New York Dog Owners Guide

Guide to Dog Shopping, Events and Services in the greater New York area

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Fencing for Pets

Types of fencing for containing pets - Pros and Cons

Chain link fence:

Pros: Easy to install, durable and inconspicuous.
Cons: A motivated dog may be able climb a chain link fence, or dig underneath. Covered chain link runs are fine, as long as the fencing is buried deep enough to deter dogs who dig.

An intact female can be bred through an open chain link fence - privacy slats would make this less likely. Also consider privacy slats if your dog gets extremely excited by people, animals or cars outside of their yard - keeping these things out of sight will reduce barking and fence running.

Stockade fencing:

Pros: Difficult for dogs to climb - 4' fences are usually adequate for medium dogs, get 6' fencing for larger dogs.
Cons: Blocks the view, neighbors may consider it unsightly, expensive to fence a large area. Prone to general causes of wood destruction including rot and insect damage.

Electric fencing:

Pros: Invisible, "do it yourself" kits are available.
Cons: Dogs intent on chasing a squirrel have been known to ignore the shock to catch their prey and afterwards avoid returning to their own yard. Also, electric fencing may keep your dog in but it doesn't keep stray dogs and other harmful animals (coyotes, skunks, etc.) out.

Pet Containment Systems ("Kittywalk", etc.):

Pros: Inexpensive and easy to install yourself
Cons: Suitable only for toy breed dogs and other very small pets.