Old Dog Uses New Dog Door

If you're having trouble teaching your dog how to use a dog door then this is the Hub for you!

I recently had a battle of the wills with my dog about using a newly installed dog door. After finding zero information about it in any of the dog training books I did some trail and error research and I am happy to say I can help you solve this problem.

To start off tape the top of the door open as wide as you can possible make it. This will keep it from touching the dog and spooking it. I've noticed that the sensation a the door rubbing against the dog makes it uneasy and a bit wary about going through it.

Let the dog find it's way around the new door until it will go through on it's on. This make take a couple of days so be patient here. Try putting it's food outside and then bringing it inside to coax the dog.

When the dog is comfortable going through the opening lower the door flap just a little but keep the tape on it so it stays open. Keep adjusting the flap down a little each day and let the dog get used to the feeling of the door flap. you can ease this transition by toughing the dog as it goes through the door.

After reaching about half way you can remove the tape from the flap and let the flap hang down. Now you may have to show the dog how the door works by pushing it with your hand and breaking the magnetic seal if your door flap has one. The fact that you have to apply a bit of pressure is a tricky spot for some dogs but once they get the hang of it you're home free. You might try putting a treat in between the flap and the magnet to get the dog to push it, it worked for me! Also you might try wedging apiece of tape along the side of the flap to let air in and let the dog now that it can reach outside.

Wait a day or two for this concept to take hold and you will have mastered the art of teaching without forcing the dog and your pet will love you for it! And you will feel better about yourself while keeping your blood pressure at a safe level as well.