subject: Is Your Dog Escaping? So, What's the Best Solution - Dog Fences, Kennel Runs or Build a Whole New Fence? [print this page] Is Your Dog Escaping? So, What's the Best Solution - Dog Fences, Kennel Runs or Build a Whole New Fence?
Escaping dogs can lead to exorbitant council fines or the tragedy of your dog being injured (& vet bills) or worse, the death of your dog. No one wants to be facing any of these scenarios, but unfortunately, they are occurring daily right around the country. So, we do something to stop this from happening or prevent it from happening again, you need to look at what options are available to you. What is the best way to contain even the most stubborn of escaping dogs, through this article, we are going to explore a number of the major solutions, looking at their appearance, reliability, impact on your dog and cost.
Dog Run / Putting the dog on a chain: This quick fix or band-aid solution is usually implemented as a short term measure - unfortunately, for some dogs this becomes a long term solution, which is not good for their welfare. Tying the dog up with a rope or chain should only ever be considered a short term option, as dogs quickly become tangled, and there are numerous cases of accidental strangulation. Another danger that arises from this can be dehydration, especially if the dog gets tangled which prevents him from reaching his water bowl. A better option is to have a lead running off a dog run, as this results in far less tangles and creates more space and room for your dog. POSITIVES: Usually quick and easy to set up, also low cost. NEGATIVES: Can be dangerous and even fatal, wears out certain areas of the yard/lawn, only a short term option and is very restrictive for your dog.
Electric Dog Fencing: This is similar to electric fences used on farms, and should not be confused with dog containment systems / invisible dog fences. This is where an a wire (usually aluminium) or a tape/ribbon that carries an electric current that will give you a zap if you touch it. This is a great solution for dogs that are prone to digging under fences to escape. With a dog that jumps to escape this is far less likely to be of any effect, this is due to the fact that for an electric fence to work, the dog has to come into contact with the wire or tape and have a paw on the ground at the same time to complete the circuit between the wire and the ground rod. If a dog is mid air when he comes into contact with the tape or wire, he will not feel a thing. POSITIVE: low cost, and fairly easy to install. NEGATIVE: Limited success, particularly with jumping dogs and very dry ground, unfortunately children and native wildlife can receive accidental shocks, not as reliable as other options.
Dog Containment System: This is also known as hidden fence, invisible dog fence, in-ground dog fencing or radio fences. With this system, a transmitter is used to emit a very short range radio signal along a wire around the boundary. When a dog wearing the compatible collar comes within this radio signal, the collar is activated and gives a warning signal, if the dog does not return to the safety of the yard, the collar emits a correction. This is one of the most reliable dog fencing solutions, so long as the training is completed properly. With the proper training and ensuring the dog doesn't become 'collar wise', this system keeps the dog well back from the physical fence line. POSITIVE: 4 steps to installation, fairly cost-effective, practically invisible, effective across various escaping situations and non-restrictive to your dog. NEGATIVE: Dog needs to wear collar to receive correction - which means its best to choose the right collar (or call for expert advice), must complete training as well.
Dog Enclosures / Dog Kennel Runs: This is an enclosure (square and large rectangular sizes generally), that gives your dog a set fenced / caged area. An effective option, but many consider it to be restrictive to their dog. However, in some cases this may be the only suitable option - it can also serve as a dog pen. With this sort of solution, you will need to ensure that your dog receives plenty of exercise and attention outside of the kennel. POSITIVE: Effective (must buy quality brand), cost effective. NEGATIVE: owners must ensure their dog gets exercise, it is a DIY set up and custom sizes can be expensive.
Traditional Fencing / Adequate Fencing: This is a very effective solution, when done properly. When going with this option, you need to take into consideration the height required (jumping dog) and the base of the fence (digging dogs). The problem with this the cost involved, and the bigger the property the more it's going to cost. POSITIVE: Can be built to suit your property and needs, can be secure, non restrictive. NEGATIVE: Major cost outlay, also very inflexible once built.
There are other options and tactics that can be employed to stop escaping dogs, however, we have reviewed the main options and the pros and cons associated with each. Obviously, individual circumstances will have a large bearing on which system is best for you. If you are in Australia, please feel free to call us on 1300 668 931 for advice on which system is best for you, you can also read up on some articles on our website, as well as product reviews, at www.barkcontrol.com.au
