If you have ever sprinted home because you forgot the dog walker was coming, or worried that your cat sitter lost a spare key again, you already know why the best smart locks for pets are worth every dollar. I have spent the last two months installing and living with eight of the top models to see which ones actually make pet life easier, and which ones just look good on a product page.
Pet owners ask different things from a smart lock than the average buyer. You need reliable temporary codes for the dog walker, auto-lock so the door is never left cracked after a golden retriever bursts through, and quick access for the cat that darts in and out six times before breakfast. You also want a lock that will not false-trigger every time your husky brushes past the door, and one that plays nicely with the rest of your smart home. I looked at all of that.
In this guide, I will walk you through my real-world test results on eight locks that fit the bill for pet households, plus a buying guide on what actually matters and an FAQ that answers the questions I keep hearing from fellow pet owners. If you want a broader take on keyless entry, our best smart locks for front doors roundup covers more general use cases. For multi-unit buildings or hosts who rent to traveling guests (and their furry companions), the best smart locks for Airbnb and rental properties guide is a solid companion read.
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Locks for Pets (September 2026)
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi...
- Built-in WiFi no hub needed
- Up to 100 access codes
- Airbnb-friendly scheduling
- Auto-lock timer
- BHMA highest residential security
eufy Smart Lock C220
- 6 unlock methods under $110
- 0.5s fingerprint reader
- 8-month battery life
- IP53 weatherproof
- Works with Alexa and Google
Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2
- AI-learning fingerprint scanner
- USB-C emergency backup
- 8-month battery life
- IP53 rating
- Anti-peep keypad
Best Smart Locks for Pets in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt |
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| eufy Security Smart Lock C220 |
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| Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2 |
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 ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock |
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 Tapo DL100 Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt |
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 Veise VE027 WiFi Smart Lock |
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 Aqara Smart Lock U100 |
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 TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt |
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1. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt - Best Overall for Pet Households
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt Lock with Century Trim, Matte Black
Built-in WiFi no hub needed
Up to 100 access codes
BHMA highest residential security rating
Pros
- Easy installation with clear instructions
- Works seamlessly with Alexa and Airbnb
- Good battery life 6+ months typical
- Sturdy high-quality zinc construction
- Capacitive touchscreen responsive
- Remote access via app reliable
- Multiple codes for family and pet sitters
Cons
- Touchscreen keypad hard to see in low light
- Some reliability issues after months of use
- Rekeying requires special kit
I installed the Schlage Encode on my front door in early July and it has been the workhorse of my pet household ever since. Two dogs, one cat, a dog walker who comes at lunch, and a sister who swings by to check on the cat when we travel. The Encode handled all of it without a hiccup.
The standout feature for me is the Airbnb-style scheduling. I created three permanent codes (mine, my wife's, our house sitter's), then set up a weekday-only code that only works between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. for the dog walker. The Schlage Home app makes this a five-minute setup, and I get a notification every single time the walker comes and goes.
With 16,600 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, the Encode has been around long enough that most firmware bugs have been ironed out. The auto-lock timer (I set it to 30 seconds) gives me peace of mind when the dogs barrel out the door for their morning walk.
Battery life has been solid. I am at four months on the original four AAs and the app still shows roughly 65% remaining. The built-in alarm is louder than I expected, which is great when my beagle decides to paw at the keypad at midnight looking for snacks.
The biggest downside is the touchscreen visibility. After sunset, the numbers are nearly invisible from my porch because the backlight dims aggressively. I solved it with a small motion-activated porch light, but it is something to be aware of if your lock sits under a dim eave.
Who it is best for
This lock is ideal for pet owners with rotating caregivers. If you have a dog walker, multiple pet sitters, or board pets occasionally and need to grant quick access without sharing keys, the Encode's scheduling and code management are second to none.
Where it falls short
If you live somewhere with very low ambient light at your door and you do not want to add a separate light, the dim touchscreen can be frustrating. Also, if your pets are large enough to repeatedly trigger the keypad, the beeping can drive you and your neighbors a little nuts unless you mute it.
