30 Inexpensive Fencing Ideas to Keep Dogs Out of Garden

Looking for cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden? As fun, cute, and loving as they are, dogs can cause headaches for their owners.

They are, after all, curious creatures. They like to wander around, including to the garden. One of the ways to keep dogs out of the garden is by installing a dog fence.

A dog fence keeps your furry companion safe and, at the same time, provides them some freedom of movement, which is crucial for their happiness.

Below, we tell you how to keep your dog in the garden, the types of dog fences, the pros and cons, and cheap dog fence ideas.

How to Keep Your Doggo Out of Your Garden

If you are a dog owner and gardener, there will be a time when you will need to keep your furry companion from entering the garden.

They might not have bad intentions, but what they can do to your garden definitely can cause headaches. So, it is best to keep them out of the garden.

Here are 7 tips to keep your dogs out of the garden.

  • Don’t leave Fido unsupervised

Beagle dog waiting

First and foremost, don’t leave your dog unsupervised. This is especially true for puppies.

If you leave them unsupervised, your dog is going to be inquisitive and a bit restless. Dogs are, after all, curious creatures. And they will be curious about your garden.

Until you can supervise your dog’s behavior and train them to not do unwanted things in the garden, it is best to keep them out of the garden.

  • Give them something to do

Give them something to do

One of the things a dog may do in the garden is digging. Here’s a fun fact about digging: oftentimes, dogs do it because they are bored.

So, if you want to keep Fido out of the garden, one of the things you can do is to give them something to do.

Play a fetch, take them for a walk, have toys handy, and so on. Keep them mentally stimulated and occupied and your garden will be safe.

  • Designate a digging area

Designate a digging area

While oftentimes digging can be a sign of boredom, it is not always the case. Sometimes, a dog digs because they just like to do it. If your dog loves to dig, it is a good idea to designate a digging area for them.

Training your dog to dig in a designated area takes time. But it is a much better alternative than them digging your garden.

  • Install a sprinkler system

Install a sprinkler system

Did you know that a sprinkler system can help you manage your garden and at the same time keep your dog out of it? Nobody likes being sprayed with cold water, including dogs.

Note that some dogs do enjoy it. If your dog is one of those dogs, then you will need to find a way to keep them out of the garden.

  • Spice it up

One of the things that dogs don’t like is spicy stuff. You can use this to your advantage. Sprinkle your garden with equal amounts of crushed dried peppers and powdered mustard and your dog won’t come near to the garden.

  • Spray nasty odors

Nasty odors work well, too. You can keep your dog away from the garden by planting marigolds in-between vegetable rows. Alternatively, spray your plants with apple bitter or white vinegar. Your dog won’t like the nasty odors.

  • Install a dog fence

Last but certainly not least, install a dog fence. A dog fence works like a charm in keeping dogs out of the garden. A dog fence keeps your dog and garden safe while. It may add value to your property, too. And when it comes to dog fences, there are various types to choose from.

Types of Dog Fences

Before we get to our list of cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden, it is a good idea to know what options you have. There are six types of dog fences: indoor, solid barrier, chain link, electric, portable, and virtual GPS.

Which dog fence type you should choose depend on the needs of your dog, what your budget and property can accommodate, and your personal taste. To help you decide, we explain each type and its pros and cons below.

1. Indoor Dog Fences

Indoor Dog Fences

Other types of dog fences are indoor fences. Some dogs do prefer staying indoors. An indoor fence is useful when a dog owner wants to create off-limit areas for their dog. For example, the food pantry or down steep stairways.

2. Solid Barrier Dog Fences

Solid Barrier Dog Fences

This type includes dog fences that are made with vinyl, metal, wood, as well as other solid materials. Solid barrier dog fences work wonders for dogs that are easily distracted by things they see. Be it kids, neighbor dogs, other animals, or your garden.

An added benefit of solid dog fences is it keeps other animals from entering your garden. Not to mention it provides extra privacy, too. Note that compared to other types of dog fences, solid barrier fences are the most expensive and most time-consuming to build.

3. Chain Link Fences

Chain Link Fences

If you want the benefits of solid barrier dog fences but want a more affordable alternative, consider chain link fences.

They offer similar benefits to their solid barrier counterparts but don’t cost as much. Chain link fences, however, might not be as effective for all dogs.

4. Electric Dog Fences

Electric Dog Fences

If you want to keep your dog out of your garden and keep it aesthetically pleasing, electric dog fences are a good option. It is less labor-intensive and costly compared to other types of fences, too.

It is not the best when it comes to keeping a dog physically and mentally healthy as it uses negative stimuli to deter them from entering the garden. Plus, it works only for your dog. The fence doesn’t stop people or other animals from entering your garden.

