This guide explores the newest features in smart dog doors. These high-tech, sophisticated doors bring amazing ease. They let your pet roam freely without needing someone to open doors.
For large dogs, our top pick is the PetSafe Electronic Collar Activated SmartDoor, which is an electronic door utilizing RFID technology. The SureFlap Microchip Dog and Cat Door with Hub is our top pick for smaller dogs.
These smart dog doors are a feat of technology!
Smart dog doors typically use Radio Frequency Identification technology in their build. That means the dog communicates with the door through radio waves emitted from its collar.
With some devices, you can access and control the door panels from an app on your smartphone, helping to keep an eye on your pet's habits and activities.
They let your dogs move freely in and out of the house without any trouble.
The best smart dog doors are built with high-quality materials like polymer ABS, making them resistant to shocks and vibration.
Types of Smart Dog Doors
- Radio wave-based smart dog doors – These models communicate by using radio waves.
- Wi-Fi smart dog doors – Communicate with your pet through Wi-Fi signals of a specific bandwidth.
- Magnetic smart dog doors – Smart door technology based on magnetism to ensure an air-tight seal.
The PetSafe Electronic Smart Dog Door is the best choice for you to control your pet’s access to your home.
- It features smart electronic door technology.
- Has a lock feature for security.
- Works with 5 programmable smart keys.
The PetSafe Electronic Dog Door is equipped with programmable and selective entry/exit for pets. Moreover, it is weatherproof to ensure comfort. It works with a SmartKey Collar, so only pets with specific SmartKeys can access it.
Power
4 D-Cell batteries are required for this smart dog door to work. These are not included in the package, there’s only one lithium-ion battery that comes with the door.
Features
The weight of this smart dog door is just 4 pounds (or 1.18 kg), which means it’s very lightweight. Furthermore, the device's trigger range can be adjusted up to 3 feet.
The electronic dog door can easily be installed anywhere: on doors, walls, patio panels, and so on.
It has a lock feature that automatically locks it immediately after the pet has passed through it. Since it works with up to five different SmartKeys, the smart dog door will allow multiple pets to access it.
The SmartKey is waterproof and fully submersible. Consequently, pets can play in water without damaging the technology. The PetSafe Smart Dog Door is a highly efficient automatic dog door with a great battery life.
Technology
This wireless automatic dog door is based on Radio Frequency Identification and allows only pets with key fobs installed in their collars to go through. The key fob sends a signal to the sensor in the door panel. If the signal is recognized, the door allows the pet to move through it.
If the correct signal is not detected, the door will not open and intruders won’t be able to pass through.
Tech Specs
| 5 programmable SmartKeys |
| Customizable pet access |
| 1 lithium-ion battery included |
| Requires 4 D type batteries |
- Selective exit and entry.
- Easy to install.
- The range of this electronic dog door is up to 3 feet.
- Doesn't make a loud noise.
- Some users have mentioned the swinging panel is heavy.
- Some users have flagged reliability issues with the collar sensor.
The SureFlap Smart Dog and Cat Door is based on Radio Frequency Identification with a microchip.
- It incorporates a lock feature.
- The Sure Petcare app connects with the smart door to give control to the user.
- Energy-efficient, so it doesn't consume too much power.
This SureFlap smart dog door features a double antenna with a microchip. It can store information of up to 32 pets, from 9, 10, and 15 digit microchips. When it comes to power requirements, the door is battery-powered and requires 4 AA batteries.
Features
This Wi-Fi dog door features a 4-way manual lock to ensure security and enable any locking pattern. It has a central magnet to prevent flapping of the panel when it’s windy. Additionally, it works with all common identification microchips and the SureFlap RFID Collar Tag.
The dog door uses a scanning technique that allows the pet to enter. To clarify, its microchip connects to the hub, then to the home router, and finally to the app. The microchip is fixed on the pet, which is a very useful feature for those pets that refuse to wear a collar.
It sends a signal to the sensor installed in the door panel, which processes and recognizes it. If the door recognizes the trigger, it opens. Otherwise, it remains closed and doesn’t let any intruder pass.
This wireless dog door has an app that enables the user to keep an eye on the dog from anywhere. Users can customize the app according to different needs. For example, controlling the door through the app.
Tech Specs
| It can store information of up to 32 pets |
| Compatible with 9, 10, and 15 digit microchips |
| Requires 4 AA batteries |
| Uses Radio Frequency Identification |
- Programming the door is very easy.
- Connects with the app to give control to the user.
- Works with Radio Frequency Identification Technology.
- It incorporates a lock feature.
- Flap magnet may not be strong enough in high winds.
This electronic dog door features a motor-driven sliding door that receives signals from an ultrasonic collar.
- Directional sensing system that responds very fast.
- Has an ultrasonic collar.
- Motor-driven sliding door that doesn’t make too much noise.
The High Tech Power Pet Electronic Dog Door is a convenient option if you want to be able to keep your house and pet safe without compromising on design and functionality.
