Frequently Asked Questions

A: Perhaps one of the most recognizable of all dogs is the spotted Dalmatian. They were made famous in Disney’s “101 Dalmatians” where an evil woman stole Dalmatian puppies intending to make a fur coat out of them. A better use for the bright and loyal Dalmatian is an affectionate family dog for today’s active family. Dalmatians are noble, clever and outgoing and make wonderful family pets. Dalmatians are predominantly white with spots of black or liver. These are good sized dogs, standing 19-24 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 45-70 pounds, depending on the sex. Females are smaller than males. These dogs have an average lifespan between eleven and thirteen years. Dalmatian puppies are born without spots. They grow into their spots. Be sure to introduce your new pup to new and unusual, but pleasant situations early to prepare them for all that life has to offer. Acclimating your dog to various situations and happenings at a young age makes for a more well-rounded adult dog. Dalmatian History The origin story of the Dalmatian is largely unknown. By the early 1800s, they were associated with a part of Central Europe near the Adriatic Sea once known as Dalmatia. They trotted alongside the caravans of the nomadic Romani people and protected their coaches. Later British nobles used the Dalmatian in their liveries and gave it the nickname the “English Coach Dog”. Dals were used by firefighters in the 1800s in both Europe and America alike when horses pulled fire engines. They entered the AKC Stud Book in 1888. The loving Dalmatian needs early training and socialization. They don’t like to be alone for long periods of time and want to be included in all family activities. They desire to be a true part of your family.   Dalmatians have a unique urinary system with special requirements to prevent medical complications. They need a low protein diet and constant availability to fresh water. They should be able to urinate frequently as they need to flush out their system and maintain health. These “horse dogs” are intelligent and easy to train. Dalmatians are muscular and have great stamina that allows them to keep up with a coach on long journeys. They have a powerful, effortless stride and make good watchdogs. They are not known to be barkers. The Dalmatian would not be considered high maintenance in terms of grooming. Only an occasional bath and weekly brushing is required. This breed does tend to shed a lot. More frequent brushings may help keep the hair off the floor. Their ears hang low and will need regular checking and cleaning to maintain proper health. The Dalmatian is high maintenance in terms of their exercise needs. They were built to run alongside coaches and carriages over long distances. All of that energy needs to be expended in today’s world, with or without horse-drawn carriages. Dalmatians must have adequate daily exercise to prevent behavior problems. They make great dogs for an active family; perhaps with runners, hikers or bikers. The Dalmatian would also be excellent in a sport like agility or flyball. They do well with a rewards-based training system. They are very sensitive animals and do not respond well to punishments and harsh tones. While known as a coach dog, they have also been used for hunting, in firehouses and been seen as circus performers, as well as the household pet. The Dalmatian would require a large PlexiDor Dog Door in either the standard or electronic model. Our doors provide easy access through a door, wall, sliding glass door, glass house door, French door or window. Contact our Customer Service Department or call 888-PETDOOR with questions.

A: When you are looking to add a new fur baby to your family, consider adoption from a local shelter or pound. There are great reasons to adopt a shelter pet over buying one from a store or a breeder. Below are a few of the basics. Reasons To Adopt a Shelter Pet Lower Your Costs - One fiscal reason for adopting a pet instead of buying one is that, typically, pets for adoption from shelters and rescue groups are already spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Those services can cost hundreds of dollars, and when you adopt a pet, you not only save a life, but you save a lot of money as well. Save a Life – By adopting, you are giving a great animal a second chance at life. Many have been rescued from a bad situation or their previous owners could simply no longer care for them. Some are not so lucky as to be adopted. Some shelters have to euthanise due to lack of space. So adopt and save a life! Housetrained – Many of the animals at shelters and pound are already housetrained. They have been worked with by staff and caregivers to know proper bathroom habits. This saves you a lot of time and effort. Unexpected companion – You may know what pet you are looking for, but when you get to a shelter you may fall in love with someone you never expected. The fun thing about choices is it opens your mind to possibilities. Consider pet adoption next time you are considering extending your family. There are many reasons to adopt a shelter pet beyond the four mentioned above. Remember to keep your options open and you will find the perfect companion. PlexiDor Dog Doors has a perfect solution for every dog owner to keep the weather out and allow the dog access to the outdoors at their discretion. Check out our dog door solutions or contact our Customer Service team at 888-PET-DOOR with any questions.

