What is the Best Type of Fence for Dogs?

Your beloved pets are part of the family and of course, you want to keep them safe and happy. A fenced-in yard area is a wonderful way to spend time playing outdoors with your dogs, getting plenty of fresh air, and making sure they get the exercise they need. 

Nobody wants to face the dread and worry of a missing pup due to a broken fence. Secure your pets and your property with a new, upgraded barricade that will keep your dogs in and unpleasant things out.

What kind of fence will work the best for your pets? The most popular ones are:

• Wood - Tall, strong, and adds definite curb appeal
• Vinyl - Long-lasting and extremely durable
• Aluminum - Attractive and low-maintenance
• Chain-link - Utilitarian and inexpensive

Each type of fence has definite benefits. Consider the pros and cons listed below for each kind of fencing material before you decide which one is the best for you and your precious furry friends.

One of the biggest benefits of a new wooden fence is that it’s an appealing option that adds value to your home and can be customized in a ton of ways to fit your lifestyle. They offer charm, security, and peace of mind. Better Homes and Gardens suggests that wooden privacy fences are especially good for working dogs like corgis and shepherds and will cut down on anxiety barking. Wood fences and gates can also be constructed in a variety of styles that are more decorative and artistic, such as picket or latticework. 

On the downside, while wood is attractive and budget-friendly, it needs to be regularly checked for issues like warping or damaged boards. If your doggo is a digger, you may need to extend part of the fence underground to deter that behavior - and wood in close contact with dirt is susceptible to termites. Only certain types of wood are good for fencing - stick with cedar, cypress, or pressure-treated pine. If you plan to paint or stain your new fence, you’ll need to give it a fresh coat every few years, depending on your climate.

If you’re looking for an alternative to a traditional wooden fence, vinyl has many advantages. It’s super low-maintenance and comes in many different options and colors, so you can personalize it to fit your lifestyle. Built to last, this kind of fence is perfect for those who don’t want to do the annual review and possible repairs on wood. Bugs can’t damage a stout vinyl fence, and it’s impervious to rot. They’re also ideal for ensuring the privacy of your family, offering much more of a sound barrier than chain link options. Vinyl fences are tough and can handle even the most rambunctious doggos.

But there are some drawbacks to this type of material. If you live in a wet area, you need to check your fence regularly for signs of mildew, mold, or algae, which can leave permanent stains. To keep your vinyl fence looking like new, use a simple solution of water and dish soap.  The purchase price is going to be considerably higher than fences made of wood or metal, and it’s best to get a professional installation.

These extremely decorative fences have loads of aesthetic appeal. Many homeowners love the wrought-iron look without the exorbitant price tag. This lightweight metal is marvelously long-lasting, won’t rust, and doesn’t need to be painted or refinished. It’s great for both flat or hilly properties. Usually created from recycled materials, your aluminum fence is itself recyclable when the time comes. Cleaning it is a breeze, just hose it off regularly - especially after rough weather. Fine Magazine also notes several benefits of installing an aluminum fence, including its ornamental appeal and durability.

Unfortunately, aluminum fencing is not the perfect fit for everyone. For those who value privacy, the open slats offer practically none at all, and the decorative aspect means they can be easily climbed. If you have small dogs, you may want to install a “puppy panel” along the bottom to keep your little rascals from escaping. Since aluminum is lightweight, they do tend to become bent over time, especially with rough use.

If you are looking for some of the strongest and most durable fencing on the market, chain link is it. Once installed, it takes pretty much zero maintenance and literally lasts for decades. You can paint it if you want, or add other decorative touches. It’s good for people who want to be able to see and talk to their neighbors while keeping their pets safely enclosed and out of trouble. Tall chain-link fences can be made extra secure with razor wire topping and stout chains and locks that allow your dogs to help ward off thieves or intruders. Made of galvanized steel, these fences also won’t rot or get gnawed on by pests.

While affordable, chain link is not the most attractive option. Some people feel that chain link fences don’t add much curb appeal, especially if they are improperly installed or fall into disrepair. Some dogs can easily climb the links and become stuck on the sharp ends, which could lead to injury. If you want something a little more fancy, simply increase your fencing budget.

However, the high-life gurus at Next Luxury have several unbelievably eye-catching ideas for chain link fences that work splendidly for your pets and look amazing too. If you like the price and durability of chain-link but want to add a little something that will make your property really stand out, consult with your fencing contractor.

Your family has many choices these days when it comes to selecting a new fence to enhance your property and provide a safe play area for your beloved pets. But before you proceed with the installation of your new fence, you probably should:

- Check the rules in your community for the maximum privacy fence height.

- Know your property lines.

- Have a building permit if needed.

- Alert your neighbors.

- Consult your local utility company for buried lines nearby.

There are a lot of different fencing options available these days, so it’s easy to be overwhelmed. Just take some time to consider your choices, and you’ll be sure to make the right decision for your family and your treasured pets.