Dog kennels should be made of sturdy fencing material.
While all fencing projects have similarities, kennel fencing and garden fencing have some significant differences. The major difference is that kennel fencing is for keeping animals in and garden fencing is for keeping animals out.
The Dog Breed
The kind of dog you are trying to fence in will play a part in the type of fencing material you need to use. Two 10-pound chihuahuas can be contained with less sturdy fencing than two 80-pound Rottweilers. However, if you are going to the trouble of constructing a dog kennel, even if you have chihuahuas you might consider overbuilding the kennel fencing. You might some day have a different kind of dog, you might sell your house or have a friend or family member visit who has a larger dog.
Portable Kennels
Prefabricated kennel fencing is available as chain-link sections. They come in various sizes from 6 to 10 feet long and typically in 4-, 5-, or 6-foot heights. These fence sections attach to each other with simple clamps and are easily and quickly installed. However, creating a large kennel out of these sections can be expensive. A 6-by-6-by-6-foot pen with a gate will cost well over $400 as of 2010. Also, because these fence sections sit on the ground with metal tubing, dogs are able to dig underneath them unless the kennel is constructed on a concrete slab or set on brick pavers.
Permanent Kennel Fencing
Chain link makes sturdy permanent kennel fencing.
Chain link is an option for permanent kennel fencing. If the kennel needs to be large, rolled chain link attached to metal framing is more cost-effective than portable panels. Vinyl mesh fencing material is less expensive but is not as sturdy as chain link, including vinyl-covered chain link. Wood fencing is another option. Wood rails will still need to be lined with mesh fencing to prevent dogs from slipping through the rails. Wood stockade fencing is also a sturdy option, but it will block any view. Do not use fencing materials like wood or wrought iron picket fencing because a dog that fails in an attempt to jump the fence could impale itself and get seriously injured. Whatever kind of kennel fencing you construct, be sure the dog has access to shelter against summer sun, winter wind and cold and precipitation in all seasons.
Garden Fencing
Decorative garden fencing can be almost any material.
Garden fencing can be decorative. Wrought iron, wood rails, bamboo and other materials make attractive fencing to show off flowers. Some fencing is installed simply by stepping sections into the ground. These sections of fencing are typically very low and would provide no pest deterrence.
Animal Pest Deterrence
If garden fencing is not merely decorative but needs to keep animal pests out, fencing materials will depend on what kind of animal pest is being deterred. Deer are accomplished jumpers--fencing needs to be as high as 8 feet. Animals low to the ground such as rabbits and groundhogs can be deterred with a strand of electric wire just a few inches off the ground. Rolled electric mesh fencing is easy to install and remove and it is a great deterrent for small and large garden pests; it is especially effective against sheep and goats who live near the garden. Electric fencing can be charged by a solar-powered battery for gardens not within reach of power. To work effectively and safely, electric fencing needs to have a grounding rod pounded at least 8 feet into the ground.
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