The weight of this automatic dog door is only 8 pounds (or 3.62 kg). The system features a motor-driven vertically sliding door with an MS-4 ultrasonic collar. Moreover, the smart dog door also includes a directional sensor that allows access to pets only when they approach the door directly.
Features
This electronic dog door has 4-way access: In Only, Out Only, Full Access or Closed/Locked. It also incorporates automatic deadbolt locking, not to mention it’s weatherproof.
Through the direct approach technique, access is only given to pets aiming for the door, so intruders are kept out.
This automatic dog door also has an optional wall tunnel for easy wall installation. It doesn’t close on top and therefore, can’t hurt the pets in any way. It also has an auto safety retract feature. The door opens on its own when the pet reaches up to 10 feet from it.
Power
It comes with a 110 volt AC adapter that plugs into a nearby outlet. However, it also works well with rechargeable batteries that have to be purchased separately. The batteries act as a backup in case of a sudden power failure.
Tech Specs
| The motor is driven vertically . |
| MS-4 Ultrasonic collar |
| 4-way access options |
| 110-volt AC with optional battery backup |
- Wind and weatherproof with an airtight seal.
- It features automatic deadbolt locking.
- Has a motor-driven sliding door.
- 4-way access control.
- Easy to install and comes with great tech support.
- Some users mentioned the device's color may start to fade over time.
This smart dog door works with a microchip and radio frequency identification.
- Adjustable height according to the pet’s size.
- Programmable microchips or radio frequency identification keys.
- Suitable for sliding glass doors.
This smart dog door has adjustable height and is built for sliding glass doors. It’s access is based on microchips or Radio frequency Identification tags for small cats and dogs up to 15 pounds (or 6.80 kg).
Features
This adjustable smart dog door has a sturdy aluminum frame that comes in 2 colors: white and bronze. Furthermore, the door panel is made up of dual-pane LoE glass for extra insulation. It also incorporates shock- and vibration-resistant materials, too.
This dog door system can store information for up to 32 pets. It can act as a manual flap if there’s a sudden power cut.
It also features raccoon-proof mode to keep pesky raccoons out through the activation of two locks. Moreover, there are sensors in its panel. These sensors detect the microchip in the pet's head and if they don't recognize it, the door remains shut.
Size
The flap opening is large enough for large cats and small dogs. It features a spring-loaded design and allows height adjustments to fit most sliding doors.
This wireless dog door uses a microchip that’s implanted on the pet to send signals. As the pet approaches the door, the microchip sends signals that are processed by the door’s sensors. If the right signal is detected, the door will open, allowing the pet inside.
Tech Specs
| Microchip activation |
| 4-way access system |
| Radio Frequency Identification collar key |
- Embedded microchip or Radio Frequency Identification.
- Easy to install and use.
- It can act as a manual flap as well.
- Microchips for dogs who refuse to wear collars.
- Extra insulation with dual-pane glass LoE.
- The collar can be bulky for small dogs.
- May need extra work to incorporate with existing sliding door locks.
This wireless smart dog door is based on Radio Frequency Identification and works with a sensor on the pet's collar.
- Automatic frequency setting.
- Durable plastic frame that makes it long-lasting.
- Optional rechargeable battery in case of a sudden power cut.
This electronic dog door comes in different sizes based on how big your pet is. Its flap is made from flexible vinyl, whereas its frame is from durable and transparent plastic.
Features
This automatic dog door is energy-efficient and has a lock feature for the safety of your pets.
It's suitable for cats and dogs weighing up to 25 pounds (or 11.33 kg). It’s also easy to install and has an optional rechargeable battery feature, too.
Technology
This electronic dog door works on Radio Frequency Identification and has FOB sensors in collars, which gives easy access for pets.
The key fob sends a signal to the door. If the signal is recognized, the pet is allowed to move through. However, if it’s not recognized by the sensor, the door remains closed so that intruders cannot pass through.
Flap
This smart dog door has a transparent and unbreakable Lexan flap. The frame is made of a durable plastic that adapts to doors ranging from 1-1/4″ to 1-3/4″ in thickness. The door and frame are white and made up of high-quality materials that make them shock- and vibration-resistant.
Tech Specs
| Radio Frequency Identification |
| Sensor FOB |
| 110 volts transformer included |
| Automatic frequency setup |
- Rechargeable battery option available in case of a sudden power cut.
- Radio Frequency Identification gives quick and easy access for pets.
- Easy installation, even by someone who’s not so tech-savvy.
- It does not hold any charge.
- The collar is bulky for small dogs.
Other Smart Dog Doors
- Magnetic seal closure.
- Sliding security panel for easier access.
- It equips 2 easy slide locks for the protection of your pet.
This magnetic dog door features 2 magnetic sealing flaps that reduce the likelihood of draught, making it energy-efficient. It incorporates a sliding security panel that secures it in place with 2 easy slide locks.
It’s made up of a rugged aluminum frame that is very durable. This dog door also has a great finish and creates a barrier that separates the outside temperature from the inside.
- Weatherproof and translucent for seeing everything outside.
