diy easy dog fence

DIY Dog Fence Ideas and Installation Tips: 6 Best Cheap Designs

The best way to build a cheap dog fence is to DIY it! So thats why we compiled a guide to help you design the perfect DIY dog fence for your home. You could be looking for a permanent fence or for a temporary solution. Your costs and material choices will depend on that, and we offer ideas on both types of installation. We also discuss portable fences for setting up quick dog runs, inexpensive options to keep dogs out of gardens and innovative ideas to prevent digging under the fence. Theyll all work with any budget!

6 Cheap Dog Fence Ideas (DIY is the cheapest way)

Please note some building materials may cost very little but they usually dont last. So be reasonable about the costs!

DIY aside, building a fence using PVC or metal mesh are some of the cheapest (and fastest) ways to go, in our opinion, unless you have decorative or legal concerns.

Nevertheless, this guide includes a total of 6 different inexpensive DIY options to build a dog fence that suits your unique needs and preferences, plus some tips on how to install it right, for the best benefit of the dog and its owners. Under each option, youll find lots of inspirational photos that will help you create the ideal fencing solution for your pet.

PVC deer block netting is the cheapest option and works especially well as a temporary fence. We know youre stylish, so even if youre opting for the most inexpensive ideas there are still highly desirable design options that will look great in your yard.

Metal wire fences (Welded Wire Mesh and Chain Link) are a great option for more permanent installations even if youre concerned about decorative features. You can build a sturdy and affordable DIY metal dog fence. Nowadays, there are so many design options available you can be certain there is a beautiful dog fence waiting for you.

Welded wire fencing is another option that frequently pops up in dog fence design. It is great for homeowners who want to include design accents for added flair!

Chain link fences have come a long way over the years and are much more decorative than they used to be, without obstructing your view of the neighborhood.

Poultry netting is great for small dogs and to keep your pets out of the garden.

DIY electric conduit pipe (EMT) fences are suitable for some families and we have included some beautiful options that would work well in any yard.

Wood pallet fences are cheap and you can sometimes find pallets for free, which makes them the ultimate in affordable fencing options but they may not have an adequate decorative appeal.

Building Tips

If you decide to build yourself, we have included tips for incorporating decorative and functional dog fence windows that will keep your pet from going stir crazy without a view.

When you build a dog fence, its always important to consider factors like digging and jumping. If your dog is the digging type, we have included suggestions that will prevent your dog from digging under the fence and if your pet is the high-flying type, there are also options to extend existing fences and gates that will stop your dog from jumping over.

We love our animals and want to protect them from harm, but sometimes, we also want to protect our hard work and plant life. Thats why we made sure this guide has options for those of you who need ideas for keeping the dog out of your garden. (Perhaps the dog fence might prevent local deer from stopping by for a snack too!)

We also made sure to include temporary and portable dog fences that can easily be assembled, disassembled and moved.

Use PVC Deer Block Netting for Dog Fences (the cheapest option)

Without a doubt the easiest and most affordable dog fence idea is to use PVC deer block netting. DIY dog fences made of PVC are inexpensive and highly flexible. The portable fences are easy to disassemble, simply take the PVC off the roll and pull out the stakes and store it until needed again. Making them perfect for temporary usage.

Most builders opt for green metal fence posts from the hardware store, but there are many different stakes you can use to create your dog fence enclosure. All you have to do is hammer them into the ground and spread the mesh while attaching it to the posts. Use zip-ties if you must. The longevity of the materials means youll have a high quality fence that will keep your dog in and other creatures out.

We suggest you consult your local hardware store on which PVC gauge is strong enough to fence in a dog. But heres one inexpensive example that could fit the need 7 ft. x 100 ft. Deer Block Netting.

Fence Kits

The above enclosure was installed using the Benners Best Friend Dog Fence which unlike many kits, does not include an electric shock. The humane fencing ensures your dogs safety, while still providing the freedom to run and play in the designated area. The polypropylene plastic fencing is UV light resistant, high-strength and the quality is unsurpassed. This is the perfect DIY project for creating a movable dog fence or a permanent enclosure.

