Table of Contents
How To Stop A Dog From Digging Under The Fence And Escaping
1. Make The Fence Taller
- Increase the height of the fence up to the height of the tallest breed possible, usually about 8 feet.
- Add additional sections of fencing to deepen and strengthen the sides of the fence that are vulnerable to digging.
- Stake additional posts into the ground on either side of the fence.
2. Bury The Fence
- Dig a trench along the base of the fence line as deep as the height of the fence.
- Place the fence in the trench and fill the soil back in, tamping it down firmly with a shovel or the back of a rake.
- Place rocks or concrete blocks along the base of the fence to add extra weight and stability.
3. Use An Anti-Digging Barrier
- Line the fence with a rigid-gauge metal wire mesh, cut to fit the width and depth of the fence.
- Secure the mesh to the base of the fence with landscape pins.
- Add chicken wire or other attractive-looking protective barriers to the base of the fence.
4. Install A Plant Barrier
- Dig a shallow trench and plant prickly shrubs along the perimeter of the fence.
- Run a line of fast-growing hedges along the base of the fence.
- Plant climbing vines close to the base of the fence.
- Add gravel or rocks as a deterrent.
5. Provide Other Digging Opportunities
- Create a designated digging area in the yard for your dog.
- Fill it with sand or other dirt material.
- Add some of your dog’s favorite toys and treats to entice the pup to stay in the digging area and away from the fence.
By following these tips and tricks, you can help prevent your dog from escaping by digging under the fence. Remember to be vigilant about keeping up with these techniques, as well as providing ample exercise and playtime for your pup to reduce the chances of escape altogether.
What type of fence material is most effective at preventing digging?
The most effective fence material at preventing digging is a metal fence with vertical bars or solid panels and buried in concrete or secured into the ground. Qualities of a good dig-proof fence include: metal posts that can’t be cut or bent, a flat bottom lip to discourage burrowing, and a solid construction with no openings or gaps. Additionally, a buried line of hardware cloth or wire mesh lined with rocks and gravel can be effective at preventing digging under the fence.
How can the surrounding area be made less appealing for digging purposes?
Some ways to make the surrounding area less appealing for digging purposes include creating a barrier (such as a fence or raised beds) around the area, planting dense, prickly shrubs to reduce visibility, adding gravel or concrete to discourage digging, installing motion sensitive lighting or security cameras, or adding a layer of chicken wire to the top of the soil. Planting deep-rooted plants and maintaining regularly mowed grass can also discourage digging.
Could a physical barrier be installed along the fence line to stop the dog?
Yes, a physical barrier such as a fence, hedge, or wall can be installed along the fence line to stop the dog from escaping. It is important to make sure the barrier is installed securely and can’t be easily jumped over or dug underneath. Additionally, installing motion-activated sprinkler systems or an ultrasonic animal deterrent may prevent the dog from leaving the property.
What can be done to make the dog feel more secure and content within the yard?
There are a few things that can be done to help make a dog feel more secure and content within a yard. Some simple ideas include providing stimulating play and stimulating activities like puzzles, games, and toys, adding a fence or a shade cover to provide a sense of security, providing a comfortable residing area such as a dog house or elevated bed, creating an overall safe environment such as no toxic plants or chemicals, and giving lots of love and attention to your pet. Also, you should make sure that your yard is free of potential hazards such as sharp objects or nails. Having a companion to keep your dog company can also be beneficial and having positive interactions with the dog can help make them feel more secure.
Are there any products that can be used to deter a dog from digging under the fence?
Yes, there are products that can be used to deter a dog from digging under the fence. These include chicken wire, plastic fencing or spray repellents. These may be used to make the digging area less attractive to your dog or to create an unpleasant sensation if your dog attempts to dig. Additionally, there are sonic or ultrasonic devices that may be used to deter your dog from digging in a particular area.
It isn’t difficult to understand why your dog may want to dig under your fence and escape. Maybe there is a tantalizing scent of another animal in the area, or maybe he is just bored and looking for a little adventure. Whatever the reason, it is important to stop your dog from digging under your fence in order to keep them safe. With a few simple strategies, you can quickly and easily prevent your dog from escaping.
The first step in stopping your dog from digging under your fence is to identify the problem area(s). Take a look around your fence and find the areas where your dog is most likely to start digging. Once you have identified the area(s), fill in the holes he has been digging with soil or rocks so that it is not as easy to dig. You can also place rocks, bricks, or other materials along the bottom of the fence to make it more difficult for your dog to dig.
You should also consider making your yard less inviting to your pup. If there are animals in the area that he wants to escape to, cut back some of the bushes or tall grass that allows him to see or smell them and make the area less appealing.
You may also want to give your pup some distractions by placing toys or treats in his yard to encourage him to stay in the yard instead of digging under the fence. Make sure you are changing up his toys regularly to keep him engaged so he doesn’t become bored and decide to escape in search of something more interesting.
Finally, you should make sure that your fence is in good repair. If there are any weak spots or holes, be sure to patch them up – these could be obvious spots for your pup to try to escape.
With these tips, you can easily stop your pup from escaping by digging under your fence! With a little effort and dedication, you can keep your pup safe and happy at home.