- 4 locking ways to protect you and your pets.
- Quiet operation.
This smart dog door is weatherproof and made with noise-reduction technology. It features 4 locking frames and another telescoping frame. This automatic dog door is meant for both interior and exterior doors.
It’s made up of ABS polymer, so it's very durable. Furthermore, it’s easy to install and comes with an instruction manual.
- Excellent thermal insulation.
- 100% air-, wind-, and waterproof.
- Easy to install on glass, walls, and doors.
This smart dog door opens and closes automatically, as it’s based on Radio Frequency Identification. It’s also high-security and burglar-proof.
You can fully personalize this smart dog door with a unique clip-on cover. It is 100% air-, wind-, and waterproof, not to mention it provides excellent thermal insulation for the cold to not come in.
Should I Buy a Smart Dog Door?
Peace of mind
All the Wi-Fi dog doors mentioned in this roundup offer peace of mind to pet owners. They’re secure for your furry friends, and you don't have to open them manually to let your dogs move in or out.
Furthermore, they have sensors that allow only recognized pets to enter through their door panels, so any other intruder animal can’t get past them.
Stop other animals from entering
The smart dog doors presented in this guide incorporate microchips or Radio Frequency Identification, so they allow only registered pets to pass through their flap panel.
Some have raccoon mode which prevents raccoons from entering your home.
Easy installation
All these wireless dog doors are easy to install, so anyone can mount them. The height of the pet is measured, and a template piece is cut from the door. Holes are drilled inside the frame and the panel flap is installed in the cutout.
Automatic Dog Door Features to Consider
Smart Access – Microchip, RFID
The smart access feature of these dog doors is based on Radio Frequency Identification or microchip. Microchips are installed between the shoulder blades of pets that refuse to wear a collar.
The sensor in the microchip detects the pet and opens the flap panel. Radio Frequency works on radio waves and is usually automatically set.
Sizes
Wi-Fi dog doors come in different sizes for different types of pets, from small to medium, large, and extra-large.
Small dogs and cats need small-sized door panels, whereas bigger pets can use large or extra-large doors.
Installation
All the previously mentioned wireless dog doors are easy to install by anyone.
The height of the pet is most important, so that an accurate piece can be cut from the door. Holes are then drilled inside the frame, and the panel flap gets installed in the cutout.
Always make sure to purchase a dog door that will be big enough for your dog to pass through.
Weatherproofing
Most of these wireless dog doors are waterproof and are resistant to any kind of weather. As such, they are not only convenient for the pet, but for your budget as well.
They’re also airtight and insulate the inside temperature from the outside one. Furthermore, some come with AC adapters, as well as battery backups for when the power is down.
Smart Features – Smartphone App
Some of the Wi-Fi dog doors mentioned in this rundown have a smartphone app that connects the dog door with the app on your smartphone.
You can access and control the workings of the smart dog door using these apps from anywhere. They also have a variety of other features, and pet owners can monitor their pets’ habits and activities.
Power
Smart dog doors are powered in different ways. Some are powered with an AC adaptor that can be plugged into any socket.
They also come with rechargeable battery backups in case of a sudden power failure. However, some of the wireless dog doors run entirely on batteries and don’t need an AC adaptor.
Common Questions about Smart Dog Doors
What is a smart dog door?
Smart dog doors are door panels installed on your doors to allow your pets free movement around the house, without your assistance. They’re based on Radio Frequency Identification or microchips.
The vet can install microchips between the shoulder blades of your pet. The sensors in the door’s panel will detect the signal, letting the dog move across. If a signal is not detected or isn't recognized, the dog can’t move across the door panel and therefore, stray dogs or other intruders can’t get past the door.
How do electronic dog doors work?
Electronic dog doors are based on Radio Frequency Identification or microchip, with your dog carrying the key fob in the collar or a microchip in the body.
This microchip sends signals for the door panel to open. The key fob sends a trigger to the door, and the signal is then detected by the sensor installed in the door’s panel. The detected signals make the panel open.
What is the best electronic dog door?
The PetSafe Electronic Smart Door and the SureFlap Microchip Dog Door are some of the best electronic dog doors available on the market.
They work on microchips and Radio Frequency Identification with quick sensors and detection. Besides, they feature a direct approach, so their door panels open only when the pet directly approaches them, not when it’s playing around.
The Verdict
The best smart dog doors improve the safety of your pets while offering your convenience in the home. For large dogs, our top pick is the PetSafe Electronic Collar Activated SmartDoor, which is a Wi-Fi dog door utilizing RFID technology. The SureFlap Microchip Dog and Cat Door with Hub is our top pick for smaller dogs.
Thanks for reading and make sure to leave a comment if you have any questions!
The PetSafe Electronic Smart Dog Door is the best choice for you to control your pet’s access to your home.
- It features smart electronic door technology.
- Has a lock feature for security.
- Works with 5 programmable smart keys.
Sources
https://www.petsafe.net
https://www.petwalk.at
https://www.idealpetproducts.com