Living within city limits has its benefits -- close proximity to schools and shopping malls, easy access to libraries and community activities. Unfortunately, city-living also means having neighbors. And while living in close proximity to others can be comforting, if you're a pet-owner, it also comes with added responsibility. Help keep your pet safe and your neighbors undisturbed by installing a fence strong enough to contain your pooch. Use the following guidelines to help you find a fence that works for your particular pet.

Height

The height of your fence is a huge issue. Dogs who spend a lot of time alone in a fenced-in yard become bored quickly. Add to this the excitement of outside stimuli such as paper boys, mail carriers and other people walking by with leashed animals, and you have a dog who may very well attempt escape. Both large and small dogs can be good jumpers -- everything from greyhounds and German shepherds to Jack Russell terriers and border collies. For the best chance at containing them, install a fence that's six-feet tall at minimum. If you still find your dog bounding over the fence at this height, add a thick-growing shrubbery along the fence line on the inside to act as a deterrent. 

Depth

While some dogs jump, other dogs are famous for digging. If you own a lovable beagle, dachshund, or basset hound, you may find him escaping under the fence instead of over it. In this situation, burying wire along the fence in the areas he likes to dig can be helpful. You can also try filling in holes with rocks or charcoal to help discourage him. If all else fails, contact a fencing specialist to run a small-current electric fence around the base of your existing one. This option gives your dog a small jolt when he comes into contact with it. The advantage to this is that once he's run across it enough, he'll stop attempting to dig out altogether. You can then have the fence deactivated or removed. 

Material

Chain link fencing is adequate for most dog breeds, providing it's tall enough. But if you own oversize, powerful pets such as mastiffs or Samoyeds, you might want to consider a more durable alternative to make the neighbors feel safe. Iron fencing is good for containing enormous dogs, and it has the added benefit of appearing decidedly solid. 

Regardless of how ornery, powerful, or wily your dog can be, putting up a professionally installed fence is the best way to keep him safely contained. For more information, contact Family Fence Company or a similar organization.