The best dog door installers in Canberra

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Dog in Doggie Door

Who are Canberra’s best dog door installers? Photo: file.

Owning a pet is a sheer delight, though it does come with some responsibilities. Loads of love, nutritional and emotional nourishment, and regular exercise are all basic needs which need to be met. A happy and healthy pet signals a responsible owner. An owner committed to providing their pet with an active lifestyle.

Whether you are a new owner or a longstanding companion, you are probably looking for ways to make everyone’s life easier. While there are many novel products out there in the market, few are as beneficial as the humble dog door.

A quality dog door is a wonderful additional to any home. Not only does it offer convenience for owners; it also provides a world of freedom for your dog. This freedom means that your furry family member can come and go as they please. They can access the great outdoors for play, some fresh air, or simply to relieve themselves.

Pet doors are available in a range of sizes to suit all four-legged friends, grand to small. They also come in a choice of materials and colours to suit your existing décor. They can be fitted to all existing doors, from external security screens through to timber and even glass.

As far as features go, the list is endless. Pet doors can be locked, latched, or feature a one-way open. Newer models even utilise your dogs’ collar or microchip to create an electronic key.

So, given the options selecting the right pet door may appear a little daunting. First there is the matter of size, material, functionality, and location. Then there are questions around safety, security, and ensuring exclusive use for your pet pals alone. Finally, are concerns around keeping the internal temperature in, and external conditions out.

While the internet of things is a wonderful resource, what you probably need is a great dog door installer. Dog door installers are the trade qualified experts who handle all manner of dog door installations. They support leading manufacturers, have a team of glaziers, and know just what to do.

If you are looking for Canberra’s best dog door installers, then you have come to the right place. We have rounded up the best in breed below.

What makes a great dog door installer?

Great dog door installers are masters of miniature doors, perfectly installing independent access points for our four-legged friends. Here are some suggestions to help you evaluate any potential installers:

  • Experience & expertise. The best dog door installers have experience and expertise in spades. They have been in business for several years and have dealt with all manner of door installations. Indeed, many are specialised door installers in general; and some are glaziers too. While glaziers do not require trade licencing in the ACT, they do need to work under the supervision of a licenced builder. So, if you’re considering installing a dog door through glass or an external wall do keep this mind.
  • Great product range. The market for pet products has exploded in recent years, and the same holds true for dog doors. Available in an array of materials and colours, each are loaded with useful features and functions. Indeed, the best dog door installers carefully curate a range of refined products for clients. Look for products from leading manufacturers including Petway Pet Doors, Ideal Pet Products, Sureflap and Pet-Tek to name a few.
  • Tech mavens. There is more to a dog door than you may think! To make them safer for pets and more secure for owners there are a raft of tech features available on the market. From electromagnetic collar-come-keys to microchipped entry and multi-barrelled locks, dog doors have it all. The best installers are completely across the latest in door innovations, their pros and cons, and insider tips. They embrace the technology available and make considered recommendations to suit your needs, and those of your beloved dogs.
  • Quality installations. Any external access point to your property should be dealt with seriously. It is significant in terms of your dog’s health and safety, personal security, the elements and keeping unwanted visitors out. Expertly measured and fitted pet doors stack up to all these considerations. They withstand the wear and tear that comes with use and the test of time. Quality installations look – and function as good in five years as they did on the very first day.
  • Warranties & after service. Good dog door installers support warranties offered by manufacturers and guarantee the quality of install as well. The best dog door installers take this a step further by providing after sales service and support. They are happy to attend to troubleshoot any problems and iron out any issues. Be sure to review warranty terms and conditions, including how and where to make a claim should the need arise.

The best dog door installers in Canberra.

RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.

To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.

Croker Glass Service

Family operated Glass Service have been in business for over fifteen years. They specialise in glass replacement services for both domestic and commercial properties offering everything from shower screens through to shopfront windows and more.

For your furry friends Croker Glass Service also offer glass-based pet door installation. This includes the replacement of existing glass panels from windows or doors along with the supply and install of the pet door itself.

Bryan Lockwood shared this review on Facebook, “Response, communication, pricing, service with a smile…. highly recommend thank you Jock.”

National Pet Doors

Since 2012, National Pet Doors have installed thousands of pet doors Australia wide. Their local team of fully qualified tradespeople can install dog and cat doors into glass, timber, and security screens.

National Pet Doors stocks an extensive range of door options from Pet-Tek, Petway, Ideal Pet Products, Sureflap and more. With the latest in microchip technology, National Pet Doors can also supply and install microchip options allowing your pet exclusive automated access.

Clay McNamara shared this review on Google, “Amazing service, never expected such a fantastic looking result. Absolutely blown away by the time delivery and well-mannered staff I highly recommend national pet doors.”

Shanes Glass

With decades of experience under their belts, the team at Shanes Glass specialise in glass replacement, repairs, and installation. From table tops through to splashbacks and more, they service all areas of Canberra and Queanbeyan.

Shanes Glass also supply and install glass cat and dog doors. Their modern and aesthetically pleasing product options can be fitting into both windows and doors. For specialised glass pet doors Shanes Glass are an excellent choice.

Greg Coltman shared this great feedback on Google, “Fantastic extremely fast service. Made special effort to meet my needs. Will definitely use again.”

Discount Glass

As a longstanding family run enterprise, Discount Glass have been servicing the Canberra region for well over thirty years. They specialise in all things glass; including the supply and install of new and replacement glass, along with glass repairs and emergency services.