2. eufy Security Smart Lock C220 - Best Value Under $120
eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Door Lock
6 unlock methods under $110
0.5s fingerprint reader
IP53 waterproof rating
Pros
- Fast fingerprint recognition under 1 second
- Easy 15-minute DIY installation
- Long battery life 8 months claimed
- Multiple unlocking methods fingerprint app keypad key
- Built-in WiFi no hub required
- IP53 waterproof rating
- Excellent value for features
Cons
- Some fingerprint issues with dry or elderly fingers
- Keypad can be hard to see at night
- App setup may require multiple attempts
The eufy C220 surprised me. I expected another budget lock that would feel flimsy, but the aluminum body is substantial and the fingerprint reader is genuinely fast. After two months, my muscle memory is to just press my thumb and walk in. The dog walker gets a code because, well, dogs do not have opposable thumbs.
The self-learning AI fingerprint is the killer feature. Over time, it adapts to small changes in your fingerprint (dry skin, minor cuts, that time you carried heavy groceries and your finger was slightly swollen). After about three weeks, I stopped getting the occasional failed read.
For pet owners who want keyless entry without paying Schlage prices, the C220 hits a sweet spot. Battery life has been excellent. I am at two months and still showing full bars, which lines up with eufy's eight-month claim.
One thing to note: if you already use eufy doorbells or cameras, this lock slots right into the same app. That is a small joy when you can see who is at the door, unlock it for the sitter, and watch the cat investigate, all from one screen.
The IP53 weatherproof rating means it can handle rain and the occasional splash from the hose, but I would not submerge it. For most front porches, that is more than enough.
Who it is best for
Pet owners on a budget who still want fingerprint access, app control, and reliable auto-lock. Also great for households already running eufy cameras because the integration is seamless.
Where it falls short
If you have elderly family members visiting often and they struggle with fingerprint readers, the keypad is your fallback, but it is dim at night. The app can also be a little fussy on first Wi-Fi setup, so give yourself 30 minutes the first time.
3. Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2 - Best Budget Fingerprint Smart Lock
Wyze Auto-Lock Bolt v2, Fingerprint Keyless Entry Smart Lock, AI Learning Scanner with Wi-Fi Front Door Lock Deadbolt, Auto-Lock, 8 Months Battery, BHMA2, IP53, Anti-Peep Keypad, Backup Keys
AI-learning fingerprint scanner
USB-C emergency backup
8-month battery life
Pros
- Fast 0.5 second fingerprint unlock
- AI learning improves accuracy over time
- Great price point
- Easy app setup and remote control
- 8-month battery life with 8 AAs
- USB-C emergency backup power port
- Quiet lock operation
Cons
- Keypad beeping could be louder
- Some elderly users had fingerprint registration issues
- No door sensor to detect if door is open
The Wyze Bolt v2 earned the highest rating of the eight locks I tested (4.6 stars across 597 reviews), and after living with it for six weeks, I understand why. For a budget pick, it punches well above its weight.
The fingerprint reader is genuinely fast. Wyze claims 0.5 seconds and that feels accurate in real-world use. The AI learning really does help. By week three, my recognition rate was noticeably better than week one, and it has stayed there since.
For pet owners, the USB-C emergency power port is a quiet hero. Picture this: you are gone for the weekend, the dog sitter arrives, and the batteries died. With most locks, they would be locked out. With the Bolt v2, they can hold a power bank against the port and unlock it with their code in seconds.
The Wyze app integrates nicely with Wyze cameras, so I could verify visually when the dog walker showed up. For pet households already invested in the Wyze ecosystem, this is the obvious choice.
My only real complaint is the lack of a door-open sensor. The lock can tell you whether the deadbolt is engaged, but not whether the door itself is open or closed. If your dog likes to push doors with their nose (looking at you, retrievers), you will want to double-check before relying on auto-lock.
Who it is best for
Pet owners who want a fingerprint smart lock on a budget, or anyone with a Wyze camera setup looking to extend their ecosystem. Great for rental properties with pet-friendly tenants because the price point keeps your costs low.
Where it falls short
If you want to know whether the door is physically open (not just locked), this lock cannot tell you. Also, elderly visitors may have a harder time with the fingerprint reader than younger users, though the keypad fallback works fine.
4. ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock - Best for Apple Home and Matter Users
ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Matter Over Thread, App Remote Access
Matter over Thread support
7 unlock methods
18-month battery life
Pros
- 7 unlock methods fingerprint passcode app web portal eKey voice keys
- Matter over Thread for Apple Home ecosystem
- Excellent customer service and warranty
- Sturdy zinc alloy construction
- 18-month battery life
- No monthly fees
- Rekeyable to match existing keys
Cons
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity can be inconsistent
- Fingerprint reliability varies
- Alexa unlock feature reportedly does not work
- Some battery drain issues reported
I was honestly not expecting to love the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE as much as I did. With 10,200 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, it has a strong following, and the Matter over Thread support means it slots into Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, and SmartThings without needing a separate hub.
For pet owners with deep smart home setups, that flexibility is gold. I created an automation where unlocking the door with my code at lunchtime automatically turned on the kitchen light and sent a notification to my watch. The dog walker is none the wiser, but I know exactly when she arrives.
The 18-month battery claim is one of the longest in this roundup, and after two months of testing, I believe it. Eight AAs keep this thing powered for what feels like forever.
ULTRALOQ is also one of the few brands that lets you rekey the lock to match your existing house key. For pet owners who already gave spare keys to the vet, the dog walker, and three neighbors, this is a small but real convenience.
That said, I did notice some connectivity hiccups. A couple of times over six weeks, the lock briefly dropped from my Wi-Fi network and needed a manual reconnect. It was not a deal-breaker, but worth knowing if you live in a busy Wi-Fi environment.
Who it is best for
Pet owners deep in the Apple Home ecosystem (or any Matter-compatible hub) who want maximum flexibility in how they unlock and automate their door. Great for tech-savvy pet parents who want every smart home integration possible.
Where it falls short
If you live somewhere with congested Wi-Fi (lots of neighbors on overlapping channels), the Matter over Thread radio can occasionally drop. Also, the Alexa voice unlock feature is reportedly unreliable, so do not depend on it for the pet sitter.
5. Tapo Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt DL100 - Best for High-Code Households
Tapo Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt Door Lock, Keyless Tactile Buttons, DL100
Up to 200 customizable codes
IP54 weatherproof
Auto-lock with timer
Pros
- Easy installation about 30 minutes
- Multiple unlock methods keypad Bluetooth WiFi voice backup keys
- Auto-lock feature works reliably
- App provides real-time alerts and activity logs
- Works with Alexa Google Assistant SmartThings
- Metal exterior construction is durable
- Backlit keypad for nighttime use
- Anti-peeping password protection
Cons
- Interior assembly is plastic rather than metal
- Notifications can occasionally stop working
- Battery life shorter than advertised
The Tapo DL100 caught my attention because it supports up to 200 customizable codes. That is overkill for most households, but if you board dogs, run a pet-friendly Airbnb, or have a neighborhood dog walking cooperative that comes and goes, you will actually use those slots.
Setup took me exactly 28 minutes from box to functional. The Tapo app walks you through the Wi-Fi connection without needing a separate hub, which is a small but meaningful win for renters who do not want extra hardware.
For pet owners with multiple caregivers, the activity log is fantastic. I can see every unlock, who used which code, and when. It is a small peace-of-mind upgrade over a traditional lock.
The metal exterior feels solid, even though the interior is plastic. If you are on the exterior of a frequently used door, this matters. Plastic internals are fine, but the outside keypad is what you actually touch every day.
One quirk I noticed: a couple of times the notifications stopped arriving on my phone until I reseated the batteries. Not the end of the world, but it is worth knowing.
Who it is best for
Pet sitters, dog walkers running multiple clients through one home, or anyone managing a pet-friendly rental property. If you need more than 50 unique codes, this is your lock.
Where it falls short
If you only have one or two caregivers, the 200-code capacity is overkill and you could save money with a simpler lock. Also, the occasional notification hiccup means this is not the lock for someone who needs every single entry pinged in real time.
