There’s no definitive answer to this question because dog owners and experts are conflicted about the efficacy and morality of electric fences. However, physical fences are typically considered a better option since they provide guaranteed containment for your pup, provided they are tall enough, and your dog can’t dig under them. Physical fences can also provide privacy, which might stop your dog from barking at people or animals walking by. Physical dog fences tend to be more expensive, but most homeowners find them to be a better option overall.

The best fence option for you depends on your property, budget, and style preferences, but a corrugated metal fence could be a good option if you want something durable yet low-maintenance. Unlike wood, corrugated metal won’t fall prey to rot or pest damage, and the metal can be recycled after its life as a fence comes to an end.

In most cases, trees need to be protected from deer all year round. This is especially true if you want to protect small trees from deer or if you just planted some fresh, new trees. Once a tree is a few years old, you likely do not have to worry about protecting it from deer as it will be stronger and can handle a little damage.

You’ll need to bury the garden fence about 1 foot underground. It’s tempting to save on materials by burying the fence just a couple of inches, but if you do so, determined pests will still be able to dig under the fence and access your plants. Burying your garden fence deep into the soil is an important step that allows you to attach a wire barrier to the fencing. 

Burrowing animals (like voles, moles, rabbits, and gophers) can’t dig or chew through this wiring, meaning that you’ll be keeping your prized petunias or your robust veggie garden from being eaten.