5. Portable Dog Fences

Portable-Dog-Fences

If you like to travel and bring your furry companion with you, or want something that can be set up easily whenever you want, portable dog fences are your friend. These fences can be placed just about anywhere within reason. Including your garden.

6. Virtual GPS Dog Fences

Virtual GPS Dog Fences

Compared to solid barrier dog fences, virtual GPS fences are a lot cheaper. Not only that, they are easier to install, too.

It works by using GPS signals that communicate with the collar the dog is wearing. Virtual GPS fences are portable, which makes them a very convenient choice. They work best in large spaces.

Installation and Maintenance

The installation of a dog fence depends on the type of dog fence. Installing a solid barrier dog fence like a wooden fence is different from installing an electric dog fence like an invisible dog fence, for example.

A solid barrier fence, like a wooden or vinyl fence, can be installed without any professional help if you have the skills for it. On the other hand, indoor, electric, and portable are easier to install and don’t demand as much skills. They are easier to move, too.

So yes, you can install some types of fences with enough skills. Some others, best to leave the task to a professional.

The maintenance is also different, of course. Each type of fence has different maintenance requirements. Let’s say you are installing a wooden dog fence. The maintenance for the fence will involve regular re-sealing, re-staining, and painting.

If you are installing a chain link fence, the maintenance required is touching up scratches and/or rust. If it is an invisible dog fence, you will need to make sure that each component works properly to keep your dog safe and out from the garden. And so on.

30 Cheap Fencing to Keep Dogs out of Garden Ideas

  1. Pallet Dog Fence

Pallet Dog Fence
freshpatio.com

Our first cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden is a pallet dog fence. Wooden pallets are inexpensive. If you are lucky, you can even get them for free. To make it, you need a bit of DIY skills, time, and labor.

As for what the fence looks like, it depends on your needs and willingness. This one, for example, looks quite simple so it won’t take that much time to build.

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  1. Tall Pallet Dog Fence

Tall Pallet Dog Fence
homedit.com

How tall the fence is depends on your dog. Is your dog large and active? If they are, you might need a taller fence. A taller fence discourages dogs from jumping. You can combine it with metal mesh, too. Doing so will prevent smaller animals from getting to your garden.

  1. Low Pallet Dog Fence

Low Pallet Dog Fence

If your furry companion is unlikely to jump, building low cheap fencing to keep dogs out is a good idea. A fence like this prevents your dog from getting into the garden but it doesn’t require as much effort compared to a taller fence.

  1. Wood Dog Fence with Metal Rods

Wood Dog Fence with Metal Rods
freshpatio.com

One of the considerations when choosing a type of dog fence is personal taste. Yes, functionality is the primary consideration. But just because you need cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden, it doesn’t mean it has to be unsightly.

The above wood fence with metal rods, for example, balances functionality and aesthetics. It keeps the dogs from the garden while adding an interesting visual cue to the garden.

  1. Beautiful Wood Fence

Beautiful Wood Fence
agfence.ca

Would like to test your DIY skills and creativity? Why not! A wood dog fence can be beautiful, too. If you have the time and skills, why not make beautiful, attention-stealing fencing to keep dogs out of garden like this one?

  1. Wood Fence with Metal Sheets

Wood Fence with Metal Sheets
royhomedesign.com

When it comes to cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden, wood is by no means your only option. Indeed, you can combine it with other materials, too.

This one here uses wood for the post, upper and lower parts. The middle part is filled with metal sheets. Not only the fence is less time-consuming to build, but it also looks more interesting.

  1. Small Metal Dog Fence

Small Metal Dog Fence

Fencing to protect plants from dog need not be large or long. In some cases, a small metal fence like this one. This kind of fencing is a great option if you want to keep your dog supervised while you are tending to your garden.

  1. Metal Chain Link Fence

Metal Chain Link Fence
royhomedesign.com

Next on our list of cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden ideas is a metal chain link fence. In some cases, you will need a larger and wider fence to keep your dogs out of the garden. A metal fence with chain link does the job well for that.

The fence provides your furry companions to move around within the fence freely. Plus, you can keep an eye on them easily too, as your vision is not blocked by the fence.

  1. Welded Mesh Dog Fence

Welded Mesh Dog Fence
freshpatio.com

If you need a simple and minimalist DIY fence to keep dogs out of garden, this will be one to try. The fence consists of several metal posts and metal mesh, which combine into a barrier that keeps your dogs out of the garden.

  1. Wood Fence with Metal Wire

Wood Fence with Metal Wire
charlottefencingcompany.com

Perhaps you need more secure cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden? In that case, build it with wooden boards and metal wires. The wooden boards provide a sturdy foundation and structure for the fence, while the metal wires provide visibility.

