# Sheep Fencing Options: Permanent, Portable, and Predator-Proof ## Key Takeaways - Woven wire sheep netting, while providing a physical barrier, requires supplemental top wire (barbed or electric) for effective coyote deterrence, and its installation labor is high. - High tensile electric fencing offers a cost-effective permanent solution with moderate installation labor, but its efficacy hinges on a consistent, high-voltage shock (minimum 3,000-4,000 volts) to penetrate wool and overcome vegetation shorts. - Portable electric netting is ideal for rotational grazing due to its low installation labor and flexibility, but its lifespan is shorter (5-10 years) and it requires careful handling and storage. - Predator-proof electric fence designs, often exceeding 48 inches in height with 7-9 strands and a bottom wire close to the ground (4-6 inches), are critical in high-pressure areas to prevent digging and climbing, requiring energizers with 2-5 joules output. - Proper grounding with multiple ground rods in moist soil is paramount for electric fence efficacy, as is regular vegetation control to prevent voltage drain and ensure a consistent, deterrent shock. --- Choosing the right sheep fencing is one of the most important decisions you will make as a flock owner. The fence you install determines how safely you contain your animals, how well you protect them from predators, and how much time you spend on daily management. This guide compares permanent, portable, and predator-proof sheep fencing options so you can match a system to your flock size, property layout, budget, and predator pressure. It is written for new and experienced sheep keepers, small farm operators, and homesteaders who want practical guidance on selecting, installing, and maintaining the right fence. ## At a Glance | Fence Type | Best For | Predator Protection | Cost per Foot Installed | Lifespan | Labor to Install | |---|---|---|---|---|---| | Woven wire sheep netting | Permanent boundary fences | Good for dogs, fair for coyotes when topped with hot wire | $1.50 to $3.00 | 20 to 30 years | High | | High tensile electric | Permanent perimeter or interior divisions | Good when properly built | $0.50 to $1.50 | 20 to 30 years | Moderate | | Portable electric netting | Rotational grazing, temporary paddocks | Good for dogs, moderate for coyotes | $0.75 to $1.50 | 5 to 10 years with care | Low | | Predator-proof electric | High predator pressure areas | Excellent when built to spec | $1.00 to $2.50 | 15 to 25 years | High | | Traditional woven wire with barbed top | Older farms, low predator pressure | Moderate | $1.50 to $2.50 | 20 to 40 years | High | The key takeaway is that no single fence works for every situation. Your choice depends on predator species in your area, whether you rotationally graze, your soil and terrain, and your willingness to inspect and maintain the fence. ## Understanding Sheep Behavior and Fence Requirements Sheep present unique fencing challenges compared to cattle or horses. They are lighter and more agile than cattle, which means they can squeeze through small gaps or push under loose bottom wires. They also have a strong flocking instinct, so when one sheep tests a fence, others often follow. Understanding these behaviors helps you choose a fence that works with your animals instead of against them. Sheep are also prey animals. Their first response to a threat is to run, often into the fence. A fence that is poorly constructed or maintained can injure a panicked sheep. Wool sheep are somewhat protected by their fleece, but hair sheep and lambs have thinner coverage and are more prone to cuts and scrapes from damaged netting. The fence must also keep predators out, not just sheep in. Coyotes, domestic dogs, foxes, and in some regions bears and mountain lions will test your fence. A fence that contains sheep but does not deter predators is only half a solution. Predator pressure varies widely by region, so check with your local extension agent or neighboring livestock producers to learn which predators are active in your area before you buy materials. ## Permanent Sheep Fencing Options Permanent fencing forms the backbone of most sheep operations. These fences are designed to last for decades and require significant upfront investment in materials and labor. Once installed, they need routine inspection and occasional repair, but they provide reliable containment without daily adjustment. ### Woven Wire Sheep Netting Woven wire sheep netting, sometimes called sheep and goat fence, is the traditional choice for permanent sheep fencing. This fence consists of vertical and horizontal wires woven together to form a grid. The mesh openings are small enough at the bottom to prevent lambs from squeezing through, typically 4 to 6 inches, and larger toward the top to reduce material cost. Sheep netting comes in rolls typically 330 feet long. Common heights range from 32 to 48 inches, with 34 to 36 inches being the most popular for sheep. The bottom wire spacing should be no more than 4 to 6 inches to keep lambs inside. The wire gauge ranges from 12.5 to 14 gauge, with heavier wire costing more but lasting longer and resisting damage from livestock pressure. Install woven wire on wooden or steel posts spaced 8 to 12 feet apart. Corner posts must be heavy and well braced because the fence is under tension. Set corner posts 3 to 4 feet deep in concrete or packed soil. Line posts can be driven or set shallower, but they must be sturdy enough to hold the fence taut. The main advantage of woven wire is that it physically contains sheep without relying on electricity. This matters in areas with frequent power outages or where vegetation growth can short out electric fences. Woven wire also provides a visual barrier that helps keep sheep calm and prevents them from testing the