The 5 Most Popular Types of Fences for Dogs

Having a fence allows your dog to roam outside freely without the worry they will wander off or run away. That’s why it’s so important to know what type of dog fence to get for your furry companion. For example, your dog could be a digger, climber, or general escape artist. Therefore, you need a tall fence for the jumpers/climbers and a deep fence for the diggers. It will all be worth it once you find the best fence for your dog because they can get plenty of exercise and fresh air. However, this does not mean they don’t need daily walks. So, it’s time to check out the five most popular types of fences for dogs

Wooden Dog Fence

Wooden fences for dogs are made of tall slate boards and must not be confused with picket fences. This is the best option for pet owners with aggressive breeds that like to jump. Wooden fences are generally six feet tall, so it will be hard for any breed to get over them. The downside to these fences is they are costly and require yearly maintenance because they can rot. Additionally, due to their size, the yard will look smaller.

Chain-Linked Dog Fence

If you’re on a budget, chain-linked fences for dogs are a good option because they are made from cost-effective materials. In addition, installation is quick and painless and can be done by professionals in a matter of hours. But this option is not good for all breeds because some dogs can clear this fence in one jump, while others would be able to dig underneath it.

Invisible Dog Fence

The invisible fence works with an electric wire installed in the ground, acting as an invisible perimeter. However, your dog has to wear a transmitter collar, and if it steps past the electric wire, the collar will mildly shock your pooch. So not only are these fences expensive, but they are also inhumane. Additionally, invisible fences for dogs don’t always work. If your furry friend is tempted enough, a quick shock won’t stop them.

Snow Dog Fence

Another fence to consider if you are on a budget is the snow fence, which is similar to the chain-link fence. All you need is posts and wire mesh material. However, it is not as strong as the abovementioned fences and won’t work for powerful, boisterous dogs as they can easily escape this barrier. Additionally, it is not as durable as other options and will often need replacing.

Portable Dog Fence

If you travel a lot or like camping in the woods, dragging along your canine companion is not always easy. However, portable fences make your trips much less stressful. Furthermore, these fences are perfect for indoor use or anywhere your adventure takes you. And, most importantly, this option is probably the cheapest one. But, of course, these playpens are unsuitable for large dog breeds.

What to Look for in Fences for Dogs

There are a few factors one must look for when determining what type of fencing to get for your dog.

• Spacing – some dogs can fit through the tiniest spaces, so ensure the planks in the fence are no more than three inches apart.
• Height  – even small dogs like the Jack Russel and Papillon can jump between four to five feet high, so most breeds require fences six feet tall, but larger breeds like German shepherds or Weimaraners need an eight-foot fence.
• Depth into the ground – some dogs are natural-born diggers, and if you have one of those breeds, you must bury two to three feet of the fence underground to ensure your dog won’t tunnel its way out.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Wendy van Overstreet/Shutterstock.com