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  1. Fenced Playground

Fenced Playground
freshpatio.com

A self-enclosing fence is not a bad idea, either. With a fence like this, your dog can play outdoor without you having to worry about them ruining your garden.

  1. Round Metal Fence

Round Metal Fence
collidenyc.org

If your furry companion is unlikely to jump, a low round self-enclosing fence is a good option. This cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden and at the same time provide some freedom for them to play around inside the fence.

  1. PVC Fence with Mesh

PVC Fence with Mesh

Next is another low fence to keep dogs out of garden. Unlike the previous examples, however, this one is made of PVC pipes and metal mesh. It is a great weekend DIY project as the materials are inexpensive and easy to get. It doesn’t require much skill, either.

  1. Stylish White Vinyl Fence

Stylish White Vinyl Fence

Just because it is cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden, it doesn’t mean you can’t be stylish about it. A white vinyl fence like this effortlessly makes the space a lot more appealing.

  1. No-dig White Vinyl Fence

No-dig White Vinyl Fence

If you want a quick and practical solution, consider a ready-made fence like this one. All you need to do is to insert the posts into the ground and voila! Good-looking cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden.

  1. Temporary Dog Fence

Temporary Dog Fence

If you are looking for non-permanent cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden, take a look at this one. The welded metal fence keeps the dog away from the garden. Yet, it can be removed easily when required.

  1. Metal Portable Dog Fence

Metal Portable Dog Fence

This fence is not just non-permanent cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden but it is also a portable one. Not everyone needs permanent fencing, after all. A great solution if you move around a lot.

  1. Portable and Foldable Dog Fence/Tent

Portable and Foldable Dog Fence-Tent

This fence/tent is a solid option for small dog owners. The fence/tent keeps the dog safe and away from the garden. It is also foldable, which means you can carry it out anywhere you want easily.

  1. Poultry Netting

Poultry Netting

Dogs come in various sizes. If your Fido is small, you won’t need a tall fence. Instead, a low and simple fence with poultry netting like this will be enough to protect your garden.

  1. Raised Garden with Gorgeous Fence

Raised Garden with Gorgeous Fence

Gorgeous, isn’t it? This cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden is an excellent example of function meets form. It keeps your furry companion away from your plants. At the same time, it adds a focal point in the backyard.

  1. Follow the Garden

Cheap Fence Ideas For Dogs UK for Small Dogs

Fences are often built in a straight line. The fence above is different. Instead of being built in a straight line, it follows the shape of the garden. It creates an interesting visual in the garden.

  1. Picket Fence

Picket Fence

Picket fences are versatile. They work well in various settings. Yes, including cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden. This one allows your dog to enjoy the outdoors while keeping the garden safe from them.

  1. Patterned Fence

Patterned Fence
royhomedesign.com

The primary function of dog fences is to keep dogs contained. That doesn’t mean they have to have a boring design. If anything, you can make a statement with it, too. Just look how attractive this patterned fence is.

  1. Basic Metal Fence

Basic Metal Fence

There is nothing wrong with going with the basics. Despite its basic design, this metal cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden gets the job done.

  1. Wood Panel Fence

tavernierspa.com

In need of privacy? In that case, build a wood panel fence like the above. Not only does it provide privacy, but it also adds elegance to the outdoors.

  1. Plain Wrought Iron Fence

uniqueideas.site

The next on our list of cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden is a plain wrought iron fence. We all know how charming wrought iron can be. So, installing them to keep your dog out of the garden is a good idea.

  1. Thin and Slim Fence

royhomedesign.com

Do you like a metal fence but don’t like how thick it typically is? No worry. There are thin and slim metal fences, too. This one shows how simple yet attractive a thin and slim metal fence can be.

  1. Lattice Dog Fence

royhomedesign.com

You can always make a statement with a lattice fence. This, of course, also applies to cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden.

Besides keeping your dog away from the garden, its geometrical shapes make the outdoor space more interesting.

  1. Logs and Mesh

fencescape.com.au

If you are tired of cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden with rectangular wooden boards, consider building one using logs.

Logs work similarly to boards, only with a different shape. Plus, the rounded corners the fence has are easier on the eyes, too.

  1. Deck Dog Fence

Have a deck and want to enjoy your time relaxing with your dog? Here’s an idea: Build a fence that connects to the deck.

This way, not only can you keep your dog out of the garden, but you also provide them the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.


Those are some examples of cheap fencing to keep dogs out of garden. Installing a dog fence provides your furry companion with some form of freedom.

With a dog fence, you provide them with space to play and explore while keeping them safe from harm.

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