Frequently Asked Questions

A: The Parson Russell Terrier is energetic, affectionate, and intelligent. This dog was originally bred from the Fox Terrier and was known as the Jack Russell Terrier by the American Kennel Club until the name was updated in 2004.  They are a hunting breed and with a high prey drive they need lots of exercise. Parson Russell Terrier Parson Russell Terrier, Bred for Hunting These terriers were bred for fox hunting, both above and below ground. They are fast enough to keep up with the fox hounds and small enough to burrow in after a fox to flush him out. Eager and bold, they make excellent huntsman. Known for their strong natural hunting instincts, they have been known to go after small domestic animals as well; such as cats, rabbits, birds, hamsters, gerbils and other pet Rodentia. Parson Russell Terriers were developed in the mid-1800s by the Reverend John “The Sporting Parson” Russell in the south of England. His passions in life were the ministry and his hunting dogs. He bred terriers to work together with fox hounds to catch their European red fox quarry. The Parson Russell Terrier is very similar to a Jack Russell Terrier, which was first recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1997. The breeds have a similar history. The Parson Russell Terrier was known as the Jack Russell Terrier until 2004 when the breed standard was updated by the American Kennel Club. The most striking difference is their size. The Jack Russell is slightly smaller. The Parson Russell stands twelve to fifteen inches at the withers and weighs thirteen to seventeen pounds. They live an average of thirteen to fifteen years. They have an athletic and balanced body. This means they are as tall as they are long. High Energy and Low Maintenance The Parson Russell Terrier has a mostly white coat with black, brown or tri-color markings. There are two types of coats; the smooth coat and the broken or rough coat. Minimal grooming is required. They need only a regular weekly brushing and a monthly bath. Unless there are unusual circumstances, this should be sufficient. This breed sheds minimally and their double coat protects them from the elements. Rough coated Parson Russell Terrier Although obedient and clever, on walks, they may not be able to resist running off and chasing small animals. Outdoors, they love to explore every hole, tree trunk and smell. They are friendly and playful dogs who like to join in. They make great family dogs, but should be watched around young children as terriers do not like rough play. Rewards based training works best with the Parson Russell. Be sure to keep training sessions short as they get bored easily. They are independent problem solvers and have their own ideas on how things should be done. Be patient in training. Starting with an obedience class is recommended. This breed does well in canine sports like agility and flyball. The Parson Russell Terrier will need a medium (MD) sized PlexiDor Dog Door made of energy efficient, durable materials and backed by a 90-day money back guarantee. We have both standard and electronic dog doors to choose from. Our doors are available for installation in walls, doors, glass house doors, French doors, and sliding glass doors. Contact our Customer Service Department with any questions or call 888-PET-DOOR today. We are here to help!

A: Livestock guardian dogs, or LGD for short, are dog breeds whose purpose is to protect and guard livestock from predators. The livestock is typically small farm animals, mostly sheep. Livestock guardian dogs are not the same as herding dogs which monitor and guide the direction and motion of livestock. LGD specialize in protection. They become a full-time member of the herd or flock. They will have been raised with the herd from an early age, around 4 to 5 weeks of age, and the animals will see the dog as part of the group. The puppies “imprint” on the livestock. Livestock guardian dogs will stay with the herd at all times, but are particularly helpful while they are in a remote grazing area. They protect the herd from intruders and keep them safe while away from the protection of fences and humans. Their protection methods include vocal intimidation like barking and showing aggressive behavior. While they are bred to be working dogs, livestock guardian dogs are breeds that make good family dogs. Their caring nature make them good with children and good companions for humans. They do need the right family however. These dogs require a great deal of training, lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Livestock Guardian Dogs That Make Good Pets Great Pyrenees – These white thick coated dogs are as powerful and quick as they are mellow and graceful. They are good with children when raised with them from an early age and are affectionate family dogs. They only require moderate exercise such as daily walks and a weekly brushing is all the grooming required. Find out more about the Great Pyrenees . Great Pyrenees Kuvasz – The Kuvasz is an affectionate family dog only moderately good with children. Bred in Hungary as a working dog they require adequate daily activity and a fenced yard to get enough exercise. Grooming consists of weekly brushing and an occasional bath. Training is a must for the Kuvasz puppy and this independent breed may be a challenge for a first time dog owner. Find out more about the Kuvasz . Kuvasz Bernese Mountain Dog – The Bernese Mountain Dog is loving toward its family and excellent with children. They require only moderate daily exercise like a half hour walk. Regular weekly brushing, increased to daily brushing during shedding season, is adequate for grooming. They are eager to please and generally easy to train. Find out more about the Bernese Mountain Dog . Bernese Mountain Dog Each of the livestock guardian dogs listed above stands over two feet tall at the shoulder and can weigh over 100 pounds. They are powerful and sturdy animals with daily exercise needs and should have access to a fenced yard. For the best situation for pets and pet owners alike, PlexiDor Dog Doors suggests an extra-large dog door for these breeds.

