Tired of constantly letting your dog in and out? An automatic dog door is a great compromise between letting them out and keeping an eye on them. Imagine your dog enjoying the backyard whenever they please, without you needing to interrupt your work or chores.
Picking the right dog door can feel like a big decision — after all, you want something that works for your dog. Think about their size, type of breed, how active they are, and even their personality! These days, dog door brands are leaving no stone unturned — from launching dog doors to walls to ones you can program that are both convenient and secure, the options are limitless.
In this article, we’ll explore the top pet door opener options on the market, breaking down their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
How Does an Automatic Dog Door Work?
Automatic dog doors provide a convenient way for your dog to move freely while maintaining home security. Depending on the type of door, they can include smart features or simpler mechanisms. Here’s how they work:
Trigger Mechanism for Smart Doors
Most high-tech automatic dog doors use sensors like RFID, microchips, or key fobs attached to your dog’s collar. When your dog approaches, the door detects their signal and either unlocks, slides open, or lifts the flap.
Magnetic Closing Mechanism for Non-Smart Doors
Simpler automatic dog doors rely on magnets to close the flap securely after your pet passes through. Even though they don’t have fancy sensors, these nonetheless let dogs in and out safely and easily.
Automatic Closing Flaps
Some doors, whether smart or magnetic, are equipped with automatic closing flaps that gently shut after use. This way, you won’t have to lift a finger to keep your house pest-free and energy-efficient.
Customizable Access for Smart Doors
Advanced models let you program specific access times or allow only certain pets to use the door. Particularly in homes with multiple pets, this provides an extra degree of regulation.
Safety Features
Both types of automatic doors prioritize pet safety. Features like anti-pinch mechanisms, secure locking systems, and weatherproof seals are common to protect your pet and home.
Weatherproof Design
Many doors, including magnetic models, come with insulated panels or tight-sealing flaps to protect against wind, rain, and temperature fluctuations.
Power Source
Advanced models let you program specific access times or allow only certain pets to use the door. Particularly in homes with multiple pets, this provides an extra degree of regulation.
Are Automatic Doors Expensive?
Automatic dog doors for homes come in a wide range of costs. You can find basic models with magnetic flaps for as little as $50-$150. These are great for smaller dogs and simpler needs. If you want the bells and whistles — think microchip readers, remote control, and smartphone integration – expect to pay more, usually between $200 and $600.
While those higher prices might seem steep, think of the long-term benefits — more free time for you, a happier pup, and a cool, modern upgrade for your home. And because a quality door is made to last, it’s a worthwhile investment that you’ll enjoy for years. There’s definitely a door out there to fit your budget and your dog’s needs.
The Best Automatic Dog Doors to Buy in 2025
Finding the right automatic dog door can make life easier for both you and your pup. From dog doors for walls to advanced smart doggy doors, these top picks offer convenience, security, and features to suit every breed and home setup.
BEST OVERALL
PetSafe Never Rust Electronic Smart Pet Door
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Locks automatically after your pet goes through
Improves home security
Can store up to 5 collar keys
Built with a durable, rust-resistant frame
Works even during power outages
Allows you to program entry, exit, and auto-lock settings
But…
There might be a slight risk of malfunctions with the sensor or battery
Give your furry friend the freedom they deserve with the PetSafe electronic smart pet door. This automatic dog door with a collar sensor uses a collar key to grant your pet easy access while keeping unwanted visitors out. Designed for multi-pet households, it can be programmed for up to five collar keys, ensuring all your furry friends can enjoy freedom without hassle.
With its dog collar dog door functionality, this door locks automatically after your pet passes through, enhancing home security — especially in areas with wildlife or high crime. Battery-operated with 4 D-cell batteries, it works even during power outages. In addition, the auto-locking, entry, and exit settings are fully customizable.
BEST FOR WALLS
High Tech Pet Fully Automatic Pet Door
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Motor-driven operation
Ultrasonic collar activation
Hermetically sealed design
Quiet operation
Customizable access
Designed to withstand the elements
But…
Premium price point
Unlike traditional electronic doors that only unlock, this High Tech pet door opens completely and effortlessly for your dog, but stays firmly shut for unwanted visitors. Your dog doesn’t need to push or nudge the panel. The powerful mechanism of this collar-activated dog door for large dogs quietly lifts the translucent, super-strength resin door into its housing, and provides seamless access to your pet.
