Hepper is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.
How to Install a Dog Door in a Wall: 4 Expert Tips
We all love to treat our fur babies with kindness and respect, which is why we do everything that we can to ensure that they’re happy and comfortable. However, some of those things, like opening the door whenever your dog wants to go outside, can get tiring.
If your dog frequently likes to enter and exit the home, it might be a smart idea to install a dog door. But how can you put such a door in the wall?
Read on as we provide you with expert tips on installing a dog door in a wall that should help you create this useful entrance for your dog in no time.
Things to Consider Before Installing a Dog Door Into a Wall
Before installing a dog door into your wall, you’ll need to choose the best location, tools, and other necessities. Here’s a list of all the things that you’ll need to make the installation go smoothly:
- Measurements — Take measurements of your furry companion to determine the adequate size for the door. Measure the widest part and the highest point of your dog’s body.
- Wall type — Walls can vary in material and thickness, and not every wall will require you to use the same tools. Some walls are made of brick, while others are stucco or have insulation, so be sure to consider those things before proceeding with the installation.
- Tools and materials — You’ll need to have basic tools, such as a measuring tape, pencil, and screws. However, depending on the type of wall, you’ll likely need tools like a saw, drill, and stud finder. You’ll also need the dog door itself, which will include the frame that fits in the wall and the door itself. There are many different kinds, so pick the one that will work best for your needs.
The 4 Expert Tips on How to Install a Dog Door in a Wall
1. Find the Best Location for the Dog Door
After you’ve gathered your materials and tools, you should find a suitable location in the wall where you’ll place the door. Verify that the area doesn’t have any wiring, outlets, pipes, or other things that could prevent you from cutting the wall.
After you choose a good location, use the tape measure and a pencil to mark the dog’s measurements on the wall, just slightly higher and wider than their actual measurements, which will be the height and width of the door.
2. Locate Any Studs on the Wall and Then Cut
After you carefully draw your measurements, use a stud finder to locate the studs inside the wall, and cut a hole next to each stud using a drywall saw.
Once finished, drill through the wall, and drill the four corners that will be the edges of the doors. Use a pencil and a level to draw a line that connects all the holes and mark it; this will be the interior hole that you’ll use to form your door.
Finally, use the drywall saw again to cut a rectangular shape around the four corners.
3. Fit the Interior Pet Side Door and Cut Through the Outer Wall
Now it’s time to take your dog door frame, and place the interior side into the wall. However, if you live in a home with insulation, you’ll first need to remove the insulation layers before proceeding. The door should fit smoothly and not be too tight or too loose; if necessary, re-measure and make any adjustments.
After the interior frame is put in, use the drill to drill holes for the exterior wall through the interior wall; use the same pattern that you did for the inside, and drill four corners. After you finish, draw a rectangle connecting the corners, cut along the sides that you drew, and remove the part that you just cut off.
4. Place the Exterior Pet Door and Screw in Everything Together
Take the exterior pet door, and place it in position to ensure that it fits properly. If everything fits as it should, screw it all together, and voilà! You now have a dog door in a wall!
Final Thoughts
Installing a dog door doesn’t have to be extremely difficult; anyone who has tools and a few basic handy skills should be able to install one in no time. Remember to take proper measurements of your dog, and don’t be afraid to ask for help in case you get stuck.
Featured Image Credit: Dmussman, Shutterstock
Get Hepper In Your Inbox
Pet care tips from our vets and experts, straight to your inbox.
You may opt-out at any time. View our Privacy Policy for more information.
Visnja is a content writer that covers various topics such as DIY, pets, home improvement, travel, gardening, and more.
She is a young mom and a college student, who didn’t have enough time to balance her personal and work life, so after multiple years of working a regular 9 to 5 job, she decided to pursue her passion and make a living out of it. She has been writing for a couple of years, helping people find valuable and interesting information online.
Join the conversation
Ask a question, share your story, or send private feedback.