A: The brave, noble Akita is highly loyal. The Akita was originally bred to protect royalty and nobility in medieval Japan. They were also used to track and hunt game animals like wild boar and black bear. Due to their breeding, they are courageous, fiercely devoted to their humans and extremely protective. They have a commanding presence standing 24-28 inches tall at the shoulder. Akitas are muscular and Females are 70-100 pounds, while males weigh in between 100-130 pounds. Akitas are characterized by a broad, large head, erect ears, and a tail that curls over their backs. The Akita in snow Other attributes of the Akita include: their coats are known to be of many different colors including black, brown, fawn, brindle, white and silver.The Akita has a dense double coat over a muscular, thick-boned structure.They typically wear a mask-like marking on their faceThey do not bark much, instead they have their own unique vocalizationsLive 10-14 years Akitas are clean, almost fastidious dogs. They have little odor. They require minimal grooming, just a brushing once a week. They do shed profusely twice a year and brushing more often is recommended to remove the dead coat. As with all dogs, keep nails short and maintain proper dental hygiene. The Akita loves to play. They are energetic and fun, but are not highly active. They only have moderate exercise needs. A jog or vigorous walk for 15-20 minutes daily is adequate. They are fond of playing, however, and do enjoy a good game of tug-of-war or a romp around the yard. It is key to begin training your Akita from puppyhood. They have an independent nature and can be stubborn. As natural protectors, they will need to be socialized around many other people and animals early and often to learn not to perceive them as a threat. They have a strong prey drive and should never be off leash in an open area. They can be aggressive toward other dogs, especially males, as well. Akitas are loyal protectors of their family, In Japan, they are revered as symbols of good health, happiness, and long life. The Akita should be socialized around all types of situations, people and animals from a young age to teach them they are not a threat and to make them comfortable around these scenarios. While Akitas Thrive on human companionship and prefer to be with their human, they are not good with children they do not know and not good with strangers. Akitas should be kept apart from other animals, especially other male dogs. The Akita would need either a large or an extra-large PlexiDor Dog Door depending on their stature. The Wall and Door Series are backed by a 90-day money back guarantee and a 10-year warranty. Contact us or call our Customer Service Department at 888-PET-DOOR.

A: You may wonder which of all the tools for trimming a dogs nails is best. There are several different types and options available. Some tools may seem intimidating without proper information and education on how to use them safely. What Tools For Trimming a Dogs Nails Are Available? Always use safe, dog-friendly clippers, scissors, or grinders. Remember, it is important to keep a tender and upbeat attitude when working on your dog’s feet. Make it a positive experience for your dog as much as possible and it will be easier for you as well. There are several types of dog nail trimmers on the market today. They include guillotine style clippers, scissors, and small rotary grinders. Clippers and grinders are more often used as effective tools for trimming a dogs nails. Types of Tools For Trimming a Dogs Nails Guillotine Style Clippers – Key features of a good pair of clippers:Made of stainless steelNon-slip, ergonomic gripDouble blade cutter with tension springSafety stop to prevent overcuttingSmall Rotary Grinders – Key features of a good grinder:45 degree paw guideDifferent speed optionsCompactErgonomic designCap to catch nail dust and furCordless and can be charged with a USB cableQuiet and low vibrationScissors – Key features:Made of stainless steel It is recommended to start your dog on nail trimming when they are young. You should touch and hold your puppy’s paws often. This will keep them from becoming sensitive to having their paws touched. Get them accustomed to the tool you will using slowly. Familiarize them with the sight, sound and feeling of the tool as much as possible before actually using the tool on them. Steps to nail trimming familiarization can be found at the linked website. No matter what tool for trimming a dogs nails you choose; invest time with your pooch to make it a good experience for both of you. There’s no need to rush the process. Take it slow and easy. Nail trimming will be a lifelong experience.

