Fenced and Electric Yards: Ensuring Safe and Calm Outdoor Time for Dogs

Sylvia Koczerzuk Koczerzuk Author

Aug 24, 2024 |

Why Backyards Are Not Babysitters for Dogs

For many dog owners, having a fenced yard or an electric fence seems like the perfect solution to give their pets some freedom while ensuring their safety. While these barriers can offer peace of mind and a convenient space for exercise, they are not without their challenges, particularly when it comes to leaving young or new dogs unsupervised.

Understanding the Pros and Cons of Fences and Electric Fences

Traditional Fences:

• Pros:

  • Physical Barrier: Provides a clear, visible boundary that keeps dogs from wandering off or encountering dangers like traffic.

  • Security: Helps keep intruders (both human and animal) out of your yard, contributing to overall backyard dog safety.

  • Peace of Mind: Owners can let their dogs out without having to leash them every time, promoting safe dog outdoor activities.

• Cons:

  • Climbing or Digging: Some dogs may climb over or dig under traditional fences, especially if left alone for long periods.

  • Restricted Socialization: Dogs may develop frustration or reactivity towards people or animals passing by, leading to problematic behaviours like fence running or excessive barking.

  • Unsupervised Time: Dogs left alone may engage in undesirable behaviours, such as hunting small animals or digging up the yard, which highlights why a backyard is not a babysitter for dogs.

Electric Fences:

• Pros:

  • Invisible Boundary: Allows for a more open appearance without physical barriers, which some homeowners prefer.

  • Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than building a traditional fence, making it a practical solution for dog backyard safety.

  • Flexibility: Can be installed in various locations, even on irregular terrain, accommodating different yard types.

• Cons:

  • No Physical Barrier: Other animals or people can still enter the yard, posing a risk to your dog.

  • Pain and Fear: Electric shocks can cause pain or fear, potentially leading to anxiety or aggression in dogs, impacting overall dog training in the yard.

  • Limited Effectiveness: Determined dogs may push through the barrier if the motivation is strong enough, risking their safety and highlighting the need for supervision.

Backyards Are Not Babysitters for Dogs

While both types of fences can provide a certain level of freedom, it’s crucial to remember that a fenced yard, regardless of its type, should not be seen as a substitute for supervision, especially for young dogs or those new to your home. Leaving a dog alone in the yard might seem harmless, but it can lead to the development of natural but undesirable predatory behaviours, such as hunting, chasing, and catching small animals.

While our dogs are indeed predators by nature, encouraging these instincts in a controlled, urban or suburban environment can lead to frustration and behavioural issues. Allowing a dog to engage in these activities unsupervised can result in them becoming "addicted" to the thrill of the chase, making it increasingly difficult to counteract these behaviours once they’ve taken root.

Preventing Unwanted Predatory Behaviour in Dogs

Imagine a dog that has spent hours alone in the backyard, hunting squirrels, birds, or even neighbourhood cats. This behaviour not only puts the wildlife at risk but also reinforces a cycle of arousal and adrenaline that can lead to more severe issues, such as aggression or the dog refusing to respond to recall commands. Additionally, the thrill of the hunt can become so deeply ingrained that it overshadows other training or bonding experiences you’re trying to cultivate.

For dogs in working farm environments, where hunting or herding is a necessary part of their role, these behaviours might be desirable. However, for the average pet owner, these activities can lead to significant challenges, both in terms of managing the dog's behaviour and maintaining harmony in the neighbourhood.

Teaching Calmness in the Backyard

An often overlooked but highly valuable skill is teaching your dog how to be calm in the backyard. Introducing a "chill out" routine or command can help your dog learn to relax and enjoy the space without becoming over-stimulated by every sound or movement. Start by practicing calm behaviours like lying down on a mat, offering treats for quiet moments, and gradually building up to longer periods of calmness. This not only prevents undesirable behaviours but also helps your dog associate the backyard with relaxation rather than constant excitement.

By creating a structured environment where calmness is rewarded, you can prevent the backyard from becoming a place where your dog feels the need to be constantly on high alert. This approach not only reduces stress for your dog but also contributes to a more peaceful home environment overall.

Conclusion

Yards with fences, whether traditional or electric, can be a valuable resource for dog owners, offering a space for exercise and fresh air. However, they should never be viewed as a substitute for active supervision, particularly for young or new dogs in the household. By understanding the potential risks, teaching your dog to be calm, and taking steps to prevent undesirable behaviours from developing, you can ensure that your yard remains a safe and positive environment for your dog.

Categories: : dog training, dogtrainingtip, fences, backyard fences when you have a dog