Two Dogs and No Fence: What to do?

[Modem Butterfly]

Our dogs are indoor dogs, but they do like "alone time" outdoors, as in, off leash. Our new place does not currently have a fence, and though we're planning to put one in, it will probably be a couple of months. During this time, we're thinking of using a system of pullys and tie-outs to give them some run time. Of course, they'll get regular walkies and they'll spend all day and all night in the house with us.

We are unwilling to use invisible fencing because one of our dogs is double-coated (Chow) and the other is a very hyperactive Shar-Pei. We believe that if he were to see something he wanted very badly, he'd run right through the invisible fence and keep going, not able to get back in once he calmed down.

[Mutley]

1. tie outs are good

but don't hang anything too far from the ground... doggies can choke to death that way.. and as for the invisible fence... they are cruel. i've been told that you can get interference from nearby powerlines that significantly increase the amount of electricity getting to the dog... very painful.

[MadHound]

2. Tie outs and pullies will work well for awhile

However, make sure you check your pullies regularly, especially if you have an active dog. Running up and down the cable will wear through a pully quick.

Stay away from invisible fences. All of the dog owners I know who've tried it say that if their dog really wants out, they'll just tough out the current and leave.

[aintitfunny]

3. Don't know how big your yard is

but we have a pretty big backyard and we strung cable from the backporch roof to something of nearly equal height at the other end then a loooong leash attached with a pulley thing to run along the cable. Missy gets hooked up and has free run of the backyard, but people should stay very clear of getting between the leash and something the dog decides to chase.