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Pet-Proof Fencing: How to Keep Dogs Safe in Your Toronto Yard

Dog Fence Toronto

If youโ€™re a dog owner in Toronto, a secure fence is one of the most important features of your backyard. Dogs love to explore, dig, and sometimes even escapeโ€”so choosing the right fence can mean the difference between a safe, happy pet and a dangerous situation.

Our skilled carpentry services ensure fences are not just pet-safe, but also sturdy, stylish, and built to lastโ€”tailored for every type of yard and pet. In this guide, weโ€™ll cover:

โœ… Best fence materials for dogs
โœ… Ideal height to prevent jumping
โœ… Dig-proof solutions for escape artists
โœ… Toronto-specific tips (weather, bylaws, wildlife)

Letโ€™s make sure your furry friend stays safe and sound!

Why Pet-Proof Fencing Matters in Toronto

Dangers of an Unsafe Fence

  • Escapes: Dogs can slip through gaps, jump over low fences, or dig under.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Toronto has raccoons, coyotes, and off-leash dogs that may enter your yard.
  • Injuries: Sharp edges, weak materials, or unstable fences can harm pets.
  • Legal Issues: If your dog gets out and causes trouble, you could be liable.

What Makes a Fence โ€œPet-Proofโ€?

โœ” Tall enough to prevent jumping
โœ” No gaps for squeezing through
โœ” Strong materials that resist chewing and scratching
โœ” Dig guards to stop escape tunnels
โœ” Weather-resistant for Torontoโ€™s harsh winters

Best Fence Materials for Dogs

Not all fences work well for pets. Hereโ€™s how Torontoโ€™s top options compare:

MaterialPros for DogsCons for DogsBest For
VinylNo splinters, hard to chew, low maintenanceExpensive upfront, can crack in extreme coldSmall to large dogs
Wood (Cedar/Pine)Natural look, sturdy if built wellDogs may chew or dig under itMedium/large dogs (with reinforcement)
Chain LinkAffordable, lets dogs see outDogs may climb or chew itLarge, non-climbers
Aluminum/OrnamentalStylish, strong, no chewing riskGaps may let small dogs escapeWell-trained dogs
CompositeDurable, no rot or splintersHigher costAll dogs (best for diggers)

Our Pick for Toronto: Vinyl or composite (durable, weatherproof, and safe for paws).

How High Should a Dog Fence Be?

Jumping Prevention Guide

  • Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 4 feet tall
  • Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 5-6 feet tall
  • Large Dogs (50+ lbs): 6+ feet tall (or add a lean-in top)

Extra Tip: If you have a jumper (like a Border Collie or Husky), extend the fence inward at the top (45-degree angle) to prevent climbing.

Dig-Proofing Your Fence (Stop Escape Artists!)

Many dogs dig under fences. Hereโ€™s how to outsmart them:

1. Install a Dig Guard

  • Bury chicken wire or concrete footer 1-2 feet deep along the fence line.
  • Use L-shaped metal edging (anchored into the ground).

2. Create a โ€œNo-Digโ€ Zone

  • Place large rocks or pavers along the fence base.
  • Use gravel or mulch (dogs dislike digging in it).

3. Train Your Dog

  • Redirect digging to a sandbox area.
  • Use positive reinforcement when they stay away from the fence.

Toronto-Specific Tips for Dog Fences

Weatherproofing

  • Vinyl & aluminum handle snow/salt better than wood.
  • Avoid untreated woodโ€”it rots faster in Torontoโ€™s humidity.

Wildlife Safety

  • Coyotes can climb! Ensure your fence is at least 6 feet tall with no footholds.
  • Raccoons can open latchesโ€”use locking gates.

Bylaws to Know

  • Max height: Typically 6.5 ft for backyards, 4 ft for front yards (check local rules).
  • Shared fences: Split costs with neighbors if itโ€™s on the property line.

Extra Safety Features for Dog Owners

โœ” Self-Closing Gate Latches (prevents accidental escapes)
โœ” Smooth Top Edges (no sharp points to injure jumpers)
โœ” Visibility Strips for Chain Link (stops dogs from barking at passersby)
โœ” Shade Coverage (protects dogs from sun in summer)

DIY vs. Professional Fence Installation

DIY Risks

  • Weak spots where dogs can escape.
  • Mistakes with permits or property lines.
  • May not withstand Toronto winters.

Why Hire THEFIXITGUYS?

  • We handle permits, digging, and installation.
  • Our fences are built to last (with warranties).
  • We know Torontoโ€™s pet-proofing tricks!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Whatโ€™s the cheapest dog-proof fence?
A: Chain link with dig guardsโ€”but vinyl lasts longer.

Q: Can I add a fence to an existing one for extra height?
A: Yes! We can extend posts or attach barriers.

Q: How do I stop my dog from chewing the fence?
A: Use bitter spray or switch to metal/vinyl.

Q: Do I need a permit for a dog fence in Toronto?
A: Yes, if over 2.5 ft tall. We handle this for you!

Why Choose THEFIXITGUYS for Your Pet Fence?

Weโ€™reย Torontoโ€™s trusted fence expertsย because we:
โœ”ย Use pet-safe materialsย (no splinters, sharp edges)
โœ”ย Customize for your dogโ€™s size and habits
โœ”ย Include dig-proofing in every quote
โœ”ย Offer fast, stress-free installation

Ready for a Safe, Pet-Proof Fence?

Protecting your furry friend doesnโ€™t mean compromising on quality or aesthetics. With our professional carpentry services, youโ€™ll get a fence thatโ€™s pet-safe and built to last. Donโ€™t risk your dogโ€™s safety with a weak fence.ย Get a free estimateย from TheFixitGuys today!

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