FAMILY DOG

Choosing a family pet checklist: best breeds for allergy? For kids or seniors? Toy breed or guard dog, high energy or laid-back? Free, professional advice from the world's FIRST public website!!

LOOSE DOG COULD BE A LOST DOG

Tam Cordingley, CSI Instructor, SAAB Member

Practical reasons for a fenced yard and sensible fencing options if you are a renter or have a small breed, plus the shocking truth on ELECTRIC or INVISIBLE fences.

A responsible owner keeps their dog safe when he's outside and that means on leash or a fenced potty area. Left loose, any dog will wander off or worse yet, a new neighbor, postal carrier or delivery truck will pull onto your property and if your dog isn't securely fenced he may bite someone or get run over.

The worn out excuses of "I live on a dead end road" and "my dog never leaves the yard" don't work.  In over 50 years as a dog breeder and fancier I've heard every excuse in the book about why the buyer of a dog doesn't need a fence. In fact, fencing is one of my litmus tests for a responsible owner.

Fences are the norm in subdivisions but if you run into fencing restrictions, can't afford a fence, or if you are renting, there are options and alternative fencing methods.

The electric fences work fine to keep your dog in; the catch is that they may not keep other dogs out. If a stray dog comes into your yard there may be a fight. And obviously, electric fencing does not protect your intact female when she is in season. A secure wood or wire fence is best. If split rail is your aesthetic choice it must be backed by wire. 2x2 welded wire is best for small dogs but a large dog requires a 4 to 6 foot high fence.

If you are a renter there are fencing options that won't cost you an arm and a leg. For a puppy or a small dog, a folding "exercise pen" such as those used by dog show people is a good option. Two or more can be put together to make a larger pen. "Exercise pens" can be ordered online or purchased at a local pet shop.

With a large dog a suitable pen can be made from welded rod livestock panels. They are rigid fencing that will stand without too many posts, can be erected in minutes, and are easy to move. They are available at most feed stores, Tractor Supply, or online.

For a quick "go potty" you can attach a chew-proof cable right by the door and pop the dog out to relieve itself.potty. This is only for a very short term convenience. Best (for you both) is leash walking for exercise and recreation.

I do not recommend dog parks. The idea of all the dogs playing with their friends sounds lovely, in reality it is not a great thing. Dogs play rough, they are possessive, and they will fight. A small dog may be accidentally injured by a large dog. Your dog doesn't need to be friends with the entire neighborhood. His exercise and recreation should be with you. Leash walking is good for your dog and probably even better for you!

Enjoy your dog responsibly .

TheDogPlace.org EST 1998 © Apr 2012 Rev.2505 https://www.thedogplace.org/Family-Dog/Fence-Loose-Dog_Cordingley-124.asp

SSI

SSI

Advertising ~ Disclaimer ~ Mission ~ Privacy

TheDogPlace.org, world’s 1st public website,