Pet Fencing Basics

From chain link to picket to panel—fencing materials come in a wide variety of shapes, styles and sizes. But when you have a pet, containment is the name of the game. Depending upon your pet, a chain link, panel, picket or underground fence may be the best—or the worse choice for you and your pet. So which one works best for you? Use this pet fencing guide to find the perfect fence to keep your pet safe and sound in your yard.

Chain Link

Probably one of the most common forms of pet fencing, the chain link fence provides a safe and secure haven for your pet. Chain link fencing can be placed at various heights, so pets that can leap high over smaller fences will be well contained behind chain link. And because chain link is easily see through, it can be used around corners and in front yards where traffic site lines may be hindered from panel and wood fencing.

Paneled Fence

For the ultimate in privacy and security, a paneled fence provides the best fence for those who prefer an intimate backyard setting. Paneled fences are high and tall, creating the perfect secure area for those super jumping pets who escape from conventional fencing. Paneled fencing also comes in vinyl, so maintenance issues are a breeze. Vinyl paneled fence also works great for keeping cats inside of the yard.

Paneled Fence Downside: Because paneled fences often bar pets from seeing what’s beyond their gates, it sometimes causes them to dig. If your pet loves to dig already, it may be best to consider installing a slatted panel that allows the pet to view what’s going on outside of their containment zone to help prevent digging.

Invisible/Underground Fencing

This nifty invention works fantastic for pet owners who want to keep their pets inside of a fence - without having a fence at all. An underground wire is buried around the perimeter of the containment area and a transmitting collar is placed on the pet. The underground wire emits a frequency that vibrates or shocks (depending on the settings) the collar when it gets within range of the wire. The pet quickly becomes aware of its limits around the underground wire.

Invisible/Underground Fencing Downside: Pets are definitely kept inside the yard, but other animals (and people) are not. Other free ranging animals can easily access your yard and harm your pet.

Kennels

A kennel works great for keeping pets safe while maintaining a no fencing zone around your home. Pets are still well protected inside of the chain link fence enclosure and outside access is still available to the pet. Kennels with tops and bottoms are the only way to keep high leaping and digging pets contained.

Kennels Downside: Because of their limited sizes, larger pets can easily become restless. Kennels need constant maintenance as pets quickly fill up small kennels with excrement.