I'm getting a puppy (small dog) who will be indoors most of the time, but outdoors too. I'm going to make an area off the deck fenced so he can have shade and place to potty. Our ground is hard with stickers. I'm thinking of putting pea gravel/or something out there so he can be on the deck, but go there to potty. Is galvanised mesh with 2x4 squares okay to put around the railing of the deck and also the part on the ground? Any other recommendations? I'm thinking maybe a 6x10 foot fenced area on the ground.
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That would work. You could also use the chain link fence material.
You sound like a good puppy parent trying to puppy proof your area! I wish you and you pup a lovely life together.
In my opinion, the 2 x 4 mesh around the deck bottom is too big and small paws can easily be caught and cut. I would go with a the smallest gauge the offer and the kind that is NOT twisted metal (fur can get stuck in the twists).
Pea gravel will work unless your pup has sensitive paws. You may want to do part pea gravel and part a hose-down-able (the are usually marketed as pet safe artificial grass pads. This will give your pup options and will be easy to clean.
It is hard to tell you about height, because some dogs are jumpers and can fly over any fence. You may want to consider a top closure to your area to prevent leaping and also, if your area is anything like mine--to prevent the pup being targeted by hawks, owls or other large birds that prey on small dogs. Here's why I say this...
I always tell people about my scare with my Carmel Ann who was a mini-long hair dachshund. When she was a pup I left her out in the back yard for 2 minutes to answer the phone and a hawk tried to get her. I ran outside screaming before the bird connected, but it was terrifying. I never left her outside alone again (she passed 3 years ago at 17 1/2 and to her very last day she would hear a bird screech and she would run and hide). A few months later, in the next town over, a hawk killed a Yorkie. I had no idea that these birds were so powerful and dangerous.
I was (still am with my current pup) a helicopter mom, so all of my opinions come from that super protective mentality!
A few other things for the outdoor space....plenty of shade, access to a sun spot or two, and big metal bowls (super easy to keep clean) for water. My one friend likes those water bowls that refill and keeps the water cool...they are a bit pricey for me, but you might find it helpful).
Wishing you and your pup all the best! Post pictures when you adopt!
I got the puppy and am going to wait till hes older to make an outdoor area. Hes doing great with toilet training! Hes about 12 weeks and doesnt use the puppy pads but holds it when hes in pen or crate. Sleeps all night...lucky! My son in law and granddaughter are handy during the day to let him out a couple times during the day.
What a cutie!!! What is his name? Is he a teddybear dog (bishon/Shih Tzu)? He looks like our nephew dog!!
Blessings and many happy adventures to you and your family!
Sounds like he fits right in!!!
Hes a mal-shi-poo. His name is Teddy...after my dad and because he looks like a teddy bear!
That is a great mix!! Teddy is adorable!! How sweet to name him after your dad! Blessings to all!!!
You need to enter him in the next Thrifty Fun Pet Contest! He will get my vote for being so cute!!
Here's a link on how to do it!!
www2.thriftyfun.com/
There is a nice prize if you win! Would buy him lots of kibbles and bits :)
My Clarence, who is a wire hair dachshund, won the contest a few years ago!
If you want to put the puppy in the yard and the ground is hard and filled with sticker this might not be such a good idea unless you can clean this area first. The sticker get in the fur of the dog and they are so hard to take out.
On the deck, the mesh you are wanting to use is rather large for a small puppy to walk on. I would go with artificial grass or a type of mat that is easy to clean and hose off. You can find a small plastic fencing that is easy to add around the deck so that he can not get off the deck or even fall when he is out there.
You could do a keyword search: enclosed outdoor for dog and you'll find a lot of options.
Whatever you use just be sure that the dog cant learn to climb up it to escape. Ive seen this happen. If they can wedge their feet into any gap including lattice it will be up & over.
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