Making Your Fence “Escape-Proof” for Your Dog

 

Dogs are great companions, but they love to wander and explore. To keep your dog safe and contained in your yard, it's essential to have a secure and escape-proof fence. In this blog post, we will give you some tips on how to make your fence escape-proof and keep your furry friend safe. If you're looking for fence contractors in Deltona, FL, contact Byers Fence today for professional services.

 

1. Assess Your Fence

Start by inspecting your gate and fence perimeter. Check for any gaps, loose boards, weak spots, or damage that can provide an exit point for your dog. Make sure your fence is high enough. If you have a small breed, your fence should be at least 3 feet high, and at least 5 feet high for a large breed. Also, avoid horizontal gaps of more than 4 inches or anything that can act as a foothold. Remember, your dog will use any visible damage or slight imperfection as an escape route, so take care of them immediately.

2. Add Reinforcement

Reinforce your fence and gate by installing taller posts, sturdy hardware, and adding a diagonal support beam to the gate. You can also add more fence rails and tighten or add more nails or screws to prevent the boards from shifting or coming loose. Horizontal reinforcement boards can be added to strengthen the fence, and landscaping can help add visual barriers to the fence perimeter.

3. Dig a Trench

Dogs can be quite skilled at digging. To prevent them from burrowing under the fence, consider digging a trench along the fence line, then adding wire mesh or chicken wire and burying it at the bottom of the trench. This will help deter any digging attempts by your dog.

4. Train your dog

Finally, training can be the most effective way to keep your dog inside the fence. Take the time to train your dog on the concept of boundaries. Train them to stay inside the fence by teaching them to respond to basic commands like “stay” and “leave it”. Also, reward your dog with treats when they stay inside the fence and show them the boundary line by walking them around the fence perimeter.

 

Conclusion

By following these tips, you can help make your fence escape-proof and keep your dog safe and secure. Remember to monitor your dog's behavior and inspect your fence regularly to ensure it stays sturdy. If you need any help with fence installation or repair, Byers Fence can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our expert fence contractors in Deltona, FL.