How Tall Should a Fence Be for a Dog?
There are several things you need to consider when deciding on the height of the fence for your dog to prevent him from escaping your yard. Height of a fence varies according to your dog's size, breed, age, and personality. In this guide, you will learn how to identify the right fence height to help your dog become safe and secure.
Dog Size
As a starting point, the size of your dog determines the height of the fence.
Small Dogs
Dogs that weigh less than 20 pounds, including Chihuahua, Yorkshire, and Dachshund, should be contained in an enclosure that has a height of four feet. These types of dogs cannot jump higher than this due to their small size.
Medium Dogs
Dogs that are medium-sized, falling in the range of 30-60 pounds, such as Corgis, Beagles, and Bulldogs, require a fence of 5 to 6 feet to avoid the dog's escape. They can jump higher compared to the smaller dogs, when provoked.
Large and Giant Breeds
Large breeds of dogs that are 60 pounds and above, including Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Great Danes, should be supplied with a 6-foot privacy fence or higher. Sometimes, their size will enable them to climb shorter objects or structures.
Dog Breed and Temperament
Certain breeds have been known to be experts at escaping from their enclosures. They may also need special containment measures.
High Prey Drive
Sighthounds, including Greyhounds, Whippets, and Afghans, are lean races and are programmed for speed; they have high prey instincts. They may chase squirrels and can jump six foot fences with ease. As for these dogs, it is recommended to install a seven- to eight-foot tall wall.
Diggers
Some breeds, like Terriers, may dig under fences if those fences are not well secured at ground level. Ensure fencing goes down to the ground by six to 12 inches if your puppy is an excavator.
Roamers
Alaskan Huskies and Malamutes are known to wander, so they need a more fortified enclosure. They also do well with a dig barrier installed. An eight-foot fence is more appropriate for containment purposes.
Puppies and Adolescents
Young dogs are usually different from mature adults in their behavior. They may require a fence of different heights at various stages in life.
Puppies
Young pups may be trained to stay behind a four-foot fence and then the fence can be raised as the dog grows. Monitor their time outside until they grow up.
Adolescents
Dogs between six and 18 months are at the pinnacle of their energy and playfulness. They may learn to jump or climb fences that once contained them as puppies. Supervise them and adjust the height of the wall during this period of transition.
Senior Dogs
As they grow older, arthritis and other ailments may develop in the dog. A lower fence might be possible due to their decreased capacity to leap and climb; however, consult your vet. Extra measures, such as constructing a ramp or steps to enable them to gain entrance, may be required.
What Type of Fence is Best?
The type of fence and the material used in construction determine the ability of the wall to contain your dog.
Chain Link
Chain link fencing is less expensive compared to privacy fencing, but it offers security to the house. Dogs, however, may be able to climb and jump a chain link fence or even squeeze through holes. Padlock all gates. Select a higher mesh number. Chain link fences with a privacy slat at the top can deter dogs from climbing.
Wood Privacy
As for solid wood fences, they prevent one from seeing what is on the other side and thus assist in modulating excitement. Dogs may be able to jump and push through aging boards. Sustain these fences appropriately to keep the wood from rotting and giving way.
Welded Wire
When it comes to durable and cost-effective containment, welded wire agricultural fencing proves to be appropriate. The grid has a smaller number of handholds for climbing. Search for small spacing towards the ground level. For anti-dig purposes, place the bottom one to two feet of the container into the ground.
Invisible Fencing
Wireless underground fence employs a collar to effectively demarcate boundaries of the property with a mild electrical shock akin to static electricity. Dogs do not stop escape but instead, the shock will teach dogs to remain within the wireless perimeter. Use backups such as yard signs to inform others. If strongly motivated, dogs may run through.
Tips for Success
Follow these extra recommendations to supplement your fence for security:
- Patrol the perimeter daily to ensure that there are no break-ins.
- Place smooth tops and overhangs to prevent climbing
- Place a dig barrier around bottom on the fence line
- Lock gates and ultimately do away with spaces.
- It is always recommended that dogs should not be locked outside in houses or left alone in the compound.
Several aspects must be considered when deciding on the correct fence height for confining your dog safely. Awareness of the dog's size, age, breed behavior, and the type of fencing material used will guide you in coming up with a suitable solution. It is also essential to spend time training dogs on their boundaries. Your fence can give you reassurance when planning for your pet, ensuring they can play as much as they want.