your pet uses it. This means you keep more warm air during the winter and more cool air during the summer—saving you on heating and cooling costs. A win-win for both you and your wallet. According to the manufacturer, the doors have insulated, shatter-resistant panels made from materials similar to airplane windshields. These panels move smoothly for your pet’s passage and close tightly afterward, cutting down on air leaks. This makes it a smart choice if you’re worried about wasting energy. The manufacturer also designed it with heavy-duty aluminum framing, so it's both durable and good at keeping unwanted air out. Our research shows it holds up well under different weather conditions, which means it's likely to seal out elements reliably. Another plus is that the PlexiDor doesn't need a cover during harsh weather like storms, so you can keep your home’s insulation steady without hassle. Its sturdy design, frequently noted in reviews, prevents drafts and outside temperatures from creeping in, so you don't have to worry as much about losing energy. So, if keeping your home energy efficient is important to you, the PlexiDor Performance could be a good option. With its clever design and high-quality materials, it does a great job of maintaining comfort, making it a practical choice if efficiency is what you're after.

View All Answers for

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Budget Pick: Cat Mate Electromagnetic Cat Flap

Cat Mate Electromagnetic 4-Way-Locking Cat Flap with 2 Collar Keys - White

For pet owners on a budget, the Cat Mate Electromagnetic Cat Flap offers a reliable and economical solution. This pet door allows access via a magnetic collar key, ensuring that only your pet can enter. While it’s primarily designed for cats, it works well for small to medium-sized dogs too. Installation is straightforward, and it covers the basic security needs without any unnecessary extras.

Key Features:

Affordable and easy to install
Magnetic collar key
Suitable for small to medium-sized pets

Why We Love It: The Cat Mate Electromagnetic Cat Flap combines affordability with essential security features, making it a perfect fit for budget-conscious pet owners.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$49.99 at Amazon

Best for Multi-Pet Homes: SureFlap Microchip Small Dog & Cat Door

SureFlap-Sure Petcare Microchip Pet Door (White)

The SureFlap Microchip Small Dog & Cat Door is unmatched when it comes to homes with multiple pets. This door can remember up to 32 different pet identities via collar tags or embedded microchips, making it ideal for households with several small dogs or cats. It's compatible with various door materials, including wood, PVC, drywall, aluminum, and fiberglass. This door runs on battery power, eliminating the need for hardwiring.

Key Features:

Memory for up to 32 pets
Uses collar tag or microchip identification
Battery powered

Why We Love It: The SureFlap Microchip Small Dog & Cat Door offers unparalleled versatility and ease of use for multi-pet households, making it an essential for pet owners with several small pets.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$188.00 at Amazon

Most Secure: High Tech Pet Products Automatic Pet Door

High Tech Pet Fully Automatic Pet Door for Wall and Door Installation - Large Large Wall Mount

The High Tech Pet Products Automatic Pet Door excels in security, making it our top pick for pet owners whose priority is safety. Constructed from bullet-proof resin and equipped with an automatic deadbolt locking system, this pet door offers maximum protection. It’s weatherproof and provides an airtight closure to keep the elements out. A rechargeable battery means it’s also energy-efficient and eco-friendly.

Key Features: