How to Keep a Dog Outdoors Without a Fence

Nearly all dog owners can probably relate to the question, "Inside or outside dog?" Some dog owners prefer their dogs to be inside all the time, others prefer they be outside all the time, and others like a bit of both. But what do you do if you want to keep your dog outside, even for just a part of the day, and you don't have a fenced yard? You could put in a costly fence, or you could find ways to let your dog enjoy the great outdoors safely without constant supervision.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog collar or harness
  • Outdoor dog chain
  • Dog chain stake
  • Hammer
  • No-tip water bowl
  • Shaded area of your yard
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Instructions

  1. Keeping Your Dog Outside on a Chain

    • 1

      Clear any potentially dangerous debris, trash, plants, or other items from the area where you will keep your dog. Make sure the area has plenty of shade available throughout the day.

    • 2

      Drive the dog chain stake into the ground near the center of the area you cleared, using your hammer.

    • 3

      Attach one end of the dog chain to the dog chain stake using the provided clasp and/or clip.

    • 4

      Attach the other end of the dog chain to your dog's collar or harness.

    • 5

      Fill a no-tip water bowl with water and place it within reach of your dog.

    • 6

      Check on your dog often to make sure it has water. Bring it inside or provide it covered, protected shelter in inclement weather.

    Using a No-Fence Boundary

    • 7

      Purchase and install your electronic boundary fence according to the instructions that come with it. This may vary depending on manufacturer. Electronic boundaries generally consist of a wire that runs the perimeter of your yard and attaches to a power source that emits a radio signal to a collar your dog wears. When the dog gets close to the boundary, the collar zaps the dog or emits a noise.

    • 8

      Put the supplied radio or wifi collar around your dog's neck and take your dog out and show it what to do when it hears the warning beeps that warn the dog it is close to the boundary. Ideally you want the dog to retreat from the boundary. Do this regularly for about a week. Follow the no-fence-boundary manufacturer's instructions for specific details regarding training your dog.

    • 9

      Allow your dog to push the boundary in the second week of training it with the new boundary. Let the dog find out the repercussion of attempting to cross the boundary.

    • 10

      Attempt to draw your dog across the boundary using the dog's triggers such as a treat, a toy, attention, and so on to test its level of compliance with the new boundary. Continue working with the dog until it stays inside the boundary despite temptation.

    • 11

      Clear your yard of debris or other items that may be dangerous for your dog. Make sure the dog has water and shade, and your dog is ready to be outside on its own.