Measuring Your Pet for a Pet Door

Do not purchase a pet door based solely on a manufacturers weight recommendation!

This method does not take into account the clearance needed by a pet at the top of the opening, nor the rise (height pet steps over). The best method for determining the correct pet door size is by considering the stature of your pet. You will more easily determine the appropriate size by considering the animal's stature along with the size (weight).

You will want the top of the opening to be 1-2 inches higher than the tallest pet’s back. This will allow the pet to use the pet door without pinching the flaps at the top…and thus wearing them out prematurely.

This will depend on several factors. If you have multiple pets; you will want the opening low enough to the ground to make it easy for that smaller pet to get through. If all your pets are larger, then the rise(distance from the floor), should be at a height that is easy for the pet use now as well as in the future as they age. Be sure to allow for easy access for larger dogs and working breeds in their later years as arthritis and hip problems often appear in these breeds.

Figure-1 is a good example how a an optimum pet opening would be sized for a dog for a pet door through a wall or a door. Notice that the top of the pet opening should be approximately 1 ½ - 2 inches above the pets shoulders. This way when a the dog runs through the door, there is enough room for clearance to avoid hitting the back and causing injury. This height placement also ensure that the dog will not crouch down when using the door, which could result in stress related problems with the dog's hips and lower back.

Figure-2 is a good example for owners of multiple pets that vary in size as well as very large or giant breeds of dogs. When sized for the largest pet and the smallest pet...both will be able to use the same opening without discomfort or injury. Remember; you will want the pet opening to be easy to navigate as your pet ages. This will save you grief and Veterinary bills in the future. Many large dogs are very active and can get through a smaller opening, but as they age the flexibility and mobility decrease and aggravated injuries can result in larger health issues.

Special considerations
Small Breeds and Cat Using Wall Mounted Pet Doors

When sizing pet doors for walls in particular, you will want to take special notice of the height of the inside tunnel. Smaller pets most times will step inside the tunnel before stepping through to the other side. You want the tunnel height generous enough for easy clearance of the pet’s back so that they will not have to low-crawl through the opening.

Pet Openings in Patio Pet Doors

The pet opening of a Patio Pet Door can be elevated by selecting the rise that best fits your pet(s). For example: if you select a pet opening of 15" wide x 20" tall; and choose a 4 " rise...the top of the pet opening will be 24" inches off the floor. Make sure your dog is 24 inches in height to the shoulders or less...otherwise he will have to crouch down and is danger of hitting his back. On the other hand; if you selected a 2.5" rise with the same 15x20" opening because you have cats that will use the same pet door...then you run the risk of the dog having to crouch to use the opening. Choosing a pet opening that is positioned high enough with a low rise is optimum.

If you have any questions or would us to help you in determining an appropriate sized pet door for your situation, please call us at 800-829-7876.

How to Measuring your Pet For a Pet Door

How do you Choose the Right Size Pet Door?