fence. The main disadvantage is cost and installation labor. Woven wire is more expensive than electric options, and installing it correctly requires significant effort. It also does not stop determined predators by itself. Coyotes can dig under it, and dogs can sometimes push through or climb over shorter sections. Many producers add one or two strands of barbed wire or electric wire above the woven wire to improve predator deterrence. ### High Tensile Electric Fence High tensile electric fence uses smooth or slightly textured wire under high tension to deliver a painful shock to any animal that touches it. This system is popular for sheep because it is less expensive than woven wire and can be very effective when properly built and maintained. A basic high tensile sheep fence uses 5 to 7 strands of wire. The bottom strand should be 6 to 8 inches above the ground to prevent lambs from crawling under. Space additional strands 8 to 10 inches apart, with the top strand at 40 to 48 inches. For sheep only, 5 strands at lower heights work well. If you also need to deter deer or larger predators, add more strands and increase the total height. High tensile wire is stretched to 150 to 250 pounds of tension. This requires strong corner posts and proper bracing. Use class III galvanized wire for longer life, especially in humid or coastal areas. Insulators attach the wire to posts, and you need a quality energizer that delivers at least 1 joule of output for every mile of fence, more if predator pressure is high or vegetation is rank. The critical requirement for any electric fence is that it delivers a strong, unmistakable shock. Sheep have thick wool that insulates them, so the fence must be powerful enough to penetrate wool contact. Use a low impedance energizer rated for sheep and check the voltage regularly with a digital fence tester. The fence should read at least 3,000 volts at the far end, and 4,000 to 5,000 volts is better for wool sheep. High tensile electric fence costs less than woven wire and is faster to install. It is also easier to repair when damaged. The downside is that it requires reliable electricity and regular maintenance. Vegetation touching the wire will short it out and reduce the shock. In areas with heavy grass growth or frequent power outages, an electric fence can fail when you need it most. ### Traditional Woven Wire with Barbed Wire Top Many older sheep farms still use woven wire sheep netting topped with one or two strands of barbed wire. This combination provides the physical barrier of woven wire with the added deterrent of barbed wire for predators and livestock. The barbed wire strands are typically installed 6 to 12 inches above the woven wire, attached to taller posts. This raises the total fence height to 42 to 48 inches. The barbs discourage coyotes and dogs from attempting to climb over, and they add height without the expense of taller woven wire. This system works well in areas with moderate predator pressure and where you want a fence that does not rely on electricity. It is also a good option for producers who already have woven wire in place and want to upgrade predator protection without replacing the entire fence. The main drawback is that barbed wire can injure sheep, especially if they are panicked and push against the fence. Wool sheep are somewhat protected, but hair sheep and lambs can suffer cuts. Some producers avoid barbed wire for this reason and use a strand of electric wire above the woven wire instead, which provides deterrence without injury risk. ## Portable Electric Fencing for Sheep Portable electric fencing has transformed sheep management by enabling controlled rotational grazing. These systems allow you to move sheep frequently to fresh pasture, which improves forage utilization, reduces parasite burdens, and distributes manure more evenly. Portable fencing is also valuable for temporary paddocks, strip grazing, and fencing off sensitive areas. ### Electric Netting Electric netting is the most common portable fencing choice for sheep. It consists of vertical and horizontal strands of plastic twine with embedded conductive wires, forming a net that stands 3 to 4 feet tall. The netting comes in rolls 50 to 300 feet long, with posts attached at intervals so you can set it up without separate posts. To install electric netting, unroll it along the desired fence line and push the attached posts into the ground. The posts have prongs or spikes that hold them in place. Connect the netting to a portable energizer powered by a 12-volt battery or a small solar panel. The bottom strand should touch vegetation so that sheep learn to respect the fence quickly. Electric netting works well for sheep because the vertical and horizontal strands create a visual barrier as well as an electric deterrent. Sheep can see the net clearly, which helps them learn to avoid it. The mesh spacing is small enough at the bottom to prevent lambs from squeezing through, typically 6 to 8 inches. The main advantage of electric netting is flexibility. You can move paddocks daily or weekly, adjust grazing areas to match forage growth, and protect newly seeded areas from grazing. This system is ideal for small flocks and for producers practicing intensive rotational grazing. The disadvantages include higher cost per foot compared to permanent electric fence, shorter lifespan, and the need to move and store the netting. Electric netting typically lasts 5 to 10 years with proper care, though UV damage and animal pressure can shorten that. The posts can bend or break in rocky or frozen ground, and the netting can tangle if not rolled and stored carefully. ### Step-In Posts with Polywire or Polytape For larger temporary paddocks, many producers use step-in posts with polywire or polytape. Step-in posts are lightweight plastic or fiberglass posts