Source and to buy such kits at bestfriendfence.com.

Fence Posts

This post option from Everbilt (as shown on image above) is the perfect solution for gardeners who want to contain their dog, but also protect their garden. The green powder coating has a subtle appearance that wont detract from your beautiful garden view and the durable material maintains its look in all types of climates. The Everbilt 1 in. x 3 in. x 7 ft. Green Steel U Fence Post is easy to install and is a dependable and affordable option for those who dont want to break the bank on fencing materials.

One of the most popular DIY dog fence ideas is a metal wire fence. Building a wire fence for dogs is a straight forward process and doesnt require any hard to find tools. Most materials can be picked up from your local home improvement store in one visit and can be installed the same day! In this category, the most commonly available are the Welded Wire Fences and the Chain Link Fences. They are sturdy, affordable and easy to install. If youre looking for a project that is relatively simple to complete, look no further.

Use Welded Wire Mesh as Dog Fence

They come in different gauges and made from durable galvanized steel. See cost examples on this simple 14-Gauge Steel Welded Wire (great for small dogs) and this Green PVC Coated 16-Gauge Welded Wire (would be my choice for a larger dog). If youre looking for a quick and affordable way to fence in our yard for an adopted puppy, this could be it.

DIY welded wire mesh dog fences are a reliable means for keeping your dog contained, while also adding clean lines to your property without looking overdone.

The easiest way to install your DIY welded mesh dog fence is by using metal stakes. The size of your yard or the enclosure you intend to create will determine how much fencing you need and how many stakes are required and their placement.

Installation of metal stakes and wire fencing is a breeze! Once you have the stakes, metal wiring and a hammer, you have everything you need to safely and securely protect your pet. See how Sarah did it atsarahsbigidea.com(shown above).

Here is an example of how a metal mesh is installed. If youre looking for an inexpensive way to build a fence that still looks great, consider opting for wooden stakes or panels for a polished and permanent looking fixture. See the installation stepsat simplyorganized.me.

The end result is a secure and durable fence that is functional, but also looks great. Depending on your work speed it can even be completed within a few hours!

We love this simple wire dog fence idea. Similar to the one above, intricate wire fencing at the bottom prevents dogs from digging their way out of the yard. The height also means nimble animals wont be able to jump over it either. Find more info at dhgate.com.

Most dogs are content with being behind a wire dog fence because their view of the surroundings is unobstructed. Wire fencing lets dogs and people alike feel like theyre still enjoying the great outdoors with spacious views of nature without feeling boxed in.

Above is a wonderful example of simple and effective fencing. Perfect for homeowners who dont want to fuss around with decision making or installation!

Welded wire dog fences like the one pictured below, are also a great idea thats relatively easy to install on your own or with a family member. You can purchase the welded wire in a roll, available in multiple sizes from small to large and rest easy knowing your pet is secured in a durable and reliable enclosure that will last for years.

Another great benefit of wire fencing is that you can easily separate animals (see picture above). Whether you have multiple dogs that need separation or other animals that need to be kept apart, wire fencing is an inexpensive option that can serve multiple uses.

Secure fencing doesnt have to cost an arm and a leg! If you have a litter of puppies to protect, consider boxing them in with affordable backyard wire and basic fencing materials. You can rest easy knowing your puppies are safe and sound, but still have lots of room to play and grow with a wire fenced area such as this one above.

One great thing that both you and your animal can enjoy with wire fencing is the view! Of course when building a fence, safety is always the main priority, but your animals will thank you for the ability to see through the fencing when you opt for a wire fence. Wire fencing with wooden stakes still provides a sophisticated look, while keeping animals from escaping and allowing them to take in their surroundings.

We love the details added to this fence. An intricate design, cross hatching, or lattice fence toppers can be a great way to add some flair to a simple welded wire fence. Take a look around at your local hardware store and get creative by combining different ideas for a truly unique look!

