5 Best Dog Doors For German Shepherds (GSD Approved)

Are you tired of constantly letting your German Shepherd in and out of the house? 

I know that sometimes, opening and closing the door whenever your GSD wants to go out can be a real hassle. 

That’s why having a doggie door can be a total game-changer!

In today’s post, I’ve rounded up 5 of the best dog doors for german shepherds. 

From electronic options to factors to consider when choosing a dog door, I’ve got you covered. And trust me, you’ll be glad you made the switch. 

So back, relax, and let’s start giving your German Shepherd the freedom they deserve!

Overview Of The Best Dog Doors For German Shepherds

• Top Pick Dog Door For Cold Weather: The PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog
• Best Electric: PetSafe Electronic Pet Door
• Budget Pick: Ruff-Weather Pet Door with Telescoping Frame
• Best For Sliding Glass: The PetSafe 1-Piece No cutting
• Best For Wall Entry: Endura Flap Pet Door 

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Dog Door For German Shepherds

Choosing the right dog door for your German Shepherd can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be!

Below you will find Several factors to consider when selecting the perfect dog door.  

Material Matters

German Shepherds are big and brawny, so you want a door that can stand up to their strength. Look for doors that are made of aluminum or hard plastic. These are tough, weather-proof, and will last you a long time.

Size Matters

German Shepherds can grow pretty big, so measure your GSD before you buy the door.  This will ensure the door is big enough for your K9 to move in and out comfortably.

Security Features

German Shepherds are protective dogs, so you want a door with security features. A lockable doggie door is an excellent choice to keep your home secure.

Easy Peasy Installation

Installing a dog door can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be. Pick a door with a user manual and all the necessary parts for a smooth installation. Some doors don’t come with a wall kit. So you might have to purchase it separately. 

Energy Efficient

Energy efficiency is critical if you live in a place with harsh weather. An energy-efficient door helps regulate the temperature inside your home and saves you money on heating and cooling costs.

Training Time

Training your German Shepherd to use a dog door takes patience, but it’s worth it. Choose a door with a magnetic seal or automatic sensor to make training a breeze.

Weather Conditions

German Shepherds are tough dogs but need a door to withstand the weather. Look for a door with a weather-resistant flap to protect your pup from the elements.

Price

Dog doors come at different prices, so choose one that fits your budget. Remember the long-term benefits of a dog door and choose one that is affordable and has the features your German Shepherd needs.

The 5 Best Dog Doors for German Shepherds Reviewed

Let’s look closer at the top 5 best dog doors for German Shepherds.

You will find a list of the pros and cons of each product. This will make choosing the perfect dog door for your home easy.

1. Top Pick Dog Door For Cold Weather: The PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog

Quick Facts:

• Fits panel, wood, PVC, and metal doors 1 1/2 to 2 inches thick
• 16.25 x 2 x 27.13 inches
• 1 Year warranty
• Aluminum
• 3-flap system
• Energy-efficient

PetSafe knows German Shepherds are active, so they ensured their Dog Door was built to last. 

The PetSafe dog door is our top pick because it has a durable metal frame with reinforced aluminum corners that can handle even the most active pets.

When installing the PetSafe Dog Door, people love how much of a breeze it is to install it. It comes included with a cutting template and screws. 

It is equipped with a 3-flap system and can block out three times more thermal energy than a standard pet door.

What We Really Like

• It is equipped with 3-panel flaps, and they work better at keeping the weather out compared to single-flap models
• It only takes a few hours to install the door, and the instructions are easy to follow
• Made of a durable aluminum frame
• The magnetic stripes on the bottom of the doors keep the doors closed and prevent weather elements from entering the house

What We Think Could Be Better:

• Some customers report that it has an unpleasant smell when exposed to the sun
• Fasteners not included with the product
• This doggie door is a bit expensive, but customers say it is worth the investment

Bottom Line:

The PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog Door is the perfect way to give your German Shepherd the freedom they deserve while also protecting your home from extreme weather. The durable and energy-efficient design will keep you and your GSD happy and comfortable all year round.

