What type of fencing should you get if you need to keep your dog or dogs in your yard? Well, that depends on several factors.
First, we must consider the breed of dog. A German Shepherd is likely to have different requirements than a Yorkshire Terrier.
The size of the breed is very important. For a smaller dog, you may be more worried about your dog burrowing under the fence.
For a larger dog, it may be a concern that the dog could possibly leap over the fence if it were to get excited.
You also have to consider whether or not the dog is a dangerous breed. Even if your dog might have a very good temperament, if it’s a dangerous breed, it may react with a territorial instinct if a small child was to stick its hand through the fence.
You may want to choose a fence style where there are no gaps between fence posts.
Primarily, you must consider your budget. Here are some different styles of fence to think about:
Mesh/Barrier Fence
This is often the cheapest option for fencing. Though children may still be able to stick their fingers through the gaps, the spaces are small enough to prevent them sticking their whole hands through.
There’s also not enough room for dogs to get their snouts stuck.
One problem is that it’s not a very permanent solution. Over the years it can deform and warp. It also may start to sag a little.
There’s also the problem that small dogs may be able to burrow underneath. One way to combat this is to put stakes through the wire at regular intervals.
A mesh fence, however, is also a good idea to improve a picket fence as a second layer of protection.
Picket Fence
A picket fence is much more robust than a mesh fence, but you still have large gaps in between which may become a problem.
It’s much harder for dogs to get underneath a picket fence if it sits low against the ground than it is for them to get underneath a mesh fence.
If you have a large dog, you may struggle to find ready-made fence panels which are tall enough, as picket fences are not often high.
One benefit is that would-be intruders can clearly see that you have a dog, so they may be more reluctant to trespass or break into your property, but you also lose some privacy.
Solid Fence
A solid fence is great for dogs. There’s no gaps in between the panels to worry about. It’s hard for dogs to get underneath if it’s well-built. It also protects your privacy.
You can also build the fence as tall as you wish (within reason) so you can make it impossible for even the most athletic of dogs to jump over.
One downside is that a solid fence is much more vulnerable to being blown over in harsh weather conditions.
Metal Fence
Metal fences come in different styles, but many people choose a mesh metal fence with steel posts cemented into the ground. It’s very secure for dogs.
The downsides are the price can sometimes be higher than other options, and many people think of them as unsightly. If curb appeal is important to you, you might want to consider options that can be made to be more attractive.
Wooden Fence
A solid wooden fence is probably the best fencing for dogs and the best for limited budgets. It’s affordable, sturdy, and protects your privacy. It also doesn’t allow children to poke fingers or hands through the gaps.
A wood fence can also be made to look attractive to neighbors and passers-by as it can be painted or stained to suit your tastes. It is ultimately up to you, the owner, which type of fence works best for your property and your pets, but be sure to consider all of your options before making a well-educated purchase.
