3 Winter Dangers of Doggie Doors in Coastal Virginia: Coyotes, Raptors, and “Quick Trips” Outside

Doggie doors feel like freedom; your dog can pop out to potty, sunbathe, or patrol the yard anytime. But, in Yorktown and neighboring communities, that convenience can come with real risk, especially when wildlife is more active and visible, like it is this time of year. Let’s discuss 3 winter dangers of doggie doors in Coastal Virginia.

3 Winter Dangers of Doggie Doors in Coastal Virginia

A doggie door equals unsupervised access to the yard where dangers like escapes, encounters with wildlife, and more exist. These dangers are especially risky for small dogs, puppies, and seniors who may not be able to react quickly.

1. Coyote Breeding Season: More Movement, More Boldness

Virginia’s Department of Wildlife Resources notes that coyotes breed in January and February. During this time of year, you may hear more vocalizing and see more daytime activity as coyotes travel, pair up, and defend territory. That doesn’t mean panic, but it does mean small pets shouldn’t be left outside unattended.

If your dog uses the doggie door and finds a way out of your yard, through a gap in your fence or open gate, they may be in danger of attack. An encounter with coyotes often result in injuries or fatalities for dogs. And, it exposes them to illnesses, including rabies.

When Secure Fencing May Not Be Enough

Coyotes are agile, and fencing isn’t a guarantee, especially if there’s a gate gap, something to climb, or a hungry coyote in hunting mode. According to Fairfax County’s wildlife guidance in Northern VA, fencing at least 6 feet tall is recommended because coyotes can jump and climb fences. In areas with high coyote activity, they recommend overhangs/rollers and buried mesh to deter climbing and digging.

Coyotes aren’t the only jumpers. Many dogs, especially athletic breeds like Dobermans and Border Collies, can clear surprisingly tall barriers when stimulated or chasing. PetLabCo lists a few athletic dogs that are known for clearing fences over 6 feet here. Translation: a doggie door can become a two-way “oops” if your dog decides to jump your fence and take off after deer, coyotes, bunnies, and other wildlife.

2. Bare Trees & Birds of Prey: Big Risk for Small Dogs

Coastal Virginia has a healthy raptor population. Virginia DWR explains that “raptors” include eagles, hawks, falcons, osprey, and owls. Locally, the City of Hampton’s bird list includes species you may spot near neighborhoods and waterways like Bald Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, Red-shouldered Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and Osprey.

While attacks on pets are uncommon, and many dogs/cats are too heavy to carry, large raptors can attack small dogs, injuring them and causing them fear and pain. For this reason, experts emphasize that supervision is your best protection. A doggie door that gives dogs unsupervised access to your yard removes the best deterrent: you. During the winter months, birds of prey have a better view of your yard and, therefore, can stalk and attack your pet when you’re not around.

3. Ingestion & Insect/Snake Bites: Decaying Leaves, Dead Birds, & More

In the winter, yards are often covered in decaying leaves, memories of an autumn come and gone. Under those leaves can be snakes, insects, dead birds, and excrement. When your dog has unsupervised access to the outdoors, they could sustain an injury, including an insect or snake bite, could ingest something that makes them ill, or eat a dead bird or other carcass, which could cause intestinal blockages and punctures.

For this reason, supervising pets is the best course of action during outdoor time in your yard. Giving pets access to the yard unsupervised can mean too much freedom, which could lead to bad decisions on their part.

Year-Round Doggie Door Risks

While I am focusing on winter doggie door dangers, there are dangers related to doggie doors that exist all year long. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Lost pets if there is a gap in the fencing or if someone leaves a gate open
• Pets may be stolen during their outdoor time
• Wildlife, stray cats, and bugs getting into your home via the doggie door
• Barking and noise complaints from neighbors
• Frustration and anxiety, which are caused if dogs are outside when strangers walk by
• Fence fighting with stray dogs or wildlife
• Dogs may develop bad habits like digging or eating poop
• Dogs may get wet during a rainstorm and bring mud into your home
• Someone could use the dog door to break into your home
• Indoor cats may learn how to use them

Safer Alternatives to Doggie Doors

If your household needs flexible potty breaks, consider:

• Leashed yard breaks (especially at dawn/dusk/night)
• A fully covered outdoor run (roof/netting + secure sides); best for small dogs
• Keeping doggie door access closed at night and during peak wildlife activity
• Scheduling a midday dog walk so your dog isn’t relying on unsupervised yard time

At Hearts at Home Pet Sitting, we’re big believers in this simple rule: convenience should never outvote safety, especially during the months when wildlife activity ramps up in Hampton Roads. Dog doors open you up to dangers both inside and outside your home, put dog(s) at risk, and compromise your home’s security. To us, it just doesn’t make sense to take the risk!

The Best Dog Walkers in Yorktown & Poquoson

Choose a dog walk over the perceived convenience of doggie doors! Hearts at Home Pet Sitting has been the most trusted dog walking and pet sitting service in Yorktown, Poquoson, Newport News, and Hampton, VA, since 2012. Our dog walking, dog sitting, and cat sitting services are tailored to each family and pet’s needs, ensuring your peace of mind and their safety every day and every visit.