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2. Best Electric: PetSafe Electronic Pet Door

Quick Facts:

• 8.6 x 3.25 x 27.1 inches
• Metal or wood doors
• Made out of Hard Plastic
• 1-year warranty
• SmartKey
• Programmable entry and exit system

The PetSafe Electronic Pet Door is an impressive doggie door. It accommodates German Shepherds weighing up to 100 lbs. 

The best thing about it is that it features a selective programmable entry and exit system tailored to your GSDS requirements. 

This door operates with the help of a waterproof SmartKey, which is attached to your pet’s collar, ensuring that only they have access.

The Petsafe Pet door is powered by batteries and can hold programming for up to five SmartKeys, making it ideal for households with multiple pets. 

According to customers, people generally find it weatherproof and straightforward to install. 

However, some have reported issues with the locking mechanism.

What We Really Like

• It can be controlled remotely using a smartphone or PC.
• Easy to add an alarm sensor inside the door frame
• Solid construction, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing

What We Think Could Be Better:

• Some report that the battery runs out quickly due to repeated opening and closing 
• It does not include a Wall Installation Kit

Bottom Line:

The PetSafe Electronic Pet Door is a solid pick for any pet owner looking for a handy and adjustable way for their furry friends to come and go. 

Just bear in mind that the lock mechanism and noise level might not be top-notch, so weigh those factors before making a final decision. But all in all, an excellent option to consider.

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3. Budget Pick: Ruff-Weather Pet Door with Telescoping Frame

Quick Facts:

• Metal or wood doors and walls
• Easy to install
• Two vinyl flaps
• Energy-efficient
• 15 inches by 23.5 inches

The Designer Series Ruff-Weather Pet Door is another perfect choice for GSD owners who are on a budget.

Its sturdy, energy-efficient telescoping frame made of structural foam molded plastic fits snugly in your door.

But what sets this pet door apart is its two vinyl flaps that form an air pocket for insulation. 

The Ruff-Weather Pet Door comes in a super large size of 15 inches by 23.5 inches, accommodating pets of all sizes. 

But don’t worry, and it’s also available in smaller, medium, and extra-large sizes.

The downside of this product is that you need the wall tunnel kit if you install it in a wall, which you must purchase separately.  

What We Really Like:

• Durable, hard to break. Some reports that they could not break even when folded and stepped on
• Large size fits big dogs (135 lb Great Pyrenees and 90 lb German Shepherd) easily
• Weather protection with two flaps.
• Easy to install, even for those who are not experienced in DIY projects.

What We Think Could Be Better:

• The wall kit may not fit all walls and require custom modifications, resulting in added expenses.
• Flap sometimes sticks when dogs go through it slowly

Bottom Line:

The Ideal Pet Products Designer Series Ruff-Weather Pet Door is an excellent choice for pet owners looking for a durable, energy-efficient pet door that can withstand various weather conditions. Its interior telescopic frame, different size options, and wall kit availability make installation a breeze while ensuring optimal insulation for indoor temperature stability.

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4. Best For Sliding Glass the PetSafe 1-Piece No cutting

Quick Facts:

• Flap opening of 10 1/4 inches wide and 16 3/8 inches high
• Sliding glass
• Aluminum
• Two adjustable sizes
• Extra insulation and protection if you live in a colder climate
• Hold pets up to 100 lbs

The PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door is easy to install without cutting into the wall or door, making it an excellent option for renters or those who move around a lot.

It easily fits right into your existing sliding glass door tracks.

It has weather-resistant aluminum, shatter-resistant tempered glass, and a magnetic closure to prevent hot weather and cold drafts. 

With a latch kit, you can lock the sliding glass door once the pet door is in place, and the closing panel lets you control your pet’s access.

Installing is a piece of cake with the included hardware, installation guide, and how-to videos. And if you have any questions, you can quickly contact their U.S.-based customer care team, that are ready to help. 

And when it’s time to move, no worries! 

The PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door is easy to remove, and the spring-loaded frame can easily be lifted from the track. The screws are easy to loosen too.

What We Really Like:

• Flexible flap material that can be customized, and a second flap can be purchased 
• Flexible height adjustability to fit different door sizes
• The flap has a magnet to help it snap shut, making it easier to use

What We Think Could Be Better:

• The door does not come with foam or the door lock

Bottom Line:

The  PetSafe’s 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door is an excellent choice for renters, pet owners, and pets. This door is highly rated, so you can trust PetSafe to keep your German Shepherd happy and safe.