A key facet of their offer is the supply and installation of glass fitted pet doors. The teams trade qualified, experienced glaziers assess individual client requirements and provide recommendations on what will work best in the home. Each pet door is then expertly fitted into a new replacement sheet of toughened glass which is installed in the home.

Sidney Aarons Professional Dog Trainer left this short and sweet sentiment about the team on Google, “The only place I go for glass.”

Canberra Pet Doors

Canberra Pet Doors have been helping the regions pets acquire the gift of freedom for twenty years. Their excellent reputation is testament to years of in field experience and ongoing customer feedback to refine product recommendations made and services offered.

Available in two convenient locations, Canberra Pet Doors can expertly measure, select, and install a pet door for your dog or cat. They stock a select range of standout products all properly fitted to respect manufacturer guidelines.

Anthony Cowell shared his experience with the team on Google, “Excellent work on the installation and very fair pricing. Definitely recommended if you require pet doors installed!”

There’s a lot that comes with providing the best care for your pet. Check out our articles on the best dog groomers, the best vets, the best emergency after-hours vets, the best dog trainers, the best pet shops and pet supplies and the best pet insurance for more helpful information on Canberra’s best pet services.

If you’re interested in finding somewhere for your pet to stay whilst you’re away, our articles on Canberra’s best dog walkers and pet sitters and best doggy daycares may be helpful.

And if you’re looking to adopt another furry friend, our article on the best places for rescue dogs in Canberra may be of interest to you.

Your experience with dog door installers in Canberra

Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.

Have you had experience with any of the dog door installers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does dog door installation cost?

Installation costs will vary and are dependant on the size of the door, material of construct, additional features, and labour. Installation costs can range from less than $50 for a simple screen flap to upwards of $900 for a glass door with added security. For a comprehensive quote contact your dog door installer.

How big does a dog or cat door need to be?

You will need to take the measurements of your largest and smaller dog. You need a dog door that has a flap height that is at least 1" taller than your largest pet, and a step over no more than 1/3rd of your smallest pet's height from the floor to their back.

How do I measure my dog for a dog door?

Three core measurements are needed to determine dog door size: your pet’s width, height, and step over.

- Width is taken from the widest part of your pet, shoulder to shoulder.
- Height is determined from the tallest point on their back, between shoulder blades or withers, right down to the floor. Most installers suggest that an additional 4-5cm clearance be added to allow your pet to move safely through.
- Step-over is the space between the bottom of the flap and the ground which needs to be low enough for you pet to pass through. As a general guide this should be at least 7.6 cm and no more than one-third of your pet’s height. Also take the height of the external floor into account, as it may be lower than the internal. If so, consider lowering the rise to make it easier for your pet.

Can dog doors be locked?

Many dog door options come with a raft of security features including locks. These features include things like security screens, external covers, and combination locks. Some newer models also offer selective modes of entry, utilising microchip or electro-magnetic technology paired with your pet. To assess which features best suit your needs contact your local pet door installer.

Can you install a dog door in glass?

Yes. Dog doors can be installed into all manner of glass; from sliding and hinged doors; to laundry or kitchen windows; and any low-level glass panels. To comply with Australian Standards, installers typically replace the existing glass in question with A-grade toughened safety glass, with an integrated acrylic pet door system included. For further details on glass door solutions, along with any additional features consult your pet door installer.

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Lee from Canberra Pet Doors (0414 420 175) just fitted one at my daughter’s house. Marvellous job and a nice bloke too.

Comic_and_Gamer_Nerd9:54 pm 14 Jun 13

JazzyJess said :

O’Brien fitted mine. They came out and quoted first and were very professional.

Yeah, I’m sure you also paid a lot more than any other glazier in town would charge…

O’Brien fitted mine. They came out and quoted first and were very professional.

Neko said :

OP here, thanks for the suggestions and sorry for the lack of info. It will be either glass/grill or wood/grill depending on whether we go for patio door or back door, either is possible.

slave2wage – thank you but my level of DIY incompetence/inexperience is probably something that you would find hard to comprehend. I’m not entirely sure what at least four things in your reply are….

Neko

I was going to have a pet door installed when we finally move to our new house. But we only have glass doors. And I was told that not all glass doors are suitable for cutting holes into. Also, the only pet doors I’ve seen for glass doors are for cats and small dogs. So if you have a medium/large dog, that won’t work.

I decided we’ll probably go for the insert panel. No installation required and can be easily removed if needed.

OP here, thanks for the suggestions and sorry for the lack of info. It will be either glass/grill or wood/grill depending on whether we go for patio door or back door, either is possible.

slave2wage – thank you but my level of DIY incompetence/inexperience is probably something that you would find hard to comprehend. I’m not entirely sure what at least four things in your reply are….

Neko

Comic_and_Gamer_Nerd8:23 pm 12 Jun 13

More info needed.

Glass, grille or timber?

DIY Neko, for a standard security screen door get yourself a 100m angle grinder and a metal cutting disc prob cost $30.00 total for a cheapie with a Makita disc( take you about 2 minutes) or with a wood door drill four holes where the four corners will be and use a jigsaw to cut out the shape.(make sure you mark it out, they usually come with a template to make it easy. You can buy the doors usually at bunnings or masters but check out a few online sites… http://www.petdoorcompany.com.au/

We had one installed by an old chippie called Charlie at Home Maintenance and Repairs, he did a fantastic job, turned up when he said and was very reasonably priced. Btw buying the door online will save you a bundle as well.

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