What Size Dog Door Do I Need for A Pitbull? (Solved & Explained!)

The pitbull is actually an umbrella term for 5 separate breeds of a bulldog. As such, Pitbulls come in a range of sizes from medium to large. If you have a pitbull, you should measure your dog. Chances are you will need anything from a medium to an extra large dog door.

Continue reading below to learn more about the pit bull breeds and sizes, the sizes of dog doors that each would need, and a few different types of dog doors to help you choose the best fit.

What is a pitbull?

Pit bulls are the subject of a lot of misinformation and misunderstanding. To begin with, a pit bull isn’t a distinct breed. Instead, it’s a catch-all word for a variety of breeds. Pit bull-type dogs are frequently subjected to discrimination.

These dogs were developed for their muscular appearance and, as a result, have been employed in cruel dogfighting. As a result, they’ve earned the undeserved image of being very violent canines.

In reality, pit bull-type dogs are known for being extremely affectionate, loyal, and gentle with their owners. They’re also a lot of fun to be around and eager to please.

Characteristics of Pitbulls

Pit bulls are known for their muscular, stocky bodies, thick chests, and huge, square skulls. They’re known for their tenacity. They won’t give up easily when given a task, whether it’s learning a new skill or digging a hole. 

They are a working breed and have been put to use on farms to help with livestock and in hunting parties to trap small game. 

What is a dog door?

A dog door is an opening or flap that is designed to give a dog the freedom to roam both inside and outside without the help of a human. While simple holes in floors and roofs have been around since 7,500 B.C., modern dog doors have been around since the mid-1950s. 

Dog doors come in many different materials and varieties including plastic, glass, designer, and electronic types. You can also find dog doors for both interior and exterior walls and doors, sliding glass doors, and french doors.

Before You Install A Dog Door

Before you choose and install a dog door, consider the location of the door, the security level you would like to have, and the look of the door itself. While there are many different types and price ranges of doors on the market, there is also a vast difference in quality across manufacturers as well.

When you are deciding on a dog door, you should consider the additional costs associated with having one. Installation costs can range from nothing if you have the time and tools to do it yourself, to thousands of dollars depending on door type, location, and craftsmanship level.

It is recommended to never let your dog outside unsecured and unattended.

Breeds and Dog Door Sizes

Depending on which type of pitbull you have will inform your decision on which dog door size to get. Let’s explore 5 different Pitbulls and which size door you should choose for each.

American Bulldog

The American bulldog is descended from English bulldogs, which were bred in the 17th century. Bulldogs became farm dogs and all-around amiable companions in North America. 

The American Bulldog is the largest of the pit bull breeds. It stands at a whopping 20” – 28” on average and weighs between 60 and 100 pounds. If you have an American bulldog, you should absolutely choose an extra-large dog door size. 

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

From the largest of the pit bull breeds to the smallest, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier would require a large-sized dog door to be installed for them. On average, this pitbull breed is around 14” – 16” and weighs in at 35 pounds on average.

This is a short, stocky breed that could use a medium-sized dog door if necessary, but would have more shoulder room from the 2 extra inches from one size up.

American Pitbull Terrier & American Staffordshire Terrier

The next two pitbull breeds are very close in size range and both require a large-sized dog door. Both breeds stand at around 18” with the American Staffordshire Terrier packing an extra 20 pounds more on average than its Pitbull Terrier cousin.

American Bully

Depending on the actual dog, the American Bully is the only pit bull breed that could have a medium-size dog door. That is because this pitbull breed is the shortest of all, standing at only 14” on average.

The American Bully is the newest, and bulkiest breed of pitbull first bred in the 1980s in the United States. A lovely breed, it’s been given the nickname of ‘house hippo’ for its short stature. 

If you choose a medium-sized dog door for this breed, however, consider the width of the dog and spring for a higher quality product that will not wear out as quickly.

Types of Dog Doors

There are several different types of dog doors that are available on the market. There are the traditional frame and flap style doors, doors that are pre-installed on glass panels for sliding doors, and electronic doors. 

Flap and Frame Dog Doors

Traditional flap and frame doors are a variation of the original style of the dog door and are still the most popular style today. The door is made with a tough plastic frame and heavy-duty vinyl to create a flap. Most modern styles have magnets on the bottom to help the vinyl stay closed.

Glass Panel Dog Doors

Glass panel dog doors are relatively newer and are made for those who want to put their dog door on a sliding glass door. These doors come pre-installed on panes of glass which are then set on the door’s track. 

While this is a good option for glass doors, it is recommended for those with only small to medium-sized pets. Larger pets can wear down the glass faster and could compromise the integrity of the panel.

Electronic Dog Doors

Electronic doors are the newest type of dog door. These doors look like the traditional frame and flap doors, except the flap is made of hard plastic and has a locking feature.

The dog wears a special collar for this door that has a receiver attached. When the dog gets close to the door, the receiver and door sync and unlock to let the dog in or out. Once the dog is out of range again, the door locks back.

This is a great option for those looking for a layer of added security to their door dog. Especially if unwanted wildlife could be cause for concern.