The Best Fences for Large Dogs

Fencing your dog is the responsible pet owner option. Dogs that roam the neighborhood pose a danger to themselves and to people who live or work in the neighborhood. Fencing a larger-breed dog such as a St. Bernard may prove difficult because they can often jump, climb or dig under fences. Several options exist to reduce the chances that these larger dogs will escape.

  1. Wood Slat Fences

    • Wall slat fences are often known as privacy fences, and they come in a variety of heights. These wooden slats are run vertically and nailed to frames that run parallel to the ground. The slats are often butted up against each other, limiting visibility from both sides. These are good for larger dogs because their visibility is limited so they are not distracted by loose temptations such as the neighbor's kids or cats. Set these fences as deeply into the ground as possible to ensure the dog does not dig under.

    Chain Link Fences

    • Chain link fences are made of wires that criss-cross and are fastened to metal frames. They provide no barrier to visibility and dogs will see the happenings around them. Some more agile breeds of large dogs, such as Border Collies, have an easy time climbing chain link fences. Factor in this scaling potential. You can place these clear plastic liners on the inner side of these fences to prevent climbing.

    Vinyl Fences

    • Vinyl fences look similar to wooden privacy fences but are made out of vinyl. Vinyl fences are durable and attractive and nearly as strong as wooden fences. Place these fences deep into the ground to prevent digging. Solid fences such as vinyl or wood are good options for dogs that tend to be aggressive toward strangers or other dogs, as well because of the limited visibility provided.

    Invisible Fences

    • Some companies make underground fences to keep dogs contained. These fences involve placing a device or wire in the ground. The dog wears a special collar tuned to the wire. These collars emit an electrical shock or an unpleasant sound -- on a frequency humans cannot hear -- whenever the animal approaches or crosses the barrier. Some dogs, however, will cross the barrier and ignore the shock, then refuse to return to the property because of the underground fence.