Not all dogs are escape artists or attempt a break out but nevertheless making sure they are contained properly when they are in the garden, for the health and safety of the dog and those in the surrounding area, is important.
There are a variety of reasons why a dog may decide to make a run for it, but securely containing dogs within your property is vital, so where do we start?
Gates
Standard Picket or Paling Gate
Bent Heel and Paling Gate
Boarded Gate
These are all strong designs of gates with small gaps to help deter dogs from escaping.
The standard picket or paling gate has small vertical gaps between the pickets and the pickets run down to the bottom of the gate so there are no sizeable gaps for the dogs to squeeze through.
Although less attractive, attaching wire to the gate can discourage dogs from digging and keep unwanted visitors (for example rabbits) out. Additionally putting a bolt on your gate will stop your dog from opening it and give you more security – the brenton bolt is a great example.
Fences
A fence with a smooth surface (for example vertical boards or attaching a smooth surface such as plywood to the fence) will reduce the chance of toe holds for those canine friends who have mastered the art of climbing the fence.
Make sure there are no gaps where a dog could squeeze through especially where the fence meets buildings or gates.
Minimal gaps are the key. Choose a fence that dogs can’t see through, blocking their view can help reduce and even eliminate their urge to escape.
Feather edge boarded fence
Yorkshire boarded fence
Another way to prevent dogs from escaping is to bury rabbit netting underground, at the bottom of the fence line and place large rocks over the dirt. It is important to ensure that the sharp edges of the rabbit net are rolled inwards, so that it is difficult for the dog to dig down, as rabbit netting is uncomfortable on dogs nails.
With both the gate and the fence, they need to be high enough to prevent a dog from jumping over – 6ft is usually sufficient but made to measure gates and fences are available if you have a particularly athletic dog! (once we made a pair of driveway gates 8′ tall to keep a pair of roaming labradors at home!)
To reduce the risk of your dog wanting to escape keep them well exercised as this will also suffice their need for new scents and interaction with other animals. Provide a variety of toys and activities to drain their energy and make sure they have a shaded place to sit.
Design your garden with your canines in mind, making sure they are safely contained. You can still keep your landscape attractive at the same time as making a safe home for your pets!