Designed with safety in mind, this pet door features an automatic deadbolt lock for extra security and a hermetically sealed frame that makes it impossible for intruders to tamper with. You can customize access with features like “In Only” or “Out Only” modes, and even adjust the distance at which the door triggers.
BEST COST-EFFECTIVE
Rseord Silver Pet Door with Automatic Closing Flaps
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Made from high-quality aluminum
Has spring-loaded hinges and magnetic buckles
Equipped with windproof and rainproof seals
Pest control
Black translucent panels reduce UV damage
Requires your pet to push through the flaps, not fully automatic
But…
Requires your pet to push through the flaps, not fully automatic
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable pet door, then the Rseord Silver pet door is a fantastic choice for small and medium dogs. Two magnetically sealed flaps on this robust aluminum door keep out drafts, rain, and unwelcome critters. The spring-loaded hinges and secure locks ensure the door closes tightly behind your pet.
Easy to install with the included template and instructions, this pet door is built to last. You can rest easy knowing it’s built to handle any weather Mother Nature throws at it, and with its built-in safety features — including a secure locking mechanism — you can be confident that your pet will be safely within the house while the unwanted guests will stay out.
BEST WITH AUTO-CLOSING FLAPS
Alluneitter Doggie Door with Automatic Closing Panels
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Automatic closing panels
Pets can easily push the door open
Energy efficient
Made with a high-quality aluminum frame
Has powerful magnets and spring hinges
Designed for medium to large dogs up to 115 lbs
But…
The moving parts (hinges, magnets) may require occasional cleaning
The Alluneitter doggie door is a practical and energy-efficient solution for pet parents. Designed with two durable panels, this power dog door allows pets to easily push open the door, just like humans. This way, it takes less time to train your pet to use it. The panels close automatically after your pet enters or exits and ensure your home maintains stable temperatures.
You can count on this dog door to hold up for the long haul. Its high-quality construction includes a strong aluminum frame that resists bending, damage, and rust. And the dual security locks and magnetic closure create a tight seal, keeping your home clean, bug-free, and draft-free. This large dog door, designed for pets up to 115 lbs, is also easy to install and maintain.
BEST PREMIUM QUALITY
Power Tech Pet Electronic Dog Door
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Activated by your pet’s ultrasonic collar
Double pane, low-E glass
Designed to keep out drafts, wind, and rain
Easily installs into your existing sliding glass door track
Offers 4-way access control
Strong aluminum frame with industrial-quality powder coat finish
But…
Premium price point
Experience the ultimate in convenience with this power dog door by Power Tech, which is designed for your sliding glass doors. One of the best automatic dog doors in the USA, it features a sleek, design and utilizes advanced ultrasonic technology to recognize your pet and open automatically. It has energy-efficient dual-pane Low-E glass that helps to keep out drafts, even in extreme climates.
Say goodbye to manual door opening! This automatic dog door for sliding glass doors seamlessly integrates into your existing patio door and provides a secure, weatherproof passage for your furry friend. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your pet has the freedom to come and go while you relax and enjoy your day.
BEST FOR DOOR & WALLS
Superpotential Doggie Door with Automatic Closing Flaps
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Easy for pets to use
Maintains a stable indoor temperature
Locking mechanism to prevent unauthorized access
Comes with detailed instructions to install
Tinted doors provide UV protection
May not be suitable for smaller dogs
But…
May not be suitable for smaller dogs
We get it, you’re tired of constantly letting your dog in and out, but this automatic dog door for large pups offers you the perfect solution. Designed for easy use, your pet simply pushes open the two panels, just like a regular door. The panels then automatically close behind them, keeping out drafts and unwanted critters.
Crafted from durable aluminum, this door will last you for some years to come. It features a secure locking mechanism to keep your pet safe and features a unique design that slides in to control access, keeping your pets inside or out. Putting this dog door in is a breeze thanks to the simple instructions, and its versatile design means it’ll fit right into any home with a furry friend.
