By Published On: July 31, 2023

When it comes to our furry companions, their safety and well-being are of utmost importance. As responsible pet owners, we strive to create a secure environment for our dogs, ensuring they can roam freely without encountering any harm...

Welcome, fellow dog lovers and proud pet owners! You’ve found the ultimate guide to optimal fencing for the 29 most popular large and giant dog breeds in the beautiful city of Seattle.

Choosing the right fence for your large breed dog is much more than setting up a boundary – it’s about safety, peace of mind, and of course, making sure your beloved pet doesn’t wander off. We’re talking serious business here! And you want a fence that not only does its job but also complements your home’s aesthetic appeal and stands strong against the elements.

In this guide, we dissect the world of fencing, matching up the best fence types – from the sturdy wooden ones, resilient vinyl, to elegant wrought iron – with each breed’s unique traits and needs. It’s like a matchmaking game, except here, we’re pairing Akitas, Cane Corsos, and everything in between, with their perfect fence types.

We’re going beyond just giving out recommendations. Expect the why’s, the pro’s, the con’s, and some useful tips thrown into the mix, because let’s face it, understanding our pets and their needs is the key to making them happy.

So, whether you have a territorial Akita, a high-energy Alaskan Malamute, or an independent Anatolian Shepherd Dog, we’ve got you covered. Remember, every dog is different, and our suggestions should be considered in conjunction with your pet’s specific behavior and tendencies.

Matching Seattle’s Top Large Dog Breeds with Their Perfect Fences

1. Akita

Akitas are powerful, independent, and reserved dogs with a strong protective instinct, often showing wariness towards strangers and other animals.

Suitable Fence Types for Akita

Given their size and strength, recommended fence types for Akitas include sturdy and tall structures like wooden, vinyl, or wrought iron fences that are at least six feet high.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Akita

These fences are strong enough to withstand an Akita’s size and strength, and the height prevents the dog from jumping over. Wooden and vinyl fences also provide privacy, helping to minimize visual stimuli that could trigger the Akita’s protective instincts.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types offer security, durability, and privacy. Their height and sturdiness help to contain the dog, and the privacy aspect can reduce potential triggers of territorial behavior.

Cons: Installation and maintenance costs for these types of fences can be high. Additionally, Akitas are intelligent and may figure out how to manipulate weak points in the fence over time, requiring regular inspection and potential repairs.

Pro Tips: Regularly inspect the fence for damages and provide mental stimulation for your Akita to prevent boredom-related destructive behavior.

Alaskan Malamute

2. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes are powerful, energetic dogs with a strong drive to dig and climb, requiring secure and robust fencing to contain them.

Suitable Fence Types for Alaskan Malamute

Considering their size, energy, and propensity to dig and climb, the recommended fence types for Alaskan Malamutes are tall, sturdy structures such as wooden or vinyl fences, with added measures against digging like an underground wire or concrete footer.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Alaskan Malamute

These fence types are tall and strong enough to contain an energetic Malamute. The underground wire or concrete footer prevents them from digging under the fence, a common behavior in this breed.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types offer excellent durability and height, necessary to prevent the Malamute from jumping over. Underground reinforcements help to deter their notorious digging habits.

Cons: The cost of installation and maintenance can be high, especially with underground reinforcement. Moreover, Malamutes may damage wooden fences over time with their chewing or scratching, requiring periodic repairs.

Pro Tips: Regularly check for any signs of digging or chewing on the fence. Provide ample exercise for your Malamute to help curb their digging behavior.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog
640px-Anatolian_Shepherd_Dog

Jon Mountjoy, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

3. Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Anatolian Shepherd Dogs are intelligent, protective, and independent, traits developed for their original role as livestock guardians, which could motivate them to escape from an inadequately secure enclosure.

