Does the constant back-and-forth of letting your furry friend in and out drive you crazy? You love your dog, but those frequent trips to the door can disrupt your day and even lower your home’s energy efficiency. Finding the perfect storm door with a built-in doggy door feels like searching for a needle in a haystack. You want security, good looks, and a door that truly works for both you and your pet.
It’s tough to know which models offer the best seal, the right size for your pup, and the durability you need. Many options look great online but fail in real-world use. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. This post cuts through the confusion.
By the end, you will understand the key features to look for, avoid common mistakes, and confidently pick a storm door that keeps your home comfortable and your dog happy. Let’s explore how to find the ultimate entryway solution for you and your four-legged companion.
Top Storm Door With Doggie Door Recommendations
- 【Exact Measurements & Fit Guide】：Door panel dimensions: 30"W x 80"H x 1.38" thick. Fits door openings measuring（Without Jamb） 32"W x 81.5"H，Fits door openings measuring（With Jamb） 30.3"W x 81"H – ensure your doorway is slightly larger than the door slab. Pro Tip: Use a tape measure to verify your opening before purchase!
- 【Premium Solid Pine Wood Construction】：Built with sustainably harvested pine wood, this screen door combines durability and timeless style. Its sturdy frame resists warping and weathering, ensuring lasting performance for your entryway while enhancing your home’s rustic appeal.
- 【Breathable Gauze Mesh】：High-density mesh panel promotes airflow, keeps bugs out, and maintains visibility. Ideal for patio, porch, or interior use.
- 【Finish or Customize】：Already sanded and primed—use as-is or personalize with paint/stain to match your home's aesthetic. Includes 6-month door warranty.
- 【Safety & Energy Efficiency】Our exterior door features SGCC-certified double tempered glass, stronger and safer than regular glass. It won’t shatter into sharp pieces and provides excellent insulation and soundproofing, keeping your home quiet and energy-efficient. Suitable for all front doors and entry doors
- 【Robust Construction & Tight Seal】Designed to fit standard door frames with a tight seal that effectively blocks wind, dust, and noise. Compatible with various locks to ensure home security while enhancing comfort and energy savings. Ideal for front doors and exterior doors
- 【Durable Materials & Finishes】Made from CARB P2-certified MDF that resists cracking and warping. Waterproof primer protects against moisture, and UV coating reduces fading to extend the door’s lifespan. Door panel size is 30" wide x 80" high x 1.73" thick. This listing includes door panel only — no hinges or handles, and no pre-drilled holes for flexible installation. Recommended rough opening is 2" wider and 2.5" taller than the door panel
- 【Versatility】This versatile pet door is designed for large dogs, supporting pets up to 100 lbs. Whether you have a small or large dog, this door is a long-lasting investment that grows with your pet. The flap opening dimensions are 15.16" high x 10.75" wide, ensuring safe and comfortable entry and exit for your pet
- Crafted from sturdy structural foam plastic, this frame fits doors with a thickness of 3/4" to 1-3/4". Optional wall kit sold separately
- Equipped with two flexible vinyl flaps, forming a 3-inch barrier for superior insulation and energy savings
- Flap size is 15" x 23.5", frame size is 19" x 28.125", and pet door cutout size is 16.25" x 25.75"
- Comes with a lock-out slide to keep your pet in or out
- 【Complete Hardware Kit & Precise Fit】：Package Includes 1 screen with Built-in Dog door panel. Built-in dog door (fits dogs <120lbs) with reinforced mesh. Slab dimensions: 36"W x 80"H x 1.38" thick. Fits door openings measuring（Without Jamb） 38"W x 81.5"H，Fits door openings measuring（With Jamb） 36.3"W x 81"H – measure doorway first!
- 【Solid Pine Doggy Door Wood Craftsmanship】：Premium Pine Material from sustainable forests. Unfinished natural wood grain accepts stains/paints. Ideal for custom finishing to match home decor.
- 【Breathable Mesh Ventilation】：Universal Screen doggie Door Mesh provides optimal airflow between rooms. Flexible design adapts to humidity changes without warping.
- 【Multi-Room Application】：Versatile Interior/Exterior Use in bedrooms, living rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, walk-in closets, studies, storage rooms, laundry rooms. Compatible with prehung, French, and pocket door slabs.