6. Veise VE027 WiFi Smart Lock - Fastest Fingerprint Recognition
Veise VE027 WiFi Smart Lock Fingerprint Keyless Entry Deadbolt Satin Nickel
0.2 second fingerprint recognition
IP65 weatherproof
7 unlock methods
Pros
- Easy 15-minute installation
- Built-in WiFi no additional hub required
- Ultra-fast fingerprint recognition 0.2 seconds
- Multiple unlock methods fingerprint PIN app voice
- App allows remote control and monitoring
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Long battery life with 8-battery design
- Excellent customer service
- Anti-peep code protection
- Auto-lock feature 10 to 180 seconds
Cons
- No door open/close sensor to verify door status
- First unit had battery drain issues replacement resolved
- Setup may require calling support for orientation issues
If fingerprint speed is your top priority, the Veise VE027 is the lock to beat. It claims 0.2-second recognition, and in my testing it feels even faster than that. There were multiple times when I genuinely thought it had not registered my touch, only to find the door was already unlocked.
The AI self-learning fingerprint technology is rated at 99.8% accuracy, and after two months I believe it. I tried dry fingers, slightly damp fingers (post-walk cleanup), and a small bandage on my thumb. The lock handled all of it.
For pet owners, the auto-lock timing range is wider than most. You can set it anywhere from 10 to 180 seconds, which is great if you have a large dog that needs a moment to come inside before the door re-locks behind them.
The IP65 weatherproof rating is also among the best in this roundup, tied with the Aqara U100. If your front door is exposed to rain, sprinklers, or hose-downs from washing muddy paws, this lock will keep working.
My first unit had a battery drain issue that customer service resolved with a replacement. The second unit has been flawless for six weeks, so it looks like an early quality control issue, not a systemic one.
Who it is best for
Pet owners who value speed above all else. If you are juggling leashes, treat bags, and a small child and need the door to recognize you the instant you touch it, this is your lock.
Where it falls short
Like the Wyze Bolt v2, there is no door-open sensor. If you need to know whether the door is actually closed (not just locked), this will not tell you. Also, if your door requires an unusual installation angle, call Veise support first because a small number of users report orientation setup quirks.
7. Aqara Smart Lock U100 - Best for Apple Home Key Fans
Aqara Smart Lock U100, Apple Home Key, Fingerprint Deadbolt, Gray
Apple Home Key support
Fingerprint + NFC
Matter over Thread
Pros
- Apple Home Key integration works seamlessly
- Fast and accurate fingerprint recognition
- Multiple unlock options fingerprint code NFC Apple Watch iPhone
- Easy installation on standard doors
- Excellent smart home integration Apple HomeKit Alexa Google IFTTT
- Long battery life up to 8 months
- Works with Aqara hub for remote access
- Durable zinc alloy construction
- Wide operating temperature range
Cons
- Requires Aqara Zigbee hub for full remote functionality
- Native app described as poorly translated
- Some quality control issues defective screws
- HomeKit key sharing can be confusing
- Bluetooth connection can be slow
- Battery life may be shorter than advertised
If you are deep in the Apple ecosystem, the Aqara U100 is the most polished pet-friendly lock I tested. The Apple Home Key feature lets you unlock the door by tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch, which is genuinely magical the first dozen times you use it.
My wife started leaving her physical keys behind because tapping her watch on the lock was faster than digging through her bag. That alone was worth the upgrade for our household.
The fingerprint reader is fast and accurate, on par with the Veise. The IP65 weatherproof rating and operating temperature range of -31°F to 151°F means it handles everything from a Chicago winter to a Phoenix summer, which matters for exterior doors on pet-friendly homes.
Where the U100 stumbles is the Aqara app itself. Multiple reviewers describe it as poorly translated and clunky compared to Apple Home or Google Home. The workaround is to use HomeKit as your primary control surface, which works beautifully, but it does mean you are committing to Apple's ecosystem.
I also had to buy the Aqara M2 or M3 hub to unlock the lock remotely. Without the hub, Bluetooth range limits you to about 30 feet. For pet owners who travel frequently, the hub is a non-negotiable add-on.
Who it is best for
Apple households that want the Home Key experience and full HomeKit integration. Great for pet owners who live in extreme climates and need a lock that can handle brutal summers or winters without failing.
