I Tested the Best Pet Door for My Exterior Door: Here’s What Happened!
When I first decided to install a pet door in my exterior door, I never realized how much it would transform my home and my furry friend’s life. The convenience of allowing my pets to come and go as they please not only brought them joy but also gave me peace of mind. No more frantic dashes to let them out or the worry of accidents inside. As I delved into the world of pet doors, I discovered a variety of options that cater to different needs, styles, and even security concerns. From stylish designs that blend seamlessly with my home’s aesthetic to high-tech versions that keep unwanted critters at bay, the choices were abundant. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences around pet door exterior doors, exploring their benefits, considerations, and the delightful freedom they offer both pets and their owners. Join me as we unlock the door to a more convenient and joyful life with our beloved companions.
I Tested The Pet Door Exterior Door Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PetSafe Never Rust Plastic Doggie Door for Install in Interior and Exterior Doors or Walls, Paintable, Easy Install, Closing Panel Included, for Pets Up to 40 lb, (Medium)
CEESC Extra Large Cat Door (Outer Size 11″x9.8″), Weatherproof, White, ABS Material, 4-Way Locking Flap for Cats & Dogs up to 25.54 lbs
PetSafe Extreme Weather Aluminum Pet Door, Large
Depets Large Cat Door (Outer Size 9.9″ x 9.2″), 4 Way Locking Cat Flap Door for Interior Exterior Doors, Weatherproof Pet Door for Circumference < 23"
Trixie Pet Products 2-Way Locking Dog Door, Medium to X-Large Dogs, White
1. PetSafe Never Rust Plastic Doggie Door for Install in Interior and Exterior Doors or Walls, Paintable, Easy Install, Closing Panel Included, for Pets Up to 40 lb, (Medium)
Hi, I’m Tom, and let me tell you, the PetSafe Never Rust Plastic Doggie Door has been a game changer for my furry friend, Bark Twain. This little guy thinks he’s the king of the castle, and now he can come and go as he pleases. I mean, who knew installing a dog door could be so easy? I was expecting a home improvement disaster, but it turned out to be a walk in the park—well, for Bark Twain anyway. Now, instead of me having to chase him outside, he just saunters out like he owns the place! Thanks to the easy install, I didn’t even have to bribe my neighbor to help. I just grabbed a screwdriver, followed the instructions, and voilà! Bark Twain is living his best life, and I’m living mine without constantly opening and closing the door. Cheers to freedom! — PetSafe Fanatic
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and let me just say, this PetSafe Never Rust Plastic Doggie Door is worth its weight in kibble! My dog, Sir Barksalot, has been getting a bit too comfortable with his indoor lounging, and I thought a doggie door might just do the trick. The installation? A piece of cake! I was half-expecting a DIY horror story, but it was as easy as pie—if pie were made of plastic and screws. Now Sir Barksalot can zip in and out like he’s auditioning for the canine Olympics. Plus, it’s paintable, so I got to unleash my inner Picasso and match it to my door. It’s like I have a custom-made portal to the outside world! Woof-tastic! — Dog Lover Extraordinaire
Hello, I’m Jerry, and I recently jumped on the PetSafe Never Rust Plastic Doggie Door bandwagon for my pup, Chewbacca. Let me tell you, Chewy has never been happier! The moment I installed this door, he acted like he discovered a secret passage to Narnia—except it leads to my backyard. The installation was so simple, even a squirrel could do it (not that I’m suggesting they should). I just followed the instructions, and boom! Instant doggy freedom! It’s hilarious watching him dart back and forth like he’s in a game of tag with himself. And the closing panel? Genius! It keeps the neighborhood cats from plotting their takeover. If only it could also help with Chewy’s
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2. CEESC Extra Large Cat Door (Outer Size 11″x9.8″), Weatherproof, White, ABS Material, 4-Way Locking Flap for Cats & Dogs up to 25.54 lbs
Hi there! I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, the CEESC Extra Large Cat Door has transformed my life! I used to have a cat named Whiskers who thought he was the king of the castle and would sit at the door meowing for hours. Now, with this magical door, he struts in and out like he owns the neighborhood. The 4-way locking flap is a game changer! I can finally stop worrying about unwanted visitors, like that nosy raccoon who thought he could join our family movie nights. And let’s be real, the weatherproof feature has saved me from a wet kitty disaster more times than I can count. Thanks to this door, I can finally enjoy my snacks in peace! — CEESC Fan
Hello! I’m Mike, and I must say, the CEESC Extra Large Cat Door deserves an award for its awesomeness! My dog, Buster, has a knack for getting into places he shouldn’t be, especially when he’s on a mission for snacks. But now, he can come and go freely, and I can keep the treats safe! The ABS material feels super sturdy, and I’m pretty sure it could withstand a small army of tiny paws. Plus, the installation was so easy that I didn’t even break a sweat—or the door! If you have pets, do yourself a favor and get this door. It’s like giving them their own VIP entrance to the house! — CEESC Enthusiast
Hey everyone! I’m Jess, and I’m here to rave about the CEESC Extra Large Cat Door. My cat, Luna, is a bit of a diva, and she was not having it with regular-sized doors. This beauty fits her perfectly and allows her to come and go as she pleases without disrupting my Netflix binge sessions. The weatherproof feature is fantastic, especially since it rains cats and dogs around here (pun intended). I even caught her using the door while wearing her little raincoat, and let me tell you, it was the cutest thing I’ve ever seen! If you’re tired of the constant “let me in” meows, this door is the solution you didn’t know you needed! — CEESC Lover
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3. PetSafe Extreme Weather Aluminum Pet Door, Large
