Dig-Proof Your Yard: The Ultimate Guide to Using Dig Proofer Kits

If you’re looking for a solution to stop your dog from digging under the fence, look no further!

Dig-proofing your yard is simpler than you think. A dig proofer kit offers an effective, non-electric fencing solution that keeps your dog secure and prevents escape attempts.

• Effective: Proven to keep dogs in and predators out.
• Durable: Made from heavy gauge, galvanized welded wire.
• Versatile: Works with any type of fence – wood, metal, chain link, and more.
• Humane: Safe for dogs and doesn’t obstruct your yard’s view.

Are you tired of your dog constantly escaping? Or worried about predators invading your yard? You’re not alone. Many suburban pet owners share these concerns and are in search of a reliable, humane solution. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using a dig proofer kit to secure your yard effectively.

My name is Jason Levine, and I’m an expert in non-electric dog fencing solutions. With years of experience at Pet Playgrounds, I’m passionate about helping dog owners find practical and effective ways to keep their pets safe without sacrificing the aesthetics of their yard.

Why Dogs Dig and How to Prevent It

Dogs dig for many reasons. Understanding why can help you prevent it. Let’s explore some common reasons and effective prevention methods.

Why Dogs Dig

1. Boredom:
Dogs need mental and physical stimulation. Without it, they may dig to entertain themselves.

2. Attention Seeking:
If your dog learns that digging gets your attention, even if it’s negative, they may continue the behavior.

3. Escape Attempts:
Some dogs dig to escape their yard. This could be due to anxiety, the desire to explore, or to find a mate.

4. Hunting Instincts:
Dogs with a strong prey drive might dig to catch burrowing animals like moles or rabbits.

5. Comfort and Shelter:
Dogs may dig to create a cool spot to lie in during hot weather or to find warmth in colder climates.

Prevention Methods

1. Increase Exercise and Playtime
A tired dog is a happy dog. Regular walks, play sessions, and engaging toys can reduce boredom and the urge to dig.

2. Create a Designated Digging Area
Train your dog to dig in a specific area. Fill it with sand or loose soil and bury toys or treats to make it appealing.

3. Supervise Outdoor Time
Keep an eye on your dog when they’re outside. If they start digging, redirect their attention with a firm “no” and offer a toy or playtime instead.

4. Use Barriers and Deterrents
Install a dig proofer kit to create a physical barrier that prevents your dog from digging under the fence. The heavy gauge, galvanized welded wire is durable and effective.

5. Provide Mental Stimulation
Puzzle toys, training sessions, and new experiences can keep your dog’s mind engaged and reduce the urge to dig for entertainment.

6. Address Anxiety
If your dog digs due to anxiety, consider consulting a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer. They can provide strategies to reduce stress and anxiety in your pet.

Case Study: Vicki’s Success Story

Vicki, a dog owner, struggled with her small dogs digging under her 6-foot PVC fence. She tried various methods with no success until she used a dig proofer kit. “I am so pleased. It does not require extra maintenance or edging; it is indestructible; and it is just the right size,” Vicki shared. “It is THE solution.”

By understanding why your dog digs and using effective prevention methods, you can keep your yard secure and your dog happy. In the next section, we’ll dive into what exactly a dig proofer kit is and how it works to stop digging once and for all.

What is a Dig Proofer Kit?

A dig proofer kit is a specially designed system to stop dogs from digging under fences. It’s a simple and effective solution that works with any type of fence: wood, metal, chain link, PVC, brick, or block.

Physical Barrier

The core of the dig proofer kit is the heavy gauge, black powder-coated galvanized welded wire. This wire creates a strong physical barrier at the base of your fence. Dogs can’t scratch, chew, or fit through the welded wire squares, which are 1.75″ x 1.75″. Grass can still grow through these squares, maintaining your yard’s natural look.

Installation

Installing a dig proofer kit is straightforward and doesn’t require professional skills. Here’s a quick rundown of the process:

1. Lay the Wire: Unroll the welded wire along the base of your fence. Ensure that part of the wire lies flat on the ground, with the rest extending up the fence.