A: A British charity, Guide Dogs,  determined from a study they conducted what, if any, were dogs favorite Christmas songs. One thousand dog owners were surveyed. They determined dogs prefer an upbeat, lively song to something calm. They also determined how dogs ranked Christmas songs. Caroling dogs favorite Christmas songs Dogs preference to up tempo songs is evident in the results of the survey. Six of the seven songs are upbeat and lively. Only one is at a slower tempo. That’s almost eighty six percent. It is reported ninety percent of canines enjoy music in general. Music can have an emotional influence on them. Which is important to know at this time of year when there tends to be more stress in the house. Dogs Favorite Christmas Songs “Last Christmas” by Wham! - This 1984 hit by Wham! hit No. 1 and received ten percent of the votes for this poll. It’s Christmas mixed with a little end-of-relationship sadness with to a perky backbeat.“Jingle Bells” – This song was written by James Lord Pierpont in 1857 and at that time was titled “The One Horse Open Sleigh”. Since then, it has been re-arranged and re-recorded by many different artists.“All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey – This No. 1 hit in more than 25 countries was released in 1994. It soon made its way onto the holiday must-have list and topped the US Billboard Hot 100 again in 2019.“Driving Home for Christmas” by Chris Rea – This 1988 song about being stuck in traffic trying to get home for Christmas touches the heart singing about memories and happy faces.“Silent Night” – This was originally a poem written in the 19th century in Austria by pastor Joseph Franz Mohr and composed by Franz Xaver Gruber. Today, this song is known around the world in almost every language as a traditional Christmas song.“It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas” by Michael Bublé – This song was originally written by Meredith Wilson in 1951. Most notably Bing Crosby and The Fontane Sisters have covered it since. However, the version that is popular with dogs is by Michael Bublé.“Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney – “We’re simply having a wonderful Christmastime”. Is there anything more to say? This song was released in 1979 and has enjoyed airplay ever since. It’s a staple of the season. It is evident from the list of the dogs favorite Christmas songs that they primarily enjoy upbeat tracks, but otherwise there is a wide range of styles and topics. In fact, “Jingle Bells” wasn’t intended to be a Christmas song at all. Only four of the seven songs were written in the past forty years and none of them in the past twenty-five. From broken relationships to warm, family feelings this list covers it. Overall, it is clear, dogs vary as much as does their tastes in music. Happy holidays from PlexiDors Dog Doors and a Happy New Year!

A: Terriers are by far the most popular type of dog breed. There are many different terriers. In fact, there are 38 terrier breeds represented on the American Kennel Club’s Most Popular Dog Breeds list. The most popular terrier breed, the Yorkshire Terrier, ranks in the Top 15 coming in at No. 13 in 2020. The 2020 list is the most recent at this time. The Top 7 Most Popular Terriers Yorkshire Terrier – This dainty little seven-pound dog has all the energy and feistiness you would expect from a terrier. They have a silky steel grey and tan coat that is grown down to the ground for dog shows. They are known to be good purse pets, due to their diminutive size, and come in at the top of the terriers at, thirteenth overall on the Most Popular Dogs List by the AKC.Boston Terrier – At number 21, this amusing little dog is a good all-around family dog. They are affectionate with their family, good with children and get along well with other pets. They can weigh between 12-25 pounds and around sixteen inches in height. They are best known for their black and white markings but do have a brindle and a seal variation in color.West Highland White Terrier – Westie for short, at number forty-four, will keep you entertained. They are loyal and smart. As the name implies, they are all white and possess striking dark eyes. While fluffy looking, their coat is stiff and rough. They stand 10 inches and weigh 15-20 pounds full grown.Scottish Terrier – This spirited and independent breed has high energy and require adequate walk and play time each day. They are iconic in all black, however there is wheaten and several shades of brindle variations as well. They stand 10 inches and weigh an average of 20 pounds. This terrier is aloof with strangers and is protective of their people by nature.Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier – The Wheaten is a larger terrier standing an average of 18 inches and weighing an average 35 pounds. They were bred in Ireland as a farm dog and are affectionate with children and deeply devoted to their family. Their stubborn nature can make them difficult to train.Airedale Terrier – This eager to please breed is the tallest of the terriers at 23 inches and the heaviest at 50-70 pounds. Known to be clever and courageous, this breed is known for its black and tan markings. Black on the back, sides, tail and up the back of the neck and tan on the legs, head, chest, and stomach. They have been given the nickname ‘The King of Terriers.’Bull Terrier – While comical and playful with their people, this dog does not do well with other dogs. They stand approximately 21 inches and weigh between 50 and 70 pounds. The bulldog and terrier were originally cross bred for dog fighting. In the 1860s this dog became refined and standardized as the modern, charming Bull Terrier of today. Boston Terrier giving paw While there are many differences amongst terrier breeds, there are some characteristics that are true of terriers overall. Terriers, at the soul of the breed, were bred to hunt and kill vermin and they have a strong prey-drive toward small, furry animals. They are not good in a house with pets like mice, hamsters and other Rodentia. Smaller pets in general may not be a good idea unless raised together. They are energetic, active dogs and may be stubborn at times. They should be trained and socialized from an early age. Basic obedience training is a must. Terriers are prone to barking and it is best to allow them active time each day. A walk or play time or both is a good outlet for this high energy dog. Terriers come in a range of sizes from seven pounds to twenty-three. Depending on size, your pup could need either a small or medium size PlexiDor Dog Door. Our doors our available through walls, doors, and glass and come in either standard or electronic models. Call our Customer Service Department today at 800-PET-DOOR with any questions.

