Can A Rottweiler Jump A Fence?

Can A Rottweiler Jump A Fence?

If you’re a proud rottweiler parent or are hoping to become an owner of one of these burly beauties, then you may be wondering about fence requirements.

What kind of fence makes the most sense or even more specifically, can Rottweilers jump a fence? 

Rottweilers aren’t known for jumping and most won’t be able to jump over a standard 6-foot fence. However, if they’re able to get a good enough grip some Rottweilers may be able to climb over the fence or even use their strength to push it over. 

Let’s take a closer look at the jumping ability of a Rottweiler and the best fence options for these big pups. 

Are Rottweilers Good Jumpers?

Rottweilers aren’t exceptional jumpers and the typical Rottweiler can only jump around 3 to 4 feet in the air. Between their powerful, muscular body and shorter legs (at least relative to other breeds), they aren’t exactly built for jumping. 

Compare the look of your powerful Rottweiler to the slender Australian Kelpie breed, which holds the record for the highest jump at 10 feet, and the difference is very clear. Rottweilers are muscular, powerful, and dense while high-flyers like the Kelpie are long and lean with light, narrow bodies. Still, there are some breeds that break the mold Pitbulls are easily able to jump most fences and have one of the most impressive vertical jumps in the world.

How Does A Rottweiler Get Over A Fence?

Instead of outright jumping over a fence, Rottweilers are more likely to do a jump and climb technique. You’ll often see this as part of agility competition and you can check out this rather extreme example of a particularly athletic Rottie:

However, most Rottweilers won’t be able to just walk up to any fence and do that. That type of athleticism takes some training to achieve!

What About Digging?

While we might not think of them are prolific diggers, many Rottweilers love digging and will try to shovel their way across the other side. While this isn’t as common as the jump and climb technique, it’s still something to consider when fencing your yard.

Dangers of Jumping A Fence

While having a Rottweiler running around outside the yard has its own obvious dangers, the actual process of jumping over the fence can present several dangers as well.

Depending on the fence, Rottweilers could end up with lacerations as they try to scramble over the fence. In rare cases, these injuries could even be life-threatening.

If a Rottweiler is able to climb their way to the top of a fence, in most cases their only option is to jump straight down. With an average weight of more than 100 pounds, Rottweilers aren’t built to jump from high up! That impact can cause a variety of injuries including broken bones.

Rottweiler-Friendly Fences

In most cases, the best fences for Rottweilers are strong vinyl or wooden fences. Fences made from these materials are usually smooth enough that Rotties will have a hard time getting footing but still strong enough to prevent pups from just pushing it over.

Let’s take a quick look at the most common fence materials and how they’re likely to stand up to a determined Rottie.

Wood 

Most wood fences have at least a foot of depth to them which makes them relatively dig-proof, at least for a bulky Rottweiler. There’s also at least one smooth side to the fence that won’t allow dogs to get a grip.

However, that’s usually on the outside of the fence and inside the yard there are a few spots that a determined Rottie might be able to grab hold of and climb.

Overall, wood fences make a great option for most Rottweilers since they can’t jump them. But you’ll need to watch out for pups that are willing to climb since a determined dog could make thier way out.

Metal

While metal is certainly strong and sturdy, it’s got quite a few problems.

First, it’s easy to see through and activity on the other side of the fence is often what motivates Rotties to try and escape in the first place. Second, the lattice or woven pattern of some metal fences can make them easier to climb. Finally, some metal fences are sharp which can greatly increase the danger of self-injury while they try to climb. 

Overall, metal fences are usually not a good option if you’re even a little worried that your Rottweiler might try to escape.

Vinyl

Vinyl fences make a great option since they’re typically completely smooth on both sides. That makes it almost impossible for Rotties to get a footing and start their climb.

The problem with vinyl is that it can sometimes be a bit weak and a strong Rottweiler may be able to push their way through.

What About A Coyote Roller?

Coyote rollers are specifically designed to prevent the jump and climb strategy. These rolling bars are placed at the top of the fence and prevent coyotes, dogs, birds, and other animals from “perching” at the top of the fence. As soon as any pressure is applied to the roller, it starts to rotate which knocks off whatever was on it.

In most cases, four-legged creatures will end up falling off the fence as soon as they encounter the roller. Even though that is the goal, it’s not always safe and it could result in injury as your Rottie falls off the fence.

Still, in many cases, it could be riskier for your Rottweiler to escape than to fall off the fence and in those situations, a coyote roller could make more sense. If you’re interested in learning more, you can check out a few budget-friendly coyote rollers on Amazon by clicking here.

Is An Invisible Fence a Good Choice? 

Invisible fences are popular options for many folks. They’ve also become more and more affordable over the years which has only increased their popularity.

An invisible fence system uses an invisible barrier and collar. Whenever your Rottweiler crosses this barrier, they’re given a shock. While it may be appealing to avoid having to put up an actual fence, there are many problems with invisible fences.

First, is the issue of actual protection. Invisible fences may deter your Rottweiler from leaving the yard but they aren’t going to stop anything from getting in. That’s because this system relies on the collar to send the electric shock. That means your dog will be vulnerable to other dogs and wildlife.

Second, there’s the fact the fence is a deterrent and not an actual barrier. A motivated or very frightened Rottweiler might just ignore the electric shock if they feel it’s worth it. Rottweilers are tough dogs that have been bred for thousands of years to be brave and an electric shock may not be enough of a deterrent depending on the situation.

Third, is the issue of the actual shock. It’s generally not a good idea to cause pain to our pets. Not only is it a bit cruel, but it’s also ineffective and often comes with unintended consequences. In the case of an invisible fence, dogs may associate the pain of the shock with whatever they’re trying to reach outside the boundary. This can lead to increased aggression and other behavioral problems.

Overall, electric fences aren’t a great option and while not having to construct or build a fence is nice, it’s typically not worth the trouble. You check out this article from VCA Veterinary Hospitals for more pros and cons on invisible fences.

Fence Alternatives

While there isn’t a true substitute for a fence to keep your dog from leaving the yard, there are some steps you can take to minimize the chances of your Rottie escaping. 

Obedience Training

Working with your dog from an early age and continuing regular training can help them channel their territorial instincts for good. You can either use a professional trainer or class or do it yourself. Teaching your dog appropriate behavior for a variety of situations will help them to understand what is expected of them when they are both in the yard and outside of it. 

Socialization

Socializing your dog while they are young can help them learn positive responses to other animals and people. Oftentimes a scared dog can become aggressive, so it is best to introduce them to a range of experiences while they are growing and developing. 

Make Your Yard a Safe and Happy Place

Rottweilers, like other dogs, have basic needs. If your dog will spend a lot of time in the yard make sure they have food and water as well as a shady spot to rest. You may also want to put out toys for them to play with, helping to keep them occupied. 

Don’t include things in your yard that make it easier for your dog to escape the fence. This can include planters that they could use to boost themselves over, or not replacing a board if it comes loose, leaving a gap. Finally, be sure to check in on your pup once in a while just to make sure that they are still in the yard and are happy and healthy. 

In Conclusion

Rottweilers aren’t true jumpers, though some can get themselves over a fence. Most Rottweiler owners are more concerned with their dog muscling their way through a fence using their claws, jaws, or strength. Choosing the correct fence material and height can help decrease the risk of your dog escaping. Training them early and creating the right yard environment can also set you and your Rottie up for success. 

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