Reviewed 24 October 2026
A dog door can make everyday life easier, but the moving flap can be a little puzzling at first. Give your dog time to work it out. The aim is for them to choose to walk through comfortably, with small rewards and plenty of patience.
Start with an open doorway, practise in both directions, then introduce the flap gradually. Never push or pull your dog through.
Before you start: check the doorway and the yard
Choose an opening that comfortably fits your dog’s body and follow the manufacturer’s sizing and installation instructions. For a puppy, allow for their expected adult size. Check for sharp edges, a stiff flap, slippery flooring or an awkward step on either side. Check that your dog’s collar and tags cannot catch on the opening or flap.
The door should lead to a securely fenced, safe area with suitable shade and water. Check what your dog could reach outside, including pools, roads, chemicals and wildlife. A dog door does not replace supervision, exercise or time with the family.
1. Make the opening easy
Secure the flap fully open so it cannot drop onto your dog. Only remove it if the manufacturer allows this. Let your dog look through and investigate without pressure. Keep the area quiet and clear, with good footing on both sides.
If your dog backs away, give them space. Reward a comfortable approach rather than repeatedly calling them towards something they find worrying.
2. Reward small, willing steps
With the flap held open, encourage your dog from the other side using a small treat or a familiar toy. Reward progress, whether that is looking through, putting their head through or taking a step. Let them move away whenever they need to.
When they choose to walk all the way through, reward them straight away. You can use a familiar marker word such as “yes”, or a clicker they already understand. Keep each practice short and finish while your dog is comfortable.
3. Practise coming back inside
Going out and coming in can feel quite different. Practise both directions with the flap open. Check whether the light, surface or height changes on one side make the return journey harder.
A stable, non-slip platform or an appropriately fitted ramp may help with a step. If the movement looks uncomfortable, pause training and speak with your vet about possible pain or mobility difficulties.
4. Introduce the flap gradually
Once your dog moves freely through the open doorway in both directions, hold the flap partly open. Let them experience a little contact with it, then reward their willing passage. Lower it in small stages as their confidence grows.
If they hesitate, raise the flap again and make the task easier. Do not release it suddenly onto them or force them to push a heavy flap. Follow the door’s instructions, particularly for locking or microchip-operated models.
5. Build everyday confidence
Practise at different quiet times of day. Gradually reduce your prompting while continuing to reward confident use. Keep an eye on the flap, lock and landing area so a new noise or slippery surface does not undo their progress.
If your dog is still unsure
Scared of the flap? Return to an open doorway and reward relaxed investigation. Happy going out but reluctant to return? Check the step, surface and what is happening indoors. Suddenly refusing a door they used before? Check the door and arrange a veterinary assessment if discomfort or a health change is possible.
There is no fixed deadline. Some dogs need more time, a different door or another way to get outside. A dog door will not suit every dog or every household.
What about puppy toilet training?
A dog door can provide access to the garden, but your puppy still needs regular toilet opportunities, supervision and rewards in the right place. Continue taking them out after waking, eating and play. See our puppy toilet-training guide for help with the routine.
Practical help for Brisbane families
For support with everyday puppy skills, view our Brisbane Puppy School locations and course dates. If your dog is worried about the doorway or you need help with the setup at home, contact Jordan Dog Training to discuss individual support.
Give your dog a pat from us.
Further reading
RSPCA Australia: reward-based dog training
Hakuna Pets: introducing your pet to a pet door
Justin Jordan is a dog behaviourist and the founder of Jordan Dog Training, a family-owned Brisbane business. With more than 35 years of experience in the pet industry, Justin and his team help families with puppy training, everyday manners and behaviour concerns.
