How to Stop a Dog From Crawling Under a Fence

Your fence's primary purpose is to keep your dog safe, whether it is from becoming lost or being hit by a car. A dog skilled at crawling under a fence and escaping puts itself in danger. It is important to keep in mind that no fence will prevent a determined or talented dog from escaping, but there are measures you can take to minimize the risk and teach it the importance of boundaries.

Instructions

    • 1

      Keep your dog indoors when you're not home; supervise it when you are home. Dogs often attempt escape because of anxiety or boredom.

    • 2

      Discourage your dog from crawling under or digging at the fence with a firm "No!" Distract it with a game of fetch or a favorite toy. Reward your dog with praise or treats for proper behavior.

    • 3

      Create an appropriate area away from the fence where your dog can dig. Encourage your dog to use the digging pit by burying bones or chew toys in it.

    • 4

      Fill in any holes at the base of the fence with large rocks or paving stones. Dig a trench at the base of the fence -- 6-inches deep for a small dog, or up to 18-inches deep for a large dog -- and place a sturdy board in the trench. Cover the board with dirt.

    • 5

      Reinforce the bottom of your fence with bars if you have a chainlink fence. Purchase steel reinforcing bars, and use a saw to cut any that are too long. Have another person help you thread the reinforcing bars through the bottom of the chain link fence.