with a foot peg that you push into the ground. They have clips or notches for attaching 2 to 5 strands of polywire or polytape. Polywire is a lightweight twine with fine stainless steel wires woven through it. Polytape is a wider flat tape with conductive strands. Both conduct electricity well and are visible to sheep. Polytape is more visible and less likely to break, but it catches more wind and can sag between posts. This system is less expensive than electric netting and allows you to build custom paddock shapes. It is also easier to move because the posts and wire are lightweight. The downside is that it provides less of a visual barrier than netting, so sheep may take longer to learn to respect it. It also requires more posts per foot to keep the wire at the correct height. For sheep, use 3 to 5 strands of polywire or polytape. The bottom strand should be 6 to 8 inches off the ground, the top strand at 30 to 36 inches, and intermediate strands spaced evenly. Set posts 15 to 25 feet apart, closer on uneven ground or where sheep pressure is high. ### Energizer and Power Requirements A portable fence is only as good as its energizer. For sheep, you need an energizer that delivers a strong shock despite contact with wool and vegetation. Low impedance energizers are designed for this purpose and are the only type you should consider. Portable energizers are available as battery powered, solar powered, or a combination. Battery powered units use 12-volt batteries, typically a lawn and garden battery or a deep cycle battery. Solar powered units include a small solar panel that charges the battery. The size and output of the energizer depends on the length of fence you need to power and the amount of vegetation contact. A general rule is to use an energizer rated for at least 1 joule of output for every mile of fence. For a small portable setup of 200 to 500 feet, a small energizer with 0.1 to 0.5 joule output is sufficient. For larger operations or areas with heavy vegetation, step up to a larger unit. Check the voltage regularly, especially in the morning when dew can cause voltage drops. The fence should read at least 3,000 volts anywhere along its length. If voltage drops below that, sheep may test the fence and learn that it is not a reliable barrier. ### Grounding the Portable System Proper grounding is essential for any electric fence, including portable systems. The energizer must have a good ground connection to complete the circuit when an animal touches the fence. Most portable energizers use a ground rod driven into the earth near the energizer. For a portable system, drive the ground rod into moist soil as close to the energizer as possible. If the soil is dry or sandy, use additional ground rods connected together to improve conductivity. A poor ground results in a weak shock that sheep quickly learn to ignore. When you move the fence to a new location, you must also move and reset the ground rod. This adds time to each fence move but is essential for maintaining fence effectiveness. ## Predator-Proof Sheep Fencing Predator losses are a serious concern for sheep producers across the country. Coyotes, domestic dogs, foxes, and in some regions bears and mountain lions can kill sheep or cause injury and stress that reduces productivity. Predator-proof fencing is designed specifically to exclude these animals, not just contain sheep. ### Understanding Predator Behavior Different predators challenge fences in different ways. Coyotes are the most common predator of sheep in the United States. They are intelligent and persistent, and they will dig under fences, push through weak spots, and in some cases climb over low or poorly maintained fences. Coyotes typically hunt at dawn and dusk, and they often work in pairs or small groups. Domestic dogs are also a significant threat to sheep. Dogs may chase sheep for fun rather than food, causing panic, injury, and death. Dogs are often larger than coyotes and can push through or over fences that would stop a coyote. Fences that deter coyotes are not always sufficient to stop a determined dog. Foxes are a threat primarily to lambs. A fox can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps and may dig under fences to reach lambs. Foxes are less likely to challenge a well built fence, but they will exploit any weakness. In areas with bears or mountain lions, standard sheep fencing is insufficient. These large predators can easily break through or climb over conventional fences. Producers in these areas need specialized fencing or alternative predator control strategies, such as livestock guardian animals or secure nighttime housing. ### Electric Fence Design for Predator Exclusion A properly designed electric fence can deter most predators, including coyotes and dogs. The key is to make the fence deliver a strong, memorable shock and to close off all potential entry points. For predator exclusion, use a fence at least 48 inches tall with 7 to 9 strands of high tensile wire. The bottom strand should be no more than 4 to 6 inches above the ground to prevent digging under. Space the strands 6 to 8 inches apart. The top strand should be at 48 inches or higher. The fence must deliver a powerful shock. Use a low impedance energizer rated at 2 to 5 joules or more, depending on fence length. The fence should maintain at least 5,000 volts at the far end, even under heavy vegetation pressure. Some producers use offset wires or alternating positive and negative wires to increase the shock intensity. To prevent digging, add a bottom wire that is live and positioned close to the ground. Some producers also lay a strip of welded wire mesh or netting flat on the ground along the fence line, pegged down, to prevent digging. This is especially effective against coyotes and foxes. To prevent climbing, some producers angle