How do I know if I need an installer or if I can install a dog door myself?

Dog doors can be tricky to install, but with the right tools, instructions, and patience you can easily add a doggy door to your home. There are several different types of dog doors available such as glass timber or security doors, each with its own buy and installation method. If you’re looking for an effective way to give your pup access to the outdoors while keeping your home safe and secure, investing in a pet door is an excellent solution.

Dog door installation can be both a convenient and a difficult project — it depends on how handy you are and what type of materials are needed. In this guide, we'll cover when it's better to hire a professional for dog door installation, along with tips for DIYers who want to take on the task themselves.

Consider the type of dog door

If you have a glass door, unless you are a professional glazier, we would recommend having this done by a professional! Contact your local glazier or window company and ask them to visit your house and provide a quote. There are Australian safety standards that must be considered when this installation occurs. Check with the experts.

Check the Manufacturer’s Instructions.

The first step in making sure you install your dog door correctly is to read the manufacturer’s instructions. This will give you an idea of the type of materials and tools that are needed, along with other important factors such as how much space needs to be available for the installation. Knowing this information in advance can help you decide if it’s better to hire a professional or attempt a DIY installation.

Familiarise Yourself With Your Home.

Before you decide on DIY or professional installation, it’s important to familiarise yourself with your home and the area around where the dog door will be installed. Take special care to look at the wall in question, identify any obstructions such as pipes or wiring, and then make sure that you understand how to access them if necessary. All this information is valuable when determining whether it’s better to hire a professional or do the installation yourself. Check for other obstacle's that could make access difficult for your do, such as a step.

Consider Your Dog's Size and Needs.

Make sure you choose a dog door that fits your pup’s size and breed! Measure them from their chin to the base of their tail, as well as the circumference of their chest and neck to make sure that you get an appropriate fit. Additionally, consider if your pet will require a particularly trapezoid-shaped model in order to accommodate larger breeds or long-haired coats. If so, you might want to consider professional installation to ensure it gets installed correctly. 

How to Measure your Dog to Buy the Correct Size Dog Door.

Modern pet doors come in sizes to suit all dogs and cats and are designed to suit most doors including, wood, glass, sliding and screen doors.  To get the correct size, start by measuring the width of your pet at the hips and the shoulder. The larger measurement of the two is the size to go for and then add an additional 5cm for dogs and 3cm for cats to ensure the correct size. When installing the door, the correct height is 1-2cm below the belly of your pet.

Consider Any Restrictions or Obstructions at Home.

Before committing to installing a pet door, make sure to check if your building has any regulations or restrictions that could impact the use of a pet door. Some buildings require permission in the form of written consent from the landlord and/or other tenants before installing one. Additionally, inspect the space you plan on using for the dog door for obstructions, like a radiator or cabinets, as these may impact how it gets installed. In this case, professional installation is likely your best option as an expert will be familiar with how to work around any potential issues.

Decide When to DIY or Hire Professional Installation Services.

It’s important to assess your own abilities before deciding whether you should attempt a DIY pet door installation or hire a professional. Consider the skills and tools you need to complete and correctly install the pet door safely and securely. If you don’t have all of necessary tools, it is likely best for you to opt for a professional installation service that can assess the details of your project and install appropriately.

If you feel this DIY project is one that you can do, learn how to install a dog door  into a timber door here or for security screen doors here!

© weknowpets 2023