Fencing Options

Keeping your puppy safe in your yard requires good fencing. There are several options to choose from, and the one you should pick will depend on your puppy's personality, your property and your budget. Here are some of the options you should consider:

• Privacy fencing. Privacy fences have no openings and provide excellent containment; six-foot-tall panels cost about $4 to $6 per foot.
• Chain link. Inexpensive chain link works well and is durable; 6-foot-tall, 50-foot rolls cost about $60 each.
• Underground fencing. These electronic systems cannot be seen, jumped over or dug under. Wire is buried, configured and connected to a transmitter. (The cost runs anywhere from $99 to $1,500.) The dog wears a special collar that emits warning tones and issues a mild shock as he nears the buried wire.
• Kennels. A covered kennel run, especially one with a concrete floor, will keep your puppy from digging, climbing or jumping out. Ask your veterinarian or breeder to recommend an appropriate size. (Expect to spend more than $100 for a small, high-quality kennel.)