How to Train My Pet to Use a PetSafe® Pet Door

Important Information

Training can take 1-3 days depending on the temperament of your pet. Pets who are timid or afraid may require multiple days. The estimated time for each step is broken down into the following:

  • Training Sessions: 1-2 sessions a day, lasting about 10 minutes each.
  • Play Time: 5 minutes after each training session.

Be patient and consistent with your pet during training. If you start to see your pet getting stressed out, give them a break, and come back to it later.

Do not let your pet run or charge through the door. If your pet is attempting this, place objects in the path of your pet and the door to slow their momentum going through the door.


Phase 1

Tape Flap UpTape Flap Up

Tape the flap all the way up to create a clear opening for your pet to walk through.

Call Pet Through Flap UpCall Pet Through Flap Up

With your pet on the opposite side of the door, call them through towards you. Reward your pet with a treat and praise when they have completely stepped through.

IMPORTANT: Do not pull or push your pet through the door.

Toss Treat Through Pet Door Flap UpToss Treat Through Pet Door Flap Up

Toss a treat through the door to guide your pet back through.

Repeat these steps for 10 minutes or until your pet is comfortable going through the door.

  • Take a short break and try again if your pet is still uncomfortable going through the door after 10 minutes of training.

Phase 2

Tape Flap Halfway UpTape Flap Halfway Up

Tape the flap halfway up to create a partial opening for your pet to walk through.

Call Pet Through Halfway Up FlapCall Pet Through Halfway Up Flap

With your pet on the opposite side of the door, call them through towards you. Reward your pet with a treat and praise when they have completely stepped through.

Toss Treat Through Pet Door Halfway UpToss Treat Through Pet Door Halfway Up

Toss a treat through the door to guide your pet back through.

Repeat these steps for 10 minutes or until your pet is comfortable going through the door.

  • Take a short break and try again if your pet is still uncomfortable going through the door after 10 minutes of training.

Phase 3

Flap With No TapeFlap With No Tape

Remove all tape and let the flap hang normally.

Call Pet Through Closed FlapCall Pet Through Closed Flap

With your pet on the opposite side of the door, call them through towards you. Reward your pet with a treat and praise when they have completely stepped through.

Guide Pet Through Closed FlapGuide Pet Through Closed Flap

Guide your pet back through the door using a treat. Lift the flap if he is not going through the door.

Repeat steps 1-3 until your pet is comfortable going through the door without your assistance. Celebrate your pet’s new freedom!


Contact Customer Care

If you need further assistance, please contact our customer care team.

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