Dog Fences
Fences planned around how your dog actually escapes: digging, jumping, squeezing or chewing.
A good dog fence matches the dog. Diggers need a buried dig guard or wire apron, jumpers need height (usually 5 to 6 feet), squeezers need tight picket spacing, and every dog needs self-closing gates. In Charlotte, a real fence is also the simplest way to stay clear of the city's tethering rules.
Fence types that work for dogs
- Wood privacy: blocks sight lines, reducing fence-running and barking
- Vinyl privacy: smooth, hard to climb, nothing to chew
- Aluminum with puppy pickets: open view with tighter spacing at the bottom
- Black vinyl-coated chain link: affordable, strong and see-through
Stop the escapes
- Diggers: bury a wire apron 12 inches or more, or add a bottom board and dig guard. See Stop a dog digging under a fence.
- Jumpers: add height or an inward-angled extension where allowed.
- Climbers: avoid horizontal rails on the dog’s side.
- Gate-dashers: self-closing hinges, gravity latches and a double-gate entry if needed.
Charlotte tethering rules
Charlotte restricts tethering of dogs (rules took effect March 1, 2011), with requirements on tether length, weight and conditions. A secure fenced yard avoids tethering altogether. See Charlotte’s tethering law and fences.
Coyotes
Coyotes are present across Mecklenburg County. A solid 6-foot fence and supervised evening potty breaks help protect small dogs. See Coyotes and fences in Charlotte.
Questions Charlotte homeowners ask
How tall should a dog fence be?
Four feet works for many small and medium dogs. Athletic jumpers and big breeds usually need 5 to 6 feet. Solid privacy fences also reduce barking at passersby.
My dog digs under the fence. What works?
A galvanized or vinyl-coated wire apron buried along the inside of the fence, or a concrete mow strip. In Charlotte clay, dogs dig slowly but persistently, especially where the ground stays wet.
Are invisible fences allowed?
Yes, but they don’t keep other animals out and some dogs run through them. See our comparison.
Reviewed by the 76 Fence Charlotte installation team. Updated November 2, 2026. Charlotte rules change, so confirm permits, CDOT, historic district and HOA requirements before you build. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Keep reading
- Pool Fence Installation
- Commercial Fencing
- Driveway Gates
- Fence Replacement
- Industrial & Security Fencing
- Garden & Deer Fences
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