If you’ve ever watched a group of dogs play in the dog park, you know that dogs of all breeds love to run and play outside. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to get to the dog park on a daily basis, so maintaining a fenced yard is key to ensuring your pup has a safe place to exercise and play. Whether you’ve got a little pup or a big dog, you’ll want to explore the various fence types and supplies that are ideal for dog fences.
Choosing the Fence Type
If you know your pup will be off-leash in the yard, you will want to consider the type of fence you need. Not all types of fences are ideal for a dog. For instance, little dogs can crawl through the gaps of an ornamental fence or under the post of a split rail fence. Atlantic Fence & Supply offers the following types of fences:
- Chain link: Chain link fences can work, but it should be noted that adventurous dogs can “climb” these by jumping up and using the links as footholds. Chainlink, however, makes a good material when opting for kennels.
- Stockade fences: Stockade fences offer privacy and security for pets and children. Without any gaps, these fences safely contain Fido in your yard. Additionally, the six-foot-tall panels will discourage jumpers.
- Ornamental fences: Ornamental fences may be used as a dog fence, provided certain precautions are taken into consideration. Because a small dog can squeeze through large gaps, it is best to choose ornamental fence panels that would prohibit such behavior. Ornamental fences are eye-catching additions to any yard but do note that your dog won’t be getting any privacy. If your dog needs fewer distractions (i.e., passersby with their dogs), choose a fence that offers more privacy.
- Split rail: A traditional split rail fence would not safely contain a dog, but we offer galvanized wire panel additions to split rail fence – wire panels that will safely keep your dog (and other livestock) safely in your yard.
Material Types
Chewing comes naturally to dogs; puppies find chewing soothing on growing teeth while older dogs see chewing as a stress-reliever and a boredom-buster. Chewing may be natural, but you don’t want your dog chewing your fence! For dogs inclined to chew, a wooden fence is the most vulnerable fence. Other material options include:
However, wooden fences do not have to be a lost cause; after all, a wooden stockade fence can be a wonderful dog fence. Commercial anti-chewing sprays can be applied to deter dogs; vinegar sprayed onto fences also works well to deter dogs.
Height Matters
While a pug won’t be scaling a four-foot fence anytime soon, medium and large size dogs can (and do!) jump over fences with ease. Depending on the breed of your dog, choosing a six-foot is a safer option to contain big dogs. As a bonus, choosing the taller fence from the get-go will also prevent other dogs from jumping into your yard!
Questions?
Maybe you’ve got your heart set on a six-foot-tall stockade fence, or maybe you’re contemplating an ornamental fence? Contact us for a free estimate, and we can guide you through the entire process of selecting a dog fence that is right for you and your dog.