How to Repel Dogs

Dogs are man’s best friend, but they can also be man’s worst enemy. Even if you do not own a dog yourself, you may find that your yard has holes dug in it, or find that dogs have strewn garbage across your yard. In extreme situations you may find dogs fighting on your property, or even be bitten by one. It is at these times that you are reminded that dogs are not always loyal companions; they can also be savage beasts.

Water hose

Fencing material

Electric fence kit

Spray the dogs with a water hose. If you find dogs trespassing on your property, a quick spray with an ordinary garden hose is usually all it takes to send them on their way. Dogs are not particularly afraid of water, but a blast from the hose will startle them and let them know that they are not wanted on your property. If dogs are sprayed with water each time they enter your yard, they will quickly learn that this can be expected and will avoid venturing onto your property.

Build a fence around your property. If dogs are destroying your property while you are away or asleep, then a water hose will not be an effective solution. In this case, a fence is the most effective way to keep dogs away on a 24-hour basis. Large dogs may technically have the ability to jump over a standard chain link fence, but will almost never do so. It would require excessive motivation for a dog to put in that much effort, and it’s usually easier for them to just go to another yard.

Use an electric barrier. If a standard fence just isn’t getting the job done, then you may need to escalate your approach. Purchase an electric fence kit and construct a barrier around your yard. This will be a simple wire barrier that has an electric current going through it. A dog usually only has to come into contact with an electric fence one time before they learn their lesson and stay away. Some people may feel that using an electric fence is extreme, but it can be argued that it is far less extreme than suffering a dog bite.

Call the dog catcher. No matter what size town or city you live in, chances are that there is an Animal Control Officer working where you live. Since most municipalities have a leash law, you are well within your rights to call animal control any time you see a dog roaming the streets, whether it is a pet or a stray. Making use of your town’s animal control services will not only repel the problem, but will do so in a manner that eliminates the problem for good.

If vicious dogs have been known to be in your neighborhood, carry mace with you when you are outside. Should you come under attack, a quick spray of mace to the dog’s face will send him running the opposite direction.

Some people will actually purchase a bb gun to shoot trespassing dogs. While this can be an effect way to repel dogs, it is also very cruel and should not be done. In fact, you could find yourself being arrested if anyone sees you take this approach.