How much does it cost to install a doggy door?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Many homeowners have beloved pet dogs. Canine companions are a cherished member of the family, and it’s important to make homes as safe and comfortable as possible for both people and pets. Installing a doggy door is a popular home improvement project that allows dogs and cats to come in and out of the house without disturbing their owners. Whether your dog needs to go to the bathroom or just wants to lay out in the sun and get some fresh air, a doggy door lets them do it without waiting for you to let them in or out.

Doggy doors have different costs depending on the size and special features. The national average cost ranges from $200 to $800. Most homeowners pay $400 to install a manual 8” x 15” aluminum dog door in an exterior door. At the low end, costs can be as low as $150 for a small, 6’’ x 7’’ manual plastic dog door installed in a window. On the high end, costs can be up to $2,850 to install a 12” x 23” extra-large aluminum electric door on a brick wall with a security cover.

Dog Door Price

Interior vs Exterior Doggy Door

The cost to install an interior doggy door is $200 to $670 while installing an exterior doggy door costs $300 to $800. Interior doggy doors are less expensive because they do not require as much work to insulate and weatherproof the area around them. They are most commonly used to give dogs or cats access to the room where their litter box or kennel is. Interior doggy doors can be installed in the door or within the wall, depending on the location. Exterior dog doors are more expensive because they need to be insulated and weatherproofed to protect against the elements. If you live in an area with cooler temperatures or snow, it is especially important to insulate the door so that you do not lose warm air going outside or have to deal with bitterly cold air coming inside with your pet. Rigid or electronic doors are ideal for exterior uses, but automated features may increase the price. Here are the average costs for interior and exterior versions of a manual medium-sized dog door installed in a door.

Manual vs Electric Dog Door

Manual and electric options are available, ranging in price from $200 to $2,700 installed. As the name suggests, manual dog doors are operated manually, with plastic flaps that push or lift open. The installation is easier and faster because no electrical wiring is required. Manual doors require less maintenance than electric models and have several models available. Newer versions have highly durable double flaps for better insulation. Electric dog doors, on the other hand, operate electrically with collar tags or microchips that are sold together with the door. The microchip or collar tag allows the door to open only when your pet is coming and going, so other animals or small children cannot use it. They lock after the animal has gone through it. Electric pet doors are more expensive to install because they need to be wired into the wall or door. They may require more maintenance to ensure all the electrical components are working correctly, and the battery has to be replaced regularly. Fewer design options are available, especially for large dogs. In addition, if you lose the microchip sensor, you have to purchase a new one. Here are the average costs for a manual or electric medium-sized dog door installed inside a door.

Pet Door Installation Cost by Size

Expect to pay $150 to $1,300 for an installed dog door, depending on its size. Dog doors come in many sizes to accommodate different dog breeds and their sizes. Generally, the larger the door, the more expensive the material and labor costs. However, the cost also depends on other factors like the type of door and the materials used to build it. Choosing the right size is important so your dog can enter and exit safely without injury or getting stuck. Here are the different dog door sizes and the cost to get each of them:

Small Dog Door

A small dog door usually costs $150 to $500 to install. A 6” x 7” pet door is suitable for toy and small breeds such as a Chihuahua, Maltese, Pomeranian, Papillon, or Yorkshire terrier that weigh around 9 lbs. Cats up to 24 lbs. can also fit through these doors. If you have a small dog and don’t plan on getting a bigger one anytime soon, then there’s no need to invest in a larger model that takes up more space and potentially invites other animals inside. What’s good about a small door is that it’s the least obtrusive option that allows you to maintain the most space on your normal door.

Medium Dog Door

Most homeowners pay $200 to $800 for a medium dog door installation. This size accommodates many popular breeds like the beagle, cocker spaniel, dachshund, Pekingese, and poodle that weigh up to 40 lbs. These dogs need a little more space to clear the entryway, but you can accommodate their medium height with suitably spacious doors. Most of these breeds should be safe on their own outside if the yard is properly maintained, so a doggy door offers peace of mind and greater convenience.

Large Dog Door Installation

Expect to spend $300 to $1,000 to install a large dog door for a boxer, Labrador, husky, German shepherd, golden retriever, bulldog, Doberman, or similar dog breeds. These doors measure around 10” x 19” so larger dogs can run in and out without hurting themselves or damaging the door. Considering the size of these units, some homeowners may opt for special flaps or electronic covers to lower the amount of heating/cooling lost at this opening. In most cases, these doors are fit for dogs up to 100 lbs.

