Having a dog that jumps fences can be worrisome and frustrating for any pet owner. A dog that escapes regularly can get into all sorts of trouble, from digging up the neighbor’s flowers to getting hit by a car. Putting something on top of a chain link fence is one of the most effective ways to keep a jumping dog safely contained in the yard.
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Why Do Dogs Jump Fences?
Before exploring solutions, it helps to understand why dogs jump in the first place. There are several common reasons a dog may try to jump out of a fenced yard:
- Boredom or lack of exercise. Dogs left alone all day with nothing to do will often try to find entertainment and excitement outside the fence.
- Chasing. Some dogs will jump to chase squirrels, cats, or other animals they see through or over the fence.
- Escape artists. Certain breeds like Husky and Jack Russell Terriers have a reputation for being escape artists who will use their problem-solving skills to find any possible way out.
- Separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety may jump fences to try to reunite with their owner.
- Lack of training and boundaries. Dogs allowed to run free may never have learned that fences and gates are meant to contain them.
In some cases, a medical reason like a thyroid disorder may contribute to hyperactivity and the desire to jump and roam. Consulting with your veterinarian can help rule out any underlying medical causes.
How High Do Chain Link Fences Need to Be?
The amount of height needed to contain a dog depends on the size and athleticism of the breed. Here are some general guidelines:
- Small dogs: 4 feet
- Medium dogs: 5 feet
- Large, athletic dogs: 6 feet
- Extra large and athletic breeds: 7 feet or more
Individual dogs may be able to exceed these estimates based on their energy level, so it’s always smart to build your fence higher than you think is necessary. It’s also important to use sturdy, grounded posts that will not bend or move as the dog jumps against the fence. Installing a rolled or rounded top edge can also discourage climbing.
Top Options to Stop Chain Link Fence Climbers
Fortunately, there are many options to make your chain link fence more escape-proof. Here are some of the most effective additions you can put on the top of a fence to keep dogs from jumping or climbing over:
Wire Mesh Topper
One easy option is buying a wire mesh fence topper that affixes directly to the top of the chain link with sturdy zip ties. The dense criss-cross wire prevents dogs from getting paws or legs through for climbing. Mesh toppers come in various heights from 1 foot up to 5 feet tall. They can match the height of your existing fence or boost it higher if needed.
Offset Fence Top
An offset top bends the fence top at a 90 degree angle back towards the dog’s yard. Dogs have a very difficult time getting enough leverage to climb when the fence top is angled back. Offsets come in a variety of heights from 12 inches up to 5 feet tall. They can be standalone panels or attach right to your existing chain link.
Anti-Climb Spikes
Sharp, angled spikes spaced every few inches along the fence top can stop climbers in their tracks. The spikes are pointed out away from the yard, so they won’t harm the dog but provide an unpleasant deterrent. Spike strips mount easily to chain link with cable ties or bolts. Look for hot-dipped galvanized spikes for maximum longevity.
Roller Bar
A free-spinning roller tube installed along the top of the fence makes climbing virtually impossible. When dogs try to get up, they just spin the roller. Roller bars attach with U-bolts and spin freely in brackets. For safety, look for designs without any gaps large enough to catch paws or legs.
Electric Fence Topper
For the ultimate deterrent, an electric wire fence topper will give fence jumpers a safe but startling correction. The electric wire carries a pulsating charge strong enough to startle but not harm dogs. Electric tops come in a portable cord format or permanently mounted styles. They can be added onto an existing fence or installed with a new chain link fence.
Privacy Slats
Chain link privacy slats are vinyl strips that slide through the fence openings to block vision. This prevents dogs from seeing things outside the yard that excite them and trigger the desire to jump. Privacy slats are an affordable option to control fence jumping but still allow air flow.
Tips for Stopping Jumpers
In addition to physical deterrents, there are some training and management steps that can help stop chronic fence jumpers:
- Neuter/spay your dog if they are not already – Intact dogs are more likely to roam and escape.
- Provide plenty of exercise, play, and chew toys – A tired dog is less likely to have pent up energy looking for an outlet.
- Train and praise for respecting boundaries – Reward dogs for waiting at gates and not trying to dart through.
- Keep dogs indoors when unattended – Don’t allow unsupervised out time if they have a history of escaping.
- Check for environmental triggers – Identify things like squirrels, other dogs, or loud noises that excite your dog and make them jump.
With consistent training and management, you can help improve your dog’s behavior over time. But in the short term, a physical barrier like a fence topper will be needed to keep them safe.
How to Stop Dogs Digging Under Fences
Some athletic dogs are able to jump fences, but can’t resist digging underneath as an alternative escape route. This can be an even bigger challenge than jumping. But there are ways to fortify the base of your fence to thwart escape artist dogs.
Bury Chain Link Fencing
The simplest solution is burying your existing chain link fence 1-2 feet underground. This creates a barrier they can’t dig beyond. Use a trencher for quick digging. Bury fencing 24-30 inches down for large dogs or escape artist breeds. The fence should then extend 1-2 feet above ground as well.
