"Chicken wire definitely helps, but I've found burying it slightly (just 2-3 inches underground) stops determined diggers better."
Yeah, burying it slightly has been the only thing that's worked for me too. My dog thinks chicken wire is just a fun challenge otherwise...budget-friendly and effective—can't beat that combo.
I've tried the chicken wire trick too, but my pup just saw it as an invitation to dig deeper—literally. Did you guys find that burying it a bit deeper made a difference, or is 2-3 inches usually enough? I ended up going about 5 inches down after my dog managed to tunnel under the shallower layer. It felt like I was building Fort Knox for tomatoes, haha. But hey, whatever keeps the garden safe, right?
Also curious if anyone's dogs eventually gave up after a while or if they're still testing the boundaries occasionally. Mine seems determined to find a weak spot...maybe he's secretly training for some kind of canine escape artist competition.
I've seen this happen quite a bit—some dogs just see chicken wire as a fun challenge rather than a deterrent. Usually, burying it at least 6-8 inches deep works better, especially if your pup is particularly determined. Another trick I've recommended to clients is bending the bottom edge outward underground, creating an L-shape. Dogs typically give up faster when they hit that horizontal barrier. It might feel excessive, but it often does the trick...and saves your tomatoes too.
I've tried the buried chicken wire method myself, and while it does work for some dogs, I've found determined pups can still dig around or even chew through it eventually. Instead, I've had better luck with natural deterrents—planting thorny bushes like raspberries or blackberries along the garden perimeter. Dogs usually steer clear after a few prickly encounters, plus you get bonus berries. Might not be ideal for everyone, but it's a more eco-friendly solution that blends nicely into the landscape.
I see the appeal of thorny bushes, especially since they blend nicely and offer fruit, but I'm wondering about maintenance. I've got an older property with a pretty formal garden layout, and I'm hesitant about introducing plants that might spread aggressively or look messy over time. Have you noticed if raspberries or blackberries tend to take over or become unruly? Curious if anyone's tried other prickly but tidier options—maybe something ornamental like barberry or holly?
