A dog’s dream of having its own garden can be realised safely when the dog enclosure is built correctly. It provides freedom for the dog and peace of mind for the owner. At Tassu & Tassu pet hotel, we have seen countless examples in our work of how crucial the quality of the enclosure is. A poorly constructed enclosure is not only useless but can be, at worst, life-threatening.<\/p>\n
From our experience, most escapes are due to completely preventable mistakes in the design of the enclosure. Let\u2019s go through the five most critical factors that ensure your dog has a durable and safe outdoor space.<\/p>\n
The height and material of the fence must be chosen according to the dog \u2013 there is no one-size-fits-all solution. A small dachshund has very different requirements compared to an athletic Belgian Malinois.<\/p>\n
Height:<\/strong> A typical mistake is to underestimate a dog’s jumping and climbing ability. The rule of thumb is that a fence about 120 cm high is sufficient for a small and calm dog. However, larger or more agile breeds require at least 180 cm, and with a known climbing champion, even a 200 cm high fence may be necessary.<\/p>\n Material:<\/strong><\/p>\n Many dog breeds, especially terriers, are master diggers. A fence simply erected at ground level is a direct invitation to escape.<\/p>\n The bottom of the fence must be secured. There are two effective methods for this:<\/p>\n We have seen with our own eyes how quickly a determined dog can dig its way to freedom. A small investment in the foundations can save you from major troubles.<\/p>\n A fence is only as strong as its weakest link \u2013 and that is almost always the gate. Even if the fence is armoured vehicle strong, a carelessly closed gate renders it useless. Often, the cause of the escape can be found in the mirror, not the dog.<\/p>\n Always favour self-closing hinges and a dual-action lock. A simple latch that a clever dog can learn to nudge open with its nose is a significant risk. Ensure that the gate lock requires a key or, for example, simultaneous lifting and pulling.<\/p>\n At our pet hotel, we use double gates in the busiest thoroughfares \u2013 if one is left open, the other still acts as a barrier. This is a good principle to apply at home if the gate is in frequent use.<\/p>\n An enclosure is not a punishment, but a safe space for the dog. Therefore, an empty and unstimulating garden enclosure frustrates the dog and can lead to problem behaviours, such as barking or destroying the fence.<\/p>\n Ensure that the enclosure always includes:<\/p>\n We operate on the same principle in our daycare. The dogs’ days are filled with supervised play, activities, and rest, keeping them happy and balanced.<\/p>\n The location of the enclosure directly affects the dog’s stress levels. If your dog is sensitive to passers-by, do not place the enclosure right next to a busy pavement.<\/p>\n Constant sensory overload and the need for vigilance can burden the dog. Choose a sheltered spot in the garden or install a visual barrier on the busiest side. This could be a denser fence, a hedge, or a separate privacy screen.<\/p>\n In our work with shy rescue dogs, we have seen how important it is to calm the environment for the dog’s well-being. The same applies to your home garden: the less unnecessary stress, the happier the dog.<\/p>\n A well-built dog enclosure is a great help in everyday life, but during your holiday, your dog needs more than just a garden. At Tassu & Tassu pet hotel, we provide your dog with a safe and stimulating environment in Helsinki when you cannot be there. Our staff, trained in animal care, looks after each guest as an individual.<\/p>\n We offer daycare as well as longer care periods. Our location, with good transport connections \u2013 next to Raide-Jokeri and the train station \u2013 makes bringing and picking up your pet easy during your journey.<\/p>\n Book care easily online<\/a> or contact us<\/a>, and we will be happy to provide more information!<\/p>\n The height of the fence depends on the dog’s size, breed, and temperament. For smaller, calmer dogs, a height of 120\u2013150 cm is often sufficient. For larger, agile, or jump-prone breeds, it is advisable to build a fence at least 180\u2013200 cm high. The dog’s motivation to escape also significantly affects the required height.<\/p>\n A lightweight enclosure can usually be built without a permit, but practices vary by municipality. Larger, permanent structures may require a building permit. Always check the current regulations of your local building code before starting work to avoid issues with neighbours and authorities.<\/p>\n Choose a material that cannot be climbed, such as vertical boards or a welded panel fence. Avoid wire fencing and horizontal support beams on the inside of the fence. For particularly skilled climbers, you can install an inward-leaning climbing barrier at the top of the fence, making it significantly more difficult to climb over.<\/p>\n We do not recommend leaving a dog alone in the enclosure for the entire workday. Dogs are social animals and need human companionship, stimulation, and supervision. For long periods of solitude, dog daycare is a much better option for the dog’s well-being, as it provides companionship and enrichment in a safe, supervised environment.<\/p>\n Our top recommendation is a welded panel fence. It is one of the most durable and safest fences on the market: rigid, chew-resistant, and nearly impossible to climb. Although the initial cost is higher than that of a wire fence, it is the best investment in your dog’s safety and your own peace of mind.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" A dog’s dream of having its own garden can be realised safely when the dog enclosure is built correctly. It provides freedom for the dog and peace of mind for the owner. At Tassu & Tassu pet hotel, we have seen countless examples in our work of how crucial the quality of the enclosure is. 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2. Dog enclosure and foundations \u2013 prevent digging<\/h2>\n
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3. Locks and gates: The most common cause of escapes<\/h2>\n
4. What to include in the enclosure? Enrichment and shelter<\/h2>\n
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5. Location and visibility \u2013 avoid unnecessary stress<\/h2>\n
Do you need a reliable carer while you’re on holiday?<\/h3>\n
Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n
How high should a dog enclosure be?<\/h3>\n
Do I need a permit to build a dog enclosure?<\/h3>\n
How can I prevent my dog from climbing over the fence?<\/h3>\n
Can I leave my dog in the enclosure all day while I work?<\/h3>\n
What material do you recommend for a dog enclosure?<\/h3>\n