Many dogs are capable of jumping over a fence, and some are quite adept at climbing fencing and walls, no matter the height. Even a small dog with tenacity and determination can scale a fence significantly taller than any of its parts. A dog that is supervised within the fencing, well-trained and sufficiently exercised is less likely to attempt a high-jump escape.
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Dog Safe Fencing
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Six-foot tall fences are appropriate for most dogs, but dogs with a propensity to jump are safer inside fences 8 feet or taller. Certain types of fencing, such as straight-sided wooden or vinyl privacy fencing with no open spacing between the pickets, are difficult for a dog to jump over or climb. On the flip side, chain-link and open fencing provide the dog materials to climb or grip should they attempt a running jump.
As an additional safety feature, secure the bottom of the fence so the dog cannot dig under. Keep any yard furniture or gardening gear away from the fence so the dog can't use them as a stepping stone to jump.
Why Dogs Jump Fences
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Dogs jump fences for a variety of reasons. Something of interest may be on the other side, an intact dog may be seeking to find a mate or the dog may be jumping due to boredom. A strong-minded dog might jump simply because it can. Some escape artists are born with a sense of adventure, while others jump out of curiosity. Once they have accomplished the task, the behavior will likely be repeated unless appropriately addressed.
Extenuating Circumstances
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Dogs also jump fences as a fear-based response. A frightened dog might jump in an attempt to escape an act of nature such as a thunderstorm, tornado or hurricane. In the dog's mind, escape might be key to survival. The same can be said for a dog who lives an isolated life or is void of shelter, food or water. Jumping the fence may enable the dog to find what it needs to survive.
Recorded Dog Jump Heights
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While the average backyard dog might not aspire to world record high jumps, dogs trained to do so attest to the athletic ability of the species. According to Guinness World Records, the highest jump completely cleared by a dog was 5.6 feet. This was accomplished in 2006 by a Greyhound in Missouri.
Across the ocean in Australia in 2007, an Australian Kelpie, a medium-sized herding breed, scored an event record at the Pedigree Working Dog Kelpie Muster by clearing a 9.54-foot jump.
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