Suitable Fence Types for Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Considering their size and propensity for independence, sturdy and tall structures like wood, vinyl, composite, or wrought iron fences are recommended.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Anatolian Shepherd Dog

These robust fences are necessary due to the breed's size and strength. A tall, solid fence limits visual stimuli, helping to reduce their motivation to escape and protect perceived territory.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These sturdy, high fences can effectively contain an Anatolian Shepherd Dog, limit their view of external stimuli, and withstand their strength, helping to maintain a secure environment.

Cons: Installing and maintaining these types of fences can be costly. The dog may become frustrated if they are keen to explore beyond the fence, potentially leading to unwanted behaviors.

Pro Tips: Provide ample exercise and mental stimulation to reduce their desire to roam. Regularly check the fence for signs of attempted escape.

Bernese Mountain Dog

4. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, friendly, and calm but can be a bit aloof, and their size can be an issue when considering fence structure and height.

Suitable Fence Types for Bernese Mountain Dog

Sturdy and tall fences such as wood, vinyl, or composite are highly recommended due to their substantial size and strength.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Bernese Mountain Dog

These fence types offer the necessary strength and height to accommodate a Bernese Mountain Dog's size. Their solid structure can prevent this large breed from accidentally damaging or knocking over the fence.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fences are robust and resilient, offering great containment for larger dogs. They also provide good privacy and can discourage the dog from attempting to jump or push the fence.

Cons: These types of fences can be quite expensive to install and maintain. Also, if the Bernese Mountain Dog feels isolated or bored, they might resort to chewing or digging under the fence.

Pro Tips: Regularly check for signs of digging. Keep your Bernese Mountain Dog mentally stimulated to prevent boredom.

Black Russian Terrier

5. Black Russian Terrier

Black Russian Terriers are large, powerful dogs known for their protective and intelligent nature. Despite their size, they can be surprisingly agile, often capable of climbing or jumping over improperly secured barriers.

Suitable Fence Types for Black Russian Terrier

High, robust fencing such as a wooden privacy fence or a sturdy vinyl fence would be suitable for Black Russian Terriers.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Black Russian Terrier

These types of fences provide a physical and visual barrier that helps to contain the Black Russian Terrier within the property, and prevents them from becoming overly protective at the sight of strangers or other animals.

Pros: Wooden or vinyl fences are strong, durable, and provide the necessary visual barrier to keep the Black Russian Terrier's protective instincts in check. These fences also reduce the chance of the dog attempting to jump or climb over.

Cons: These fence types may require a significant investment and regular maintenance. Some Black Russian Terriers may also try to dig under the fence, requiring measures to prevent digging at the base.

Pro Tips: Regular training and socialization can help to manage the Black Russian Terrier's protective instincts. Always check for signs of attempted escape or digging near the fence.

Bloodhound
Bloodhound

Flickr user SuperFantastic, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

6. Bloodhound

Bloodhounds are known for their keen sense of smell, incredible tracking abilities, and a somewhat stubborn nature. They are often seen as tenacious pursuers, which could lead them to wander if scents catch their interest.

Suitable Fence Types for Bloodhound

Wood, vinyl, or composite fences would be suitable for this breed as they provide a solid barrier that prevents the dog from being visually attracted to distractions outside the fenced area.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Bloodhound

Bloodhounds, due to their superior tracking skills, can get easily distracted by intriguing scents. A solid fence like wood, vinyl, or composite can help minimize visual distractions and block access to tempting scents, making them less likely to attempt to escape.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Solid fences like wood, vinyl, and composite offer good visual barriers and are sturdy enough to prevent escape attempts. They also add an element of privacy to your yard.

Cons: These fence types can be more expensive and require regular maintenance to prevent decay. Bloodhounds are known to dig, so a secure bottom edge is necessary to prevent escape attempts.

Pro Tips: Consider burying the bottom of the fence into the ground to discourage digging. Also, regularly inspect the fence for any potential escape points.

Boerboel
Boerboel

Smok Bazyli, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

7. Boerboel

Boerboels are known for their muscular build, protective instincts, and high energy. They are smart and strong, capable of overcoming weak barriers if they feel the need to roam or protect their territory.

