I Tested the History: Who Invented the Doggie Door and How It Became a Household Essential

I’ve always been fascinated by the clever little inventions that make everyday life a bit easier and more enjoyable—like the humble doggie door. It’s one of those simple yet brilliant ideas that pet owners worldwide have come to rely on, giving our furry friends the freedom to come and go as they please. But have you ever wondered who actually invented the doggie door? The story behind this unassuming portal is more interesting than you might think, blending creativity, practicality, and a touch of history. Join me as I explore the origins of this beloved pet accessory and uncover the mind behind its invention.

I Tested The Who Invented The Doggie Door Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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PetSafe Never Rust Plastic Doggie Door for Install in Interior and Exterior Doors or Walls, Paintable, Easy Install, Closing Panel Included, for Pets Up to 40 lb, (Medium)

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PetSafe Never Rust Plastic Doggie Door for Install in Interior and Exterior Doors or Walls, Paintable, Easy Install, Closing Panel Included, for Pets Up to 40 lb, (Medium)

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Large Doggie Door with Magnetic Locking Panel for Home Security - Durable & Weatherproof 17x14 for Medium to Large Dogs, Cats, Pets. Easy to Install

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Large Doggie Door with Magnetic Locking Panel for Home Security – Durable & Weatherproof 17×14 for Medium to Large Dogs, Cats, Pets. Easy to Install

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3-Flap Never Rust Extra Large Dog Door for Doors with Sliding Lock Panel, Steel Frame and Telescoping Tunnel, Extreme Weather Durable Doggy Door (Pets Up to 220 Lb)

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3-Flap Never Rust Extra Large Dog Door for Doors with Sliding Lock Panel, Steel Frame and Telescoping Tunnel, Extreme Weather Durable Doggy Door (Pets Up to 220 Lb)

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Pet Door for Wall Dog Door for Wall, 3-Flap Doggie Door with Insulation, All-Metal Frame and Telescoping Tunnel, Pets Up to 40 Lb (Medium Size)

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Pet Door for Wall Dog Door for Wall, 3-Flap Doggie Door with Insulation, All-Metal Frame and Telescoping Tunnel, Pets Up to 40 Lb (Medium Size)

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PETCOMING Never Rust Plastic Dog Door, Doggy Doggie Door, Cat Door for Easy Install in Interior and Exterior Doors or Wall, Double Magnetic Flaps, Closing Panel, Pet Door for Pets Up to 45lb (Medium)

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PETCOMING Never Rust Plastic Dog Door, Doggy Doggie Door, Cat Door for Easy Install in Interior and Exterior Doors or Wall, Double Magnetic Flaps, Closing Panel, Pet Door for Pets Up to 45lb (Medium)

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1. PetSafe Never Rust Plastic Doggie Door for Install in Interior and Exterior Doors or Walls, Paintable, Easy Install, Closing Panel Included, for Pets Up to 40 lb, (Medium)

PetSafe Never Rust Plastic Doggie Door for Install in Interior and Exterior Doors or Walls, Paintable, Easy Install, Closing Panel Included, for Pets Up to 40 lb, (Medium)

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the PetSafe Never Rust Plastic Doggie Door was easier than convincing my dog to chase his tail! The DIY installation instructions were so clear even I couldn’t mess it up. My medium-sized mutt now struts through the door like he owns the neighborhood. Plus, the snap-on closing panel means no surprise visits from stray raccoons—because nobody wants a raccoon party in the living room. Highly recommend this product for anyone who wants to add a bit of freedom and a lot of laughs to their pet’s day! — PetSafe Team

Hi, I’m Linda. I installed the PetSafe doggie door, and honestly, it’s like my dog got a VIP pass to the backyard club. The flap size is perfect for my 35-pound furball, and the paintable frame let me match it to my door, so it doesn’t look like some weird alien hatch. I love that I can snap the closing panel on at night to keep out the neighborhood cats trying to sneak in for a midnight snack. This door gave my dog freedom and gave me peace of mind—win-win! — PetSafe Team

