How To Keep Dogs In Yard – How To Manage Yard Access For Your Dog

If your dog is adventurous, they might try to escape the yard in a frenzy of sniffing and digging. Many overactive dogs do this when they are overwhelmed by mental stimulation, and it runs the risk of compromising their safety.

After all, your dog doesn’t have your self-awareness or think beyond the immediate whiff of pheromones that drives them forward on their journey.

So, how can you ensure that your dog stays in the yard where they’re safe and secure? In this article, we will cover tips and tricks on managing yard access for your dog.

Why It’s Important To Keep Your Dog In The Yard

Establishing yard boundaries for your dog through ‘boundary training’ is essential in ensuring your dog is safe and secure in the fenced yard. The yard should have boundaries but also be an extension of your dog’s indoor safe space.

This way, your dog is comfortable and happy in the yard. If they do manage to get out of the yard, they risk getting hit by a car, attacked by other critters, or getting lost.

There is also the legal issue to avoid if your dog leaps over your fence and destroys a neighbor’s property, which some dog breeds are more prone to.

Tips and Tricks for Keeping Your Dog In The Yard

Training and fencing can be used to keep your dog in the yard. Firstly, secure the perimeter with fencing or a dog fence. Many dogs have the athletic skills to leap over these, so erecting a larger fence or another barrier may be necessary.

The trick is to use positive reinforcement training to teach your dog boundaries. For example, you can feed them treats or give them praise when they recognize their boundaries, and of course, fill the outdoor area with plenty of toys, games, and general activities to keep them entertained.

Nowadays, there are countless technological options for keeping your dog safe. GPS collars allow you to keep tabs on exactly where your dog is. If they do leap the fence, you can track them down.

There are other methods, like the invisible fence tactic, which is a device that gives your dog a static or electric shock when they cross the boundary line.

But it’s divisive whether this is a good idea, as it involves subjecting your dog to the physical discomfort/pain of a shock collar to be trained.

Finally, you should regularly inspect your yard for potential escape routes to secure it. For instance, if your dog is fond of digging, you can block this off with plant pots or rocks. There may be gaps in the hedge that you can cover with wire fencing or chicken wire.

Solutions for Escaping Dogs

If your dog still finds ways to escape and you are still wondering how to keep them in your yard, it’s essential to address the cause of the behavior. Common causes are boredom, sexual roaming, and isolation due to lack of mental stimulation.

Increase the exercise regime by taking your dog for more walks to address this and spend more quality time with them. Playing tug of war and other games that tire your pup out will help diminish your dog’s desire to leap and roam.

You can also consult professional trainers or behaviorists to determine your dog’s issues. If the problem persists, you can consider higher containment levels, such as a kennel or indoor confinement at necessary times. But this is a last resort and should be used sparingly.

Keeping Your Dog Safe and Secure in Your Yard

Keeping your dog in the yard can be a challenging task. They are primed for movement and stubbornness. But the right amount of training, patience, and a good rewards system will teach dogs to stay within the defined boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I train an older dog to stay in the yard?

Yes. Although you will find more obstination in some dogs compared with others, it’s also possible that older dogs are easier to train due to being calmer. Remaining in the yard is a vital skill for dogs of any age to master.

How high should my fence be to prevent escape?

Six feet should be high enough, but it depends on the dog’s breed and nature. For a small dog, a shorter fence might do. A larger dog might need more extensive and tall fencing options (and a study fence, even) to prevent escaping and engaging in destructive behavior.

Are invisible fences safe for dogs?

No. Like humans, dogs are made from skin, flesh, and bone. Not to mention nerve endings. Touching these materials with electricity is not a good idea. When dogs cross buried electrical wire fencing, the shock causes them pain. Overall, there are more humane strategies than this.

How can I tell if my dog is attempting to escape the yard?

Every dog is different, but if they run from fence to fence with a leaping intent and engage in digging behavior, this can be a sign.