Suitable Fence Types for Boerboel

Considering their strength and size, sturdy and high fences like wood or wrought iron are recommended for Boerboels.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Boerboel

These fence types are robust enough to handle the size and strength of a Boerboel. The height of these fences can deter attempts to jump over, while their sturdiness can withstand any pushing or leaning from the dog.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Wood and wrought iron fences are strong, durable, and provide an effective physical barrier for the powerful Boerboel. High fences also help to keep the dog's territorial instincts in check.

Cons: These fence types can be costly and require regular maintenance. Boerboels, due to their intelligence, may attempt to dig under the fence if they are determined to get out.

Pro Tips: Provide mental and physical stimulation for your Boerboel to discourage escape attempts. Regular inspections for any signs of digging or damage to the fence are also recommended.

Borzoi

8. Borzoi

Borzois are sighthounds, known for their speed and sharp eyesight, and they are inclined to chase anything that moves. Their size and agile nature require secure and substantial fencing.

Suitable Fence Types for Borzoi

Due to the Borzoi's tendency to chase and speed, a high fence made of wood, composite, or vinyl is recommended. It needs to be sturdy and at least six feet tall to prevent jumping over.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Borzoi

High solid fences provide the necessary physical barrier to keep a Borzoi from pursuing distractions. Wood, composite, or vinyl fences limit the visual stimuli that might incite the dog to chase.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fences are effective at containing the Borzoi within a yard and restricting their view, reducing the likelihood of them being tempted to chase after something.

Cons: These fence types can be costly and require regular maintenance. Some Borzois might attempt to dig under the fence, so checking regularly for signs of such behavior is necessary.

Pro Tips: Ensure the fence is sturdy and secure at all points, regularly check for signs of digging, and provide ample exercise and mental stimulation.

Bullmastiff
688px-Bullmastiff_edited

Fausto Moreno, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

9. Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are large, brave, and calm dogs with protective instincts, making proper fencing a key aspect of their safety and containment.

Suitable Fence Types for Bullmastiff

Tall and robust fences like wood, vinyl, or wrought iron are the best options for this strong, large breed.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Bullmastiff

These fence types are sturdy enough to stand up to a Bullmastiff's size and strength. Also, their height helps to ensure the dog can't leap over them.

Pros and Cons

Pros: The durability of these fences matches the Bullmastiff's strength, providing secure containment. Their height also discourages jumping over attempts.

Cons: Bullmastiffs can be determined and may test the fence for weak spots. Large dogs like this can cause significant damage if they decide to chew or dig.

Pro Tips: Ensure the fence has no weak spots. Regular exercise and mental stimulation can reduce potential destructive behaviors.

10. Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are a robust and powerful breed, highly protective with a dominant nature that requires strong and high fencing for containment.

Suitable Fence Types for Cane Corso

Durable and tall fences such as wrought iron, wood, or vinyl are most suitable for this strong and sizable breed.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Cane Corso

These types of fences are capable of withstanding the Cane Corso's strength and size. Their height and solidity ensure that this energetic breed stays safely enclosed.

Pros and Cons

Pros: High and sturdy fences discourage jumping and are resilient against the breed's potential to push or charge. These materials are also relatively resistant to chewing or gnawing.

Cons: Some Cane Corsos may attempt to dig under the fence, especially if bored or under-stimulated. Regular maintenance is required to ensure no potential escape routes are created.

Pro Tips: Regularly inspect and maintain the fence. Provide your Cane Corso with enough exercise and mental stimulation to discourage destructive behavior.

Dogo Argentino

11. Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino is a powerful, courageous breed known for its athletic prowess and protective instincts. They are intelligent and determined, which may lead to escape attempts if bored or insufficiently stimulated.

