Chain-link Fence Dog Proofing (Digging & Climbing)

At QS Fencing in New Westminster, BC we love our dogs, which is why we’re focusing this post series on dog proof fencing. It’s important to ensure your fenced yard is secured with dog safety in mind. Not only is preventing escape important, keeping predators out is important in many areas around greater Vancouver like North Vancouver, Port Cocquitlam.

In our last post we cover one of the easiest (but perhaps not so obvious) solutions in pet proofing your fence: installing privacy slats for dogs. In this post we are going to look at more complex fencing additions including Concrete Footers, Fence Height, and Top Guards — each designed to prevent specific behaviors and risks that could otherwise allow your pup to pull a Harry Houdini on your otherwise secure perimeter.

Read on to learn more on how to ensure your fence is furry friendly and Doggy-Houdini secure.

The Digging Master

If your pup is apt to dug under the fence, it can become a security risk if left unmitigated. However it’s important to note that digging doesn’t have to be destructive — it can be a great outlet for a dog’s energy as it’s a safe, low-impact, and stimulating. And it’s an actively that a dog can do on its own!

So our first suggestion if you have a yard and you have a natural-born-digger, try making a digging pit and training accordingly.

Doggy Digging Pit: a digging pit for a dog is a lot like a sand pit for a child. It’s a designated place to play and do what comes naturally in a non-destructive way. Here’s a great guide on how to set up a dig-pit for your dog: http://petprojectblog.com/archives/dogs/we-like-garden-tip-a-digging-pit-for-your-dog/

Let’s say you have a dog that refuses to play in the digging pit, such as an un-neutered male that desperately wants under the fence, or perhaps you need to prevent burrowing wildlife such as coyotes, wolves, foxes, or skunks from digging under your fence. In these cases you might need to have a secure footer installed.

Concrete Footer: This is a permanent and highly secure variation of the wire l-footer, designed to prevent digging under fences. Aptly named, a concrete footer is installed at a 90-degree angle (horizontally or perpendicular) at the foot of the fence and extends out 3 to 5 feet horizontally from the base of the fence.

For security, maintenance, and peace of mind, we recommend using the concrete footer rather than a DIY approach such as a dig wire.

The Climber

Fence Height: if you are getting a chain-link fence to prevent dogs or wildlife from climbing or jumping over, the most significant factor is the height of the fence. For example, if you want to protect your pups from Mountain Lions, the recommended height is 12 feet. Additionally, fence height is typically not enough on it’s own to secure a fence from pets and animals from getting over. That requires the height in addition to an overhanging top guard.

Top Guard:  A motivated dog can scale a 12 foot high fence as ample evidence on YouTube to demonstrates.  To prevent the climber, an angled “lean in” top guard should be added to the top of the fence. This keeps the dog, coyote, wolf, or mountain lion from going over the edge of the fence when it gets to the top.

Note on fence height restrictions: many municipalities around Greater Vancouver have fence height restrictions for fences above 6 feet. Be sure to check your municipal bylaws to ensure compliance.

Stay tuned for our next post where we discuss adding Redundant Fencing, Airlocks and Chain Link Gate solutions for managing dogs and their security in both commercial and personal applications.

Contact QS Fencing

If you need a secure dog-proof fence advice or want a free estimate for the installation costs, ask our professional fencing staff at QS Fencing.

Give us a call at 604-345-5145, we’re happy to help!