How Much Does it Cost to Install a Doggy Door?

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Doggy Door?

Installing a dog door will make life better for you and your pet. Your pet can go in and out freely whenever they want. No more waking up at night or stopping work just to let the dog out. With a dog door, you save time while giving your pet a little more freedom.

The cost of installing a dog door in Australia ranges from about $120 up to $550 and usually includes installation costs and lock adjustments. The type of doggy door used, the installation surface, and the dog size account for such differences. Further price dependencies can include technology, materials, and security features. Being aware of all of these factors will help you select the right option for your pet and budget.

Various Types of Doggy Doors and Their Prices

• Traditional Flap Doors: The simplest doggy doors are called traditional flap doors. They are cheap and simple to use. All that is required is for your pet to see either side of the flap and then push against it. Depending on the size and material, they will cost between $50 and $150.


• Electronic Dog Doors: These come with a special collar that only allows the unlocking of the flap by your dog. These doors are pricier than other doors, ranging between $150 to $350. They are for those who prefer better security and control.


• Sliding Glass Doors: These are meant for pet owners or those who do not wish to cut through any doors or walls. They cost anything from $200 to $400. They slide into your current glass door frame and can be removed when necessary.


• Wall-Mounted Doors: These provide permanent access via a wall. They typically cost between $100 and $300. These doors take more labour to install, particularly if cutting through concrete or brick.


• Door-Mounted Versions: These slide into a cut-out within your current timber or uPVC door. These range from $50 to $250. These are typically selected on account of simplicity to use and fit.

All of these types of doggy doors are available in budget or high-end models. Less expensive ones utilize plastic or plain vinyl, whereas more expensive ones utilize reinforced aluminium or heavy-duty plastic. The better-quality models provide greater durability, particularly for large or energetic dogs.

How Doggy Door Installation Prices Differ?

Dog Size and Cost

Your dog's size greatly determines the door you should choose. Small dogs weighing less than 7 kilograms require just a small flap, but bigger and stronger doors are required for larger breeds. Small dogs should cost you anywhere from $105 to $150. For medium-sized breeds weighing anywhere from 7 kgs to 18 kgs, a doggy door would cost anything from $150 to $250. Very big breeds weighing above 18 kgs will need doors, which will cost you between $250 to $375.

Moving over to flap size, small openings, which are 20 cm by 15 cm or smaller, will run you anywhere from $70 to $180. Medium-sized flaps, which are 30 cm by 20 cm or so, will cost anywhere from $80 to $240. Large flaps larger than 30 cm range from $90 to $400. The larger the flap, the more expensive it is in materials and installation.

Doggy Door Installation Costs

If you're not carrying out a DIY operation, you must plan for installation. A simple doggy door installation will run anywhere between $70 to $200. Wooden door simple installations are fewer. Wall or glass installations are more expensive since they require special tools and expertise.

Adding a doggy door to a glass surface typically ranges from $150 to $300. You must get the services of a glazier for such work. Adding a door to a concrete or brick wall can range from $150 to $250. Such work requires more labour, more time, and more equipment.

The total installation price is going to be based on where you live, any additional materials you might need, and the contractor you use. Certain tradespeople will charge you a call-out fee. If you require weather stripping or sealant materials, you'll have to pay extra.

To get the most accurate price estimate, call at least three separate professionals. Provide them with clear information on your dog's size, the surface for installation, and where you want the door installed.

Security and Technology Features

Some dog doors have advanced security options. Simple dog doors may allow other animals or burglars in. For extra security, select a magnetic, infrared, microchip, or lockable dog door.

Locking doors range from $25 to $250. Magnetic doors range from $30 to $270. These employ a unique collar magnet that only opens the door as your pet moves toward it. Infrared and microchip doors range from $200 to $300. These doors read your dog's collar or implanted chip and open only if it is a match. These provide additional security but are more expensive and require some training.

You can also add lights to improve visibility. Basic security lights cost between $10 and $100. Outdoor lights range from $5 to $200. Motion sensor lights, which are about $150 to $500. Installing a Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) camera for securing and monitoring will set you back between $200 and $900. This is a good addition, especially when you want the yard monitored while you are away with your dog or property.

Frame Material and Cost

Frame material impacts price and durability. Simple plastic or vinyl frames are budget-friendly, with prices beginning at $60. Aluminium frames will cost around $120 and will be much more durable. Stainless steel frames sell for approximately $200 and have high strength and durability. Fiberglass frames are the most expensive, reaching up to $400. These have high-quality insulation and are ideal for extreme climates.