Suitable Fence Types for Dogo Argentino

A strong, durable fence such as wood, vinyl, or wrought iron would be suitable for a Dogo Argentino, considering their strength and determination.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Dogo Argentino

Wood, vinyl, and wrought iron fences are sturdy enough to withstand the Dogo Argentino's power and potential digging or jumping. These fences also provide privacy, which can help minimize territorial behavior triggered by outside stimuli.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types are robust, durable, and provide a significant barrier to contain a Dogo Argentino. Privacy fences can also help reduce barking triggers and maintain a peaceful environment.

Cons: The cost and maintenance of these fences can be high. Also, given the breed's intelligence and determination, they may attempt to dig under if not properly trained or stimulated.

Pro Tips: Provide ample mental and physical exercise for your Dogo Argentino, and check the fence line regularly for signs of digging or other escape attempts.

12. Dogue de Bordeaux (French Mastiff)

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a powerful and muscular breed with a calm and gentle disposition towards their family but can be protective when required. This breed is not typically a jumper, but its size and strength necessitate a sturdy containment system.

Suitable Fence Types for Dogue de Bordeaux

Given their strength, a solid wood, vinyl, or composite fence would be an appropriate choice.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Dogue de Bordeaux

Wood, vinyl, or composite fences are sturdy enough to withstand any leaning or pushing from the Dogue de Bordeaux. These fences also provide a barrier that limits visual stimuli, reducing any territorial behavior.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types are robust, offering a barrier that can withstand the Dogue de Bordeaux's size and strength. The limited visibility helps to keep the dog calm and prevents them from becoming overstimulated by external activities.

Cons: These fences can be more expensive and require regular maintenance. A bored or unstimulated Dogue de Bordeaux may resort to destructive behavior, potentially damaging the fence.

Pro Tips: Regular exercise and mental stimulation are key to keeping a Dogue de Bordeaux happy and less likely to damage the fence. Regularly inspect the fence for any potential weak points.

English Mastiff
688px-Luga_English_Mastiff

Fotosuabe, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

13. English Mastiff

English Mastiffs are known for their giant size and calm, gentle demeanor, which might contrast with their formidable appearance. Although they are not typically escape artists, their sheer size can make containment a challenge.

Suitable Fence Types for English Mastiff

The best fence types for an English Mastiff are sturdy ones like wood, composite, or vinyl. They should be tall and robust to accommodate the breed's size and strength.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for English Mastiff

Wood, composite, and vinyl fences are sturdy and resilient, able to withstand the English Mastiff's size. Additionally, these fence types provide a solid barrier which helps deter the dog from trying to escape, as they cannot see beyond it.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types provide a high level of security, keeping the dog safely contained. A solid fence also prevents the dog from becoming overly excited by stimuli outside the yard.

Cons: While sturdy fences are beneficial, they can be more expensive and require maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. Also, if the dog becomes scared or anxious, they might attempt to chew through these materials.

Pro Tips: Check the fence regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Also, ensure the gate latches securely to prevent accidental escapes.

Goldendoodle playing in yard

14. Goldendoodle

Goldendoodles are a highly energetic and intelligent breed that require plenty of exercise. They have a friendly disposition and are not known to be escape artists, but they do enjoy exploring and playing.

Suitable Fence Types for Goldendoodle

Considering their size and temperament, a strong wood or vinyl fence would work well for this breed.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Goldendoodle

Wood or vinyl fences are sturdy and can effectively contain this active breed during their playful moments. These fences also provide a barrier to limit distractions that may otherwise overstimulate the Goldendoodle.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Wood or vinyl fences are sturdy and can withstand the Goldendoodle's playful nature. The limited visibility can help reduce distractions and keep them focused on their own yard.

Cons: Goldendoodles can become bored easily due to their intelligence, and if left unstimulated, they may resort to destructive behavior, potentially damaging the fence.

Pro Tips: Ensure your Goldendoodle gets plenty of physical and mental exercise to prevent them from becoming bored and damaging the fence. Always keep an eye out for potential weak points.

Great Dane

15. Great Dane

Great Danes, despite their imposing size, are friendly and gentle dogs, although their significant height means they can easily overcome standard fences.

