Keeping dogs safe in the yard is a huge concern for pet owners. Giving the dog a place to roam and territory to explore is important to keep a happy and satisfied pup. So, picking the right type of fence is critical to ensure both needs are meet.
Wooden
The most common and popular fence is the full coverage wooden fence. This type of fence allows privacy for the owner and full security for the yard. Both dogs and other animals are not able to go in or out of the fence, including burrowing opossums or garden-wrecking deer. Adding a wooden fence can add curb appeal, value to a home and create a boundary that can also keep children safe.
However, wooden fences can be extremely costly, especially when lumber prices are fluctuating. The labor to install and then maintain can also be expensive, depending on terrain and weather. It is a good idea to paint or stain the wooden fence in order to protect the wood and have it last longer.
Chain Link
Chain link fences offer many of the same benefits of wooden fences without the higher cost of materials, installation and maintenance. This type of fence can also add home value and curb appeal. It offers protection for animals inside the fence and from animals outside.
Although chain link fencing may be less expensive, it does come with drawbacks. It offers less privacy from neighbors than a wooden fence and determined or stubborn dogs are able to dig and squeeze under the fence to escape.
Electric
Don’t let the name scare you. An electric fence delivers only a minor shock to dogs and once they are taught, dogs learn to stay within the yard’s boundaries without being corrected.
Some electric fences include the option to connect the dog’s collar to GPS, allowing the owner to see the dog’s location at all times. This can be incredibly helpful for those pups that enjoy spontaneous field trips. Other electric fencing for dogs can be above or below ground, requiring easier installation or the ability to move or relocate the fence, if needed.
Electric fences can fit into any budget, depending on the quality of the fence, size of yard and type of fence (wired vs. wireless). They do not offer privacy from neighbors or add curb appeal to homes. They also require training the dog so they learn the boundaries of the fence. The great benefit is that other animals and people can cross the boundary since they are not wearing the collar, negating the need for a fully fenced-in yard.
There are pros and cons to every type of fence on the market. Dog owners should choose a fence based on budget, labor time and costs, HOA rules, likelihood of moving, preference on privacy and size of yard.