A: The Beauceron is often mistaken for a Doberman Pinscher. They share the same basic colorings and markings and are built very similarly. The main differences are the Beauceron has a larger head, fuller snout and denser fur than the Doberman. History of the Beauceron They were originally bred to herd sheep and cattle on the central plains of France. As a working dog they are both high energy and protective. They’re a highly intelligent breed; brave and calm under pressure. Beauceron may also be known as Berger de Beauce or Bas Rouge. Berger de Beauce translates to “sheepdog from Beauce”. Beauce is a region in France. While Bas Rouge translates to “red stockings” for their reddish colored feet and ankles. These dogs served in both world wars as messenger dogs, supply transport dogs, search and rescue dogs, police dogs, and land mine detection dogs. Beauceron still serve the military and police force today in these and other capacities. Although this breed was originally developed in the late Middle Ages, the Beauceron was only recently recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 2007. They are ranked 124th out of 200 in popularity among dog breeds in the US. They are especially popular among women as a protector and companion. Breed Traits This muscular, yet graceful dog stands 24–28 inches tall and weighs 65-100 lbs, depending on sex. They have a smooth, but very thick, double coat. They don’t require much grooming, just an occasional bath and weekly brushing. Beauceron do shed. Regular brushing will help keep the loose hairs to a minimum. The Beauceron can be found in black and rust, black and tan, tri-color and harlequin. The tri-color or harlequin coloration is gray brindle, black and rust. For years black and rust was the standard coloration, but lately harlequin is becoming more popular. Most dogs have dewclaws. The dewclaw is the toe that doesn’t reach the ground on each foot. An interesting trait of the Beauceron is they have double dewclaws. In order to participate in dog shows, the dogs must have double dewclaws or they will be disqualified. Temperament These dogs are protective of their family and territory. They are wary of strangers. They train easily and are a generally gentle breed. Although loyal and caring, they are a herding dog and may chase or nip at small children when playing. They are best around children when raised with them. Otherwise, Beauceron are recommended for older kids. As a high energy, working dog they do well when involved in an activity. Good options are dog agility, obedience, flyball, or tracking and herding events. Beauceron do need regular active daily exercise; bicycling, running, hiking or such. A bored Beauceron can be damaging to property and possessions. A pet parent of this canine would need a Large PlexiDor Dog Door to allow them access to the outdoors. This will give your active dog the freedom they desire to chase squirrels and run around at will. Contact out Customer Service Department or call 888-PET-DOOR with any questions.