Suitable Fence Types for Great Dane

Tall and sturdy fence types such as wrought iron, composite or tall wooden fences are best for this breed.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Great Dane

Given their size and strength, Great Danes require tall and robust fences. These fence types prevent them from jumping over or pushing through the barrier.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fences offer high durability and safety, preventing the dog from escaping while providing a solid barrier against external stimuli.

Cons: These fence types can be expensive and may block the view, which might not be preferred by some owners. Regular maintenance may also be required, particularly for wooden fences.

Pro Tips: Ensure the fence is at least 6 feet tall to prevent escape. Regular inspection for potential damage is recommended.

Great Pyrenees

16. Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrenees are large, gentle, and protective dogs, known for their instinctive behavior to roam and guard large territories.

Suitable Fence Types for Great Pyrenees

High and sturdy fence types such as wrought iron, composite, or wood are recommended due to the breed's size and roaming tendencies.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Great Pyrenees

These fence types are robust and high enough to prevent the Great Pyrenees from jumping over or digging under. They address the breed's instinctive desire to wander and secure their space.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fences provide necessary confinement for this roaming breed and are durable against the breed's size and strength.

Cons: These fence types can be costly, and some require regular maintenance. Additionally, the breed's intelligence might lead them to discover escape points over time.

Pro Tips: Ensure the fence is minimum 6 feet high, regularly inspect for possible escape points, and fix promptly.

17. Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants, known for their calm and friendly nature. Their sheer size and innate curiosity can lead to interactions with fences.

Suitable Fence Types for Irish Wolfhound

Recommended fence types include wood, composite, or vinyl fencing, all of which should be sturdy and tall.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Irish Wolfhound

These fence types provide the necessary height to prevent this tall breed from jumping over, and are sturdy enough to withstand their size. Solid fences also restrict visibility, reducing possible distractions.

Pros and Cons

Pros: A tall, sturdy fence can effectively contain an Irish Wolfhound, ensuring their safety. Solid fences also limit visual stimuli that could encourage jumping or running.

Cons: These fence types can be expensive to install and maintain. Also, considering the dog's size, any potential weak spot can become a breakout point.

Pro Tips: A minimum height of 6 feet is recommended. Regularly inspect the fence for potential damage and reinforce weak areas promptly.

Komondor

800px-Komondor_male_01

Sagaciousphil, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

18. Komondor

Komondors are protective and territorial, naturally bred for guarding livestock. They are large dogs with a strong instinct to wander and patrol their territory.

Suitable Fence Types for Komondor

Given the Komondor's size and guarding instinct, a high and sturdy fence made of wood, vinyl, or composite is recommended. It should be at least six feet tall to prevent the dog from jumping over.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Komondor

Solid and high fences are suitable for Komondors because they keep the dog contained, and they limit their view of potential threats or distractions outside the yard, thereby reducing their urge to patrol.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types effectively contain the Komondor and restrict their view, thus reducing their desire to guard and wander.

Cons: These fence materials can be expensive, and they require regular maintenance. Also, Komondors may attempt to dig under fences, requiring regular checks for digging attempts.

Pro Tips: Ensure the fence's integrity regularly, watch for signs of digging, and provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation to keep the Komondor happy.

Kuvasz dog looking at a chicken in the morning light

19. Kuvasz

The Kuvasz is a fiercely loyal and protective breed, originally bred for guarding livestock. They are intelligent and independent, which can result in a tendency to roam if not properly contained.

Suitable Fence Types for Kuvasz

Considering their size and the nature of their breed, a durable and high fence such as vinyl or wood is recommended.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Kuvasz

Vinyl and wood fences are strong enough to withstand the Kuvasz's attempts at escape and high enough to prevent them from jumping over. The privacy provided by these fence types also reduces visual stimuli that may trigger their guarding instincts.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types are robust and offer sufficient height to contain a Kuvasz. The privacy they provide helps in preventing unnecessary barking or aggression triggered by external stimuli.

