Privacy Fence for Dogs
Good fences make good neighbors, and this applies to dogs of all sizes too. All pet owners and their dogs should enjoy the luxury of a secure fence. When selecting the best fence for dogs, choose materials that restrict visibility. While this may seem a bit secluded, this type of dog fence is key to peaceful neighbors and dogs.
Best Dog Fence Material
As a dog trainer, I highly recommend wood privacy fences. Wood is cheaper than vinyl and much stronger than PVC fencing. When constructing a wooden privacy fence, instead of placing boards side-by-side, try overlapping board edges to prevent tiny gaps. Tiny gaps will turn into larger gaps because wood dries out. Limiting visual gaps will prevent dog fence fighting behavior too, which is common in the dog world.
For a gorgeous, sleek look and a modern feel, place wooden fence boards horizontally. This may help with your home’s resale value. 🙂 Also, install boards flush to the ground to keep dogs from escaping.
When installed properly, nothing beats a sturdy 6- to 8-foot wood privacy fence that’s both modern and functional.
Finding a Fence Guy
Usually, this is the toughest part of installing a fence for dogs. Ask previous realtors for fence installer recommendations, as most have reliable and experienced construction crews on speed dial. Contact 2-3 dog fencing companies for quotes and compare for best price. Most installers will send someone out to measure your backyard and email quotes the same day.
For DIYers, there are plenty of tutorials online explaining how to install a wooden privacy fence. Plus, many hardware stores offer blueprints and step-by-step instructions. While installing a fence for dogs yourself saves thousands of dollars, it’s very labor intensive and may require rental equipment.
Never Leave Your Dog Out Alone in the Yard
Sturdy wooden privacy fences aren’t bulletproof, but they’ll prevent the majority of barking, fence fighting or escaping. A well installed fence for dogs will do its job, and the rest is up to the pet owner.
Never leave your dog outside alone. While it’s painful to hear, leaving a dog outside alone is the number one cause for several dog behaviors, including:
- Excessive barking outdoors
- Digging
- Chewing
- Escaping
- Fence fighting
When you’re outside with your dog, you’re able to call or redirect your dog before these annoying dog behaviors begin. When dogs are able to practice a behavior, such as escaping from a fence, they get really good at it. Then, soon, a dog left alone will learn how to scale a 6-foot fence within minutes. Prevention is key. Close up that doggy door and hire a great pet sitter.
A sturdy fence will do its job, but it needs support from pet owners too.