2. Stake It Down: Use the included heavy-duty galvanized stakes to secure the wire into the ground. These stakes are designed to hold the wire firmly in place.

3. Secure the Top: Attach the top of the wire to your fence using staples, screws, zip ties, or other fasteners. The choice of fastener depends on the type of fence you have.

Variations

There are two main types of dig proofer kits:

• Standard Dig Proofer Kit: Features 24-inch tall welded wire. It provides 8-12 inches of coverage on the ground and 8-12 inches vertically up the fence.
• XL Dig Proofer Kit: Features 42-inch tall welded wire. It offers 24-30 inches of coverage on the ground and 12 inches vertically up the fence.

Both versions are versatile and can be trimmed to fit around obstacles in your fence line.

Why Choose a Dig Proofer Kit?

Unlike other methods like concrete or gravel, which are labor-intensive and can ruin your yard’s appearance, a dig proofer kit is easy to install and maintain. It’s also more humane and effective than alternatives like electric fences or chicken wire, which can harm your dog or fail to stop determined diggers.

In the next section, we’ll discuss the different types of dig proofer kits available and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Types of Dig Proofer Kits

When it comes to preventing your dog from digging under the fence, dig proofer kits offer an effective and humane solution. Let’s explore the two main types: the Standard Dig Proofer Kit and the XL Dig Proofer Kit.

Standard Dig Proofer Kit

The Standard Dig Proofer Kit is designed for most typical yard setups. Here’s what you need to know:

• Welded Wire Mesh: The kit includes 24-inch tall welded wire mesh. This mesh is black powder-coated and galvanized, making it strong and resistant to rust. The wire squares are 1.75″ x 1.75″, small enough to prevent dogs from scratching, chewing, or fitting through.

• Ground Stakes: Heavy-duty galvanized stakes are included to secure the wire mesh firmly into the ground. These stakes are crucial for ensuring the mesh stays in place, even if your dog is a determined digger.

• Coverage: The standard kit provides 8-12 inches of coverage on the ground and another 8-12 inches vertically up the fence. This dual coverage ensures that dogs can’t dig under or climb over the barrier.

XL Dig Proofer Kit

For those who need extra protection, the XL Dig Proofer Kit is the way to go. Here’s how it differs from the standard version:

• Larger Coverage: The XL kit features 42-inch tall welded wire mesh. This allows for 24-30 inches of coverage on the ground and an additional 12 inches up the fence. The extra ground coverage is ideal for larger dogs or particularly determined diggers.

• Heavy-Duty Stakes: The stakes included in the XL kit are designed to handle the increased height and weight of the larger wire mesh. These robust stakes ensure that the mesh remains securely anchored.

• Versatility: Just like the standard version, the XL kit can be trimmed to fit around obstacles in your fence line. This makes it adaptable to various yard configurations.

Choosing the Right Kit

Selecting between the Standard and XL Dig Proofer Kits depends on your specific needs. If you have a smaller dog or a less problematic digger, the standard kit should suffice. However, for larger dogs or more persistent diggers, the XL kit provides added security.

Why Choose Our Dig Proofer Kits?

Our kits offer a simple, humane, and effective solution without compromising the aesthetic of your yard. Unlike concrete or gravel solutions, which are labor-intensive and can be unsightly, our kits are easy to install and maintain. They are also safer and more effective than electric fences or chicken wire, which can harm your pet or fail to stop determined diggers.

In the next section, we’ll cover how to install a dig proofer kit on different types of fences, ensuring you have all the information you need for a successful installation.

How to Install a Dig Proofer Kit

Installing a dig proofer kit is straightforward and doesn’t require professional help. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install the kit on different types of fences.

Installing on Wood Fences

Tools Needed:

• Heavy-duty staples or Romex staples
• Staple gun
• Zip ties (optional for smaller pickets)

Steps:

1. Measure and Cut: Start by measuring the length of the fence where you’ll install the wire mesh. Cut the mesh to the required length using wire cutters.