Extra Large Dog Door

Plan on paying $400 to $1,300 for an extra large dog door that measures around 12” x 23” and fits dogs up to 220 lbs or more. This size takes up a considerable portion of the front or back door, so most people prefer only to use this most obvious and visible size if their dog needs extra room to get in and out. The biggest dog breeds like the Great Dane, Irish wolfhound, Saint Bernard, rottweiler, Old English sheepdog, and Great Pyrenees need an extra large dog door.

Doggy Door Prices by Type

Based on the type, doggy doors can range between $65 and $620 in price. The most common doggy door types are flexible, rigid, swinging, or double flap. Some options are better for certain dogs or homes, so it’s important to choose a type that suits your pet’s size and energy so you can keep them safe and protect your home from damage. The prices shown in the table below are the average costs to buy each type of door in a medium size.

Flexible Dog Door

A flexible dog door with a single flap costs $65 to $350 and is made out of plastic, rubber, or vinyl. They are designed to provide easy access when a dog or cat pushes the flap open. The flexible material bends to move along the curve of the animal’s back, increasing comfort and security for family pets. Newer flexible pet doors come with magnetic seals surrounding it to keep it closed and increase energy efficiency. They are easy for all pets to open, making them a great addition for homes with small or eldrly pets.

Rigid

A rigid dog door with a single flap costs between $90 and $450. Essentially these are the opposite of flexible doors. Their rigid flaps are made from hard plastic that doesn’t bend as a dog goes in and out. Cat doors and electronic doors often include rigid designs, which are stronger and more durable. They resist wear and warping after prolonged sun exposure, and they may be more difficult for dogs to chew, plus they lock into place without a locking cover. However, it may be hard for some smaller pets to push it open.

Double Flap Dog Door

A double flap dog door costs $140 to $550. There are two flaps, one heavier and another that’s more lightweight, usually made of plastic. This is the most energy-efficient option as the extra flap provides insulation. If you live somewhere with harsh weather conditions, it helps to protect your home and make things more comfortable for both animals and people. Also, most of them come with clear flaps so your dog can see in and out. Just remember there are not as many of them with the double flap, so your options may be limited.

Saloon Dog Door

You will pay from $420 to $620 for swinging dog doors, also referred to as the saloon style. This design has hollow flaps that fold together and swing open when pushed and is usually made of aluminum or plastic. Springs close the frame, and weatherstripping keeps the doors sealed. This style is flexible and can be securely locked more easily than others, making it a good option if you travel often. However, there are fewer swinging door options available.

Doggy Door Prices by Flap Material

Prices for a doggy door installation project vary based on the flap material, ranging in cost from $65 to $620. Plastic or PVC dog flaps are easy for dogs to go in and out of the home. However, they are best suited for small, medium, or older dogs because energetic dogs can easily break the plastic flaps. Plastic dog door flaps do not perform well in extremely cold temperatures either. You will usually need to replace them after about five years, although they are easy to replace. There are two types of vinyl flaps, ones cut from large sheets that prevent bending when the weather changes and injection molded flaps with embedded magnets that help them hang properly. Injection-molded flaps cost less and are suitable for milder climates. In comparison, large lightweight vinyl sheet flaps are on the higher end of this cost range and are better for dog doors used by pets of different sizes. You can replace vinyl flaps when needed, but most should last five to ten years. A few companies sell dog doors with K9 Composite flaps that are weatherproof and can withstand the outside elements. A doggy door with this type of long-lasting flap is best for high-energy dogs who could damage other materials. Here are the average costs for a medium-sized dog door inside a door in each flap material.

Dog Door Cost by Frame Material

Another way to look at dog door costs is by the frame material, costing $65 to $700. Several options are available, including plastic, vinyl, aluminum, stainless steel, and wood. While plastic frames are more affordable, they are less durable than as other materials. They are the best fit for smaller or calmer dogs because large, less gentle dogs can break the frames running in and out of the door. Vinyl is another good choice that is highly resistant to moisture, which helps it last longer. It is also easy to seal to improve energy efficiency but could still be chewed and damaged by mischievous dogs. Metal frames like aluminum or stainless steel are sturdier and last longer, making them good for big dog breeds. They withstand harsh impacts, weather conditions, and damage, making them a good investment if you plan on using them long-term. Stainless steel dog doors offer superior strength and a sleek finish, making them popular for areas with harsh weather conditions or extreme hot/cold temperatures. Wood dog doors are typically customized to match the rest of your house and fit your pet’s measurements. They are a great option for interior design and make the door seem less obvious and obtrusive. You can add a stain to the frames for a beautiful finish. Here are the average costs for a medium-sized dog door inside a door with each standard frame material.

