The good thing about building a fence for a small dog is they don’t need as much space as a great Dane does to get sufficient exercise. The challenging part is keeping them from escaping underneath. With her short stature and tiny legs, your dachshund can wiggle under that fence like a little sausage. Here’s how to keep Teacup Fido and Mini Spot within the approved perimeter.
Fence or Run
First, ponder your property and decide if you need a fully fenced yard or just a dog run. A dog run is good choice if you have a small yard or don’t want to fence your entire property. The run should be at least five times as long as your dog. Fido needs space to comfortably stand, walk, lie down and turn around. For example, if your Pomeranian is ten inches long, your dog run should be at least 50 inches long, or just over four feet. Of course, the longer the run the happier Killer will be, so if you can go ten feet, you’ll have a satisfied Pom.
What kind of material should you use?
Dog runs are typically made of metal or wood. Most fencing materials will work to contain your dog. So your aesthetic preferences and your budget will likely guide your choice.
Vinyl fencing is durable and easy to care for. Just spray it with the garden hose every now and then to freshen it up.
Chain link isn’t the prettiest, but it’s strong and secure. If your pug is named Tank and his hobby is to play battering ram, chain link may dent but it won’t give way.
Split rail is attractive but not the best choice for low-to-the-ground dogs. If you choose split rail, you’ll want to add some fabric-like welded wire close to the ground to prevent Rover from roving.
Most homeowners find aluminum fencing aesthetically preferable to chain link, but both materials allow Pugsley a view of the neighborhood. This can be a good thing or a bad thing. If your dog enjoys calmly surveying the terrain, by all means go with the view. But if every movement provokes a bark, view-blocking vinyl or pickets are a better bet.
What about diggers?
We know, it’s a shame and feels like an insult when you give Puddles everything – treats, toys, a top-tier dog bed – and still she tries to tunnel out as though you’ve stuck her in the Polunsky Unit. Puddles isn’t really dissing you; she has the heart of an explorer and wants to see the world. The Humane Society suggests a few deterrents:
- Partially bury large rocks along the fence line.
- Bury chicken wire at the base of your fence, sharp edges away from your yard.
- When you install your fence, bury the bottom edge a foot or two underground.
We Can Help
If you need some help with containing Chico the Chihuahua, we’re happy to help. Your friends at Buzz are standing by, ready to design the right fence or run to keep your mini dogs safely in your yard. Contact us or give us a call today.