2. Position the Mesh: Lay the mesh flat on the ground, extending 8-12 inches outward from the fence base. The remaining mesh should be placed vertically against the fence.

3. Secure the Mesh: Use the heavy-duty staples to attach the mesh to the wooden fence. Place staples every 12 inches for a firm hold. If the pickets are small enough, you can use zip ties for additional security.

4. Stake the Mesh: Stake the mesh into the ground using the provided heavy-duty stakes. Ensure the stakes are driven deep enough to hold the mesh securely.

Installing on Metal and Chain Link Fences

Tools Needed:

• UV-resistant zip ties
• Hog rings (optional for added durability)
• Pliers (for hog rings)

Steps:

1. Measure and Cut: Measure the length needed and cut the mesh accordingly.

2. Position the Mesh: Lay the mesh on the ground, extending 8-12 inches outward from the fence base, and place the remaining mesh vertically against the fence.

3. Secure with Zip Ties: Use UV-resistant zip ties to attach the mesh to the chain link or metal fence. Place a zip tie every 12 inches for secure attachment. For stronger and more durable attachment, consider using hog rings instead. Use pliers to close the hog rings around the mesh and the fence.

4. Stake the Mesh: Stake the mesh into the ground with the provided heavy-duty stakes, ensuring the mesh is taut and secure.

Installing on Brick and Block Fences

Tools Needed:

• Specialty masonry fasteners with washer heads
• Drill (for masonry fasteners)
• Zip ties (optional for additional security)

Steps:

1. Measure and Cut: Measure the length of the mesh needed and cut it to size.

2. Position the Mesh: Lay the mesh flat on the ground, extending 8-12 inches outward from the fence base, with the remaining mesh placed vertically against the brick or block fence.

3. Drill Holes: Use a drill to make holes in the brick or block at regular intervals (about every 12 inches) where the mesh will be attached.

4. Attach the Mesh: Insert the masonry fasteners with washer heads into the drilled holes and tighten them to hold the mesh securely in place. Ensure the mesh is firmly attached to prevent any gaps.

5. Stake the Mesh: Finally, stake the mesh into the ground using the provided heavy-duty stakes to secure it.

By following these steps, you can ensure your dig proofer kit is installed correctly and securely, providing a safe and effective barrier against digging. Next, we’ll explore the benefits of using a dig proofer kit and why it’s the best choice for keeping your dog safely contained.

Benefits of Using a Dig Proofer Kit

Using a dig proofer kit offers numerous benefits that make it an excellent choice for keeping your yard secure and your dog safe. Let’s break down the key advantages:

Safety

One of the primary benefits of a dig proofer kit is the safety it provides. Traditional fences can be easily breached by dogs that dig. With a dig proofer kit, you create a physical barrier that prevents your dog from escaping and encountering potential dangers outside your yard.

Victoria Stilwell, from Animal Planet’s It’s Me or the Dog, highlights that dogs can become anxious or aggressive when they don’t understand why they’re being shocked by invisible fences. A dig proofer kit eliminates this risk by providing a humane, non-electric solution.

Durability

The dig proofer kit is made from heavy gauge black powder-coated galvanized welded wire, which is both robust and long-lasting. This material is designed to withstand the elements and resist wear and tear, ensuring it remains effective over time.

Vicki, a satisfied customer, shared her experience: “It lasted less than a year before the vinyl tore away at the top.” This feedback underscores the importance of choosing a durable solution like the dig proofer kit, which is built to last.

Ease of Installation

Installing a dig proofer kit is straightforward and doesn’t require professional help. Whether you have a wood, metal, chain link, PVC, brick, or block fence, the kit can be easily adapted to fit your needs. The kit includes heavy-duty stakes and can be secured with staples, screws, zip ties, or other fasteners depending on your fence type.

For example, installing on wood fences involves using heavy-duty staples or zip ties, while metal and chain link fences can be secured with UV-resistant zip ties or hog rings. Brick and block fences require masonry fasteners, but the process remains simple and manageable.

Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to other solutions like concrete and gravel, the dig proofer kit is more cost-effective and less labor-intensive. Concrete and gravel require extensive digging and manual labor, which can be both time-consuming and expensive. In contrast, a dig proofer kit can be installed quickly and efficiently, saving you both time and money.

Aesthetic Appeal

Unlike traditional fences or chicken wire solutions, a dig proofer kit does not obstruct your view or alter the appearance of your yard. The black powder-coated wire blends seamlessly with most fence types, maintaining the visual harmony of your landscape. This is especially beneficial if you’ve invested in landscaping or enjoy an unobstructed scenic view.

Proven Effectiveness

Our dig proofer kit is proven to be significantly more effective than other alternatives. While invisible fences might pose safety concerns and behavioral issues, the dig proofer kit provides a reliable and humane solution. It keeps your dog safely contained without causing fear or discomfort.

In summary, the dig proofer kit offers a safe, durable, easy-to-install, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing solution for preventing your dog from digging under your fence. Next, let’s compare the dig proofer kit to other common solutions.

Comparing Dig Proofer Kits to Other Solutions

When it comes to keeping your dog from digging under the fence, several solutions are available. Let’s compare the Pet Playgrounds Dig Proofer Kit with other common methods like concrete and gravel solutions and chicken wire.

Pet Playgrounds Dig Proofer Kit

Our Pet Playgrounds Dig Proofer Kit stands out for its effectiveness and ease of use. It features heavy gauge black powder-coated galvanized welded wire, which creates a strong barrier that dogs can’t dig through. The kit includes ground stakes to secure the wire to the ground, ensuring it stays in place.

Key Benefits:

• Welded Wire Mesh: Durable and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting protection.
• Ground Stakes: Easy to install, providing a secure hold.
• Easy Installation: Can be adapted to various fence types like wood, metal, chain link, PVC, brick, and block. No need for professional help.
• Cost-Effective: Saves time and money compared to more labor-intensive methods.

Concrete and Gravel Solutions

Concrete and gravel are traditional methods for preventing dogs from digging under fences. These methods involve creating a physical barrier by digging a trench and filling it with concrete or gravel.

Key Considerations:

• Labor-Intensive: Requires extensive digging and manual labor, which can be time-consuming.
• Cost: Higher costs due to materials and potential need for professional installation.
• Durability: While effective, these solutions can be overkill and may not blend well with your yard’s aesthetics.

Chicken Wire

Chicken wire is another common solution used to prevent digging. It’s an affordable option, but it comes with its own set of challenges.

Key Considerations:

• Affordability: One of the cheapest options available.
• Effectiveness: Less durable than welded wire mesh; dogs may eventually tear through it.
• Installation Challenges: Requires careful installation to avoid sharp edges that could injure your dog. It may also require frequent maintenance.

Case Study:
Vicki, a customer who tried various methods, found that nothing worked until she used our dig proofer kit. She stated, “I thought it was expensive until I bought it and realized that it is THE solution.”

In conclusion, while concrete and gravel solutions and chicken wire offer some benefits, the Pet Playgrounds Dig Proofer Kit provides a more effective, durable, and easy-to-install solution. It ensures your dog stays safely within your yard without the hassle and expense of more labor-intensive methods.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dig Proofer Kits

How do I make my dog run dig proof?

To make your dog run dig proof, you have several options, but some are more effective and easier to implement than others. Here are the most common methods:

• Cement: Pouring a concrete barrier around the perimeter of your fence can be effective. However, it is labor-intensive and expensive. It also doesn’t blend well with most yard aesthetics.

• Rocks and Gravel Stones: Placing large rocks or gravel stones along the base of the fence can deter digging. This method is less labor-intensive than cement but may require frequent adjustments as dogs can sometimes move the rocks.

• Trench: Digging a trench and filling it with materials like concrete, rocks, or even the Pet Playgrounds Dig Proofer Kit can be effective. The key is to ensure the barrier extends deep enough to prevent dogs from digging underneath it.