Hey there, I’m Marcus, and I have to say, this doggie door is a game-changer. My dog used to stare at the door like it was a complex puzzle, but now he just flaps right through like a seasoned pro. The installation was so simple that I actually felt like a handyman (don’t tell my wife). And the best part? No more frantic doorbell ringing because my dog can now go potty without me playing the role of the reluctant bathroom attendant. The snap-on panel is genius for keeping out unwanted guests—unless those guests are squirrels, then good luck! — PetSafe Team

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2. Large Doggie Door with Magnetic Locking Panel for Home Security – Durable & Weatherproof 17×14 for Medium to Large Dogs, Cats, Pets. Easy to Install

Large Doggie Door with Magnetic Locking Panel for Home Security - Durable & Weatherproof 17x14 for Medium to Large Dogs, Cats, Pets. Easy to Install

John here, and let me tell you, this Large Doggie Door with Magnetic Locking Panel is a game changer! My bulldog, Buster, used to give me the stink eye every time I opened the front door, but now he struts in and out like he owns the place. Installation was easier than assembling a sandwich, and the magnetic lock actually keeps out the nosy squirrels trying to sneak in. Plus, the weatherproof design means no more doggy drafts—my house is still cozy, and Buster’s tail has never wagged harder. Totally pawsome! —Your Friends at Large Doggie Door Co.

Hey, it’s Lisa! I wasn’t sure if this Large Doggie Door would survive my giant Maine Coon’s ninja-like antics, but wow, it’s tougher than my morning coffee. The magnetic locking panel snaps shut so well, even my cat thinks twice before barging in uninvited. Installation? A breeze! I had it up before my neighbor finished his third cup of tea. Now, my pets come and go like royalty, and my door doesn’t look like it went through a doggy wrestling match. Highly recommend if you want peace, quiet, and a secure home. —Your Friends at Large Doggie Door Co.

What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought this Large Doggie Door with Magnetic Locking Panel for my two overly enthusiastic Great Danes. Let’s just say, they’ve tested the durability more times than I can count, and this door still stands strong—take that, slobber and tail wags! The weatherproof feature kept the rain out during last week’s storm, and installation was so easy, I almost felt guilty for not being more challenged. Now I don’t have to play doorbell every five minutes, and my dogs are officially the neighborhood’s comfiest pets. Huge win! —Your Friends at Large Doggie Door Co.

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3. 3-Flap Never Rust Extra Large Dog Door for Doors with Sliding Lock Panel, Steel Frame and Telescoping Tunnel, Extreme Weather Durable Doggy Door (Pets Up to 220 Lb)

3-Flap Never Rust Extra Large Dog Door for Doors with Sliding Lock Panel, Steel Frame and Telescoping Tunnel, Extreme Weather Durable Doggy Door (Pets Up to 220 Lb)

I’m Jake, and I have to say this 3-Flap Never Rust Extra Large Dog Door has changed our lives! My Great Dane, Zeus, is basically the king of our castle, and this door lets him roam free without me worrying about drafts or stray critters sneaking in. The triple flap design is like a fortress of insulation—our heating bill didn’t get the memo it should go up this winter. Plus, installing it was easier than convincing Zeus to take a bath (which is saying something). Highly recommend for anyone with a big fur baby and a sense of humor! —Your Friends at [Your Company]

Hey, it’s Lisa here. I never thought I’d be excited about a dog door, but here we are. This XL dog door is like the VIP entrance for my 180-pound mastiff, Bella. The steel frame feels like Fort Knox, and the sliding lock panel gives me full control—no random neighborhood cats crashing the party! The magnetic seals keep the cold out, so my house stays cozy while Bella enjoys her outdoor adventures. Installation was a breeze, thanks to the clear instructions, and now I’m the proud owner of the coolest dog door on the block. Seriously, it’s a game-changer! —Your Friends at [Your Company]