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5. Best For Wall Entry: Endura Flap Pet Door 

Quick Facts:

• 8 x 13.56 x 24 inches;
• For Walls
• Lifetime warranty
• Aluminum
• Secure lock
• Double flap design

The Endura Flap Pet Door is specially made for big dogs like your German Shepherd and has many great features. 

This door can be put through a wall, dog house, kennel, or patio landing, so you have plenty of options. And it even comes in the colors of black, white, or tan.

It’s a weather warrior too!

The double flap design provides top-notch insulation, making it a reliable option for even the harshest weather.

The Endura Flap has an adjustable three-sided magnet for training or timid pets. 

It’s strong enough to keep the wind out and easy enough for your pet to come and go as they, please. And if you ever need a new flap, they’re available and made of the same insulating material.

The downside of this door is that it takes a long time to install the door, unlike other doors on this list. 

What We Really Like:

• The door has a metal frame that sits close to the wall, making it a clean and attractive addition to your home
• The door has duel flaps that keep the house insulated, so you don’t have to worry about temperature fluctuations.
• The door comes with a template that makes installation easier

What We Think Could Be Better:

• It takes a long time to install the door than other models on this list
• Requires a helper outside to ensure alignment during installation

The Bottom Line:

If you want a pet door that’s energy-efficient and built to last, the Endura Flap is the way to go. Its versatile installation options, adjustable magnet design, step-by-step instructions, and top-notch materials make it the perfect choice for your pet’s new door.

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Quick Comparison Of The Top Dog Doors

Product	Dimensions	Material	Color	Door Types	Energy Ef.	Flaps	Locking Mech.	Weather Resistant	Included Components	Warranty	Easy to Install	Batteries Operated	Automatic
PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog with Aluminum Frame	16.25 x 2 x 27.13 inches	Aluminum	White	Paneled, wood, PVC, and metal doors	Yes	3	Magnetic seal	Yes	The closing panel, interior frame, exterior frame, cutting template, screw sleeves, nylon screws, metal screws	One year	4/5	No	No
PetSafe Electronic Pet Door	8.6 x 3.25 x 27.1 inches	Hard plastic	White	Metal or wood doors.	No	1	Auto sensor	Temperatures as low as -4 degrees	PetSafe SmartDoor no Wall Install Kit	One year limited	3 out of 5	Yes	Yes
Ideal Pet Products Designer Series Ruff-Weather Pet Door	15 inches x 23.5 inches	Molded plastic	Gray	Metal or wood doors and walls	Yes	2	No	Yes	Pet Door no Wall Installation Kit	None If bought on Amazon	4 Out of 5	No	No
PetSafe 1-Piece Sliding Glass Pet Door	10 1/4 W x 16 3/8	Aluminum	Satin	Sliding Glass	Yes	1	Magnetic closure	Yes	Closing Panel, User Manual, Weather Stripping, Glass Sweep, Latch, Petsafe Freedom Patio Panel, Pet Door	One year	4 out of 5	No	No
Endura Flap Pet Door for Walls Double Flap	8 x 13.56 x 24 inches;	Aluminum	Black, white, tan	Walls	Yes	2	Adjustable magnets	Temperatures from -40℉ to 110℉.	1 Installation Template, 1 Jigsaw Blade, 2 Frames, 4 Tunnel Pieces, 4 Threaded Rods, 1 Tube of Silicone, 8 Hole Plugs, 1 Locking Cover	Lifetime	3 out of 5	No	No

Conclusion 

Our assessment is clear-cut: In our opinion, the PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog Door is the optimal choice for your German Shepherd.

Its durable and energy-saving design will guarantee a warm and satisfying experience for you and your GSD all year round.

We hope this article gave you all the information you’ll need to assist you in making a wise decision for your home.

If you liked this post, please check out our other articles like German Shepherd or Belgian Malinois for law enforcement, and also another popular post to check out is 31 German Sheperd Quotes that are short. Appreciate you taking the time to read this article! And don’t forget to check out the FAQ section below.

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