Choose the frame based on your home’s weather conditions and how active your pet is. If your area has extreme temperatures, fibreglass provides better insulation. Use plastic or vinyl only for interior doors where insulation isn’t a concern.

Dog Door Size and Costs

The size of the doggy door also affects the total cost. Small doors up to 7 inches tall cost between $60 and $250. Medium doors 15 inches and above cost between $100 and $400. The large sizes, measuring up to 20 inches in height, cost $150 to $500. There are extra-large sizes for dog breeds such as Great Danes that cost around $800. Always measure your dog first. Measure from shoulder to shoulder to get the width. Measure the floor to the top of the head for height. Add 1 to 2 inches for comfort.

The ground level of the doggy door must be at least 3 inches above the ground. This keeps weather and pests out, but will still let your dog easily pass through.

Dog Door Styles and Pricing

The design of the dog door also influences cost. Interior doors range from $20 to $300. Sliding glass inserts range from $150 to $1,500. Wall-mounted designs range from $150 to $2,000 or more. Pre-installed doors have the pet door pre-installed and range from $500 to $2,000. The bump-out is the most costly option, which enhances energy efficiency and ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 or more.

Select the style according to your home design and your budget. Each style has a different degree of security, insulation, and convenience.

Labour Costs

Labour constitutes 40% to 60% of the overall expense. This varies between $200 and $1,500 based on complexity. More time is needed for larger doors and more labour. It is less time-consuming to cut into a timber door compared to cutting into concrete or brick walls. The addition of weatherproof seals increases time and expense. Wall installations involve the verification of wiring, insulation, or plumbing, which adds to labour time.

Add-Ons and Extra Features

Add-on options such as stairs or ramps make it possible for small dogs to enter through the door. They range in cost from $20 to $200. Additionally, awnings above the dog door can prevent rain from entering. They run between $250 in total, including installation. Insulating covers fit onto the flap by snapping over and retaining indoor warmth. They range from $50 to $250 based on quality and size.

How To Select the Right Location For The Door?

You must consider where to put the doggy door. Most individuals place it at the rear of the house. This arrangement protects the dog from traffic and the street. If you do not want your pet to move around the whole house, you can put the door in a laundry room. This allows your dog to sleep inside without entering the living areas.

If you decide to install a door on a sliding glass or bi-fold door, ensure your backyard is secure. Dogs can dig beneath fences or jump over low barriers. The backyard must be escape-proof. A dog-friendly garden with fences, shade, and toys prevents damage. Dogs dig due to boredom. Provide them with sandpits or dog playgrounds so they will not destroy your plants or dig holes in your yard.

Others also install outdoor kennels or covered areas for dogs. This prevents dogs from resting on furniture inside the house and keeps them cool and engaged outside.

Advantages of Installing a Doggy Door

Installing a doggy door improves your dog’s quality of life. Your pet stays active, can play when it wants, and doesn’t feel trapped. It also reduces stress and stops behaviour problems caused by boredom or being locked inside too long.

You save time as you don't need to open the door every time your pet needs to go outside. Your dog remains clean since it is taken outside rather than contaminating your house. You also save your doors from being scratched and bitten whenever the dog attempts to catch your attention.

Professional Installation vs DIY

You may wish to cut costs by doing it yourself. However, hiring a professional is time-saving and gets the job done correctly. Professionals possess the tools and know-how to install doors on timber, glass, and brick. They complete the task in 1 to 3 hours. A novice could take an entire day and still get it wrong. Hire a trained installer who is familiar with your door type and surface.

How to Get a Good Doggy Door Installer Near You

• Begin by verifying the installer's qualifications.


• Ensure that they have insurance and licenses.


• Check reviews and testimonials.


• Inquire about their experience with your desired door type.


• Compare at least three quotes from doggy door installers near you.


• Inform them of your dog's size, door style, and installation surface for the most accurate pricing.


• Opt for someone who provides warranties and transparency.

Final Thoughts

A doggy door can provide your dog with freedom and provide you with peace of mind. It saves time and stress and improves life for the two of you. Find the right type, size, and place. Consider materials, security, and weatherproofing. Obtain quotes from professional installers. With the correct installation, you can have more freedom for your dog and a cleaner, peaceful home for yourself.