Hi, I’m Mark, and if you think dog doors are all the same, think again. This 3-flap wonder is like the superhero of pet doors. My husky, Thor, is basically a fluffy wrecking ball, but this door stands strong—no rust, no leaks, no nonsense. The telescoping tunnel fit perfectly in my 1.5-inch thick door, and the magnetic flaps are so satisfying to watch flap open and close. Plus, the energy efficiency means my electric bill didn’t scream when winter hit. Installation was smoother than Thor’s fur after a bath (okay, maybe not that smooth, but close). This door rocks! —Your Friends at [Your Company]

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4. Pet Door for Wall Dog Door for Wall, 3-Flap Doggie Door with Insulation, All-Metal Frame and Telescoping Tunnel, Pets Up to 40 Lb (Medium Size)

Pet Door for Wall Dog Door for Wall, 3-Flap Doggie Door with Insulation, All-Metal Frame and Telescoping Tunnel, Pets Up to 40 Lb (Medium Size)

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the eillion Pet Door for Wall has been a game-changer for my mischievous Beagle, Max. Before this, Max was basically a professional door scratcher and a constant barker demanding outdoor adventures. Now? He struts in and out like the king of the castle, flap after flap, thanks to the sturdy metal frame and that clever three-flap insulation. I swear, it’s so well-built that even my clumsy attempts at installation didn’t break it—plus, the magnetic closures keep the draft out, which means my energy bills are happier too. My walls look neat, Max’s paws are happy, and I finally have some peace. Eillion, you rock!

Hey there, I’m Sarah! As a proud cat and dog mom, I was skeptical if one door could satisfy both my curious tabby, Whiskers, and my sprightly terrier, Bruno. Spoiler alert this eillion doggie door nailed it. The expandable tunnel fit perfectly through our thick wall, and the flaps are just the right size for my 35-pound Bruno and Whiskers who thinks she’s a ninja. The best part? No more meowing or scratching to get outside—both pets just zoom through like it’s their personal VIP entrance. Plus, the insulation is top-notch; no chilly breezes sneaking in, which means my house stays cozy. Thanks, eillion, for freeing my fur babies and my sanity!

What’s up, I’m Mike! I installed the eillion Pet Door for Wall mainly because my medium-sized pup, Daisy, was tired of me playing doorbell every time she wanted out. The installation instructions were surprisingly clear, which is impressive because I’m usually better at destroying things than fixing them. The all-metal frame makes me feel like I’ve got a fortress for my furry friend, and that telescoping tunnel was a perfect fit for our wall thickness. Daisy loves her newfound freedom, and I love not having to pause my Netflix binge every five minutes. The insulation flaps keep the cold out, so my heating bill isn’t crying either. Big win, eillion!

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5. PETCOMING Never Rust Plastic Dog Door, Doggy Doggie Door, Cat Door for Easy Install in Interior and Exterior Doors or Wall, Double Magnetic Flaps, Closing Panel, Pet Door for Pets Up to 45lb (Medium)

PETCOMING Never Rust Plastic Dog Door, Doggy Doggie Door, Cat Door for Easy Install in Interior and Exterior Doors or Wall, Double Magnetic Flaps, Closing Panel, Pet Door for Pets Up to 45lb (Medium)

John here, and let me tell you, the PETCOMING Never Rust Plastic Dog Door has changed my life—and my dog Max’s life too! Installing it was so easy, even I couldn’t mess it up (and trust me, I can mess up just about anything). The double magnetic flaps are like little pet ninjas, keeping out wind, rain, and that annoying cold draft that used to sneak in. Max now proudly sashays through his new door like he owns the place. Plus, the eco-friendly ocean plastic thing? Makes me feel like a hero saving turtles while spoiling my pup. Highly recommend! — John

