Last Updated on 24/02/2026 by PetSmartify Editorial Team
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Automatic pet doors, also known as electronic pet doors, are changing the way pet owners manage late-night bathroom breaks, backyard access, and home security. It’s 2:00 AM. You’re finally asleep… until your dog starts pawing at the door or your cat meows to go out. Half awake, you drag yourself out of bed to let them out, and then do it all over again 20 minutes later when they want back in. Sound familiar?
Traditional pet doors offer some relief, but they come with trade-offs, no control, poor insulation, and the risk of unwelcome animal visitors. That’s why more pet owners are upgrading to automatic pet doors, giving pets the freedom they crave without sacrificing your sleep, security, or energy bills.
In this post, we’ll explore how smart pet doors work, the real-world benefits they bring to your home, and why they’re becoming a must-have for tech-savvy pet parents.
Table of Contents:
- What Are the Benefits of an Automatic Pet Door?
- 3 Best Automatic Pet Doors
- Comparison Table of the Best Automatic Pet Doors
- Is an Automatic Pet Door Worth It?
- Which Electronic Pet Door is Right for You?
- FAQs
- Posts
🐶 What Are the Benefits of an Automatic Pet Door?
1. Locked Down Security Without Locking Our Your Pet
- Automatic pet doors use microchips, RFID tags, or app-based controls to ensure only your pet gets in.
- Traditional doors can be used by stray animals or even intruders.
2. Total Control, Even When You’re Not Home
- Set curfew times for when your pet can go in or out.
- Create custom schedules per pet if you have multiple animals.
3. Remote Operation
- Lock/unlock the door from your smartphone, wherever you are.
- Perfect for when you’re at work or on vacation.
4. Weather Proof & Energy Smart
- Smart doors often come with better insulation and weather seals.
- Prevents heat loss and keeps out wind, rain, or snow — unlike flimsy traditional flaps.
5. Ideal for Multi-Pet Families
- Customize who gets access and when.
- For example, allow your dog out during the day, but keep your cat inside.
6. Sleep Better Knowing Who’s Coming and Going
- You always know your pet is safe, and no unwanted animals are getting in.
❓ Why Not a Traditional Pet Door?
- ✅ Cheap upfront, but lacks features.
- ❌ No security — open to wildlife and strangers.
- ❌ No scheduling or remote control.
- ❌ Poor weather protection.
- ❌ No way to monitor pet movements.
Smart pet doors are also highlighted in our article on the Best Smart Pet Tech Gadgets to Cut Pet Care Costs.
🏆 3 Best Automatic Pet Doors
- Best Overall: High-Tech Power Pet Automatic Door – perfect for large dogs and maximum security
- Best for Cats/Small Pets: PetSafe Electronic SmartDoor – secure and lightweight
- Best Budget Option: SureFlap Microchip Smart Automatic Pet Door – affordable and flexible for multiple cats and small dog breeds
Comparison Table on the Best Automatic Pet Doors
| Feature | SureFlap Microchip Pet Door | PetSafe Electronic Smart Door | Power Pet Automatic Pet Door |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Small pets & microchip access | Budget-friendly electronic control | Hands-free, fully automated door |
| Pet Size | Small cats & dogs (up to 15 lbs) | Medium & large pets (up to 100 lbs) | Small to large pets (up to 100 lbs) |
| Technology | Microchip recognition (up to 32 pets) | RFID collar key (5 pets max) | Motion-activated ultrasonic collar |
| Power Source | 4x AA Batteries (6-month life) | 4x D Batteries or AC adapter | AC power (plug-in) or battery backup |
| Installation Type | Doors, walls, windows | Doors only | Doors, walls, sliding doors |
| Selective Entry | ✅ Yes, only registered pets | ✅ Yes, RFID key required | ✅ Yes, only pets with ultrasonic collar |
| Smart Features | App control (with Hub), Timer Mode | Adjustable range & locking modes | Auto-open/close, Wind & Weatherproof |
| Weatherproof | ✅ Yes, dual-flap design | ✅ Yes, insulated flap | ✅ Yes, airtight & wind-resistant |
| Cost | ± $150.00 | ± $210.00 | From ± $420.00 (dep. on size) |
1. SureFlap Microchip Pet Door
(Product prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publication and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon or any partner site at the time of purchase will apply.)
The SureFlap uses your pet’s existing microchip (or a separate RFID tag) to grant access and is suitable for cats and small dog breeds.
