Is Your Pet Not Using Its Pet Door? Then Here’s Why!

While having a pet door in your home is beneficial in numerous ways, there are some animals that fear the unfamiliar and are resistant to change. When a pet refuses to use a door, there are many possibilities why. Below are a few of the most common:

Your Pet Hasn’t Had the Proper Training

Here are some of the best techniques for training your pet to use its new door:

• Start off slowly, and limit your training sessions to only ten minutes per day. Overwhelming your pet from the get-go is a sure way to make it harbor negative feelings toward the door and not use it.
• Give treats when your pet uses the door successfully.
• Remove the flap or prop it open during training so your pet can see what’s on the other side of the door.
• Go outside and encourage your pet to come through the door.

Your Pet Doesn’t Respond Well to Change

Pets will shy away from using a pet door if they are confused. Praise your pet whenever it gets near the door, as this positive reinforcement will prove to your pet that the door isn’t something to be frightened of.

Your Pet Door Isn’t the Right Size

Buying a pet door that’s too snug will result in your pet’s hesitance over using it. Measure your pet’s height and width, and purchase a door that’s a little bit larger in each direction to give your pet adequate breathing room.

Having a pet door can provide joy and independence to both you and your pet for many years. Contact a trained professional at Australia Pet Doors today for more tips on finding the right door to suit your pet’s individual needs.