Ensuring the safety and well-being of our furry friends is a top priority for any dog owner. One effective way to provide them with a secure environment is by installing a quality fence for your dogs. With various options, choosing the right fence requires careful consideration of a variety of factors.
In this in-depth guide, our custom fence contractors explore the key elements to consider when choosing a fence for dogs.
Understand Your Dog’s Needs
Before you dive into the world of fences or begin your search for a local fence company, it’s crucial to assess your dog’s specific needs. Different breeds have different energy levels, sizes, and tendencies.
For instance, a high-energy breed like a Border Collie may require a taller fence to prevent escape attempts, while a smaller breed like a Dachshund may need a fence with no gaps to keep them from squeezing through.
Consider your dog’s behavior as well. Does your dog have a tendency to dig? Jump? Chew? Understanding these habits will guide you in choosing a fence for dogs that addresses potential escape routes and keeps your dog safe.
Choose the Right Material Fence For Your Dogs
When it comes to fencing for dogs, they can come in various materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are some common materials that a professional Ardmore fence company will offer:
- Aluminum: Lightweight, durable, and easy to maintain, aluminum fences are resistant to rust and offer a sleek, modern look.
- Vinyl: Known for its durability and minimal maintenance requirements, vinyl fencing is also resistant to rot, decay, and pests. It comes in various styles and colors.
- Chain Link: Cost-effective and durable, chain link fences are an excellent option for keeping dogs secure. Consider adding privacy slats for visual barriers.
- Wood: Traditional and aesthetically pleasing wooden fences provide privacy and can be customized to match your landscape better.
Choose the Right Style Fence For Dogs: Privacy vs. Openness
Another important decision you’ll need to make is the style of your fence. Privacy fences for dogs, typically made of wood or vinyl, offer a solid barrier. However, this type of design prevents your dog from seeing outside stimuli. This can be beneficial for dogs that get easily excited or anxious at the sight of people or other animals passing by the yard.
On the other hand, open fences for dogs, such as chain-link or aluminum fencing, provide a more transparent barrier, allowing your dog to see the world beyond the yard. They also offer visibility and ventilation while allowing your dog to feel connected to the outside world without compromising safety.
Your Havertown fence company can help you choose the right style based on your preferences and your dog’s temperament.
Consider the Height: A Crucial Factor for Jumpers
When your furry friend is playing in the backyard while you enjoy your afternoon siesta, the last thing you want to do is worry about your dog jumping the fence. An important consideration when choosing a fence for your dog is their size and breed.
If your dog is an aspiring Olympian jumper, it’s imperative to choose a fence height that will keep them safely contained. Consider the breed and size of your dog when determining the appropriate height.
Many dogs can easily clear a 4-foot fence, so opting for a 6-foot (or even an 8-foot) fence may be necessary for larger or more agile breeds. This extra height helps prevent escape attempts and keeps your dog secure within the confines of your yard.
Your fence installation company can design a personalized fence based on your dog’s height and breed. So be sure to mention this essential information to them when choosing a fence for your dog.
Ensure the Openings are Spaced Out Appropriately
When it comes to smaller dogs, fence height isn’t a big deal. Instead, pay attention to the openings between pickets. Measure your dog’s head (height and width) and ensure the widest gaps in the fence aren’t any larger than their head.
Our custom fence contractors offer specially designed fences for dogs with the pickets spaced well under 2″ to keep small dogs from escaping.
Consider Your Dog’s Digging Habits
Pay attention to the space beneath the fence and gates. Dogs can exploit these gaps and spaces to escape. If your dog has a penchant for digging, it’s essential to choose a fence that addresses this behavior.
Professional fence installers in Delaware County have several techniques up their sleeve to address this trait in dogs. These include installing the fence board by board so that it leaves no gaps for the dog to easily dig under.
Local Regulations: Navigating Codes and Zoning Requirements
Before installing a fence for your dog, it’s essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits. Some communities have specific guidelines regarding fence height, materials, and placement.
Understanding and adhering to these regulations not only ensures a safe environment for your dog but also avoids potential conflicts with local authorities.
Maintenance Considerations: Long-Term Care for Your Canine Enclosure
Different fence materials have varying maintenance needs. Vinyl and aluminum fences generally require minimal upkeep, only needing occasional cleaning. Wood fences may need staining or sealing every few years to protect against the elements. Regularly inspect your fence for any signs of wear or damage, addressing issues promptly to ensure a long-lasting and secure enclosure for your furry friend.
Contact Montco Fence for Professional Fence Installation in Delaware County
Choosing the right fence for your dog involves thoughtful consideration of a variety of factors as the items discussed above. By understanding your dog’s needs and behavior, you can create a secure and comfortable space for them to enjoy while providing peace of mind for yourself.
At Montco Fence, we have years of experience building fences for dogs of all kinds. Whether you are looking for wood, vinyl, chain link, or aluminum fence, our fence installers can provide a tailored solution to suit your needs.
As a leading Bryn Mawr fence company, we know what it takes to build a fence that will not only keep your dog safe but also enhance the overall aesthetics of your property.
Contact us today for a free no-obligation quote!