Cons: Vinyl and wood fences can be expensive to install and require regular maintenance. Also, the Kuvasz's intelligent and independent nature may still lead them to find ways to escape if they are not properly trained and mentally stimulated.

Pro Tips: Provide your Kuvasz with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation to curb their roaming tendencies. Regularly check the fence for any signs of damage or escape attempts.

20. Labradoodle

Labradoodles are known for their friendly and energetic disposition. They are intelligent dogs who love to play and explore but are not typically prone to escape attempts.

Suitable Fence Types for Labradoodle

Given their size and active nature, sturdy and secure fence types such as wood or vinyl are recommended.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Labradoodle

Wood and vinyl fences provide both visibility restriction and secure containment. Labradoodles, being high-energy dogs, require a sturdy fence to withstand their activity level.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Wood and vinyl fences are robust and durable, able to withstand the Labradoodle's active nature. These fences also help to limit external distractions, keeping the dog focused on its own yard.

Cons: Given the Labradoodle's intelligence and high energy levels, there may be a risk of destructive behavior if they get bored, potentially damaging the fence.

Pro Tips: Ensure your Labradoodle gets ample physical and mental exercise to mitigate potential boredom. Regularly inspect the fence for any signs of wear or potential weak points.

Leonberger

21. Leonberger

Leonbergers are large, friendly, and obedient dogs, with an adventurous streak, which could lead them to roam if given the opportunity.

Suitable Fence Types for Leonberger

Wood, vinyl, or composite fences are recommended for their robustness, height, and the visual barrier they provide.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Leonberger

These types of fences can stand up to the Leonberger's size and strength, while also reducing their visual temptations to explore beyond their yard.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fences are durable and high enough to deter jumping, and the visual barrier helps to curtail the breed's instinct to roam.

Cons: These fence types can be expensive to install and require regular maintenance. They may also obstruct views, which some homeowners might not prefer.

Pro Tips: Ensure the fence is at least 6 feet high and consider reinforcing the bottom to prevent digging.

Newfoundland

22. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are gentle giants known for their calm and friendly temperament, though their large size can pose a challenge to certain fence types.

Suitable Fence Types for Newfoundland

Given their size, wood, vinyl, or composite fences are most suitable as they provide the necessary strength and height.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Newfoundland

These fences are sturdy enough to withstand the size and strength of a Newfoundland, and their height discourages attempts to jump over.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types provide a secure barrier that is tall and strong enough for this large breed, ensuring their safety within the boundaries.

Cons: Wood, vinyl, or composite fences can be relatively expensive and require regular maintenance. They can also limit visibility for both the dog and owners.

Pro Tips: Ensure the fence is over 5 feet high. Regularly inspect for any damage due to the Newfoundland's size.

Old English Sheepdog

733px-Old_English_Sheepdog-Nana

Photograph © Andrew Dunn, 25 December 2005. {{cc-by-sa-2.0}}

23. Old English Sheepdog

This breed is energetic, playful, and has a natural tendency to herd, often leading to chasing behaviors. Old English Sheepdogs can be determined when bored and may attempt to dig or jump over fences.

Suitable Fence Types for Old English Sheepdog

The best fence types are wood, vinyl, or composite due to their durability and height options.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Old English Sheepdog

These fences are sturdy and can be built high, preventing the Old English Sheepdog from jumping over. They also resist the dog's potential digging or chewing attempts.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types provide security by effectively containing the Old English Sheepdog and also offer privacy which may reduce external distractions that could cause excessive barking.

Cons: The downside of these fence types is the higher cost of installation and maintenance. Additionally, these fences limit visibility, potentially leading to feelings of isolation for the dog.

Pro Tips: Fence height should be at least 5 feet. Keep the dog mentally stimulated to discourage destructive behavior.

Saint Bernard

24. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are calm and friendly, but their sheer size and strength require sturdy barriers. They are not known for being escape artists, but an insufficiently robust fence could be accidentally damaged.