A: Heterochromia is the condition in which you see dogs with different colored eyes. This condition can be found among not only canines, but humans, cats, and horses too. It is often hereditary, although it can be the result of trauma or disease to the eye as well. Heterochromia is caused when there is a lack of pigment melanin in all or part of one eye. Most dogs with hereditary heterochromia do not have any related health problems. However, acquired heterochromia can be a symptom of several eye conditions. If you notice your dog’s eye color changing, it is important to get them checked by a veterinarian. Different Types of Heterochromia There are three types of heterochromia: Heterochromia iridis – This is sometimes referred to as complete heterochromia. One eye is an altogether different color than the other.Central heterochromia – The blue coloring, or lack of pigment, radiates out from the pupil and mixes with another color. In the case of dogs, it would be brown.Sectoral heterochromia – The iris is only partially blue or without pigment. This type would present in two colors within one eye. Instances of two different colored eyes are rare. Dogs with different colored eyes are not limited to specific breeds. It is possible for any type of dog to be born with two different colored eyes. However, this condition is more prevalent among certain breeds than others. Dogs With Different Colored Eyes Australian Shepherd Australian Cattle Dog Dachshund Border Collie Chihuahua Dalmatian  These dogs with different colored eyes have a higher prevalence of deafness among them. Great Dane Shetland Sheepdog Siberian Husky Dogs with different colored eyes, or heterochromia, is unique and memorable. In most cases, it is not a cause for alarm. It’s just a topic of conversation next time you are at the dog park! PlexiDor Dog Doors supports regular visits with your vet for pet wellness and staying current with your pet's vaccines and other regular health maintenance.

A: The “weiner dog” or dachshund is unmistakable in appearance with its long body on short, little legs. What the dachshund lacks in stature, she makes up for in personality and bravado. This spunky, curious and friendly dog was recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1885. However, this breed’s roots date back much before that. Smooth coat dachshund The breed originated in Germany around 600 years ago as a hunting hound of badgers, foxes and rabbits. Dachshund literally means badger dog in German (“dachs” meaning badger and “hund” meaning dog). Their long and low body was custom made to dig out burrowing animals such as these. They were bred to be fierce and bold. This was a necessary trait to go up against their dangerous prey they located by scent. Doxies have a high prey drive still and a surprising “big dog” bark they used to be heard as they went subterranean. Dachshund Appearance There are two sizes of dachshund. The standard is eight to nine inches tall at the shoulder and will weigh between sixteen and thirty-two pounds. The miniature of the breed stands five to six inches tall and weighs less than eleven pounds. Dogs weighing between eleven and sixteen pounds are called “tweenies”. These are American standards. Germany has its own identifiers for the breed. Long haired Doxies are most known for their short, smooth coat, but there are also long-haired and wire-haired varieties. They are vulnerable to the cold and should be kept in a sweater or coat in colder climates. No matter the type of coat, their fur comes in a wide range of colors from black to cream and anything in between. They may be one color or one of many different bi-color combinations. Wire-haired Other Dachshund Facts Affectionate family dogs that live an average of twelve to sixteen years.They get along good with other dogs and have a tendency to bark, but not drool.They are better suited to older children and should be watched when around younger children.They are stubborn and independent which makes for a not-so-easy training experience despite their high intelligence.Dachshunds are prone to back injuries and should not be allowed to jump on or off furniture.There is a dachshund museum, the Kleine Residenz or “Small Residence”, in Passau, Germany.The 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany had a dachshund as its mascot named Waldi. This was the first official mascot of any Olympic games. Your dachshund will need a medium (MD) size PlexiDor Dog Door. Contact our Customer Service Department or call 888-PET-DOOR for assistance finding an installer in your area and tips on installation for your uniquely short canine friend. We are always happy to help!