Dog Door Cost by Brand

Several leading brands specialize in dog doors and other pet equipment, with prices ranging from $65 to $2,550. Many different materials, colors, and sizes are available to choose from with each brand. You can find one that makes the most sense for your family and your furry friend. The good thing about buying from a reputable brand is that they are known for their high quality and pet-friendly features, ensuring a safe experience for dogs and their owners.

PetSafe is one of the more affordable brands with plastic, aluminum, and sliding glass doors, plus a lifetime warranty on parts and a one-year warranty on labor. However, they are not as high-tech or energy-efficient. Ideal Pet Products has a great reputation for quality product manufacturing, plus a one-year warranty. They have wall entry pet doors and aluminum, vinyl, and single pane glass doors with double flap and pet alert buttons, but they do not have many easy-to-install electric doors. Hale dog doors come with a five-year warranty, which includes flaps and easily customizable sizes to suit your dog. Although there are not electronic options or as many design options as other brands, Hale offers door, wall, and screen model pet doors with single or double clear flaps and top-loading security covers that coordinate with frame colors. PlexiDor dog doors are known for their energy efficiency and extensive options, including door, wall, glass, and electronic designs made with high-quality materials. PlexiDor products have a 90-day money-back guarantee and a 10-year residential warranty.

For more advanced options, Endura and Power Pet doors are the leading brands. Endura offers a lifetime guarantee for their thermo-efficient pet doors that come in wall, door, and glass mounts. You can choose single or double flaps or thermo pet doors for sash or horizontal sliding windows. Every door is made in the U.S. and built to withstand -40 degrees and +90 degrees temperatures. They have a patented magnet system to keep the flaps shut even in 50 MPH winds. Power Pet doggy doors by High Tech Pet are fully automatic with directional ultrasonic sensing that only opens when a dog approaches it to enter or exit, not when they are walking past or lying nearby. The metal deadbolt lock adds extra security and can only be opened by the connected pet collar or a secure manual lock. The prices below are the average costs of the brand’s dog doors, which may differ in size and materials.

Cost to Install a Dog Door by Location

You can install a dog door in another door, a wall, or a window. The best options for your home depend on the existing design and your pet’s requirements. You may also want to consider putting them in a location where it’s not that noticeable. Average project costs vary from $150 to $2,550 based on the location. Here are sample costs based on an 8” x 15” medium-sized wooden dog door built into a door.

Window-Mounted Dog Door

Most window-mounted dog doors cost $100 to $1,100. If you have floor-to-ceiling windows or a small window that suits a cat or dog entry, then this affordable project could work. Some special models are made for sash and bay windows, but they aren’t available from every brand. Aluminum frames are most common for window-mounted ones, which often have locking systems to keep your home secure.

Install a Dog Door in a Door

The average cost of installing a dog door within an existing door is $150 to $2,200. Door-mount doggy doors are more energy-efficient and easier to install than wall-mounted ones. When installing a pet door in a door, a hole only needs to be cut through the door to the size of the doggy door. Some exterior doors include a pet door in the design, ranging in price from $200 to $2,200. You will not have to pay for the entire installation project, and the installation process is less messy because the professional will not need to make holes in your walls or doors. However, if you decide you do not want it anymore, you need to replace it. Many families start with a smaller door and change the size as the dogs grow by having a professional cut the hole bigger over time. Plastic or vinyl frames are common for flaps in these types of doors. In addition, there are several doors in the home where you can install a dog door.

Screen doors are easier to cut but require additional support and stability to make sure the structure is secure. If you have a screen door, this is a good opportunity to add a doggy door without compromising the main door. Putting a dog door in a storm door is similar to a screen door installation, although more labor is involved in cutting through the thicker materials. This is a good option if you want to let your dog roam in an enclosed front or backyard when you are home. When installing a dog door in a front door, security is especially important. You probably want to add a smaller door with magnetic or electronic flaps. The front door will not look the same after installing a dog door, but this is a highly convenient option if your front yard is fenced. Adding a dog door to French glass doors requires additional labor and preparation for the glass construction. Contractors need to be careful not to compromise the integrity of the doors and reinforce the new pet door accordingly. It is probably best to do this project only if you have a puppy or want a permanent dog door. Adding sliding glass doors is similar to French doors in that it takes extra careful planning and preparation to get the best results. If your dog is likely to run in and out of it with lots of energy, then a sliding glass door project may not be the best. Your contractor should also reinforce the door as part of the installation to ensure the best protection. The prices shown below are based on putting an 8” x 15” medium-sized wooden dog door inside a door.