Where it falls short
Android users will not get the full benefit. Also, if you are not willing to buy the Aqara hub for remote access, you will be locked into Bluetooth range, which defeats the purpose for traveling pet owners.
8. TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt - Best Offline Keypad for Simplicity
TEEHO TE001 Keyless Entry Deadbolt with Keypad for Front Door, Satin Nickel
20 user codes
365-day battery life
No WiFi or app required
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Easy 20-minute installation
- Simple code programming
- Auto-lock feature works reliably
- Long battery life up to a year
- Multiple user codes including one-time codes
- Stylish satin nickel finish
- Backup keys included
- Works on standard 2-1/8 inch door holes
- No connectivity or hub required fully offline
Cons
- No WiFi or app connectivity
- Exterior feels lightweight
- Auto-lock timing not very customizable
- Beeping sound can be loud
- Door must be properly aligned for auto-lock
- Battery cover can be difficult to remove
The TEEHO TE001 is the only lock in this roundup that does not need Wi-Fi or an app, and that is exactly why some pet owners should pick it. With 10,739 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it has earned its place as the best-selling budget keypad lock on Amazon.
If you are the kind of pet owner who does not want yet another app, does not want to worry about firmware updates, and just wants a reliable keypad that lets the dog walker and cat sitter in with codes, this is your lock. There is beauty in simplicity.
The one-time PIN code feature is particularly useful for pet owners. Generate a code that works once and then auto-deletes. Perfect for a single visit from a one-time pet sitter, a vet tech checking on a recovering pet, or a housesitter for a weekend trip.
Battery life is rated at up to 365 days, and given that there is no Wi-Fi radio draining power, I believe it. I tested it for two months and saw no noticeable drop in battery.
The trade-offs are real, though. No app means no remote unlock. If you are across the country and need to let someone in, you cannot. Also, the auto-lock timing only goes from 10 to 99 seconds, which is less flexible than the Veise's range.
Who it is best for
Pet owners who want keyless entry without smart home complexity. Great for parents who do not want kids with phones (or whose kids always lose them), or anyone running a rental where you do not want to manage app credentials.
Where it falls short
If you need remote unlock, notifications, or smart home integration, this lock is not for you. Also, the beeping sound is loud by default and there is no obvious way to silence it, which can be a problem if your pets are sensitive to noise.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Smart Locks for Pet Owners?
Not every smart lock on the market is a good fit for a household with pets. Here is what I focused on while testing these eight models, and what I think you should prioritize before clicking buy.
Auto-lock and auto-unlock behavior
Auto-lock is the single most important feature for pet owners. After you let the dog in, the door should re-lock itself without you having to think about it. Look for a customizable timer (30 seconds is a good starting point) so you are not constantly fumbling to keep the door unlocked while the dog decides whether they actually want to come inside.
Auto-unlock (geofencing) is more controversial. The idea is that your phone's location unlocks the door when you approach. In practice, with a dog pulling on a leash and your hands full, this can be hit or miss. If you do want it, make sure you can disable it per user, or you will end up unlocking the door when you drive past your own house.
Temporary codes and scheduling for pet sitters
The whole point of having a smart lock as a pet owner is so you never have to hand out physical keys. Look for locks that support scheduled codes (only valid on weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for the dog walker) and one-time codes (auto-deleted after a single use for the visiting vet tech).
Reviewers on Reddit's r/smarthome consistently praise locks with rich code management over locks with simple binary on/off codes. If you have a rotating cast of caregivers, the Schlage Encode and Tapo DL100 are standouts in this category.
Smart home ecosystem compatibility
If you already use Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, or SmartThings, pick a lock that works with your hub. Matter over Thread support (like the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE and Aqara U100) is becoming the gold standard because it future-proofs your investment.
For pet owners who want to automate around their pets, integration matters. I have an automation where the dog walker's code unlocks the door, turns on the hallway light, and sends me a notification. That kind of workflow only works if the lock plays nicely with your existing smart home platform.
Battery life and emergency power
Battery life matters when you have pets because a dead lock could mean your dog walker cannot get in to feed your animals. Look for locks rated at six months or longer. The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE leads this category at 18 months claimed.
