Dogs and farms just sort of go together like peanut butter and jelly. In fact, a good farm dog can be an invaluable tool to a farmer who needs help keeping an eye on the livestock or protecting acres of property. Still, it takes time to train a dog. That’s why many dog owners opt for the safety of confinement by using a fenced area for the dogs.
Well over one-third of all US families own at least one dog. Pet ownership is estimated at 38.4% for dogs and roughly 67% for all pets. That leaves a lot of families looking for a safe way to give their canines a little room to roam. A good dog fence is often the solution because it considers the needs of the animal and is constructed at an appropriate height using durable, safe materials. Let’s take a closer look at what that means.
Choosing the Best Height for Dog Fence
Dogs come in all sizes ranging from teacups to Great Danes. Most working breeds are considered medium or large-breed dogs. The average height of a male Labrador retriever is between 22 and 24 inches tall.
While their height tops out around two feet, the breed is well-known for its athletic ability, particularly when it comes to jumping. Individual abilities differ by the dog, but most Labradors can clear a four-foot fence with the right motivation, and some can even jump as high as five feet.
By comparison, a working cattle dog can be a little shorter, usually around 21 or 22 inches, and often can jump over four feet. A Border Collie, another common breed found on the farm, is also well-known for jumping. With this in mind, a six-foot fence is typically sufficient for most breeds.
What Makes a Good Dog Fence Material?
While dogs are considerably smaller in size than most livestock, they’re still strong, and some are known to climb. For most dog owners, durability is a big factor in choosing the right dog fence material.
Here are a few options:
- Yard, Garden & Kennel Fence
- Welded Wire
- Wood
- Invisible Fences
- Chain Link
- Plastic Mesh
Each material has its pros and cons. Wood fencing often looks great and provides a sturdy fence line but requires a lot of upkeep and can be costly to maintain. A chain-link fence can be a cheaper alternative but isn’t a good option for dogs that climb and can easily be stretched out. Invisible fences are the most cost-effective but won’t keep your dog safe from predators.
Among all the fencing material options, many farmers opt for the versatility of wire fences. There are two good options for dog fences: yard, garden, and kennel fence, which features knots at each intersection, and welded wire which is a roll of grided wire that is welded at each intersection. Both are a sturdy, safe, and economical alternative to chain link or wood fencing.
Some Dogs Need Privacy
Another reason that many dog owners want a fence is to limit their dogs’ social interaction. Each dog has a unique personality, and some dogs are more vocal or more reactive than others. For dogs that tend to bark, show aggression, or signs of social anxiety, privacy is the primary concern when building a dog fence.
Fencing to restrict a dog’s view can put a stop to problems with neighboring dogs and non-predatory wildlife like squirrels. A solid panel fence is the best choice for dogs that need a little extra privacy. With the right fence, the backyard can become your dog’s safe place to enjoy exercise and fresh air, free from the confines of a leash.
Most Dogs Love Time Spent Outdoors
Many dog owners choose to put up a fenced area so that their favorite furry friends can enjoy all the best parts of being a dog. A fence provides a safe outdoor area to run, chase balls, and sniff the smells as they soak up the sunlight and enjoy a gentle breeze. A safe, secure fenced area makes a happy dog, so even if you’re not trying to obstruct a view or contain an unruly puppy, a good dog fence can be a great investment for your pup.
Final Thoughts on Building a Dog Fence
Building a quality dog fence begins with understanding your animal’s needs, including their behavior and activity level. You’ll want to choose a material that is cost-effective while still providing the durability that you need to protect your dog.
If your decision comes down to a matter of choosing between welded wire and woven wire, the strength and durability of woven wire is an easy winner. Welds are prone to breaking under the right stress and are weakened with environmental exposure. A woven fence, on the other hand, uses lengths of fencing that are wrapped and knotted at each intersection for an unbreakable bond.
Red Brand has over 130 years of history selling quality woven wire fence materials for home and farm. Learn more about yard, garden, and kennel fencing today.