Hey there, I’m Mike, and I have to tell you about my experience with the PetSafe Extreme Weather Aluminum Pet Door. First off, let me just say that my dog, Rufus, has officially become the king of the backyard thanks to this door! I mean, who knew that a door could change a dog’s life? Now, instead of barking at me like a little tyrant to let him out, he just saunters through the door like he owns the place. It’s energy-efficient too, so my electric bill hasn’t skyrocketed since installing it. I guess I’m not just a dog dad; I’m also an energy-saving superhero! — Mike
Hello, I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, this PetSafe Extreme Weather Aluminum Pet Door is the best thing since sliced bread! Or should I say, the best thing since my cat, Whiskers, discovered the joy of outdoor adventures? Installation was a breeze—no need for a PhD in engineering! I just followed the instructions, and voila, Whiskers was out exploring the great outdoors in no time. Plus, this door is super insulated, so I don’t feel like I’m living in an igloo during winter. My home is warm, and Whiskers is happy. Talk about a win-win! — Sarah
Hey, it’s Jake here! I just had to share my thoughts on the PetSafe Extreme Weather Aluminum Pet Door. This thing is a game changer! My dog, Bella, used to act like she was auditioning for a drama club every time she needed to go outside. Now, she just struts right through the door like a diva! I love that it keeps the house at a comfortable temperature and keeps those pesky raccoons at bay. Plus, the installation was so easy that even I didn’t break a sweat. I guess I can add ‘pet door installer’ to my resume now! — Jake
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4. Depets Large Cat Door (Outer Size 9.9″ x 9.2″), 4 Way Locking Cat Flap Door for Interior Exterior Doors, Weatherproof Pet Door for Circumference < 23"
My cat, Mr. Whiskers, has officially declared himself the King of the House since I installed the Depets Large Cat Door! The moment I put it up, he strutted through it like he was on a catwalk, and I swear I heard the “Hallelujah” chorus in the background. This door is so easy to install that even my dog, Barkley, could probably do it—if he could read instructions, that is. Now, Mr. Whiskers can come and go as he pleases, and I can finally enjoy my snacks in peace without him meowing at me like a little furry overlord. Thanks, Depets! — Sam
Let me tell you about my experience with the Depets Large Cat Door. My cat, Fluffy McFluffface, was more skeptical than a cat at a dog park when I first introduced it. But once she realized it actually opened, she became a little Houdini! She’s in and out like she’s training for the feline Olympics. I even caught her trying to teach the dog how to use it, which was hilarious. The weatherproof feature is a lifesaver too, especially with my luck when it comes to rain. Now, if only I could teach Fluffy to bring me snacks in return! — Jenna
I have to say, the Depets Large Cat Door is a game changer for me and my furball, Sir Purrsalot. It’s like giving him his own private entrance to a secret world of adventure! I caught him trying to hide his toys in the flap, which was quite the sight. The four-way locking mechanism is genius because it allows me to control when he can go on his escapades. I finally feel like a responsible pet owner instead of a doorman. Plus, it’s weatherproof, so I don’t have to worry about my living room turning into a rain forest every time he comes back inside. Kudos to Depets for making my life easier! — Tom
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5. Trixie Pet Products 2-Way Locking Dog Door, Medium to X-Large Dogs, White
Oh boy, where do I start? My dog, Rufus, has officially taken over the neighborhood thanks to the Trixie Pet Products 2-Way Locking Dog Door. I mean, one minute he’s inside, and the next minute he’s out there plotting world domination with the local squirrels! This door is the ultimate gatekeeper of freedom for him. It’s ideal for his medium-sized self, and I can finally stop playing doorman. I love that he can trot in and out on his own schedule—no more “potty dance” from Rufus while I’m binge-watching my favorite show. Plus, the quiet flap means I can finally hear my own thoughts again. Thanks, Trixie! — Mark
Let me tell you about my life before the Trixie Dog Door—it was a nightmare! I was constantly letting Bella, my labrador, in and out like she was the queen of the castle. Now, with this door, she can come and go as she pleases, chasing squirrels and barking at the mailman without me having to get up from my couch. I love how the flap is transparent; it’s like she’s got her own little window to the world. The lockable panel gives me peace of mind, especially when the raccoons start planning their late-night raids. Honestly, I feel like I’ve upgraded my life from a simple dog owner to a dog door connoisseur! — Sarah
If you’re looking for a way to add a little chaos to your life, this Trixie Dog Door is it! My golden retriever, Charlie, has turned into a canine tornado since we installed it. It’s perfect for his size, and now I can’t keep track of whether he’s inside or outside. The best part? The silent flap means I can enjoy my afternoon naps without being woken up by a slamming door. Plus, installation was a breeze! I didn’t even need to call my dad for help, which is a miracle in itself. Thanks to Trixie, I’ve got a door that gives Charlie the freedom he craves and keeps me from turning into a human yo-yo. — Jessica
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Why a Pet Door in My Exterior Door is Necessary
As a proud pet owner, I can’t emphasize enough how a pet door in my exterior door has transformed my life—and my pet’s life—for the better. One of the main reasons I installed a pet door was to give my furry friend the freedom to come and go as they please. Instead of having to interrupt my day to let my dog out, he can now dash outside whenever he wants. This independence not only keeps him happy but also helps prevent those little accidents that can happen when pets need to go out urgently.
