What Kind of Backyard Dog Fence Is Best?

Dog owners know that all dogs need some outdoor playtime. Giving our fur babies their time outside to run around is crucial for their health and happiness! Do you work away from home and need to keep your doggie up all day? Then installing a backyard dog fence is an excellent idea to give them space to run! But which fence is best? 

There are new products out there, such as invisible fences some pet owners are turning to, but if you’re new to the dog fencing game, then we’ve got you covered. Here is everything you need to know about invisible dog fences, diy picket fences, wire fences, in-ground fences, and everything in between for your pooch (and your landscaping).

Why do you need a backyard dog fence?

If you live in a neighborhood then you may have seen that one small dog whose owners never seem to keep him contained. He can squeeze through anything. Or maybe your neighbor has a large dog who jumps right over the fence. These dogs running freely can be a safety concern.

Perhaps your dog's a digger who not only ruins your flower beds, but digs a Fido-sized tunnel under the fence perfect for escaping. If you can find a better way for how to stop a dog from digging under the fence, it's time to think about a new dig defence system.

The good thing about installing a fence is that it offers your dog room to run and play while keeping them close by at the same time. If the fence is installed properly or is a tall privacy fence, you also do not have to worry about the possibility of them breaking free. 

Most pet parents install a fence around their backyard to give their dogs a place to run and exercise without having to take them to a dog park. This can be a saving grace when your schedule gets out of hand. 

Fences also keep your dog safe and contained in an area close so you don’t have to worry about them running up to neighbors or other dogs in your neighborhood, or out into the road where they run the possibility of getting hit by a car. 

Overall, owning the best dog fence for your doggie poses a lot of positives!

Types of dog fencing out there

When you go shopping for a fence, you will notice that there are different types of pet fences, and you may be wondering which one is best for your doggie. Here are the most popular types of pet fence systems: 

• Wooden fence
• Welded wire fence
• Vinyl fence
• Metal fence
• Invisible/Underground (also known as electric dog fences) 

So, which is the best dog fence? It is not possible to say which one is best because it all depends on your situation and the type of fence that best suits your home and your pup's backyard habits.

Wood fences and chain link fences are most common and you have probably seen these in your neighborhood from time to time. Underground fences are newer fences that are becoming a popular option for pet owners for multiple reasons.

What are invisible fences like?

You may not have noticed someone has an invisible fence. As the name suggests, you can’t see them because they're well ... invisible. 

Invisible fences are also known as electric fences because they use shock technology to warn the dog when they are getting close to the fence’s line. Invisible fences pose a lot of pros and cons to their uses that you should consider before purchasing one. 

If you are someone who does not want to install a traditional fence design for the aesthetic of not having a fence, then you may like invisible fences. These products are installed underground and they can be placed in almost any kind of yard, even one with hills and water. 

Invisible fences also create a no-dig zone to keep your dog from going under or jumping over traditional fences since your dog is not able to see them. You have flexibility with these fences as well. Traditional fences can be costly to install and when you move, you can’t take traditional fences with you like you can an invisible fence. Going on a camping vacation soon? You might be able to bring your invisible fence with you! 

One of the cons to invisible fences, however, is that they require training on your part to teach your doggie how to stay in the confined area of the fence. Most invisible fence products will come with a collar your dog wears that partners with the fence so they are shocked when they get too close to the boundaries, but some also contain a “beep” warning before the shock to warn your doggie when they are getting close. It's not the most humane of methods.

These fences also do not keep outside animals out of the fence like they keep your doggie in the fence. So if you live in a wooded area, you should be mindful of forest critters and other small animals. 

You also have to keep in mind the power supply when you use an electric fence since they use power and technology instead of being simply installed.

Alternative dog fence ideas: Playpen or portable dog fence

If you can't commit to the financial costs of a heavy duty backyard fence, there are alternative containment systems that will keep your pup to a specific play area. 

Consider a durable DIY dog fence; an exercise pen or a fence kit you can set up on your own. These are often hassle-free, foldable, and easy to transport if you take your dog on a road trip or vacation.

Finding your fence

Determining which backyard dog fence is right for your dog and yard is a considerable process. Before deciding on an invisible fence, you should consider the pros and cons of installing one. After all, the health and safety of your fur-child come first!