Building a Better Fence

Dog Fencing Choices To Consider When You Need To Contain Your Dog In Your Backyard

Your backyard fence becomes a more serious matter once you adopt a dog. The main purpose of the fence now becomes to keep your dog contained and safe. There are different options in dog fencing, and some are more secure than others. Here are some choices.

Invisible Dog Fencing

An invisible fence is buried under the ground so it's out of sight. This type of fence might be necessary if you live in an HOA community that doesn't allow fencing. The buried fence keeps your dog in the yard because your dog wears a collar that beeps, vibrates, or gives a mild shock when the dog walks close to the fence. This teaches the dog to stay in your yard. However, your dog will see squirrels and other animals on the other side of the fence and could be tempted to bolt and pay the consequences of getting a shock. Know your dog's personality before investing in an invisible fence because some dogs are contained easily by such a fence while others aren't.

Portable Fencing

If you want a quick and easy fence, you can buy portable dog fencing at pet supply shops that will keep your dog on your patio or that will contain your dog in a small section of your yard. These fences often connect together so you can make them as large as you want, but they usually aren't sturdy enough or high enough to contain exuberant, large breeds. If you have a puppy or a small breed of dog, one of these portable fences might be a good way to let your dog play outdoors without having to install a traditional fence. This could be a good choice if you rent your house.

A Traditional Fence

Most types of fencing can be adapted for use as a dog fence. Think about the size and weight of your dog and the traits your dog has when you choose your fence. A small, mild-mannered dog has different requirements for a fence than a large breed that likes to jump. The height of your fence will probably be controlled by your city, and choosing the maximum height is usually the best option. You can plant bushes along the fence to make it even harder for your dog to jump over it, or you can add a slanted or rolling topper that thwarts your dog's attempts to grab the top of the fence.

You also have to think about digging dogs. If your dog notices the gap between the bottom of the fence and the soil, digging may become a problem. To keep your dog from getting out by digging under the fence, talk to your fence installer about burying the fence in the ground a few inches. If you do this, you'll need to consider the best fence material for making contact with the soil, such as vinyl, metal, or pressure-treated wood.

Another consideration is your dog's climbing ability. Your dog might not be a jumper, but they may have a knack for climbing over fences. Prevent this by avoiding fencing that gives your dog footholds. Flat privacy panels could be the best option for climbing dogs.

To learn more, visit a website like http://www.4cornersfencingco.com.


Share