What do I do to a door my dog has scratched?

Assess the Damage

The first step is to assess the extent of the damage caused by your dog scratching at the door. Look closely at the scratches – are they superficial and only affecting the paint or stain, or do they go deeper into the wood of the door? Deep scratches can damage the structural integrity of the door and may need more extensive repairs. Make note of the following:

• Number of scratches
• Length and depth of scratches
• Location on door – are scratches concentrated in one area or spread out?
• Has the scratching removed any paint/stain from the door?
• Is there any splintering, chipping or holes in the door from excessive scratching?

The extent of damage will determine what repair methods you need to use. Light superficial scratches may only require a new coat of paint or stain to cover up. Deeper scratches that expose bare wood will need fillers, while extensive damage like splintering will necessitate more complex repairs.

Stop the Scratching

While repairing existing damage, it’s imperative to stop your dog from continuing to scratch at the door. This will prevent the problem from worsening and your repairs being wasted. Some tips to stop the scratching behavior:

• Trim your dog’s nails – dull, blunt nails are less likely to cause damage.
• Give your dog more exercise – a tired dog is less likely to be destructive.
• Provide distractions like chew toys when you’re away.
• Train your dog not to scratch – say a firm “No” when catching them in the act.
• Use bitter tasting sprays and creams on the door to deter scratching.
• Cover the door temporarily with cardboard or plastic sheets.

Determining the underlying cause can also help – your dog may be scratching due to anxiety from separation or a desire for attention. Consult a canine behaviorist if the destructive scratching persists despite your efforts.

Light Superficial Scratches

If the scratches are minor surface level damage, these steps will help repair the aesthetics of the door:

1. Clean the door thoroughly with mild soap and water to remove dust, dirt and debris stuck in the scratches. Let the door dry completely.
2. Sand the scratches lightly with 120-150 grit sandpaper. Don’t sand too aggressively or you may create deeper grooves.
3. Wipe away all sanding dust with a dry cloth.
4. Apply 1-2 coats of primer to the sanded scratches and surrounding area. Let dry between coats.
5. Apply 2-3 thin finish coats of paint or stain matching your existing door color. Allow to dry fully.
6. Seal with a polyurethane sealer for added protection.

This refinishing will help the scratches visually blend into the door surface. Monitor your dog closely and continue deterrent measures to prevent repeat scratching.

Medium Deep Scratches

For scratches that go beyond the surface and expose bare wood, the above method alone won’t suffice. Filler materials are needed:

1. Clean, sand and apply primer as described in the steps above.
2. Get a filler/putty that matches the color of your door as closely as possible. Some options are:
   • Wood filler putty
   • Plastic wood
   • Grain filler
3. Press the filler firmly into the deeper scratches, overfilling slightly. Let dry per manufacturer instructions.
4. Once dry, sand the filler flush and even with the door surface.
   • Avoid sanding the surrounding finish.
   • Use 120-150 grit paper.
5. Clean away all sanding dust.
6. Apply primer, paint, stain and sealer as detailed above to blend with the existing finish.

The filler provides the depth needed to repair the scratches before applying the final color finish. Monitor the filled area for any cracks or chipping in the future to address quickly.

Extensive Scratch Damage

For doors with extensive scratches, holes, splintered areas or gouges, more major repairs are needed:

• Wood glues/epoxies – Inject strong wood glue or epoxy resin into deeper scratches or holes. Clamp patched area until set. Sand and refinish.
• Wood putty – Pack putty into damaged spots, let cure. Sand and refinish.
• Bondo – Fill divots and holes with Bondo auto body filler. Sand smooth when dry then refinish.
• Door laminates – Cover door with adhesive wood laminate sheets. Requires door removal and significant effort.
• Veneers – Adhere thin veneers over damaged facings. Match grain pattern.
• Replace door – Severe damage may necessitate complete door replacement. Use a solid wood or steel door.

Serious damage weakens the structure of the door and can compromise function and security. Get professional help for repairs beyond your DIY abilities. Consider replacing the door if the damage is too extensive.

Prevention Tips

While repairing existing scratches, also take measures to prevent future damage:

• Keep dog’s nails trimmed to minimize scratching
• Train your dog not to scratch doors
• Provide alternative scratching posts
• Minimize separation anxiety
• Use bitter anti-scratch sprays on door
• Keep dog active and enriched
• Crate train your dog if necessary
• Cover door temporarily with cardboard

Prevention is the best solution – it’s much easier than repairing scratched doors! Be patient, consistent and reward desired behaviors in your dog. Seek professional help from vets or dog trainers if scratching persists.

Scratch Prevention Table

Method	How It Works	Pros	Cons
Trim Nails	Blunt nails cause less damage	Cheap, fast	Temporary fix
Training	Reinforce not scratching	Targets behavior	Time consuming
Scratch Posts	Provides approved scratch spot	Gives acceptable outlet	Dog may still scratch doors
Exercise	Tires dog mentally & physically	Improves well-being	Owner effort required
Bitter Sprays	Unpleasant taste deters	Simple to apply	Reapplication needed
Crating	Confines unsupervised dog	Limits damage	Can increase anxiety
Cover Door	Puts barrier over door	Immediate protection	Unsightly, temporary

Conclusion

Scratched doors are a common and frustrating problem with dogs. The repair approach depends on if the scratches are minor surface level or deeper gouges into the door material. Refinishing, fillers and replacement are options for repairing scratched doors.

However, the best solution is to proactively prevent the undesirable scratching behavior through humane training methods, providing acceptable outlets, exercise and mind enrichment. Approach the problem positively and patiently. Seek professional assistance if needed to correct persistent scratching. Implement a variety of deterrents tailored to your specific situation.

With diligence and commitment to training, the scratching issue can be resolved while maintaining a loving relationship with your furry companion.