You probably thought that a six-foot fence would do the trick. Yet the fact of the matter is a dog can scale incredible heights if it can get a good grip. How can you stop your dog from jumping out of the yard?

A fluffy dog peers over a mossy wooden fence

 

To help stop your dog’s Houdini acts, it pays to first narrow down why it’s happening.

Seeking a mate

  • Perhaps your dog escapes to join a nearby female dog that is on heat. If so, try the following:
  • If your dog scales the fence, make sure the inside of the fence is smooth so there are no paw-holds. Plywood works great.
  • Secure all latches.
  • Discourage your dog from peeing on your fences outer facing side when you’re out of the house together. If other dogs urinate over its scent, it may jump the fence to reclaim territory.
  • A neutered dog is less likely to seek out mating partners. Visit your local Greencross Vets to discuss desexing your dog.
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Fear stricken

Many things can scare your dog, including thunderstorms, noisy children or an aggressive dog next door.

  • During storm season, keep an eye on weather reports. Consider allowing your dog to wait out the storm in a safe place, like the bathroom, and distract it with a tasty treat-filled kong toy or similar.
  • Filling in any see-through gaps in the fence may help decrease your dog’s fear of the outside world and reduce its desire to escape.
  • Ensure there’s nothing near the fence your dog can use to climb on.
  • Try using PVC piping, at least 15cm in diameter, and run it along the top of your fence so your dog can’t get a good grip.

Separation anxiety or boredom

If your dog is spending long periods of time on its own each day, it may be suffering from separation anxiety or boredom.

  • Exercise your dog for 30 to 60 minutes each day.
  • Train your dog to respond to the “come here” cue.
  • Try using a Thundershirt, Adaptil collar or Vetalogica Tranquil Formula that will often have a significant calming effect on your dog should they feel anxious, fearful or overexcited.
  • Break up your dog’s day by having a walker visit it while you’re at work.
  • If you suspect your dog is suffering from separation anxiety, speak to your local Greencross Vets.