How to Train Your Dog to Use a Pet Door

Installing a pet door for your dog is a convenient way to ensure that he will be able to get outside when nature calls, whether you are home or not. The installation of the door may prove to be a challenging project, but training your dog to learn to use the door may be another difficult task in this process. Once a pet door which is large enough to accommodate your dog has been installed, here are the steps that may be taken in order to help your canine learn to use his very own gateway to the outdoors.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Door
• Pet Door Installation Kit
• Pet Door
• Duct Tape
• Treats
• Patience

How to Train Your Dog to use a Pet Door

1. Affix the pet door flap to a wall with duct tape. Many pets may feel intimidated in passing through the pet door flap and will need to initially become adjusted to the process of entering and exiting through the pet door.

2. Introduce your pet to the new pet door. If your pet is inside, go outside and call him. He may be reluctant to use the pet door; be sure to incorporate lots of praise, encouragement and treats during this step. Once your dog successfully uses the pet door from this direction, repeat this step from the opposite side.

3. Repeat Step 2 several times, until your dog appears to be comfortable utilizing the pet door as a means of egress.

4. Lower the pet door flap to its resting place. Repeat Step 2, this time with the pet door flap in place. This process may take longer than Step 2 originally had as your dog may be hesitant to pass through a solid piece of plastic. Repeat this step until your dog appears to be comfortable in passing through the pet door flap from both sides of the pet door.

Tips & Warnings

• Prior to purchasing a pet door, select a door that the pet door will be installed into.
• Select a door that leads to a fenced-in area away from roads or dangerous areas.
• Make sure to purchase a pet door that will allow your dog to comfortably fit through.
• If you live in a high-crime or wooded area with wildlife, consult with neighbors, animal control or local police for recommendations as to whether or not a pet door is recommended. If your local police department or animal control departments have received many complaints about animals or people using pet doors to access private homes, a pet door might not be a good fit for your particular situation.