Training your pup to use the dog door doesn't have to be a chore! With this guide, you'll be able to teach your furry companion to use the dog door quickly, easily, and safely. Learn tips and tricks on how to communicate with your pup and turn them into an expert at using their new door.

Prepare the Training Area and Familiarise Your Dog with the Dog Door. 

Before you begin training your pup to use the dog door, make sure that the area is free of distractions. Then, introduce your pup to their new dog door by placing treats or toys on both sides of the door. By doing this and allowing your pup time to explore the door with their nose and paws, they will quickly become comfortable with it and realise that the dropping flap can open in either direction. With time and patience, they'll be able to get through it with ease!

Use Positive Reinforcement During Training Sessions 

Positive reinforcement is key for successfully training your dog to use the dog

door. Use treats and verbal praise when your pup interacts with the door by sniffing, touching, or attempting to go through it.  Naturally, you will choose your dogs favourite treat or toy for this stage of training. This will encourage them to continue learning and exploring how to use their new door until they are confident enough to go through it. Additionally, you can practice with clicker training where you reward your pup each time they come close to the door, press their nose against it or move towards it.

Take it Step by Step and Break Activities into Smaller Chunks

Introducing your pup to the dog door can be overwhelming, so be sure to take it one step at a time. Remember that your dog will be learning with new sensations and sounds from the dog door,  this is where positive reassurance comes into play! Start by rewarding them with treats while they simply approach and investigate the door up close. Then, associate verbal cues such as "open" or "through" when they succeed in making progress towards using it. As your pup's confidence grows and they begin to lean into the door or attempt to push it open, reward them even more for their successes until they actually use the doorknob and go through!

Give Praise and Rewards for Successful Attempts

Consistently reward your pup's progress towards using the dog door, even if they don't make it all the way through. Give verbal praise and affirmation when they approach the door and make any kind of progress towards using it. Depending on their personality, you can also use treats or toys to incentivize them to use the dog door. Your pup will eventually pick up on your enthusiasm, making learning faster and easier for both of you!

Eliminate Distractions from the Learning Environment

Make sure to create a distraction-free environment when training your pup. If there are other dogs, cats, or humans around, their presence could deter your pup from using the dog door. Focus on how curious and interested your pup is in exploring the dog door before adding any extra factors into the mix. Additionally, keep a short leash and collar on them so they have a limited range of movement while you’re guiding them through the process.

Do your research on the range of dog doors to suit your dog

Our doggy doors are shipped Australia wide. The range of dog doors include ones for glass, sliding, security and wooden doors. Most of these can be installed by yourself as a DIY job. Dog doors for glass doors should only be installed by a glazier. The most popular dog door that we sell is the Pet One Wooden door range. These  have a  2-way locking mechanism  and brush seals to keep draughts and wind out. 

Other tips to successfully train your dog to use the doggie door

1. Ensure that the dog door is the correct size for your dog. Measure the width of your dog at their widest part - hips or shoulders using a tape measure. Allow an additional 5 cm clearance all around the door. Make sure that it is tall enough too.
2. Keep in mind there will be a 'step over' section  at the bottom of your door which your dog will need to step up and through.
3. Keep some training pads on the inside of the door during the training process. This can make any accidents or setbacks easy to clean up!
4. Once your dog has mastered using their door (and this will happen!), check it from time to time for any loose screws or squeaks that may develop, These can be easily remedied to help your dog use the door comfortably.
5. Consider making access easy for your dog. Remove any hazards such as pot plants, or statues that may interfere with access.