How to choose a fence your dog can't dig under, jump or chew through

The right fence keeps your dog safe at home and keeps you from chasing them down the street. The wrong fence gets dug under, jumped over or chewed through. Here's how to choose a dog fence that works, from a local fence company that builds them across Shreveport, Bossier City and Northwest Louisiana.

Start with your dog

Every dog is different. Before you choose a fence, think about how your dog is most likely to get out:

• Diggers go under the fence.
• Jumpers and climbers go over it.
• Chewers go through it.
• Barkers and reactive dogs do better when they can't see what's on the other side.
• Small dogs slip through gaps and under gates.

Best fence types for dogs

Wood privacy fences

A solid wood privacy fence blocks the view, which helps dogs that bark at people and other dogs. Board-on-board styles leave no gaps. Choose cedar or redwood for a longer-lasting, better-looking fence.

Bufftech vinyl fences

Vinyl privacy fences are smooth and hard for dogs to climb, they can't be chewed like wood, and they're easy to hose off. Great for families who don't want to stain a fence.

Chain link

Chain link is strong, affordable and great for large yards and dog runs. Black vinyl-coated chain link looks cleaner than galvanized. Some dogs can climb chain link, so consider height and the dog's personality.

Ameristar aluminum and steel

Ornamental fences look great and last for decades. For small dogs, choose a style with tight picket spacing or a puppy-picket bottom so they can't squeeze through.

How tall should a dog fence be?

For most medium and large dogs, a 6-foot fence is a safe choice. Smaller, calm dogs may do fine with 4 feet. Athletic jumpers may need more height, but check your city and HOA rules first. Avoid putting anything next to the fence that a dog could use as a step, like a grill, a woodpile or a doghouse.

Stopping diggers

• Keep the bottom of the fence close to the ground.
• Add a buried barrier, such as wire mesh along the bottom of the fence line.
• Use a rot board or concrete curb along the bottom of a wood fence.
• Pay attention to low spots and dips in the yard where gaps form.

Don't forget the gate

Gates are where most dogs get out. Make sure your gate:

• Latches every time, ideally with a self-closing hinge.
• Has a small gap at the bottom.
• Doesn't sag over time. See our gates page.
• Can be locked if people come in and out of your yard, like lawn crews or meter readers.

Dog runs and kennels

A dog run gives your dog a safe space of its own and protects the rest of the yard. Chain link dog runs are durable and easy to clean. We can build a run alongside your main fence.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best fence for a dog that digs?

Any solid fence with a buried barrier along the bottom. Chain link with mesh buried along the line works well for diggers.

Will my dog chew a vinyl fence?

Vinyl is much harder for dogs to damage than wood, which makes it a good choice for chewers.

Do invisible fences work?

They work for some dogs, but they don't keep other animals or people out. Many owners prefer a physical fence. Tell your installer if you have an invisible fence line so it isn't cut during digging.

Can you fix a gap my dog keeps using?

Yes. We fix gaps, low spots, loose boards and sagging gates. See our fence repair page.

Get a fence your dog can't beat

Tell us about your dog and your yard, and Superior Fence & Decks will recommend the right fence. Call or text (318) 518-1524 for a free estimate. We're located at 126 Gardner St, Shreveport, LA 71106, and serve Shreveport, Bossier City, Benton, Haughton, Greenwood, Keithville, Stonewall and nearby towns.