This rustic looking wood and wire fence (shown above) is reminiscent of something you would see at a ranch and looks great as a divider. If youve got a lot of land or if you just want to keep your four-legged friends off the grass and away from harm, this folksy style of fence could be the perfect solution. You can obtain a Pressure-Treated Pine Split Fence Rail of similar design from Home Depot.

A gate is a smart idea to include in your fence, especially if youre creating more of a pen to contain your animals. Tall fencing will prevent them from escaping as well as protect from other local animals and the gate provides easy and convenient access while giving your fencing a polished and complete look.

Many people overlook the opportunity to be creative with their fencing. Though it is mostly a functional addition to your home, it can still be a design feature that adds to your landscaping and is a nod to your personality. Think about the style of your home and what you want it to say about you before you begin building, by the time youre done, youll have a fence that the neighbors will envy!

This fence (see image above) is a great example of both form and function. The bull gate fence installed by Viking Fence is ideal for larger dogs, keeping them safely enclosed, while also allowing them to see without feeling trapped. The door swings open like a bull door at a rodeo and is wide enough to accommodate more than one animal at a time!

In some cases, its a good idea to create a section of the backyard that is solely for your dog. A DIY metal dog fence will contain your pet, but also give him/her their own dedicated space to call home. Adding mulch or wood chips is a great way to keep the area fresh and clean.

Here is a great example of a DIY dog run (see above). Built with Cattle Wire Fencing, the extra wide mesh looks good with any type of wood. Its sold in panels making it easy to determine how much fencing is needed. Consider a dog run area if you have a high energy critter who loves to blow off some steam!

This is an installation that is great for large property owners (shown above). If your acreage has slopes or downhill areas, this elegant DIY dog fence is a breeze to build, even for less experienced DIYers. The design contains simple detail elements like a metal sign with the family name and basic fence toppers. Think about what you want your fence to say about you and what you want it to provide for your animals before you start building and youll surely create a beautiful addition to your property.

Here is another creative idea for adding some whimsy to your DIY dog fence, by incorporating decorative accents. Welded wire fencing is the perfect backdrop for adhering birds, butterflies or other ornaments to match your decor or create a focal point in your yard. Purchase these on Etsy.

Chain Link Dog Fencing

The second most common option behind metal dog fences is the chain link. This option could be more expensive than a Welded Wire option but is still way cheaper than a wood fence.

Often used for dog enclosures in the suburbs, chain link fencing has evolved throughout the years and can be a wonderfully decorative option for your yard. Because of its rigidity, a chain link fence doesnt need to be fixed down along its entire length, making it a perfect DIY project. Most people install chain link fencing with metal pipes as stakes and then simply attach the fencing to the posts and few places in between. A DIY chain link dog fence, is a dependable and sturdy option that work well in urban and rural neighborhoods.

The variety of colors and sizes of chain link fences available is almost endless so youre sure to find something that will match your home!

Cheap dog fence ideas dont have to be boring! If you dont like the standard silver chain link, opt for a fence with black vinyl coating such as this one ( see above), that provides extra rust protection and has a rich, illustrious appearance.

When installing on metal columns, they have to be cemented into the ground. If you need to move your fence, it can be a hassle. But then again, this would true with many other options as well.

The best fence for dogs is one that will stand the test of time. If your dog likes to be outside during the colder months, a galvanized steel dog fence will protect against the elements while keeping your dog enclosed safely at home.

For high energy dogs, creating a fenced-in area that doubles as a dog run can be the perfect solution for keeping your best friend safe while still allowing them the joy of being outdoors. This example of a DIY chain link fence installation incorporates railway ties and foliage for a cohesive looking design.

If you want to upgrade an existing chain link fence, this example is a wonderful illustration of what a bit of creativity can achieve! Above is the fence before the homeowners decided to add wood planks to update their pets outdoor space. Below- the metal stakes are disguised by wooden planks for a more decorative design. You can easily recreate this project for yourself and stain the wood to suit your design tastes or to complement existing yard furniture. See how Sabine did it at mominmusiccity.com.

