Neighbors Dog is Digging Into My Yard!

[MgnRose]

It can be done where fencing is placed into whole where dog contacts when getting feet and nose under. It will take some odd placement of insulators and wire to achieve. Ideally, dog will be able to pull back easily an not get zapped repeatedly. I can see where dog owner might get upset.

I would try the spray first to see if it works. If repelling efforts requires OP to be present, then I do not think it will be effective long term. Dog owner will get made about OP directly causing harm to dog. The fencing or spraying the ground would be less stressful for me.

The dog owner has been given ample opportunity to correct the problem & has done nothing but blame our house for the situation even though they do not train/ walk/ play with/ provide entertainment for him, literally leaving him in the yard all day without any supervision. As far as I’m concerned, what I do on my property to keep predators out of my yard is really none of my business, just as their 4 children under the age of 5 constantly screaming or how they raise their animal is none of mine.

 

[MgnRose]

In some states, such as California, it is legal to cull a dog that is killing your livestock and it's also the dog owner's responsibility to pay for damages their dog caused. You can consult an attorney and then kill the dog if it's legal in your state. We had a stray husky attack and kill our chickens. The owner refused to take responsibility. I'm sorry your neighbor is so irresponsible.

Thank you- it is truly upsetting that I am the one constantly having to try to keep him out of my yard and they truly don’t care. I’m sorry about your chickens and the owner failing to take responsibility. I grew up in a agricultural setting and my mom would not have thought twice to shoot a dog that was on our property harassing our livestock.

 

[MgnRose]

I think digging and placing blocks will require more labor and ultimately more cost than using some sort of electrified fencing. My opinion is that a lower cost / lower output fence charger would be sufficient. The dog getting a relatively mild zap will be more likely to retain composure when retreating from unpleasant stimulus.

Currently I am dealing with an 7 month old pup that is digging under fencing to get from one pen to another. In my case releasing chickens into her pen and tearing up nest boxes in their pen because it is fun. Pup has to put a lot of effort into it and is damaging herself in the process. The process she is going through is similar to what OP's dog trouble involves. I think this gives some insight.

The dog digging under will be in a compromised position under fence and may have trouble backing out when first coming into contact with hotwire. I have too much personal experience taking multiple zaps because could not get off fence properly which comes with territory working around fence in wooded areas and when wearing a lot of protective gear. If the dog cannot simply back out, it may force its way forward into OP's yard, potentially injuring itself in the process. End result of that mess will be a very distraught dog on OP's side of fence resulting in a situation where emotions make legal concerns less of an immediate concern. Make certain dog takes zap in a position where backing up to its own side of fence is the natural option.

Thank you for your insight. I don’t want him to get stuck and be frightened/ get multiple shocks. I just want a little zing to keep him out of my yard!

 

[NatJ]

I grew up in a agricultural setting and my mom would not have thought twice to shoot a dog that was on our property harassing our livestock.

You could check the rules where you live--that may be an option for you as well. It does tend to be a permanent solution (unless the owner gets another dog that also likes to dig.)

 

[Folly's place]

Do make sure that electric fencing, as you plan to use it, is legal where you live. I think it will be your best solution too.
And I feel sorry for this dog, but he can't be coming into your yard and he will kill your birds!
Mary

 

[Folly's place]

You aren't intending to zap this dog, you are keeping raccoons and foxes out, right?!
Mary

 

[MgnRose]

Do make sure that electric fencing, as you plan to use it, is legal where you live. I think it will be your best solution too.
And I feel sorry for this dog, but he can't be coming into your yard and he will kill your birds!
Mary

Agreed- can’t come over the play with the ladies! He’s actually become my little buddy over the last year. My husband and I tease about how he’s really trying to come over to live because he sees how much fun we have on the other side of the fence

 

[MgnRose]

You aren't intending to zap this dog, you are keeping raccoons and foxes out, right?!
Mary

Yes, exactly. Especially the feral cats who think they need farm fresh chicken for dinner!

 

[speedy2020]

Dog has very sensitive nose so super hot chili peper around your property may do the trick.

 

[MgnRose]

That’s a great idea, thank you.