Best Pet Door to Keep Raccoons Out

Quick Answer

You need a heavy-duty pet door with a solid locking mechanism if you want to keep raccoons out, such as the Petsafe Smartdoor Connected Pet Door. The PetSafe Extreme Weather Dog and Cat Door and the Endura Flap Pet Door are your best bets - they’re built tough and actually work.

FreshAirScore™ Ratings

Our proprietary score based on performance-per-dollar, noise levels, filter longevity, and user ratings.

PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door — 84/100 (Great) █████████████████░░░ Best for: Keeping raccoons out

PLEXIGLASS Pet Door — 84/100 (Great) █████████████████░░░ Best for: Budget-friendly option

Ideal Pet Products Ruff-Weather Door — 81/100 (Great) ████████████████░░░░ Best for: Keeping raccoons out

Endura Flap Pet Door — 79/100 (Great) ████████████████░░░░ Best for: Keeping raccoons out

Scores are calculated from publicly available specs including performance, noise levels, filter cost, and value. Learn about our methodology.

Understanding the Raccoon Threat

Raccoons are basically tiny burglars with opposable thumbs. These nocturnal troublemakers are way smarter than you’d expect and can figure out most pet doors in minutes. Here’s what you’re dealing with:

• Size: Raccoons weigh 8-24 pounds and stretch 24-38 inches long (including that fluffy tail)
• Intelligence: They’re as clever as primates - seriously. They can solve puzzles and remember solutions
• Behavior: Most active at night, always looking for easy food or warm places to crash

Essential Features of a Raccoon-Proof Pet Door

Here’s what actually matters if you want to keep these masked bandits out:

1. Sturdy Construction

Skip the flimsy plastic doors. You need aluminum or heavy-duty reinforced materials. Raccoons will literally chew through weak stuff like it’s a snack.

2. Size and Design

Size it right for your pet - big enough they can get through comfortably, but not so big that it’s an open invitation to every critter in the neighborhood.

3. Locking Mechanism

This is non-negotiable. Look for slide-in panels or magnetic locks. Basic flaps are useless against raccoons.

4. Weather Resistance

Good insulation keeps your energy bills down and makes your home less attractive to cold raccoons looking for warmth, which is why you might also consider the Best Smart Dog Door For Cold Weather Insulated.

Top Recommendations for Raccoon-Proof Pet Doors

Here’s how the best options stack up:

Product	Material	Dimensions (W x H)	Locking Mechanism	Price ($)	Customer Ratings
PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door	Aluminum	10.5” x 15.75”	Slide-in panel	129.95	4.6/5
Endura Flap Pet Door	Reinforced PVC	6” x 11”	Magnetic	199.95	4.7/5
Ideal Pet Products Ruff-Weather Door	Plastic	8” x 15”	Dual flap	159.99	4.5/5
PLEXIGLASS Pet Door	Plexiglass	10” x 12”	Locking latch	89.99	4.3/5

1. PetSafe Extreme Weather Pet Door

This one’s built like a tank.

Pros:

• Aluminum construction that raccoons can’t chew through
• Triple-flap system keeps drafts out
• Adjustable for walls up to 8 inches thick

Cons:

• Installation isn’t exactly weekend warrior territory
• Costs more than basic models, but you get what you pay for

2. Endura Flap Pet Door

The energy efficiency champ, though it’ll hit your wallet harder.

Pros:

• Incredibly efficient - your heating bills will thank you
• Magnetic closure actually keeps raccoons out
• Handles extreme weather like a boss

Cons:

• Pricey at nearly $200
• You’ll probably want professional installation

3. Ideal Pet Products Ruff-Weather Door

A decent middle-ground option.

Pros:

• Dual flaps provide good insulation
• DIY-friendly installation
• Won’t break the bank

Cons:

• Plastic construction isn’t as bulletproof as aluminum
• High winds can jam the flap

4. PLEXIGLASS Pet Door

I’d skip this one unless you’re really strapped for cash.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Easy to install
• Clear flap lets you see what’s coming through

Cons:

• Not durable enough for serious raccoon problems
• Weak against weather extremes

Practical Tips for Installation and Use

1. Location Matters: Don’t put it near trash cans or anywhere raccoons already hang out
2. Train Your Pets: The faster they learn to use it properly, the less time it’s sitting open
3. Regular Inspections: Check for damage monthly - fix problems before raccoons exploit them
4. Extra Security: If raccoons are persistent, add an outer gate or enclosure

FAQ

1. Can raccoons really get through a pet door? Absolutely. They’re smart and have dexterous paws - a basic pet door is no challenge.

2. What size pet door should I get for my dog? Measure from ground to shoulder height. You want easy access without excess space.

3. Are electronic pet doors effective against raccoons? Yes - microchip or collar-activated doors only open for your pet, which stumps raccoons.

4. How can I train my pet to use a new pet door? Use treats and patience. Start with the flap propped open, then gradually let it close as they get comfortable.

5. What should I do if a raccoon is already inside my home? Don’t approach it. Open exterior doors and give it an escape route. Call wildlife control if it won’t leave.

Bottom Line

Don’t cheap out on this - a flimsy pet door is basically a welcome mat for raccoons. The PetSafe Extreme Weather and Endura Flap doors actually work, even if they cost more upfront. Your sanity and your home’s security are worth the investment. Just remember: proper installation and pet training are just as important as picking the right door, so check out our guide on How To Choose An Automatic Cat Feeder for tips on managing your pet’s feeding habits.