Dog friendly garden ideas using fencing

Our four-legged friends enjoy the garden just as much as we do. Therefore it is so important to make sure you create a secure, dog friendly garden if you own or plan on owning a dog. Whether you are looking for dog kennel fencing, fencing to stop dogs climbing or digging, or researching the many different fence panel options available, we are here to help.

Ideas to create a dog friendly garden

The most important consideration for any garden which is likely to home pets, particularly dogs, is to make sure the perimeter is secure. Relying on existing planting or dilapidated fencing is simply a challenge to most four legged friends, who given half the chance, will find a way out of anything less than a 100% dog proof fence.

You may have wondered:

  • What fencing is there to keep dogs in?
  • Should I choose a solid or semi solid panel for my dog fence?
  • What does a dog proof fence look like?
    • Dog in the garden   

    These are all relevant questions when it comes to researching pet friendly fencing solutions. If you are worried about your dog escaping, the main question to ask is 'how?' - does your dog dig, climb, or squeeze through gaps? A solid timber fence will eliminate any area for your dog to squeeze through, and certain solid fences will also stop climbing. Featherboard fence panels are a cost effective timeless fencing style, but bear in mind they do have horizontal rails that could be used as climbing aids. Chilham fence panels which have no rails either side, or Horizontal Tongue and Groove Effect which have vertical rails would be ideal for a dog that escapes by climbing. Pick the best option for you and your dog breed. Follow this link for more recommend dog fencing types.

    contemporary-garden-fencing-panels

    Increasing fence strength

    Well dug foundations, strong posts and tall panels (6ft high) are all essential especially if you have a large dog that jumps up against the fence. For this, we recommend a sturdy panel like Chilham or Tongue and Groove which are some of our heaviest solid panels.

    Depending on the nature of your dog, a solid panel may cause stress or frustration as they cannot see out. If your pet falls into this category, you'll likely require a slatted fence panel, or a semi-solid panel like a Jaktop (pictured below) or a traditional Picket Fence. Ideal for smaller breeds, the gaps between each of the pales can be suited to your dog so that they cannot squeeze through. Heights for this style of fence can vary, so choose one which suits the size of your dog so that it can't jump over.

    Dog fencing using Jaktop panels

    Prevent Your Dog Digging

    If you have a dog that loves to dig, it may be worth thinking about adding an extra, buried gravel board, a section of steel fencing below your timber fence. Options include using Stock Fencing or Chicken Wire below ground level which can be easily installed during or after your fence installation. You will need to dig a suitable depth trench near the fence, cut the chicken wire to size and place in the ground.

    Dog Fencing

    Post and Rail fencing wire

    Ideal for horse fencing or countryside environments, post and rail is available in many different styles to suit your field. We also offer metal and timber field gates to keep your fields secure.

    livestock fencing

    Secure Garden Gates

    A garden gate can often be the weak link in keeping dogs contained. It can provide plenty of options in terms of escape. Our best advice is installing the gate on flat ground in order to have the gate installed as close to ground level as possible whilst allowing for the 50mm gap for opening and closing. Gates should be fitted with a secure lock like a J Lock to reduce any chance of the gate becoming unlatched. A lockable gate is recommended in case your dog is a talented escape artist.

    Wooden gate

    You should try and remove any climbing aids like bins or furniture from near the fence line also, just in case.

    There is no point in having a robust fence installed around your garden perimeter if the entry gates into the premises are not secure. Ensure that the hinges and bolts are working correctly - a gate which has come away from its hinges or that has dropped making it difficult to close can easily offer an exit route for pets. Rust can cause the gate fittings to no longer function efficiently, so always choose a gate with either stainless steel or galvanised hinges and bolts.

    Create Levels

    A dog loves to look out over its territory; a higher level gives your dog the perfect viewing spot. To create different levels, you could add a timber deck for both you and your dog to enjoy. Building some raised beds can also create a higher level and add some plants to create interest points for your dog.

    Featherboard with decking  

    Dog Friendly Planting

    There are a number of plant species which are highly dangerous to animals and these are to be avoided in the garden at all costs. These include daffodil bulbs, deadly nightshade, narcissus bulbs and umbrella plant. Visit The Dogs Trust website for more details. Some species of plant regularly used to create a hedge which acts as an effective boundary are also included in the list of ‘toxic’ plants. Pet owners are therefore encouraged to opt for a suitable strong fence which represents a more responsible (and lower maintenance) choice.

    What else to consider

    Any fencing or gate which is prone to rotting will compromise the safety of the garden so always seek out products which are supported by a long life time guarantee. The unique Jakcure® timber treatment process from Jacksons offers a 25-year guarantee against rot and wood boring pests on all timber products, representing peace of mind that your fencing investment is safe and also delivering a virtually maintenance-free fencing solution.