Suitable Fence Types for Saint Bernard

Given their size, recommended fence types for Saint Bernards are wood, vinyl, or composite, which can be built high and strong enough to ensure their containment.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Saint Bernard

These fences are sturdy enough to withstand the size and strength of a Saint Bernard. They also create a visual barrier, which can be useful to prevent the dog from becoming overly interested in outside stimuli.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types are robust and durable, capable of withstanding the physical impact of a large breed. They also provide the necessary height to prevent accidental breaches.

Cons: Given their strength and height, these fences can be costly to install and maintain. Wood fences will require routine maintenance to prevent rot and other weather-related damage.

Pro Tips: Ensure the fence is sturdy and at least 5 feet tall. Check regularly for signs of wear or damage.

Samoyed

25. Samoyed

Samoyeds are known for their friendly and playful nature, often combined with a high level of intelligence and some stubbornness. They are agile jumpers and climbers, and some can be diggers.

Suitable Fence Types for Samoyed

Considering their climbing and jumping abilities, it is recommended to use a high wooden, vinyl, or composite fence for Samoyeds.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Samoyed

These types of fences provide a physical and visual barrier, which is important for Samoyeds as they can be easily distracted by outside stimuli. The high and sturdy nature of these fences also counteracts their jumping ability.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types are robust, high enough to prevent jumping over, and offer no footholds to discourage climbing. They also provide a visual barrier, limiting distractions.

Cons: Such fences can be more expensive to install and maintain than simpler fence types. Furthermore, if your Samoyed is a determined digger, you might need to consider additional safeguards at the base of the fence.

Pro Tips: For digging Samoyeds, consider an L-footer or burying the base of the fence. Regularly inspect the fence for signs of attempted escapes.

Scottish Deerhound

SONY DSC

Canarian, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

26. Scottish Deerhound

Scottish Deerhounds are friendly and gentle dogs with a strong instinct to chase, owing to their history as hunting dogs. They can be high jumpers and are quite swift when running.

Suitable Fence Types for Scottish Deerhound

A tall, sturdy fence like chain link or wood is recommended for this breed. The fence should ideally be 6 feet or higher to prevent the dog from jumping over it.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Scottish Deerhound

These types of fences can withstand the size and strength of a Scottish Deerhound. The height of the fence discourages the dog from attempting to jump over it, even if it sees something interesting on the other side.

Pros and Cons

Pros: A strong, tall fence will provide the necessary containment for this large, swift breed. It helps to keep the dog safe and prevents it from chasing after objects or animals outside the yard.

Cons: These fences can be quite costly to install and maintain. Additionally, a dog might attempt to dig under the fence, which requires regular inspections and possible reinforcements at the base.

Pro Tips: Consistent training from a young age can help curb the Deerhound's instinct to jump fences. Regular exercise is also crucial to expend energy and minimize escape attempts.

Tibetan Mastiff

640px-The_Tibetan_Mastiff_at_our_Hostel

timquijano from Peking, People's Republic, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

27. Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiffs are a giant breed known for their independence, protective nature, and high intelligence. They were historically bred as guard dogs, and they have a strong tendency to roam and protect their territory.

Suitable Fence Types for Tibetan Mastiff

Sturdy, high fences such as wrought iron, wood, or vinyl are recommended due to their size, strength, and tendency to wander.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiffs are known to jump over or even climb fences if they aren't high and sturdy enough. The recommended materials provide both the strength to resist their size and the height to prevent escape. Solid fences, like wood or vinyl, also restrict the dog's view and reduce the chance they'll be enticed to escape.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These materials are strong and durable, providing secure containment for this large, strong breed. Solid fences also reduce visual stimuli that might lead to barking or attempts to escape.

Cons: These fence types can be expensive to install and maintain. If not well maintained, the Tibetan Mastiff may take advantage of any weak points to escape.

Pro Tips: Ensure your fence is at least 6 feet tall and check regularly for signs of attempted escape or damage. Always secure gates with high-quality latches.

Tosa inu dog

Tosa Inu

Lilly M, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

28. Tosa Inu

The Tosa Inu is a large, quiet breed known for its bravery and protective instincts. Despite their generally calm demeanor, they are strong and determined, which can result in escape attempts if their environment doesn't stimulate them enough.

Suitable Fence Types for Tosa Inu

Considering their size and strength, a robust, durable fence such as wood, vinyl, or wrought iron is highly recommended for a Tosa Inu.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Tosa Inu

Wood, vinyl, and wrought iron fences are sturdy enough to withstand the Tosa Inu's potential for escape through digging or jumping. These fences also provide a level of privacy that helps reduce external stimuli that may incite territorial behavior.

Pros and Cons

Pros: These fence types provide a strong barrier to contain a Tosa Inu and the privacy helps in reducing triggers for barking and maintaining a peaceful environment.

Cons: These fencing options can be expensive and require regular maintenance. Additionally, due to the Tosa Inu's determination and intelligence, they may attempt to dig under the fence if not properly trained and mentally stimulated.

Pro Tips: Ensure your Tosa Inu has plenty of mental and physical stimulation, and regularly inspect your fence line for any signs of escape attempts.

Weimaraner

29. Weimaraner

Weimaraners are known for their energy, intelligence, and desire to be active, necessitating secure fencing for safe play and exercise. Their high jump capability and curiosity make fence selection critical.

Suitable Fence Types for Weimaraner

High, solid fences made of wood, vinyl, or composite materials are recommended for Weimaraners. These fences provide adequate containment for this active and athletic breed.

Why Recommended Fence Types Work for Weimaraner

Weimaraners are known to be quite athletic with a high jump and climb capability. Solid, high fences like those made from wood, vinyl, or composite materials can effectively contain them, and also limit visual distractions that may stimulate escape attempts.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Solid fences provide a visual barrier, reducing distractions and the likelihood of escape attempts. They're also durable and can withstand the energy of a Weimaraner.

Cons: Solid fences can be expensive and require regular maintenance. Intelligent breeds like Weimaraners may try to find weak points in the fence or dig underneath it.

Pro Tips: Combine physical fencing with regular exercise and mental stimulation. Regularly inspect your fence for any signs of damage or digging attempts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should I consider when choosing a fence for my large breed dog?

When choosing a fence for your large breed dog, consider factors such as the dog's size, temperament, the size of your property, local weather conditions, the aesthetic appeal of the fence, privacy, and your budget.

What type of fence is suitable for an Akita?

Given their size and strength, recommended fence types for Akitas include sturdy and tall structures like wooden, vinyl, or wrought iron fences that are at least six feet high.

What type of fence is recommended for an Alaskan Malamute?

Considering their size, energy, and propensity to dig and climb, the recommended fence types for Alaskan Malamutes are tall, sturdy structures such as wooden or vinyl fences, with added measures against digging like an underground wire or concrete footer.

What type of fence is recommended for an Anatolian Shepherd Dog?

Considering their size and propensity for independence, sturdy and tall structures like wood, vinyl, composite, or wrought iron fences are recommended for Anatolian Shepherd Dogs.

What type of fence is recommended for a Bernese Mountain Dog?

Sturdy and tall fences such as wood, vinyl, or composite are highly recommended due to the substantial size and strength of Bernese Mountain Dogs.

What are the benefits of reinforced wood fences for large dogs?

The metal reinforcement provides an extra layer of strength to the wooden fence, making it more resistant to wear and tear caused by large dogs. They also prevent climbing and digging and provide excellent sound insulation. Wood fences can also be painted or stained to any color, fitting the aesthetic needs of your home.

What are the drawbacks of reinforced wood fences for large dogs?

Wood fences require regular maintenance like painting, staining, or sealing to prevent decay and damage. Compared to other materials, reinforced wood fences may have a higher upfront cost. Over time, wooden fences can splinter, which could potentially cause injury to your dog.

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