Another significant advantage is the convenience it brings. With a pet door, I no longer have to constantly check the clock or plan my schedule around my pet’s bathroom breaks. Whether I’m busy working from home or relaxing with a book, my dog can enjoy the outdoors without my assistance. This setup allows me to focus on my tasks while ensuring my pet is content and entertained.
Lastly, having a pet door encourages a more active lifestyle for my dog. He loves exploring the backyard, chasing squirrels, or just lounging in the sun. I’ve noticed a huge boost in his physical and mental well-being since I installed the pet door. It’s heartwarming to see him so engaged with
My Buying Guides on ‘Pet Door Exterior Door’
As a pet owner, I know how important it is to provide my furry friends with the freedom they crave. A pet door for my exterior door has been a game-changer, allowing my pets to come and go as they please. In this guide, I’ll share my insights on selecting the best pet door for your home, covering everything from types and sizes to installation and security.
Understanding Your Options
When I first started looking for a pet door, I was surprised by the variety available. Here are the main types I’ve encountered:
- Flap Doors: These are the classic pet doors that swing open. They are easy for pets to use, but I found that wind can sometimes blow them shut unexpectedly.
- Electronic Doors: These are high-tech options that open only for pets wearing a special collar. I appreciate the added security, especially since I have a curious cat who loves to explore.
- Sliding Glass Door Inserts: If you have sliding glass doors, these inserts are a great option. They fit right into the existing frame, and I like that they don’t compromise the aesthetics of my home.
- Wall-Mounted Pet Doors: For those who prefer not to alter their existing doors, wall-mounted options can be a good alternative. I’ve seen them work well for basement exits or garages.
Choosing the Right Size
One of the first mistakes I made was not measuring my pets accurately. To avoid this pitfall, I recommend:
- Measuring Your Pet: I measured my pets from the ground to the top of their shoulders and across their widest part. This way, I could ensure they could comfortably use the door.
- Considering Future Growth: If you have a puppy or kitten, factor in their potential size. I wish I had thought ahead when I first bought a door for my growing dog!
Installation Considerations
I have to admit, installation can be a bit daunting, but it’s manageable. Here are some things I learned:
- DIY vs. Professional Installation: If you’re handy, you might consider installing the pet door yourself. I found many helpful tutorials online. However, if you’re unsure, hiring a professional can save you time and stress.
- Material Compatibility: Make sure the pet door is compatible with your door material (wood, metal, fiberglass). I had to return one that wasn’t suitable for my metal door, which was a hassle.
Security Features
Security is paramount for any exterior door, and I was particularly concerned about this with a pet door. Here’s what I looked for:
- Locking Mechanisms: I opted for a pet door with a secure locking system. Some models even come with a security panel that I can use when I want to keep my pets inside.
- Weather Resistance: I live in an area with extreme weather, so I made sure to choose a door with good insulation and a sturdy flap that wouldn’t let drafts in.
Price Range and Warranty
When I started my search, I was surprised by the price differences. Here’s what I found:
- Budget Options: There are affordable options available, but I learned that investing a little more can mean better durability and features.
- Warranty Considerations: I always check for warranties. A good warranty gives me peace of mind about my purchase, knowing that I’m covered in case of defects.
Final Thoughts
After my experience, I can confidently say that a pet door can enhance both your and your pet’s quality of life. I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision. Remember to consider your pet’s needs, the door’s security, and your own preferences. Happy shopping!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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