A wood frame is a tasteful way to elevate your DIY chain link fence (see above). Pine is an inexpensive material and is the most commonly used for building fences, but redwood, cedar or cypress would also make for beautiful options. Simple 2 x 4 planks would also work well if youre on a budget and look great in rustic yard decor.

Remember, this aint your granddads fence! A little elbow grease and a little imagination will go far when it comes to building the perfect dog fence for your home. Chain link fencing doesnt have to look cheap and garish. Despite its affordability, done right, a sturdy chain link fence can add value to your property and who doesnt love that?

Log poles are a neat addition to an ordinary fence. If you enjoy the look of homespun, quaint decor and want to include it in your yard, log poles are a great idea. Perfect for those who live on a ranch, in the West or who simply like to stand out from their neighbors.

For a clean, polished look, a Channel Guard Edging with DIY fence installation is an easy to use option that looks great. The simple, straightforward design is suitable for any size yard and matches just about any existing decor elements.

Another reason why DIY chain link dog fences are wonderful is because they make pets happy! After all, you want your pet to enjoy the space youre designating for them and they will love the ability to see through the fencing.

DIY Electric Conduit Pipe (EMT) Fence

Many homeowners prefer electric conduit pipe or EMT fencing because of the added protection and security it provides to their pets. We love the beautiful simplicity this fence adds to the yard. The clean lines and sturdy appearance from the conduit pipes look great and provide a wonderful space for pets that is safe and reliable.

DIY Pallet Dog Fence

DIY dog fences can be created out of a variety of materials! A pallet fence is a great option for creating a super cheap dog fence that can handle warm and cool temperatures. You can find pallets at grocery stores and home improvement shops for next to nothing! Before you know it, you will have a fantastic fence to keep your pet contained without breaking the bank.

How you choose to assemble your pallet fence is entirely up to you. Opt for a basic look if youre looking for something to put up in a day that will just get the job done or create a more intricate design if you like a more decorative look.

Installation Tips

If you decide to build your dog fence yourself then heres some great tips to consider before starting.

Make sure to build a fence high enough to prevent your dog from jumping over

Its important to build a fence that will actually contain your pet. If your dog is active or rambunctious its important to build your fence high enough that he/she cant jump over it or scale it. Even the most well trained dogs love an adventure and can sometimes be provoked into escaping, so make sure that your best friend does not have that option should a particularly antagonizing squirrel stop by for a visit.

It is also important to consider the height factor to protect any precious landscaping you may have! If you build your fence high enough, it should prevent your pet from hopping the fence and getting into the garden for a good dig.

A temporary containment solution might be a good option to house your dog while you build the permanent fixture. Take a look at some of our suggestions for temporary ideas that will allow your pet to be outside as you build, but will still keep them safe while youre distracted.

If your dog routinely tries to escape by jumping over your fence, you can make the fence higher by topping it with wood, posts, lattice toppers or other decorative accents.

Leaving your dog at home when youre away can be a worrying experience, but with the right fencing you can be confident that your pets are safe while youre away. A gate can be modified with PVC piping like the one above to become an escape-proof option for containing your beloved animals.

Check out these before and after pictures (above and below) for ideas.

The right gate will keep your pets in and harmful visitors out. You can build your own DIY gate with inexpensive materials from the hardware store and some basic tools from around the house. DIY gate extensions can easily add height to prevent daring escapes from your pets.

Dog Fence Windows

Many people prefer the look of a traditional wood fence and the privacy it includes. If you decide to go for a wooden fence, consider including a window or a bubble window for your pet. Dog fence windows make the yard a more exciting place to be for your animal, because they can take a look at whats happening outside the yard. This can be especially handy if you have a small yard or are located close to a sidewalk. Dog windows are a sleek way to give your dog a view of the neighborhood and you can easily make a DIY version using metal mesh or a small hinged door.

Your animal will love a peek-a-boo hole like the one featured above. Just be sure to seal off any hard or sharp edges and make the hole size big enough that they can easily fit their head in and out to avoid injury! Hole size is important when creating a DIY dog fence window, because you want your pet to be able to poke their head and out, but not wide enough that they can fit their shoulders.