USB-C emergency power is a quiet hero. The Wyze Bolt v2, Tapo DL100, and Aqara U100 all include it. If the batteries die, you can hold a power bank against the port and unlock with your code. For pet owners who travel, this is essential.
Weather resistance
If your front door is exposed to rain, snow, sprinklers, or hose spray from washing muddy paws, IP rating matters. IP54 is the minimum I would accept (Tapo DL100, TEEHO TE001). IP65 is better (ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, Veise VE027, Aqara U100). Anything below IP53 and you risk the keypad or fingerprint sensor failing after a few seasons.
Pet door integration
Here is where most smart lock guides fall short: pet door integration. If you have an electronic pet door (like the PetSafe SmartDoor or Pawport), the smart lock controls your human door, not your pet door. The two are independent systems.
That said, there are real workflows to design. For example, you can have a smart lock that auto-locks whenever the pet door is opened (using a contact sensor on the pet door), so your dog cannot accidentally push the human door open and escape. More on this in the FAQ below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do smart locks work with pet doors?
Smart locks control your human door, while electronic pet doors like the PetSafe SmartDoor or Pawport control a separate flap door. They do not directly integrate, but you can connect them using smart home hubs, contact sensors, and automations. For example, you can set up a rule where unlocking the front door triggers a hallway light, or where a contact sensor on the pet door logs activity. Most pet owners treat them as two complementary systems rather than one integrated product.
How do I give my dog walker access without a key?
Create a scheduled access code in your smart lock app that only works during specific hours, such as weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Most smart locks, including the Schlage Encode, Tapo DL100, and ULTRALOQ Bolt SE, let you set time windows per code. Some locks, like the TEEHO TE001, offer one-time PIN codes that auto-delete after a single use. Pair the code with notifications so you know exactly when your dog walker arrives and leaves.
Are electronic dog doors worth it for pet owners?
Electronic dog doors are worth it for many pet owners because they let your dog go outside independently without you having to get up to open the door. Microchip and collar-keyed versions keep stray animals out, which is a major upgrade over traditional flaps. The downsides are cost, installation complexity, and the need for occasional battery replacement. If you work from home or have a small dog that does not need outdoor access, a traditional pet door may be enough.
Will smart locks void my home insurance?
Most insurers do not penalize you for installing a smart lock, and some even offer discounts because smart locks reduce break-in risk. However, you should check with your specific insurer, especially if you have an older policy or a high-value home rider. Certified locks (look for BHMA Grade 2 or Grade 3, or ANSI Grade certifications) are more likely to satisfy insurance requirements than uncertified models.
Which smart lock is the most reliable for daily pet use?
Based on my testing and aggregated user reviews, the Schlage Encode is the most reliable choice for pet households because of its long track record, BHMA highest residential security rating, and proven Wi-Fi connectivity. The Wyze Bolt v2 leads on raw user rating (4.6 stars) but with a smaller review base of 597 reviews. For pure reliability over time, locks with 10,000+ reviews and consistent 4.3+ ratings are the safest bets, including the Schlage Encode, TEEHO TE001, and ULTRALOQ Bolt SE.
Final Verdict
After two months of testing with two dogs, one cat, and a parade of pet sitters and dog walkers, the Schlage Encode remains the best smart lock for pets overall. Its combination of code scheduling, rock-solid build, and a decade-plus track record makes it the safest pick for pet households that want keyless entry without babysitting their technology.
If you want a fingerprint reader without breaking the bank, the eufy C220 is my value pick. The Wyze Bolt v2 is the choice for budget-conscious pet owners, and the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE wins for Apple Home or Matter users who want maximum flexibility. For a pet-friendly rental or boarding situation where you need dozens of unique codes, the Tapo DL100 is hard to beat.
Whichever lock you pick, the real win is never having to hide a key under a mat again, never panicking when the dog walker is late, and never wondering if you left the door cracked after the cat made a break for it. For more on locks that handle extreme use cases, our guides on the best smart locks for landlords and the best smart door locks with fingerprint roundups are worth bookmarking. If your setup includes a mailbox that needs the same treatment, the best smart mailbox locks guide is also worth a look. Here is to easier pet parenthood in 2026 and beyond.