Key Features
✅ Microchip Recognition: Reads your cat or dog’s implanted microchip or a programmable RFID collar tag. It can store up to 32 identities, making it perfect for multi-pet households.
✅ Easy Programming: Setting up the door is incredibly simple with its one-button programming. Once set, your pet can freely enter while keeping unwanted animals out, enhancing your home’s security and your pet’s safety.
✅ Microchip Compatibility: This pet door supports a wide range of microchip numbers, including 9-digit (Avid Secure), 10-digit (FDXA), and 15-digit (FDXB) microchips. If you’re unsure about your pet’s microchip type, check with your veterinarian or local pet shelter.
✅ Versatile Installation: The flap opening measures 4 3/4” (H) by 5 5/8” (W). It can be installed in doors, windows, or even walls with additional accessories available.
✅ Battery Powered Convenience: The pet door operates on 4 AA non-rechargeable alkaline batteries (not included), offering up to 12 months of battery life. A low battery indicator flashes red when it’s time for a replacement, preventing unexpected lockouts.
What We Like
✅ Reads implanted microchip and RFID tags
✅ Stores up to 32 pet identities—ideal for multi-pet homes
✅ Simple one-button programming for hassle-free setup
✅ Compatible with common microchip formats
✅ Can be installed in doors, windows, or walls
✅ Long-lasting battery life with a low battery indicator
What We Don’t Like
❌ Not be suitable for larger pets due to the flap size
Reviews
“I have two cats – one is a bit of a bully and the other is the victim of his bullying. I use this door to give my female cat access to my utility room without my male cat being allowed in. This results in a better quality of life for her by giving her a private place with food, water, litter, and a bed where she can escape from the other cat for a while if he tries to start a fight.”
“My cat loves it! It’s so convenient for an outdoor indoor cat.”
2. PetSafe Electronic Pet Door
The PetSafe is a popular choice for pet owner. The flap opening is 11″ x 16″ making it suitable for cats, and small to medium dog breeds.
Key Features
✅ Collar Sensor Key: Equipped with a PetSafe SmartKey (one included), it allows your pet to move freely in and out while keeping unwanted animals out.
✅ Enhance Security: The door locks automatically once your pet has passed through, preventing intruders or wildlife from entering. If you live in an area with high wildlife activity or security concerns, this feature adds an extra layer of protection for both your pet and home.
✅ Multi-Pet Compatibility: This electronic pet door supports up to 5 PetSafe SmartKeys, making it ideal for multi-pet households. Each pet can have their own key, ensuring only authorized animals can access the door.
✅ Battery-Powered: The door runs on 4 D-cell batteries (not included), which last for around 3 months, ensuring continuous functionality, even during power outages.
✅ 3 Programmable Modes: With locked, unlocked and automatic mode options, you can fully control when and how your pet uses the door. Whether you want your pet to have 24/7 access or only during certain hours, this feature provides great flexibility.
What we like
✅ Hands-free operation with a collar sensor key
✅ Automatic locking enhances security
✅ Supports up to 5 pets with individual keys
✅ Battery-powered, works even during power outages
✅ Customizable access settings for greater control
What We Don’t Like
❌ Only works with the Petsafe SmartKeys, not microchips
❌ May not be ideal for very large pets due to size limitations
Reviews
“After 3 months of having this door and what seemed like forever in getting my dog trained to use it – I love this door! She goes in and out all of the time and seems to love that freedom. She goes out just to sniff around and comes right back in! I am so happy for my dog to have that type of leisure. She lets herself out at 3:00 in the morning, she let’s herself out while I am at work or when I run errands. And no more accidents!! I could not be happier!”
“This SmartDoor has made life easier with our big dog’s in-and-out routine. The auto-locking feature gives me peace of mind, and the SmartKey is responsive. It took a little tweaking during installation to get the sensors aligned just right, but once set up, it works seamlessly. A helpful upgrade for multi-pet homes.”
3. Power Pet Automatic Pet Door
Pet owners looking for a high-tech, secure, and energy-efficient pet door will love the Power Pet. Featured on HGTV and highly praised by experts and customers alike, this automatic pet door sets a new standard in convenience and security. With a motorized, vertically sliding panel and ultrasonic collar activation, it ensures that only your pets can enter and exit, keeping strays and intruders out.
Key Features
✅ Automatic Motorized Door with Ultrasonic Collar Activation: The lightweight ultrasonic collar (included) activates the door when your pet approaches, allowing seamless, hands-free access. The door panel quietly powers upward and securely closes into grooves for an airtight fit, preventing drafts and weather from seeping in.