This hole is the perfect size for your dog to have a view (and sniff) of the street, without risking escape!

Windows and peeking holes can come in any shape or size. Long rectangles, circles and trapezoid cut-outs not only serve as great observation points for your dog, but can add visual interest to a normally plain fence. Be creative when designing your dog window for a truly unique fence that will add pizzaz to your yard!

Peek-a-boo windows and Pet peek fence bubble windows allow pets to see whats going on during all seasons. Your dog will love the view and the protection of the bubble when other animals pass by. Many pre-made versions are available for sale, but you could easily make your own by using Plexiglas as part of your project.

You dont have to be an artist to create a clever dog fence such as the one above. All you need are some paints and some imagination and you can have your very own work of art that both you and your pet will love!

A peekaboo window can also be inserted a bit lower in the fence, so your dog can have a view while lounging. Including windows at different heights and in different areas of the fence will help keep your dog from getting bored.

Stopping Dogs From Digging Under Fence Ideas

Dog fence windows are a great way to prevent your dog from succumbing to boredom and trying to escape. For dogs that like to dig, an under-fence guard or no-dig defense barrier can be the best solution to prevent your dog from wreaking havoc in the yard. For tunneling breeds it is especially important to include a no-dig feature, to keep your pet safe and also to keep your yard looking beautiful.

The secret to keeping your dog from escaping or digging up sacred garden spaces is to keep the fence especially low.

The above idea is borrowed from a chicken coop. This setup also offers a defense against destructive rodents and wildlife that would love to have a snack in your garden.

This no-dig dog defense (see image above) is a safe option that will prevent your dog from digging up dirt and making a mess all over your yard. Strong, durable and easy to install, the gate plate might be the solution to your dogs digging problem.

Dig prevention barriers dont have to be unsightly to keep your pet contained. This innovative faux grass panel prevents pets from digging under fences without detracting from the beauty of your yard.

Ideas For a Fence to Keep Dogs Out of the Garden

Pallets

A DIY pallet fence (shown above) keeps dogs out of gardens and offers a rustic and lived-in look for homeowners that dont want to invest a fortune on fencing. Pallets like these can often be found at local grocery stores.

Poultry Netting

This is a sturdy example of an easy to install DIY dog fence made of poultry netting (aka chicken wire mesh). The materials are easy to work with so even a beginner DIYer can assemble this project with relative ease. Poultry netting is meant to be endured so it will last, even if your dog is feisty when contained.

Get an idea on how much it would cost 1 in. x 3 ft. x 25 ft. Poultry Netting.

Tiny Mesh Welded Wire

If youre looking to keep your pets out of the garden, this PVC Coated Welded Wire Fence with tiny mesh size (1/2 by 1/2) option can be customized to fit small or large gardens. Secured from dogs and small children, the use of welded wire fence in this project creates a segregated section that is completely separate from the rest of the yard.

This is a lovely example of innovation and function. The gorgeous raised garden bed is surrounded by pavers and pebbles to create the ultimate DIY dog fence to keep Fido away from your tomatoes! The combination of wood and wire mesh at the top means your plants will still get sunlight from all angles too. The design of this garden fence blends with the surroundings so beautifully, you almost forget it was created to keep critters out.

Temporary Fence for Dogs Ideas

Your dog might become a little envious watching you build outside in the sun, while theyre cooped up inside, but you can appease your pet by containing them in a temporary dog fence while you work.

This temporary metal dog fence is ideal for smaller breeds. It can be arranged in any shape to accommodate the size of your backyard and is easily disassembled when no longer needed. Which means you can take as much time as you need assembling your permanent fencing. Find details at Walmart.

Some temporary dog fences (like the one shown above) are so cute you may never want to take them down! We adore this white picket style fence as a cute containment area for your puppy while you install the permanent fencing.

This temporary dog fence is plastic, but sturdy enough to contain most dogs and will allow your pet to stay outdoors and enjoy the breeze while you work on other projects. We love that this version includes a built-in, lockable door so your loved one can come and go as they please or stay put until you release them. Find it at chewy.com.