BEST FOR MULTIPLE PETS
AJKJ Smart Electronic Pet Door
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Smart sensing technology
Adjustable sensitivity settings
Restricts access to authorized pets only
Pet-friendly design
Multi-pet compatibility
Easy installation
But…
Requires four D-cell and two CR2032 batteries that will need to be replaced periodically
Imagine a world where your dog enjoys the freedom of the outdoors without requiring you to constantly open and close the door. The AJKJ smart electronic pet door makes this a reality! This smart door knows when your pet is nearby, so they can come in easily while keeping other animals out.
With adjustable sensitivity settings, you can create a custom dog door perfectly suited for your pet’s needs. At this automatic dog door price, it is definitely an investment, but it’s an investment in both your pet’s happiness and your own convenience. Experience the freedom and peace of mind that comes with this advanced pet door solution.
BEST FOR SMALL DOGS
SureFlap-Sure Petcare Microchip Pet Door
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Selective entry system
Ideal for small dogs
Stores up to 32 pet profiles
One button set up
Lets you set specific lock/unlock times
Low battery indicator
But…
Not remote-controlled
Perfect for small dogs, the SureFlap-Sure Petcare microchip pet door is a secure and stress-free way to give your pet freedom while keeping unwanted visitors out. It works by reading your pet’s microchip or an optional RFID collar tag, unlocking the door only for recognized pets. Setup is simple — just press one button to program — and it can store up to 32 pet profiles, making it a smart solution for multi-pet homes.
Built with small breeds in mind, this microchip pet door features a flap that’s just over 6.5″ high and 7″ wide — ideal for pint-sized pups. You can even set a curfew to lock or unlock the door at specific times. It installs in doors, windows, or walls and runs on four C-cell batteries (not included) with an easy-to-read low battery indicator.
BEST WITH LCD DISPLAY
Aiday Automatic Dog Door for Wall
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
LCD display with intuitive controls
Pre-scheduled openings
Manual lock override
Anti-pinch safety feature
Durable build
Battery powered with indicator
But…
Might not be ideal for renters as it requires cutting into walls
The Aiday automatic dog door for Wall comes equipped with a large, easy-to-read LCD screen that puts everything at your fingertips — from scheduled open times to instant manual lock settings. With built-in anti-pinch safety, durable aluminum construction, and a weather-sealed flap system, it’s made to last.
Designed for large dogs up to 100 lbs, the flap measures 10″ x 15.6″ and fits neatly into an 11″ x 18″ cutout. The expandable tunnel accommodates wall thicknesses between 4″ and 7″. This battery-powered dog door runs up to 3 months on 4 AA batteries — no tools needed to change them.
How We Chose the Best Automatic Dog Doors
At DogTime, our experts curated this list of the best automatic dog doors by assessing factors such as ease of use, safety and insulation features, durable materials, sturdy construction, ease of installation, and overall price. They further consulted with industry professionals and read “automatic dog door USA” reviews online to gain more insight into the top-selling products to bring our readers the clearest view. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
Are automatic dog doors worth it?
Absolutely! Automatic dog doors offer incredible convenience for both you and your pet. Imagine your dog enjoying the freedom to come and go as they please, while you relax without constant interruptions. And the great thing is, many models actually boost your home security, so you can relax knowing you’re safer.
What can I use instead of a doggie door?
If a doggie door isn’t an option, consider a pet gate, a window pet door, or a smart pet door that works with your existing door or wall. You could also let your pet in and out manually when needed.
What is the disadvantage of a doggie door?
One thing to consider is that a doggie door could let in unwanted animals or even intruders. It can also let in drafts, debris, or weather, depending on the door’s seal. Additionally, it may not be suitable for homes with young children.
Do dog doors leak?
Some dog doors can leak if they aren’t sealed properly, especially in extreme weather. Going for a well-made, weatherproof dog door with good seals and magnetic closures can help prevent leaks and keep your energy bills down.
Will animals come through the dog door?
Yes, there’s a chance! Raccoons, squirrels, and other animals might try to use your dog door. Look for models with strong seals and consider features like microchip readers to limit access to only your pets.
Is it easy to install a dog door?
Installation varies. Some of these dog doors are easy enough to install yourself with clear instructions, but for others — especially if you’re putting it through a wall — you might want to call in a pro. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before you begin.