Install a Dog Door in a Wall

Adding a wall-mount dog door costs $200 to $2,550. This option works best when an outside door doesn’t lead to a safe exterior area of the house. The process involves cutting a hole into all layers of your wall, from the drywall to the outside siding. Wall-mounted doors alter the structure and look of your home, so many projects use wood or vinyl frames to match interior looks. When adding a wall-mount door, the hole has to work around existing wall frames. Without proper weathering, it may increase energy consumption and allow warm or cool air to escape.

The installation costs vary based on the surface material, with the most commonly used being brick and glass dog doors. The cost to install a doggie door in a brick wall is slightly lower. It involves using the surrounding brick to support the door. The professional will use a circular saw with a masonry blade to install the door, which usually takes a few hours. On the other hand, the cost of installing a dog door in glass is higher because the process has to be executed carefully and safely so that the glass does not injure animals or people. The glass must also be strong enough to withstand the force of a dog going in and out regularly.

Labor Cost to Install a Doggy Door

It is best to have a professional contractor install a doggy door to ensure everything is done correctly. Especially with cutting a hole in the wall or door, you want a professional who can complete the project safely and efficiently. Usually, just one contractor is enough for a dog door installation because this process usually takes just one to three hours. Unless you add multiple dog doors with high-tech electrical wiring, this project is easily done within a few hours.

A repair person usually charges $50 to $100 per hour for a dog door installation project, whether it is wall-mounted or in-glass. Some charge a flat rate of $100 to $200 per project with the door included, so always check with your contractor. After the handyman looks at the desired location for the dog door, they may discover the need for electrical work. In that case, you need to call an electrician unless the repair person is a licensed electrician too. An electrician ensures the electrical components are installed correctly and do not disrupt the internal wall wiring. Electricians charge between $40 and $120 per hour.

Cat Door Installation Cost

Dogs and cats can use the same door if they are around the same size. Cats are usually the size of small dogs, so an appropriately sized door will do the trick. Cat doors may have a square shape as they are shorter and wider compared to taller dogs. They also typically have transparent flaps so that cautious cats can see what’s on the other side, compared to dogs, who generally will go in and out regardless of the flap. Because these are usually the smallest of all pet doors, the material costs are lower. You can install one for $75 to $400. Just like with doggy doors, there are pre-installed, storm insert, in-wall, and in-glass options.

How to Measure a Dog for a Dog Door?

Once you’ve decided on the type of door you want, you need to measure your dog to make sure they fit and don’t get hurt walking through it. Measuring your dog requires width and height measurements. Keep in mind the door may not be on floor level depending on your dog’s height and the design of your home. Generally, the door height should be 1.5 to 2 inches more than the shoulder height of your tallest dog.

Using a level, while your dog is standing against a wall, place the level at his shoulder so that it touches the wall at a 90-degree angle. This is the dog's height. Add about two inches to their height to get the right size dog door. Next, measure your dog's width at his shoulders or chest. Doors should be installed at least three inches from the bottom edge of the door. Don’t forget to measure the distance from your pet’s elbow to the floor, which gives you the rise measurement. Your dog needs to lift its paws to get in the door, so you need to subtract their overall height to discover the door’s minimum height requirements.

Pros and Cons

Owning a dog comes with a lot of responsibility, just like having a child. Installing a doggy door is a great option for your fur babies. It allows them to let themselves in and out whenever they want, increases your pet's happiness, and gives them a better quality of life with more freedom. As their human, you cannot always be there to let your pat out or take them for walks. With the doggy door, they’ll get more exercise because they’ll be outside more, even when you’re not home. They also ease your burden. Your dog won’t be stuck in the house to make a mess from boredom. If you’re busy and don’t realize they are at the door, they won’t have accidents in the house anymore because they can head right out without you. A great perk to a tight-closing and weather stripped doggy door is the energy savings. Opening a small door multiple times saves energy over opening the main one. It keeps your home’s hot or cold air from releasing in larger amounts and stops the outside hot or cold air from sneaking in.

The cons include the possibility of unwanted animals coming in or your pets going outside when you do not want them to. Although they present some security concerns by giving pest animals like possums, skunks, raccoons, and even burglars access to the house, modern advancements like energy-efficient and electric doors make them much safer. Doggy doors can be somewhat messy if it is wet or muddy outside and your dog drags dirt and mud back inside or if you have cats that may bring small birds or mice into the house. If you have small children who could crawl through medium or large pet doors, it may also cause additional concern. Another consideration is that while the extra freedom and convenience for your pets are great, installing a dog door voids an exterior door’s warranty. It may also make it difficult to restore the doors or walls to the same condition if you decide you do not want the pet door anymore. However, these things can be managed with the right dog door design. Most pet owners find a doggy door worthwhile for the greater convenience and peace of mind that dogs can go in and out when needed.

