• Design
• Design Basics
• Fences & Boundaries
• Fence Height
• Digging Under Fences
• Structures, Shelters & Kennels
• Useful Resources

Garden Fences and Boundaries

One of the first things to consider when you design a dog-friendly garden is the type of fencing you need to keep your dog safe and secure. Secure fencing can keep you dog contained within the garden, and also prevent animals and people from gaining access to your garden and your dog.

Whatever type of fencing you decide on, you should ensure that your garden is totally secure before you bring a new dog or puppy home. Once your new puppy or dog has arrived you will be busy with its care. Putting up a fence can be time consuming, and involves tools and materials that may be hazardous to your dog or puppy.

TYPES OF FENCE

The type of fence suitable for your garden will depend on your location, the amount of passing foot and vehicle traffic, and the nature of your dog. You may choose a solid barrier that restricts visual access, or a fence that allows those on either side of the garden boundary to see through it.

Some dogs are easily agitated by events outside the garden and people passing by. In such a case, a solid fence that restricts visibility may help to divert your dog's attention from happenings outside the garden. Solid fences that restrict vision may also increase security. Dogs are sometimes stolen from gardens, and keeping your dog hidden from public view may reduce the chances of this happening.

You should also keep in mind that dogs sometimes get their heads stuck in the gaps between fence posts. Some dogs may be able to dislodge posts and squeeze through surprisingly small gaps in a fence.

FENCE HEIGHT

Never underestimate your dog's ability to climb or jump over a fence. Dogs of certain breeds can easily clear a 6 foot fence, and some may climb fences up to 8 feet tall. If your dog is particularly adept at scaling fences, you might want to consider adding an internal overhang to the top of your fence to stop your dog climbing out of your garden.

Keep in mind that dogs may use other objects and structures in your garden to help them climb out. Garden furniture and outbuildings can provide a 'step up' for dogs with a taste for adventure!

DIGGING UNDER FENCES

Some dogs may dig their way out of the garden. There are two ways to prevent this: you can dig down and sink your fence a couple of feet into the ground, or you can line the internal circumference of your fence with paving slabs or other hard material. Even If your dog is not inclined to try and dig its way out of the garden, try and avoid gaps at the bottom of fences. A gap at the bottom of a fence can encourage even the most unadventurous of dogs to attempt to dig under and escape from your garden.