A: For many people, there are classic Christmas movies we look forward to watching every year. It may be part of your Christmas traditions. Christmas movies span the decades, from “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Miracle on 34th Street” in the 1940s to “Elf” and “Love Actually” in the early 2000s. There are also a fair share of Christmas dog movies in which a dog or dogs play a primary role. Here are a few classics, in no particular order… A Dog Named Christmas (2009) Could this be more of a Christmas dog movie? This is a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie adapted from a book by Greg Kincaid.  A developmentally disabled man wants to get his town involved in the Christmas “Adopt a Dog for Christmas Program”. He himself adopts Christmas, a golden Labrador, that his father does not fully approve of and hearts overflow. https://youtu.be/s4aao9l24Qg A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) This is a staple of the Christmas season and the quintessential Christmas dog movie. Also don’t forget the sequel, I Want a Dog for Christmas, Charlie Brown. Let’s face it, Snoopy is the star of the show. He doesn’t say much, but when it comes to celebrating Christmas, he’s number one. Apple TV+ just bought this Christmas tradition and was going to make it available by subscription only this year. However, the American public spoke and it will be airing on network TV, again, this year. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) https://youtu.be/YQV5Pr7pWtM It is through the Grinch’s relationship with Max that we are able to first “meet” the Grinch. Max isn’t in a position to oppose the Grinch’s plans to steal Christmas and he’s been roped in as an unwilling participant. As a purist a heart, I prefer the animated 1966 Chuck Jones version of this movie. I’ve seen this film so many times I can actually recite parts of it and hear the narrators voice saying, “Cindy Lou Who, who was no more than two.” Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure (2011) The St Bernard Beethoven is back in this fun Christmas flick and this time he talks. Tom Arnold is Beethoven. He’s helping one of Santa’s elves, who has crash landed in his small town, find the lost toy bag to save Christmas. 12 Dogs of Christmas (2005) https://youtu.be/Rmf9-z0frxM This is a heart-warming tale set during the Great Depression about a girl and, you guessed it, 12 dogs. Definitely worth a watch! There was a sequel seven years later: 12 Dogs of Christmas: Great Puppy Rescue The Search for Santa Paws (2010) This is a prequel to the 2009 film Santa Buddies and a spin off from Disney’s Air Bud franchise at large. In this movie Santa Claus and his new best friend, Paws go to New York City to remind the world what Christmas is all about. There was a sequel in 2012 Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups. Shelby: The Dog Who Saved Christmas (2014) This is a fun Christmas movie with another talking dog, a Beagle named Shelby who’s always running from the dog catcher. Shelby is voiced by Rob Schneider. Chevy Chase and Tom Arnold also have leading roles as Grandpa Geoffrey and Doug the Dog Catcher respectively.  This list represents animated fantasies, talking dogs, heart-felt Hallmark tear jerkers and Disney franchises. The thing these movies all have in common is Christmas and a canine companion. If part of your holiday traditions includes snuggling in and watching a film or two, and you don’t already have “Christmas dog” movies on your list, consider adding one or two. PlexiDor Dog Doors wants to wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday! Keep watching Christmas movies!

A: PIJAC stands for the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council. PIJAC Canada is a non-profit dedicated to representing the Canadian pet industry, and to the highest level of pet care. Each year the organization arranges a number of trade shows and events around the country, and PlexiDor pet doors visited the Western Pet Expo that took place in Richmond, BC, May 4 to 5 2014. The Western Pet Expo is a huge 2-day event, and it is British Columbia's only all inclusive pet industry trade show. The PlexiDor dog doors and cat door are well suited for harsh climates, and stand up to the Canadian winters. It is difficult to find products that will keep cold, rain, snow, and wind outside, but the PlexiDor poses an effective barrier to the elements. It also keeps summer flies and other nuisances outside. There is a Canadian area on the PlexiDor website, and the product catalog is available for viewing and download in French for those who prefer that language. The doors can be seen in stores all over the country. Over 50 percent of Canadian households have at least one cat or dog. There are almost 8 million cats and 6 million dogs in the country. Pictured left to right:  Tamara Webster / Triton Sales Representative Nicole Scheming / Owner Triton Animal Supplies Robert Wollet / PlexiDor Sales Manager Hardy Scheming / Owner Triton Animal Supplies Judy Muirhead / Triton Sales Representative Jessica Aldridge / Triton Sales Representative

A: PlexiDor Pet Doors recently visited the 2014 UKC Premiere show in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The UKC, or United Kennel Club, was founded in 1898 and is the largest all-breed performance dog registry in the world. UKC registers dogs from all 50 states as well as 25 other countries. Many clubs only accept pure-bred dogs with pedigree, but UKC has an inclusive policy and strives to provide shows where all dogs can participate. There is a purebred dog registry, but also a program open to mixed breeds and purebreds who for some reason don't fit into the regular purebred registry. They might have a "fault" that excludes them from the breed standard, or be of unknown pedigree. PlexiDor pet doors go to the Premiere event every year and give away 10 dog doors as prizes. It's a fun event for us, because previous years' winners often come by to tell us their experiences with the doors. This year is noteworthy; it's the first time the same dog has won two doors! Congratulations to all the winners. We hope to see you at the show in 2015! Courage won a PlexiDor dog door for Rally National Champion. Lee Anne Layman won a door in 2011 and stopped by to tell us that she loves it. Uhrach4 Roseview Changin' my Star - or Toby as he is also called - is the first dog ever two win two doors at one show. Here is Toby with his owners, Kim Charles and Bruce Winter.