How to build dog-proof fencing to protect small garden?

tccedrn

Hi All. Long time lurker first time poster here. I have just finished renovating my back porch and whilst living on 5 acres, have to securely fence off this small area to protect my garden from a very determined and destructive blue heeler. I have used temp fencing as pictured however she clears it so I’d say it will need to be at least 5 foot high. I’m on a tight budget and am very handy on the tools so hoping the brains trust here might be able to give some advice. Ideally I’d like to be able to see through it. Another issue I am having is with what type of gate I might be able to incorporate above the deck step near the window as it will be difficult to fence around. I’m also hoping to eventually install sheer (for the mozzies in summer) and or plastic bistro blinds (for the cold winter to protect frost sensitive plants) however am not sure how that would work with a very long front facing side and a top angled off side (photos attached). There is still sooooo much to do with figuring out how to level the yard in a way it doesn’t pool when he get heavy rain (clay based soil) and either remove gums to replant canopy or plant around, and potentially utilise / cover up the the old filled in septic with a water feature

. But the fence is a good start because this dog destroys everything. I’ve attached before and after of patio if anyone is interested 🙂 Bonis points if you can tell me how to possum proof the color bond as they also like to invade the berry garden

  

EricL

Hello @tccedrn 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your dog proof fence and garden.

Congratulations on your renovations they look fantastic! Let’s tackle your fence challenge step by step. It sounds like you’re after a durable, budget-friendly, and functional solution that balances practicality with aesthetics.

For the fence, since you’re handy with tools and need to keep it sturdy and 5 feet high, a framed fence with shade cloth as the main material is a great idea. You can use treated pine posts for the frame, as they’re budget-friendly and weather-resistant. Secure the shade cloth using fencing staples or a staple gun, making sure it’s taut to prevent sagging. For extra durability, you could reinforce the frame with horizontal bracing to prevent your determined blue heeler from pushing through.

As for the gate near the deck steps, you might consider a DIY wooden gate made from treated pine slats, which you can cut to size and mount using heavy-duty gate hinges and a latch kit. The store stocks these components, and you can customize the gate to match your frame design. To make it see-through and lightweight, you could incorporate some galvanized steel mesh or more shade cloth into the gate design.

When it comes to adding café or bistro blinds for weather protection, consider installing them on the inside of your porch frame. The store sells clear or tinted outdoor blinds that come with easy-to-use roller mechanisms, which can be attached to the timber frame of your porch. This way, the blinds don’t interfere with your fence structure but still provide mosquito protection in summer and keep frost-sensitive plants cozy in winter. For angled sides, adjustable mounting brackets should help ensure the blinds fit snugly. 

To deal with pooling water and clay soil in your yard, you could improve drainage by creating gentle slopes or installing ag pipe to redirect water. Planting natives like lomandras or kangaroo paws around these areas can help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. As for the gum trees, if you decide to keep them, consider underplanting with hardy natives or shade-tolerant plants to create a lush understory.

Finally, for possum-proofing the Colorbond and protecting your berry garden, try using a roller or anti-climb barrier. Bunnings stocks PVC pipes that can be cut lengthwise and mounted along the top edge of your fence or garden bed frames, making it difficult for possums to grip and climb over. Pair this with wildlife-friendly netting over your berry garden to keep your harvest safe.

Best of luck with your projects! It sounds like you’ve got a great vision for your space, and I can’t wait to hear how it all turns out.

I also suggest having a look at this discussion - How to stop cats climbing fences. There is a good example of how to build a PVC roller bar that stops cats and possums from climbing the fence.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric