To keep a dog in a wrought iron fence, close the gaps between the bars with welded wire mesh, chicken wire or puppy guard panels, make sure the fence is tall enough for your dog, add an angled extension or roller along the top if your dog jumps, and secure the bottom against digging. Supervising your dog in the yard and meeting their exercise needs also cuts down on escape attempts.
A wrought iron fence is strong and looks great, but the open design means small dogs can slip between the bars and athletic dogs can climb or jump. In this guide, we will show you how to keep your dog in the fence and prevent them from escaping.
What is a wrought iron fence?
A wrought iron fence is a type of fence that is made from iron that has been heated and then shaped into bars or other designs. The word “wrought” simply means “worked.” Most modern “wrought iron” fences are actually made from steel or aluminum in the same style. They are usually very strong and can be very difficult for dogs to escape from.
However, as the shapes are customized, there might be some gaps or spaces that a determined dog could squeeze through. Let’s take a look at how to keep your dog safely contained in a wrought iron fence.
How to keep dog in wrought iron fence?
There are a few things you can do to make sure your dog stays in the fence and doesn’t escape:
1Choose the right size fence
The first thing you need to do is make sure the fence suits the size of your dog. If the gaps between the bars are too wide, small dogs and puppies can squeeze through them – and some dogs get their head stuck trying. If the fence is too low, larger dogs may be able to jump over it.
If you already purchased a fence with gaps that are too big, you can follow the other tips in this guide.
2Is the wrought iron fence tall enough?
Another important factor is the height of the wrought iron fence. If it’s not tall enough, your dog may be able to jump over it. This depends on the size of your dog, of course.
As a rough guide, a 4-foot fence is often enough for small, calm dogs, while large or athletic breeds may need 5 to 6 feet to stop them from jumping over it. Watch out for horizontal rails and decorative scrolls, too: they can act like ladder rungs for a dog that climbs. Pointed spear tops are another hazard, as a dog that tries to jump the fence can injure itself on them.
3Is the wrought iron fence sturdy enough?
If your fence is about the right height but isn’t very sturdy, your dog may be able to push it over.
To check the sturdiness of the fence, try pushing on it in different places. If it wobbles or moves easily, it’s not very sturdy and your dog may be able to knock it over.
You can also try shaking the fence to see if it’s loose in the ground. If the fence is loose, your dog may be able to push it over or dig under it.
How to fix big gaps in wrought iron fence?
So you check your wrought iron fence and realize that the gaps between the bars are too big and your dog can easily squeeze through. How do you fix this problem?
Use mesh wire / chicken wire
One way to make sure your dog doesn’t escape is to use mesh wire or chicken wire. This will create a barrier that they can’t squeeze through. You can attach the wire to the fence using zip ties or other fasteners. Welded wire mesh is stronger than chicken wire, which a determined dog can chew or push through. Some fence companies also sell matching “puppy guard” panels or extra pickets that fill the lower part of the fence.
Although this is an effective and cheap solution, it is not the most attractive. If you want to keep your wrought iron fence looking good, you may want to consider other options.
Add a second layer of fencing
Another option is to add a second layer of fencing. By creating a fence behind the wrought iron fence, you can make it much more difficult for your dog to escape. This is because they would need to get past both fences.
Although the solution sounds quite obvious, it can be quite difficult to implement if you don’t have the space. In addition, it can be quite expensive to buy two fences.
How to avoid your dog jumping over a wrought iron fence?
Maybe your dog is determined to escape and no matter what you do they always find a way to jump over the fence. If this is the case, you may need to consider the following:
Add a topper to the wrought iron fence
One way to make sure your dog can’t jump over the fence is to add a topper to it. There are many different types of fence toppers that you can purchase. Some popular dog-friendly options include:
- PVC pipe
- Wood planks
- chicken wire
PVC pipe is a good option because it’s lightweight: fitted so it rolls along the top of the fence, it stops your dog from getting a grip (commercial “roller” systems work the same way). Wood planks or brackets can add height but are heavier and need secure fixing to the iron. Chicken wire or mesh angled inward at the top is another option, as it makes the fence much harder to climb or jump.
Other methods to avoid your dog escaping through wrought iron fence
If your dog still finds a way to escape, there are a few other methods you can try:
1Install an underground fence
Another option is to install an underground fence. This type of fence uses buried wires to create an invisible barrier. Your dog wears a special collar that is linked to the fence. If they try to cross the boundary, the collar beeps and then gives a static correction.
Underground fences can work for some dogs, but they can be quite expensive to install, require some maintenance and aren’t suitable for all dogs. A highly motivated dog may run through the correction and then be reluctant to come back in, and the system won’t keep other animals out. Many vets and trainers advise against shock-based tools, especially for anxious or fearful dogs, so speak to a positive-reinforcement trainer first.
2Use an electronic fence
A final option is to use an electronic fence. This type of fence can be put on the inside of your wrought iron fence. When your dog touches the wire, they will receive a mild shock.
Electric wire can stop climbers and diggers, but it has the same drawbacks as underground fences: it requires some maintenance, isn’t suitable for all dogs, and relies on an unpleasant sensation. Use it only as a last resort and with professional advice, and never with puppies or nervous dogs.
3Plant bushes around the fence
A more decorative solution is to plant bushes along the fence. Dense bushes block your dog’s view of the other side, so there are fewer passing distractions to tempt them out. In addition, the bushes will provide additional privacy for your home.
Depending on the plants, they can also create a physical barrier, making it harder for your dog to squeeze through. Check that any plants you choose aren’t toxic to dogs.
4Tackle the reason your dog wants out
Fence fixes work best when you also deal with why your dog is escaping. Common reasons include boredom, a strong prey drive (squirrels, cats and passing dogs on the other side), an unneutered dog looking for a mate, and anxiety when left alone. Plenty of exercise and play, not leaving your dog alone in the yard for long periods, and training a reliable recall all reduce escape attempts.
Which method should you choose to keep dog in wrought iron fence?
There are many different ways to keep your dog in a wrought iron fence. The best method for you will depend on your budget, the size of your dog, and the layout of your property.
If you want a cheap and easy solution, you can use mesh wire or chicken wire. For a neater finish, puppy guard panels or a second fence are worth the extra cost.
A great looking solution is to plant bushes along the fence. Your dog will see less and it provides privacy. Just leave clear access to gates and any parts of the fence you need to reach.
Whatever method you choose, make sure you test it out before relying on it to keep your dog contained. Diggers need extra attention at the bottom of the fence, so see these cheap ways to keep dogs from digging under the fence, and check that the gate has a dog-proof gate latch.
Final thoughts – How to keep dog in wrought iron fence
Keeping your dog in a wrought iron fence can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. There are many different solutions that you can use depending on your budget and the layout of your property.
The most important thing is to make sure you choose a solution that will work for your specific situation. And always test it out before relying on it to keep your dog contained.
Hopefully, this article has given you some ideas on how to keep your dog in a wrought iron fence. If you're considering a different fence altogether, read our guide to vinyl fencing for dogs. Good luck!
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