Energy Efficient Dog Door

An insulated dog door improves energy efficiency throughout the house. This is important because warm or cool air from outside can filter through the door and vice versa. If it’s the middle of winter and very cold outside, the last thing you want is the warm heated air escaping outside every time your dog uses the door. The same goes for when it’s hot during the summer.

Luckily, many manufacturers offer insulated and energy-efficient solutions. To check if a door is energy-efficient, look for an insulated or double flap, weatherstripping, fasteners, magnets, and any other latching features that keep it secure during high winds. Air leaks from the flaps are common with most dog doors, so you should make sure it’s properly sealed and maintained to minimize thermal heat loss.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Dog Door Security Cover

Dog door security covers typically cost $20 to $150. Many homeowners worry about the security of dog doors because they are an entry point into the home for unwanted visitors. Luckily, plexiglass security covers can be screwed onto the interior door frame and prevent outsiders from entering the house. This allows you to quickly secure it when you will not use it for a while, like when you go away on vacation.

Dog Door Steps

For doors not at ground level, you need to purchase or install doggy stairs. For temporary outdoor stairs, the average cost is between $30 and $100. If you want something more permanent, you could hire a contractor to build short wooden stairs with three to five steps for $150 to $600. Whichever kind of steps you go for, you just want to make sure they are strong enough to accommodate your dog’s weight safely.

Custom Dog Door

Installing a custom dog door depends entirely on what your requirements are for the door. Labor costs $50 to $100 an hour when installing a custom doggy door. Custom doors can be built into the walls of your home to match inside décor. Often, homeowners choose to install them as undercabinet hideaway doors because they are secluded behind a kitchen cabinet. Because custom doors are designed specifically for your home style and are not purchased as a complete unit, prices vary according to materials and carpenter’s labor. It takes between one and two hours to complete the job.

Doghouse Tunnel

Adding a doghouse tunnel or telescoping tunnel costs $75 to $250 per unit. A dog door tunnel is a type of pet door that allows your dog to come and go as they please without you opening the door for them. It consists of a tunnel that attaches to the inside of your door and leads to an opening in the outside of the door. The tunnel is typically made of sturdy fabric or plastic and is covered with a flap that your dog can push open.

Smart Dog Doors

The cost of smart dog doors ranges from $150 to $2,550 for the unit only. Smart doggy doors are becoming more popular for families who want more convenient control over when the door is used. Smart pet doors operate with a key fob, unlike electric models that use a microchip sensor in a pet's collar. Some allow app access through your smartphone, so you can monitor the door and keep a closer eye on your pet. Smart doggy doors also have insulated flaps for energy efficiency and open with a hard flap or bi-parting doors.

Dog Door Security

There are several ways to add security to your dog door, ranging in price between $20 and $300. Security covers, electronic locks, and electronic doors increase security. Doggy door security is important because you want to keep your pet and home safe. A two-way locking system stops trespassers from coming or going. A one-way lock allows pets to exit but not come back in. Enhanced locking systems with reinforced parts ensure the door functions properly while being impenetrable.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• DIY. Some brands have DIY kits for specific doors, but it’s best to have professional help, especially if the project requires a frame and sealing.
• Safe location. Only install doors where it is safe for the dog to be outside unattended, such as in fenced yards or patios. Avoid dog doors in the front door unless you have a fully fenced yard; otherwise, your pooch may run off.
• Removal. Before you make changes to the door and wall, remember you may not be able to undo these changes. Sometimes the existing siding may be discontinued making it difficult to restore the wall to its previous look if you decide to get rid of the dog door.
• Encouraging pet door use. Sometimes dogs and cats may need extra encouragement to get used to using their new door. Have a family member stand on one side of it while you show your pet how the flap opens. Teach them how to step through it and prompt them to follow your lead with a treat. If you have a small dog or cat, you can lift them through the opening. Remember to be patient and understand that your animal may need some time to explore the new item on their own.
• Door material. As long as you have a qualified professional to help with the task, you can add a doggy door to most door materials. Some pet doors are made to match wood, vinyl, or glass doors so you can maintain a stylish interior design while still allowing dogs extensive access in and out. Other materials on which you can install dog doors include metal, fiberglass, and composite.
• Dog door panel. If you do not want to make physical modifications to your home or want to test out a temporary dog door before installing a permanent one, adding a dog panel is a good option. They are temporary and do not require cutting holes into walls or doors. Like doggy doors, they come in various sizes and are installed as a panel with the patio or sliding glass door frame, whether recessed or exposed. The doggy door rests in the existing panel at the bottom. The cost of a dog door panel is $125 to $250.