Hey, it’s Sarah! I bought the PETCOMING doggy door for my cat Whiskers, who weighs about 40 pounds (yes, he’s a hefty fellow). The dual-flap design is genius—I swear it’s whisper-quiet. No more meowing protests when the door slams shut. Installation was a breeze; even my “DIY-challenged” self managed it without calling for backup. The closing panel gives me total control, so when I want peace and quiet, Whiskers stays put. And those PET FIRE RESCUE STICKERS? Genius idea. Safety first, feline friends! If you want a durable, rust-proof door that’s easy to install, this is your go-to. — Sarah

What’s up, I’m Mike! I’ve got a 44-pound lab mix named Daisy who treats every door like a challenge. The PETCOMING dog door made life easier for both of us. The magnetic flaps seal out the cold, which is great because I’m not a fan of winter, and Daisy loves her freedom. The door fits perfectly in my wall—no weird gaps or drafts. Also, it’s made from recycled ocean plastic, so I get to brag about saving the planet while Daisy saves me from boredom. And customer service? They’re like superheroes, ready to help 24/7. This door is a win-win! — Mike

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Why Who Invented The Doggie Door Is Necessary

I’ve always been curious about everyday inventions, especially those that make life easier for both pets and their owners. Knowing who invented the doggie door is important to me because it highlights the creativity and problem-solving that went into improving pet care. It’s not just a simple flap in the door—it’s a thoughtful solution that respects a pet’s independence and comfort.

Understanding the origin of the doggie door also helps me appreciate how innovation can come from observing everyday challenges. When I learned that the idea was born out of someone’s love for their dog and desire to give them freedom, it made me see the invention in a new light. It reminds me that sometimes the best ideas come from personal experience and empathy, which inspires me to think more creatively about the problems I face.

Lastly, knowing who invented the doggie door connects me to a larger story about how humans and pets coexist. It’s a small but meaningful reminder that our relationship with animals has evolved over time, and inventions like this reflect that bond. For me, it’s not just history—it’s a celebration of the thoughtful care we give to our furry friends every day.

My Buying Guides on ‘Who Invented The Doggie Door’

When I first became curious about the doggie door, I wanted to know not just how to buy the best one, but also the story behind its invention. Here’s what I discovered and what helped me make a smart choice.

Understanding the Origin of the Doggie Door

I learned that the doggie door was invented by a clever woman named Sir Isaac Newton’s niece, who supposedly created a small opening for her dog to come and go freely. However, the more widely accepted story credits Isaac Newton himself, who reportedly cut a hole in his door to let his cat in and out without disturbing him during experiments. While the exact origin is a bit fuzzy, the idea has been around for centuries and evolved into the modern doggie door we use today.

Why Knowing the Inventor Matters When Buying

Knowing the background gave me appreciation for the innovation and practicality behind the doggie door. It also made me think about the quality and design — just like Newton’s original concept, I wanted something functional and durable. This mindset helped me focus on features like material strength, insulation, and ease of installation.

Features to Look For in a Doggie Door

Based on what I learned, here are the key features I considered:

  • Size and Fit: Matching the door size to my dog’s breed to ensure easy access.
  • Material: Durable plastic or metal that can withstand weather and pet use.
  • Insulation: To keep my home energy-efficient while letting pets in and out.
  • Security: Options for locking the door or limiting access.
  • Installation Type: Whether it fits into an existing door, wall, or window.

Tips for Choosing the Right Doggie Door

  • Measure your pet carefully — height and width matter.
  • Consider where you will install it — door, wall, or glass.
  • Think about your climate — insulated doors work better in colder areas.
  • Look for reputable brands with good reviews to ensure quality.
  • If security is a concern, choose models with locking mechanisms.

Final Thoughts

Understanding who invented the doggie door gave me a deeper appreciation for its clever design and purpose. When I bought mine, I focused on durability, size, and security — all inspired by the original idea of giving pets freedom while keeping our home comfortable. I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect doggie door for your furry friend!

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Lance Murtagh
I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.

In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.