- Rust-proof & Sturdy Frame: This dog doors for large dogs is made of high quality aluminum alloy material, rust resistant.The sliver color of the aluminum frame combines sturdy with an attractive appearance, fitting seamlessly into your door decor. Screws reinforcement make doggie doors sturdy enough to ensure your pet's frequent in and out for a long time. large dog door's magnets line the edges all the way around to prevent bugs from entering the house. It closes tightly to prevent breezes from coming through, which saves money on the electricity bill
- Dog Doors for Large Dogs Size: This door with doggie door built in has adjustable tunnels to fit many types thickness doors. The pet doors for dogs thickness between 1.69" and 2.51". Flap Opening: 11.6"W x 17.1"H.The doggie doors for large dogs can cater to pets up to 120 lbs. Door Frame: 13.8"W x 20.3"H. Cutout in door:11.42"W x 17.91"H. Please measure if the size is suitable before purchasing
- Energy-Efficient: Dual flap design for weather-tightness and energy efficiency. With built-in strong magnetic strips can keep the storm door with pet door built in automatically closed when your dog leaves, which can keep extreme weather and bugs out and keep the air condition in. Besides, the color of the flap is not too dark, with a little training, your pet will quickly adapt. They come with a lockable metal panel, You can use this lockable metal panel to prevent your pet from going out or some animals entering, If your dog door flap is damaged while you use it, we can offer one dog door replacement flap for you. This will reduce the cost of maintaining the dog door
- Give Your Pets the Freedom to Roam: Let cats and dogs enjoy easy in-and-out access with the Parab House pet doors for dogs—designed for large and medium pets. Our large dog door for exterior doors fits most door types, aluminum alloy material standing up to daily use so your furry friends can dash outside whenever they please. Install it in minutes with the included easy-use rivet gun—no hassle. Crafted for long-lasting and convenience, this exterior door with pet door built in blends seamlessly into your home while giving pets the independence they love. Perfect for energetic pets
- RIGHT FIT: Ideal for medium to large dogs
- ON THEIR SCHEDULE: Let your dog have the freedom go outside for potty breaks, chase squirrels, and play on their schedule
- SAFE AND SECURE: The flexible transparent flap allows your dog to easily see and enter or exit and includes a lockable panel for added security against unwanted guests and bad weather
- SILENT ACTION: The anti-scratch plastic flap closes quietly so it will not disturb you, and is durable enough to handle day-to-day use
- Easy DIY Installation: The PetSafe Plastic Pet Door is easy to install in wood, PVC, metal, or paneled doors 1/16" - 2" thick, perfect for quick setup in interior or exterior doors
- Durable & Customizable: This rust-free, paintable plastic frame comes with a smooth swing, weather-resistant flap for long-lasting, pet-friendly performance that can be personalized to match your home
- Secure & Versatile Design: For peace of mind, choose when your pet comes and goes with the included lockable slide panel; medium flap size has dimensions 8 1/4" W x 12 1/4" H for pets up to 40 lb
- Global Mission, Local Care: With U.S. roots and worldwide reach, PetSafe delivers vet- and trainer-recommended solutions and exceptional customer support to create fields of joy for pets
- Custom Fit: The PetSafe Panel Pet Door Insert gives your dog outdoor access while maintaining a polished look with a paintable door frame and two installation options for short or tall pets
- Weather-Resistant Performance: Keep your home comfortable with a dual flap pet door design, featuring adjustable magnets for a secure seal and protection from drafts and outdoor elements
- Strong & Easy-to-Install Design: Enjoy a long-lasting DIY installation with a durable frame, waterproof construction, and snap-on closing panel when needed
- Global Mission, Local Care: With U.S. roots and worldwide reach, PetSafe delivers vet- and trainer-recommended solutions and exceptional customer support to create fields of joy for pets
The Ultimate Storm Door with Doggie Door Buying Guide
A storm door with a built-in doggie door offers great benefits. It lets your furry friend go in and out easily. It also keeps your main door safe from weather. This guide helps you choose the best one for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look closely at these important features. They make a big difference in how the door works for you and your pet.
1. Doggie Door Size and Security
- Size Matters: Measure your dog! The flap must be big enough for your dog to pass through without getting stuck. A flap too small causes stress.
- Locking Mechanism: This is very important. You need a strong way to lock the pet door. Look for sliding bolts or magnetic locks. This keeps out critters or intruders when you are away.
2. Door Type and Visibility
- Full View vs. Partial View: Full view doors have one large glass panel. This lets in the most light. Partial view doors have more framing or screen sections. Choose what looks best with your main door.
- Screen Options: Many storm doors let you swap glass for a screen. This is great for warm days. Make sure the screen is strong.
3. Door Handing (Which way it opens)
You must know if your existing main door opens to the left or the right. Storm doors come “left-hinged” or “right-hinged.” Buying the wrong one makes installation very hard. Check the instructions carefully before you buy.
Important Materials for Durability
The material of the door frame affects how long it lasts. Good materials mean less maintenance.
Aluminum Frames
Most quality storm doors use heavy-duty aluminum. Aluminum resists rust well. This is important because storm doors face rain and snow directly. Look for thicker aluminum frames. Thin frames bend easily.
Doggie Door Flap Material
The flap needs to be tough but flexible. Vinyl or flexible rubber work best. Avoid cheap plastic flaps. They crack quickly in cold weather or tear easily from pet claws.
Glass Type
Look for tempered safety glass. If the glass breaks, it shatters into small, dull pieces instead of sharp shards. This protects your family and pets.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the material. It’s about how the parts fit together.
Hinges and Closing System
Good doors have smooth, strong hinges. A “soft-close” pneumatic closer is a quality feature. This prevents the door from slamming shut when your dog rushes through. A slamming door scares pets and can damage the frame.
Weather Sealing
Look for weather stripping around the edges. This rubber or foam seal stops drafts. Better sealing keeps your house warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This saves you money on energy bills.
Installation Ease
Some doors are “Do-It-Yourself” friendly. Others require professional help. Read reviews about installation. Easy installation usually means better overall quality control.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the door every day.
For Small Dogs vs. Large Dogs
Small dogs might handle a slightly smaller flap. Large dogs need a wide, tall opening. If you have a puppy, buy a door big enough for the dog they will become. This saves you from buying a second door later.
Noise Level
Some plastic flaps make a loud “thwack” sound when they close. If your dog is timid, this noise might stop them from using the door. Test the flap noise if you can, or read reviews mentioning noise.
Cleaning
Muddy paws mean dirty flaps. Choose a door where the pet door is easy to wipe down or remove for deep cleaning. A well-designed door lets you clean the dog door without taking the whole storm door apart.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I measure my dog for the right door size?
A: Measure your dog when they are standing up. Measure from the floor to the top of their back or shoulders. The door height needs to be a few inches taller than this measurement. Measure the width of your dog too.
Q: Do I need a handyman to install this door?
A: Many modern storm doors are designed for DIY installation. However, drilling into door frames can be tricky. If you are not comfortable with power tools, hiring a handyman is safer. Poor installation causes air leaks.
Q: Can I replace the doggie door later if my dog grows?
A: Some high-quality models use interchangeable panels. You can swap the small pet door insert for a larger one. Check the manufacturer’s specifications before buying if you plan for future growth.
Q: Will the pet door let in bugs?
A: Quality doors have magnetic closures or weighted flaps that snap shut quickly. This stops bugs from crawling through. If the flap is loose or weak, bugs can enter. Always check the security lock.
Q: Are these doors safe for high winds?
A: Yes, storm doors protect your main door from wind damage. However, you should lock the main door and the storm door during severe storms. Most aluminum storm doors handle regular wind very well.
Q: What is the difference between a sliding pet door and a hinged pet door?
A: A hinged pet door swings open like a regular door. A sliding door moves up and down in a track. Hinged doors are often easier for pets to learn. Sliding doors often seal better against weather.
Q: How much insulation do these doors offer?
A: Storm doors offer added insulation because they create an air buffer zone between the outside and your house. Doors with thicker frames and good weather stripping offer the best insulation.
Q: Can I paint the aluminum frame?
A: Most aluminum frames come with a weather-resistant finish. Painting them might void the warranty. If you must paint, use paint specifically made for metal surfaces and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines exactly.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of a storm door with a dog door?
A: If you buy a good quality aluminum door and maintain the hinges and seals, it should last 15 to 20 years. The doggie door flap will likely need replacing every 3 to 5 years due to wear and tear.
Q: Should I buy a full glass door or one with a screen?
A: If you want maximum light and easy cleaning, choose full glass. If you plan to use the door primarily in summer for ventilation, a door that lets you swap glass for a screen is the most versatile choice.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!