Few things are as cumbersome as a dog that can’t seem to make up its mind. As soon as you let him out, he wants to come back in. This routine is especially tiresome during the winter months. Instead of entertaining your dog’s fickle nature, why not look into doggie doors to deal with the ins and outs. They’re an easy solution to an all-too-common problem and they don’t cost much either.

If you live in a drafty area, be sure to buy a door that is designed to handle wind. Many manufactures make vacuum-sealed plastics that close tightly behind your pet. Also make sure it’s not too small or large of a passageway so your poor dog isn’t sucking in its stomach to go use the bathroom. If you’re worried about creating a security vulnerability, have the door attached to a room like the garage or basement entrance where another locked door is passed in order to get into the house.

Most dogs will pick up on the doors purpose right away, but some might need a little encouragement to get used to it. Remove the flap at first so the animal can see it’s a passage to the outside world. Use treats to move along the process by strategically placing them inside, outside and on the ledge of the door itself. Dogs should be comfortable going both in and out before you put the flap back on. Once they are, reinstall the flap and make sure the dog understands to use its head to push it open. Calling them through successfully and rewarding them with a treat is the best way to make sure they know the routine.

You can get pet supplies for far cheaper online than at the local big-box or pet store. The advantage Internet dealers have over bigger chains is low overhead. You also have the advantage of being able to read professional and customer reviews before buying any product, be it doggie doors or heartworm medicine. Be an informed consumer in order to furnish your four-legged friend with the best toys and medicine at the lowest prices.