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To effectively keep animals out of your yard with a fence, choose a fence that anchors to the ground to deter digging. Also, consider adding a barrier below the fence to prevent burrowing. 

To make your yard less desirable to animals, eliminate food sources like a vegetable garden, and ensure your garbage cans are sealed and tamper-proof. Installing motion-activated devices like lights or sprinklers will startle animal intruders. Also, a fence won’t work well if you forget to keep gates closed and secure. If you still face persistent animal intrusion issues, contact a wildlife control expert who can offer specialized solutions.

Generally, the height of your dog fence should be 3 times the distance from the ground to your dog’s shoulder. For most small breeds, a 4-foot high fence will be more than enough to keep them from jumping out. Medium-sized breeds like Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and German Shepherds will need at least a 5-6 foot fence to stay contained. Large breeds that are also excellent jumpers, such as Greyhounds, may need a 7-foot high fence. 

Typically, a fence requires one to two coats of stain. The exact number can vary depending on the porosity of the wood. For specific guidance, it's best to check the manufacturer's instructions. After applying the first coat and letting it dry completely, you can assess the finish. If it appears patchy, uneven, or you want a more saturated color, a second coat is recommended. An extra coat can also help cover lap marks.

Vinyl fencing stays popular with homeowners because it’s durable and aesthetically pleasing. In addition to offering plenty of privacy, vinyl fences have a life span of 20 to 30 years with minimal maintenance. You don’t have to worry about these fences warping or rotting due to moisture, and this material doesn’t contain toxic chemicals.