Wild Dog / Dingo Fence

Wild Dog / Dingo Fence — Buying Guide

Wild dog and dingo predation is one of the most significant economic and welfare challenges facing sheep, goat, and calf producers across Queensland and Australia. A well-designed and properly constructed wild dog exclusion fence is the most effective long-term solution for protecting livestock — reducing losses, lowering stress on animals and producers, and allowing profitable grazing in areas otherwise unsuitable due to predator pressure.

Wild Dog Fencing Design Standards

Effective wild dog exclusion fencing is governed by specific design principles that address the agility, intelligence, and persistence of wild dogs. Unlike standard rural fencing, wild dog fences must resist digging underneath, climbing over, and squeezing through openings.

• Mesh type: Fixed-knot or ring-lock mesh with openings no larger than 150mm x 150mm (tighter for smaller-bodied animals). Heavy gauge wire (2.5mm minimum) to resist impact and sustained pressure
• Fence height: Minimum 1050mm of mesh above ground — combined with plain or barbed wire strands above to reach 1200mm–1500mm total height
• Underground component: The mesh base must extend 200–300mm underground, OR be fitted with a wire apron extending outward from the base to prevent digging entry
• Electric offset wires: An electric wire at 200mm above ground height on the outside of the fence (offset on a bracket) is highly effective at deterring dogs from approaching the fence base — a critical addition in high-pressure areas
• Post spacing: 3 metres maximum for standard installations — reduce to 2.5m or closer in areas with high predator pressure or undulating terrain

Wild Dog vs Standard Rural Fencing

• Standard rural mesh: Generally not sufficient to exclude determined wild dogs — they can dig under, push through, or climb over mesh not specifically designed for predator exclusion
• Wild dog / dingo mesh: Heavier gauge, tighter openings, and designed with underground component requirements in mind — provides the security level required for genuine predator exclusion

Queensland Wild Dog Fencing Programs

The Queensland Government and various Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisations have historically provided grants and support for wild dog exclusion fencing on rural properties. Check with your local council, AgForce Queensland, or the Queensland Department of Agriculture for any current funding programs that may assist with the cost of wild dog exclusion fencing on your property.

Installation Tips

Wild dog fences require more robust strainer assemblies than standard rural fences — use timber strainer posts concreted in at corners and at intervals of no more than 300 metres on long straight runs. Maintain excellent ground contact along the entire fence base, particularly in areas with variable terrain. Inspect regularly for damage, burrows, and any points where dogs have tested the fence — early repairs prevent wholesale breaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best fencing to keep wild dogs out?
A heavy-gauge fixed-knot or ring-lock mesh fence with underground burial or apron, electric offset wires on the outside, and a total height of 1200mm–1500mm is considered best practice for wild dog exclusion in Queensland. The combination of physical and electric deterrents dramatically increases effectiveness.

Do wild dogs dig under fences?
Yes — digging under the fence base is one of the primary methods wild dogs use to breach exclusion fencing. Burying the mesh base 200–300mm underground or installing an outward-folded apron is essential to prevent this.

Can dingoes climb fences?
Yes — dingoes and wild dogs are capable climbers, particularly on mesh that provides foot purchase. Inward-angled sections at the top, barbed wire strands, or electric wires at the top of the fence significantly reduce the risk of climbing entry.

Order Wild Dog / Dingo Fencing Online — Australia-Wide Delivery

Discount Landscape Supplies stocks wild dog and dingo exclusion fencing products for rural and agricultural properties across Queensland and Australia. Order online with fast dispatch, or contact our expert team for advice on designing an effective wild dog exclusion system for your property.