Concrete Footing
Pouring a concrete footer around the perimeter of your chain link fence achieves the same result as burying. The concrete extends both below and above ground, sealing any gaps. 6-12 inches is sufficient for most dogs. Deeper is better if dealing with a real Houdini.
Landscaping Blocks
Partially burying large landscaping blocks against the base of the fence blocks digging. Place them 1-2 inches below ground and abutting each other tightly. Use the lip of each block to secure firmly to the fence links with zip ties. This creates a visual deterrent and physical barrier.
Chain Link Guardrail
Install a 2nd layer of chain link around the bottom perimeter, similar to a pool fence. Place this guardrail fence 6-12 inches away from the main fence. Having two fences with buried footings spaced apart blocks digging between them. Zip tie the two fences together for maximum strength.
Paving Stones
Installing paving stones around the fence perimeter removes dirt that dogs like to dig in. Set the pavers in a bed of gravel, leaving no bare earth exposed next to the fence. The pavers can abut right up against the fence posts for a zero tolerance anti-dig zone.
Gravel or Rocks
Spreading pea gravel, crushed rocks, or large boulders around the fence base can also deter digging. Choose a size and type of rock that cannot be easily moved or dug through. You can also try thorny shrubbery like holly bushes right against the fence.
Do Underground Dog Fences Work?
Underground electric fences that produce a shock are controversial, but do offer an alternative way to contain dogs within a boundary. Here’s an overview of how underground fences work, pros vs cons, and tips for use:
How Do They Work?
Underground dog fences use a wire run around the perimeter of your property 1-3 inches underground. This transmits a radio signal to a receiver collar worn by your dog. If they approach within 1-10 feet of the underground boundary, the collar emits a warning beep. If they continue forward and cross the boundary, the collar delivers a safe but startling mild static shock.
Pros of Underground Fences
- Lets dog move freely within the space
- Avoids fully fencing entire yard
- Adjustable range if yard size changes
- Less risk of tangling than tie outs
- Doesn’t block views or require digging
Cons of Underground Fences
- Does not keep other animals out of yard
- Requires monitoring and recall training
- Some dogs may ignore shock and run through
- Can accidentally shock dogs on home side
- Collar uncomfortably corrects with no direction
Tips for Success
- Train dog thoroughly on system before using unsupervised
- Ensure collar fit is snug against dog’s neck
- Check collar battery level routinely
- Only use on timid or docile dogs, not aggressive breeds
- Combine with obedience commands so you can recall dog from yard
- Move collar regularly to avoid skin irritation
- Monitor during use until confident dog respects boundaries
While right for some dogs, underground fences are not a substitute for responsible pet ownership. They require an investment of time and proper training to condition dogs to respect the boundary.
Other Containment Ideas
For dogs that are still unreliable in fenced areas, there are a few other options to keep them safely contained when unsupervised:
Tie-Out Stakes
Using a tie-out cable run from a sturdy stake allows a dog to enjoy some time outdoors while keeping them from wandering or jumping fences. Choose a heavy stake that cannot be pulled up. A trolley system allows dogs to roam freely within a circle.
Chain Runs
Chain runs provide a linear space for dogs to move back and forth on. They should be placed over grass or dirt, never concrete which can hurt paws. Make sure the chain run is not able to become tangled or wrapped around objects.
Outdoor Kennel
For the most secure outdoor containment, a sturdy kennel run is ideal. Chain link kennels with a concrete floor and roof can safely house a dog when the owner is away. Provide ample shelter and water. Kennels are not a replacement for leash walks and interaction though.
Dog Pen
Less confining than a kennel, outdoor dog pens have fenced walls but are open on top. These allow room to move while keeping your dog safely confined when you are not available to supervise. You can also use a pen when camping or traveling with your dog.
Conclusion
Rather than constantly chasing after fence-jumping dogs, pet owners can reinforce their chain link fences to prevent escapes. A fence topper provides a physical barrier that discourages climbing without obstructing your view. For hardcore diggers, fortifying the base with buried footings, rocks, or pavers can eliminate the escape route below fence level.
With the right containment method, your adventurous dog can spend time safely outdoors. Supervision is still needed, but physical barriers take a lot of worry and stress out of pet ownership. The ideal solution will vary for each dog based on their unique personality and abilities. But there are plenty of affordable options to contain pets without losing the backyard view.
Remember that containment should always be paired with meeting your dog’s needs for exercise, enrichment, and bonding. Dogs who escape repeatedly likely need more stimulation when they are not contained. Consult with a veterinary behaviorist for help curbing chronic escaping that may stem from anxiety, boredom, or high energy levels.
While not without some effort, you can have peace of mind knowing your fence jumper is secure in the yard. And your flower beds, landscaping, and neighborhood will also remain intact. With a little trial and error, you can find the right barrier to keep your dog happy at home while avoiding neighborhood escapades.