A: With the weather heating up and reaching record breaking temperatures across the country it’s important to discuss heat exhaustion and heat stroke warning signs in dogs to protect our companions. Summer is a great time to vacation, relax and enjoy fun in the sun, but these high temps can be dangerous and even fatal to our four-legged friends. Read further to learn the warning signs of heat stroke. Heat Stroke Warning Signs in Dogs Rapid heartbeat – A dog’s pulse can be taken by placing your hand on their chest by their front elbow joint. If their pulse seems elevated, they might be overheated. Keep in mind, a normal pulse rate varies for each breed. Larger dogs usually have slower pulse rates and smaller dogs and puppies have more rapid ones.Muscle tremors - Shaking or shivering, no matter the temperature outside, may be a sign of heat stroke or heat exhaustion.Vomiting or diarrhea – Soft stool, or with blood in it, is one of the heat stroke warning signs in dogs.Disorientation – Trouble walking in a straight line or bumping into things may signal dizziness from dehydration or heat exhaustion.Increased thirst – Signs of dehydration are a dry nose, noticeable tiredness, increased panting and sunken eyes.Fever – Your dog’s nose should be cool and wet, not hot and dry. If hot and dry, they could have a fever. A dog’s normal body temperature should be under 103 degrees. Excessive panting or trouble breathing – Should your dog begin panting more than usual or faster than normal, they could be overheated. Dogs with flat faces and short noses, like Boston terriers and Bulldogs, are more prone to heat stroke. Bulldog panting Excessive drooling – Increased drooling or drool that is thick and sticky is one of the heat stroke warning signs in dogs.Bright red or pale gums – A change in gum color from what is normal can signal dehydration.Trouble urinating – A decrease in urine may be a symptom of dehydration and/or overheating.Weakness and collapsing – An overheated dog may nap more than usual or have difficulty standing or walking. Above are the most common symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. There are more. During the summer months it is very important to monitor your dog and if they are acting sick, tired, or just not quite like themselves, don’t ignore it. Always check with your veterinarian to insure optimal wellness for your pet. Be sure your dog has plenty of water and shade whenever they are outside and don’t leave them out too long in the heat. A great way to keep them out of the heat is to give them the freedom to come and go as they please with a PlexiDor Dog Door https://plexidors.com/why-we-are-better/ . Our high quality, energy efficient doors come in four sizes to fit any dog from Teacup Poodles to Great Danes. Contact our Customer Service Department https://plexidors.com/contact-us today with any questions or call 888-PET-DOOR. We are always happy to help!

A: People have conflicting viewpoints on whether dogs should wear clothes. There are reasons dogs should wear clothes and reasons they shouldn't. There are four types of dog owners – 1) all clothes, all the time, 2) clothes occasionally, 3) only when it’s cold, and 4) never will I ever. For reference, sixty-six percent of pet owners dressed their pets up for Halloween in 2020 according to a Rover survey. It seems the only when it’s cold crowd and never evers are in the minority. Keeping your dog warm in the cold is one of the main reasons dogs should wear clothes. No matter your point of view, we’ve compiled a few of the top reasons for each group. Reasons Dogs Should Wear Clothes Similar to the effect of a calming vest, clothes may calm and console a dog in distress or suffering from anxiety.Clothes keep small, thin-haired, and well-groomed dogs warm in cold or chilly weather when outside or in cooler homes. It is important to keep in mind there are some breeds that live in climates they were not bred for and a sweater or coat is practical for them. Clothes are a good solution to keep dogs with medical conditions, compromised or weakened immune systems, and older dogs from catching a chill, even when inside.Your dog may stay cleaner in clothes. When they roll on the grass, or in something even less appealing, it will not get on their coat.The dog enjoys dressing up. Some animals like the attention they get from wearing clothes. One survey found that the majority, almost two-thirds, of dogs are getting dressed up at least once a year. The Halloween costume business for dogs is booming. Holiday frivolity wasn’t even given above as a reason dogs should wear clothes. Read ways to keep your dog safe on Halloween. This pug is wearing a pumpkin costume. Despite this, one thing many vets and experts agree on about clothes is; it’s important to keep them comfortable. The garment should be practical, fit well and not rub or chafe.  Make sure the clothes are made of quality materials and consist of nothing with choking hazards, like buttons and bows. Clothes should be easy to put on and take off. There are reasons dogs should not wear clothes as well. Some people believe the reasons against wearing clothes outweigh the reasons dogs should wear clothes. Reasons Dogs Should Not Wear Clothes Clothes may cause painful friction or rubbing on a dog’s skin. Dogs with short hair or skin conditions may be more susceptible to skin irritation than others.Clothes may cause a dog to potentially overheat and become sick. Always keep an eye on your pet when they are in clothes indoors and in warmer climates.Clothes cause anxiety and stress. Dogs that are not used to clothes and not comfortable in them should not be forced to wear clothing.Dogs may perceive their movement restricted as a punishment. This relates to dog behavior when one dog will dominate another by physically pinning it down.It’s humiliating for the dog. Some animals do not like to be dressed up. A dog’s body language will allow a tuned in owner know how the dog is feeling. The above reasons do allow room for exceptions. The against wearing clothes group even agrees there are times and reasons dogs should wear clothes. Put clothes on your pet is if it is outside, a medical condition warrants clothing to keep warm, or age dictates an extra layer against the cold is needed. In the end, always watch for warning signs the dog doesn’t like what it's wearing and wants the garment removed. The dog may freeze in place in fear and submission. They may take a more aggressive approach and try to shake it off, bite at it, or roll in something foul so it will have to be removed. Overall, the dog will look generally uncomfortable.

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: 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 https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/beauceron/ 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 https://plexidors.com/door-finder/?title=true 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 https://plexidors.com/contact-us/ or call 888-PET-DOOR with any questions.

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.