SAVE LIVES with Lake Tahoe Wolf Rescue

We recommend at least 50' x 50' for one dog and 100' x 100' for two. All enclosures must provide sufficient shade, access to water at all times, and protection from the elements. Platforms, dens, kiddie pools, misters and other enrichment tools are helpful for dogs that will be kept in an enclosure most of the time during the day. A large dog house is recommended to protect from the elements as well as a roof or awning. Igloos are not always acceptable depending on the severity of the climate — plastic is cold in the winter and hot in the summer (like a doggie sauna!). Here are the basics:

This means 9-gauge chain-link fencing 8'-10' high, with overhang/lean-ins to prevent climbing and jumping, and some kind of Dig Guard to prevent tunneling out. For high-escape-risk dogs and high contents, a double-gated entry is necessary. If other enclosures are adjacent, double fencing is also needed to prevent "fence fighting."

This means 7' fencing, or 6' fencing with lean-ins. Options are: 9-gauge chain-link; wood with cross rails on the outside so dog cannot gain purchase by stepping on the cross rail; block walls OK with "canine" hot wire. Some kind of Dig Guard for all of these. This is fine for most dogs that are somewhat determined, or are too heavy to climb an 8' fence..

This means 6' fencing with no outlets for escaping [i.e. holes in fence, loose boards, space between bottom of fence and ground]. Lean-ins are recommended if a dog is a jumper. This is sufficient for dogs that are not typically escape risks such as too heavy or too old to jump or climb, and for most Domestic breeds used to this type of containment. Dig guards are recommended if the animal is a digger. Cross rails on wood fencing should always be on the outside, all the way around enclosure.

1. Hardware cloth is good to lay down as dig guard for those not very determined, and it's not too expensive. It usually comes on a 3' roll. You can just roll it flat around the perimeter up against the fence and stake it at both sides. It should extend out into the yard from the fence the full 3'. Use the tightest metal weave — they can't get through it; they just get a manicure. Make sure it is staked down at both ends with metal stakes and cover it with 3-4" dirt.

2. Poured concrete, buried concrete blocks or railroad ties are also good for Dig Guard.

3. The vertical chain-link fence itself can also be used by adding 24" to the height above ground and burying it in the ground, i.e. you would have 7' above ground and 2' below ground.

4. Lay fencing — like hog wire, wire mesh, welded wire, etc.— around the inside perimeter of the enclosure. Stake it at both ends and cover with 3-4" dirt.

DIG DEFENSE is a product that works really well to reinforce the bottom of chain-link fence to protect against digging under. It Is made from 4 gauge steel and is 15” height. You add to the bottom of the fence and it digs straight into the ground. It is quite expensive, but often you can find similar stuff at Home Depot. 

Remember, folks: Wolfdogs are not your average canines. They are very smart and inventive!