• Chicken Wire: While affordable, chicken wire can be less effective and may pose safety risks due to sharp edges. It’s also prone to wear and tear, requiring frequent maintenance.

For a hassle-free and effective solution, the Pet Playgrounds Dig Proofer Kit offers a durable welded wire mesh that can be easily installed with ground stakes, ensuring your dog stays put without the need for extensive labor or high costs.

How to fix a fence so a dog can’t dig under it?

Fixing a fence to prevent a dog from digging under it can involve several steps depending on the method you choose:

• Trench and Fill: Dig a trench along the fence line and fill it with cement, rocks, or gravel stones. This creates a physical barrier that dogs can’t easily dig through.

• Install Dig Proofer Kit: The easiest and most effective method is to use the Pet Playgrounds Dig Proofer Kit. Simply roll out the welded wire mesh along the fence line and secure it with ground stakes. The mesh should extend both horizontally on the ground and vertically up the fence to prevent digging and climbing.

• Chicken Wire: If you opt for chicken wire, dig a trench and bury the wire vertically along the fence. Be cautious of sharp edges and ensure the wire is securely fastened to the fence to prevent injuries and escapes.

Will chicken wire stop dogs from digging?

Chicken wire can be a temporary solution to stop dogs from digging, but it has several drawbacks:

• Sharp Edges: Chicken wire can have sharp edges that may injure your dog. Proper installation is crucial to avoid this risk.

• Durability: Chicken wire is less durable than welded wire mesh. Dogs may eventually chew through or tear it, especially if they are persistent diggers.

• Maintenance: Chicken wire requires frequent checks and maintenance to ensure it remains effective. It may also need to be replaced more often than other materials.

For a more reliable and long-lasting solution, the Pet Playgrounds Dig Proofer Kit is a superior choice. It features heavy gauge black powder-coated galvanized welded wire, which is both durable and safe for your dog. The kit also includes ground stakes for easy installation, making it a hassle-free way to keep your dog from digging under the fence.

In summary, while there are various methods to make your dog run dig proof, the Pet Playgrounds Dig Proofer Kit stands out for its ease of installation, durability, and effectiveness. For more detailed installation instructions and tips, check out our installation guide.

Conclusion

At Pet Playgrounds, we understand the challenges of keeping your dog safe and secure in your yard. Our dig proofer kit is designed to address these challenges effectively and affordably.

Our dig proofer kit is a robust solution that uses heavy gauge black powder-coated galvanized welded wire. This durable material creates a physical barrier that prevents dogs from digging under any type of fence. Whether you have a wood, metal, chain link, PVC, brick, or block fence, our kit integrates seamlessly.

Dog Safety

Ensuring your dog’s safety is our top priority. Traditional methods like chicken wire or gravel can pose risks due to sharp edges or loose stones. Our welded wire mesh is safe and humane, ensuring that your dog cannot scratch, chew, or fit through it. This means no more dangerous escapes or injuries from sharp materials.

Predator Prevention

Our dig proofer kit not only keeps your dog in but also keeps potential predators out. The welded wire squares are small enough to prevent animals from squeezing through, providing an added layer of protection for your pets.

Why Choose Pet Playgrounds?

• Ease of Installation: Our kit includes everything you need for a straightforward installation. No need for extensive labor or specialized tools.
• Durability: The heavy gauge wire and galvanized stakes ensure long-lasting performance, even in harsh weather conditions.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Unlike bulky concrete or unsightly chicken wire, our kit blends well with your yard’s aesthetics.

For a hassle-free, effective, and affordable solution to keep your yard dig-proof, choose the Pet Playgrounds Dig Proofer Kit. It’s the ultimate choice for dog safety and predator prevention.

For more information and to purchase your kit, visit our dog fence kit page.

By choosing Pet Playgrounds, you’re investing in peace of mind and the well-being of your furry friend. Thank you for trusting us to help keep your dog safe and secure.