Will My Dog Jump Over My Fence?
It depends on the breed, dog’s temperament, and the fence. Smaller fences are easier for dogs to jump over. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean your dog can jump over your fence just because it is small.
Your dog’s height and innate ability are essential. For instance, athletic working breeds are more likely to be able to jump over fences. Toy breeds and those bred to be companions often don’t have the same physical ability and therefore, can’t jump over fences.
You also have to consider their instincts. Just because a dog can jump over a fence doesn’t mean that they will. It takes a great deal of motivation for a dog to attempt to jump over a 6-foot fence for the first time. Usually, this is caused by a very high prey drive.
Dogs that scale fences typically do so because they see something that they want to chase. No dog looks at a fence and decides that they’re going to try and jump it. They see something running and chase it, regardless of the fence in their way.
Some dogs may have other instincts that drive them to jump over a fence. For instance, some territorial dogs may jump over the fence if they feel threatened.
All of these situations are dangerous, as the dog is typically going after something and aren’t always aware of their surroundings!
What Is the Highest That a Dog Has Ever Jumped?
The highest that a dog has ever jumped is 75.5 inches, according to the Guinness World Records. This record was achieved by Feather, a 2-year female Greyhound.
Luckily, most dogs can’t jump this high.
A dog jumping a 5-foot fence is more likely than a dog jumping a 6-foot one. However, that doesn’t mean that all dogs will be able to jump this high (or even most dogs). Larger breeds can usually scale a 5-foot fence if they try hard enough, though.
You can multiply your dog’s height by three to get their maximum jumping height. In most cases, you can use this information to determine whether they can scale a fence. However, keep in mind that this would be their maximum potential jumping height, not the actual height that they can jump.
Many dogs cannot jump their maximum height unless they are young, energetic, and strongly motivated to do so.
Furthermore, some dogs can jump (or climb) higher than this maximum. Some breeds are good at climbing linked fences, in which case, you’re better off with a wooden fence that they can’t climb.
Speaking of Props, Here is My FIRST TIP for Dog Proofing A Fence:
Remove any object that may be used by your dog as a launch pad. We’re smart and extremely resourceful. If your dog sees a plant pot perfectly adjusted in a corner of the fence, best believe they’ll be using that for a bit of elevated assistance.
Stacks of wood in the back yard? Don’t mind if I do, and thank you for the awesome new set of yard stairs.
What a lovely trashcan to further propel my leap over the top of the fence. Thanks again.
Oh, look, the humans left the fire pit chairs a little too close to the fence. Let’s see if we can make up the difference.
Are you picking up what I’m putting down?
Make sure there’s nothing around that could entice your dog to attempt the jump.
Pitbull Jumps 5-Foot Fence
Yes. Are you kidding me? I wouldn’t even need a running start. I have an insane amount of natural athletic ability for a little guy. Raise the fence – I dare you.
If you have a small dog, you could potentially get away with a fence height of 4 feet. If you have a medium sized to large sized dog, then you will absolutely need a taller fence. Roughly 5-6 feet high should keep even the bounciest pups safe from escaping.
It depends on variables like age, weight, behavior, personality, and pure jumping ability. This can’t be a one size fence fits all type of deal. You know your dog better than I do. I’m just giving you some general guidelines.
Disclaimer: The Can My Dog articles contain information based on the individual research and opinions of the author of the site – who just so happens to be a dog. How you utilize the information given is completely up to you. Proceed at your own risk.