✅ Bulletproof Resin Door for Maximum Durability: The door is made from translucent bulletproof resin, making it one of the toughest pet doors on the market. This material not only enhances security, but also ensures long-lasting durability against wear and tear.
✅ 4-Way Access Control for Customizable Use: The door offers 4 access modes, in only, out only, full access, and closed and locked. Great for controlling your pet’s movements.
✅ Advanced Security Features: With an automatic deadbolt locking system, this pet door offers superior security compared to traditional models. The airtight seal prevents intruders from pushing the door open, providing pet owners with peace of mind. It also ensures that outdoor temperatures do not affect indoor climate control, making it a highly energy-efficient choice.
✅ Two Size Options for Small and Large Pets: Medium: 8-1/4” x 12” (for pets up to 30 lbs.) and large: 12-1/4” x 16” (for pets up to 100 lbs.) Wall mount and door mount options available.
✅ Versatile Installation: It can be installed on any door or wall surface. While basic installation can be done with minimal tools, professional installation is recommended for steel or stone surfaces.
✅Power Options: The door comes with an AC adapter for continuous operation. You have also the option to purchase a rechargeable battery kit for use along with the AC adaptor in case of any power outages, in which case the door will switch over automatically to battery, or it allows for usage of the door without needing power.
What We Like
✅ Hands-free automatic operation with ultrasonic collar
✅ Airtight seal prevents drafts and maintains energy efficiency
✅ Bulletproof resin door enhances durability and security
✅ 4-way access control for customized pet movement
✅ Automatic deadbolt locking for added protection
✅ Available in two sizes to accommodate pets of all sizes
✅ Works with additional pet collars for multi-pet households
✅ Operates on AC power or optional battery backup
What We Don’t Like
❌ Comes with a higher price tag
❌ Installation on steel or stone surfaces requires professional help
Reviews
“I purchased this tentatively as the price was not low. However, the item is well made, functions beautifully and looks good on the door. It is not noisy and we installed it our master bathroom door which leads to our patio/backyard. The range sensitivity can be adjusted easily and the door closure wait time can be adjusted as well. Installation was relatively easy. I am not a big fan of the cord but I since I love the door I will be purchasing the back up battery for it.”
“This has been the best purchase I have ever made! Works perfectly. Can’t believe I went so many years with out having it.”
💰 Is an Automatic Pet Door Worth It?
Smart pet doors may cost more initially, but the benefits in the long run are well worth it. They improve your home security, and give your pets more freedom in a safe, controlled way. If you’re serious about making life easier and safer for both you and your pet, it’s a smart upgrade.
Consider your pet’s size, behavior, and automatic pet doors prices before choosing the best model.
❓Which Electronic Pet Door is Right for You?
✅ Want the best high-tech hands-free experience? Get the High-Tech Power Pet Door
✅ Need a secure option for small pets? The PetSafe Electronic Smart door is perfect
✅ Looking for a budget-friendly solution? The PetSafe SureFlap is a smart option
No matter which you choose, upgrading to a smart automatic pet door means giving your pet safer, smarter freedom, and making life easier for you too! 🐾
FAQs
Are automatic pet doors safe?
Yes! They offer much better security than traditional doors by preventing stray animals or intruders from entering your home.
What happens if the power goes out?
Battery-powered models continue to work during power outages. Doors that run on AC adapters often have backup battery options available.
Will it work for multiple pets?
Absolutely. Many automatic pet door models store multiple pet profiles or accept multiple collar keys, so you can customize access for each pet individually.
What is the best automatic pet door for large dogs?
Options like the High Tech for large pets are highly recommended because they’re sturdy, weatherproof, and can recognize pets up to 100 pounds.
Do automatic pet doors keep raccoons out?
Yes! Smart pet doors that use microchip recognition or RFID technology allow only registered pets to enter, keeping wild animals like raccoons out.
Can a smart pet door be installed in glass doors or walls?
Some smart pet door models are specifically designed for glass panels and walls. Always check the installation requirements or consider hiring a professional for non-standard surfaces.
Are there electronic pet doors with curfews?
Definitely. Many electronic pet doors let you set automatic curfews, allowing your cat to come in but not go out during specific hours.
How much does an automatic pet door cost?
Automatic pet doors range from around $140 for basic models to $400+ for high-end doors with app control and advanced features.