How Much Does Cat or Dog Door Installation Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

The total cost to install a dog door is $400 on average, with prices ranging between $20 and $3,500. The final price depends on factors like the installation location, size, and door quality. Larger, high-quality doors and complex installations—like wall-mounted or electronic models—are the most costly to install. Labor charges range from $200 to $1,500, making up 40% to 60% of the total cost.

Pet Door Installation Cost Factors

The top factors influencing the cost of installing a pet door include the opening function, size, materials, and features.

Manual vs. Electric

You can choose between manual and electric models when selecting a pet door. Manual doors require your pet to push the door or flap to enter and exit, while electric models open when they sense your pet's presence through collars or microchips.

Electric models are more expensive than manual styles, ranging from $100 to over $1,000, because of the unit cost and additional labor required. However, electric models are more secure than manual ones, preventing intruders from accessing your home via the flap. They also stop random animals from coming in or small children from getting out.

Size

The larger the pet door, the more it costs to install due to the additional material, labor, and weatherproofing required. While costs are higher, it's important not to skimp on size to save money. Your dog or cat needs to pass through the door safely, both ways, often at speed, without injuring themselves or getting stuck.

Average prices for a small 7-inch-tall unit fall between $60 and $250, while an extra-large 25-inch-tall door can cost up to $800.

Material and Style

There are several styles and materials available when choosing a dog door. From the frame to the flap, your selections can impact the door's cost, look, and functionality. 

Frame Material

The material of your dog door frame affects both cost and durability. Budget-friendly options like plastic and vinyl are affordable but may not offer the longevity of sturdier materials. Aluminum and stainless steel frames are more durable and resist wear from frequent use, while fiberglass frames provide excellent insulation and long-lasting performance, though at a higher price point.

Flap Material

The flap material influences the overall cost and durability of the dog door. Affordable options like plastic and PVC start at $20, but they may not withstand heavy use from energetic pets. On the other hand, K9 composite flaps are more expensive but offer exceptional durability and a lifespan of 20 to 30 years. They're impact-resistant, making them ideal for large or active dogs.

Features

Adding special features to your dog door can enhance security and convenience but will increase the total cost. For example, electronic or smart dog doors with a microchip or collar sensor range from $100 to over $1,000. These high-tech options allow only your pet to enter and exit, preventing stray animals or unwelcome guests from accessing your home.

If your dog door isn't at ground level, you may also need to install steps for your pet to increase their safety and make access easier. Depending on the amount and size you require, the cost to install dog door steps ranges from $20 to $200.

Dog Door Installation Costs by Location

Depending on where you're installing the dog door, you’ll pay between $20 and $2,000 for labor and materials. The location you choose—whether it's an interior door, sliding glass door insert, wall-mounted, or pre-installed—will impact the total cost. Here's a breakdown of different styles and what you might expect to pay for each.

Interior Door

Installing a dog door in an interior door is the most popular and cost-effective option, ranging from $20 to $300. It's affordable, convenient, and less permanent than adding one to a glass door or wall. While these installations are relatively straightforward, and the doors are easy to replace, it's still wise to hire a local handyperson to ensure it's done correctly. Remember, even interior dog doors benefit from weatherproofing to prevent moisture issues.

Sliding Glass Door Insert

Installing a dog door in a sliding glass door ranges from $150 to $1,500, depending on the size and style of your door. This option tends to be pricier because it often requires additional reinforcement, ensuring your pup can dash through safely without damaging the glass. While it's a more complex installation, it offers a seamless look and convenience for both you and your pet.

Wall-Mounted

Wall-mounted dog doors range from $150 to over $2,000. To mount the door, installers cut a hole through an exterior wall and install a durable frame, often made of aluminum or vinyl. It's a more permanent solution and requires the help of a professional dog door installer to navigate structural components like framing, wiring, or plumbing. Professional installation includes weatherproofing and insulation to prevent moisture damage and maintain energy efficiency.

Pre-Installed

Pre-installed dog doors come already built into a new exterior door and cost between $500 and $2,000. While you'll still pay the cost to install a new door, you save on the additional labor of adding a pet door separately. This option offers a seamless look and can be a convenient choice if you're already planning to replace your exterior door.

Cat Door Installation Costs

Cat owners can install a cat flap for around $150 on average. These smaller doors are perfect if you only have feline friends at home. Cat flaps are available for the same locations as dog doors—including walls, windows, glass doors, and pre-installed options—giving your cat easy access to the outdoors. If you have both cats and dogs, consider installing a dog door that accommodates all your pets.

DIY vs. Hiring a Dog Door Installation Pro

While installing a dog door yourself can save money upfront, hiring a local handyperson or dog door installer ensures the job is done correctly and safely. A skilled installer has the experience to avoid costly mistakes that could affect your home's security or lead to future repairs. Considering the complexities—especially with wall-mounted or electronic doors—it's often worth investing in a professional installation for safety and peace of mind.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.