the top wires outward or add a hot wire offset from the fence posts. This makes it difficult for predators to gain purchase and climb over. Angled top wires are common in high predator pressure areas. ### Woven Wire with Electric Offset A combination fence using woven wire with an electric offset wire is a popular predator-proof option. The woven wire provides a physical barrier that predators cannot push through, while the electric wire delivers a shock to any animal that touches it. Install woven wire sheep netting to a height of 32 to 36 inches. Then add one or two offset electric wires mounted on insulators that hold the wire 4 to 6 inches out from the fence face. The offset wires are typically placed at 6 inches and 18 to 24 inches from the ground. This creates a physical and electric barrier that deters digging and climbing. This system works well because the woven wire stops the predator from pushing through, and the electric wire trains them to stay away from the fence entirely. It is more expensive than a pure electric fence but more reliable in areas with persistent predator pressure. ### Net Wire Electric Fence Net wire electric fence, sometimes called predator netting, is a specialized product designed for predator exclusion. It combines the physical barrier of woven wire with the deterrent of electricity. The netting has vertical and horizontal wires that are all electrified, creating a fence that delivers a shock anywhere an animal touches it. This fence is typically 48 to 60 inches tall and comes in rolls. The mesh spacing is small enough to prevent lambs from passing through and tight enough to deter predators. All the wires are connected and electrified, so any contact delivers a shock. Net wire electric fence is effective against coyotes and dogs when properly installed and powered. It is more expensive than standard electric fence but less expensive than woven wire with electric offset. It is a good choice for producers who want predator protection without the labor of building a multi strand electric fence. The main challenge with net wire electric fence is maintaining voltage. The many wires create more surface area for vegetation contact, so you need a powerful energizer and regular vegetation control. Some producers report that net wire fence is more prone to shorting out than simpler electric designs. ### Off Grid and Remote Considerations If your pasture is far from grid power, you need an energizer that can operate reliably on batteries, solar, or a combination. Predator proof fencing is only effective when it is energized, so you must ensure a reliable power supply. Solar powered energizers are the most common choice for remote fences. They combine a solar panel, a battery, and the energizer in one unit. The solar panel charges the battery during the day, and the battery powers the fence at night and during cloudy weather. Choose a solar panel and battery sized for your fence length and local weather conditions. For high predator pressure areas, consider a larger solar energizer with a separate battery bank. This provides more reserve capacity for extended cloudy periods. Some producers use a backup energizer or a generator to maintain power during emergencies. ## Installation Step by Step Proper installation is critical to fence performance. A well designed fence installed poorly will fail, while a modest fence installed correctly can work for years. Follow these steps for a successful installation. ### Planning and Layout Before you dig post holes or unroll wire, walk your fence line and plan the layout. Mark the corners and any changes in direction. Identify rocky areas, wet spots, and areas with heavy vegetation that may affect installation or fence performance. Decide on gate locations. Gates should be placed where you need regular access for equipment, feeding, or moving sheep. A good gate is worth the extra cost because it saves time and prevents fence damage from people cutting corners. Measure the total fence length and calculate the number of posts, rolls of wire, insulators, and other materials you need. Add 10 percent for waste and mistakes. It is better to have extra materials than to run short mid installation. ### Setting Corner Posts and Bracing Corner posts are the foundation of a permanent fence. They must be strong enough to withstand the tension of the wire and the pressure of livestock. Use 6 to 8 inch diameter wooden posts or heavy steel posts for corners. Set them at least 3 feet deep in concrete or well tamped soil. Bracing is essential. A single post cannot hold the tension of a long fence line. Install horizontal braces from the corner post to a second post set 8 to 10 feet back along the fence line. Use wire or metal braces to transfer the tension from the corner to the brace post. The brace should be angled so that it pushes against the ground when the fence is under tension. For long fence lines, consider adding brace assemblies at intervals of 1,000 feet or at any change in direction. This prevents the fence from sagging or pulling loose over time. ### Installing Line Posts Line posts support the fence between corners. For woven wire, use posts spaced 8 to 12 feet apart. For high tensile electric, spacing can be 20 to 50 feet, depending on the number of strands and the terrain. Wooden posts are traditional and long lasting, but they are heavy and require digging or driving. Steel T posts are lighter, easier to install, and widely used for both woven wire and electric fences. Fiberglass posts are another option for electric fences, as they do not conduct electricity and are lightweight. Set line posts deep enough to be stable. For wooden posts, set them 2 to 3 feet deep. For steel T posts, drive them 18 to 24 inches into the ground or until they are firm. On uneven ground, adjust post height so the fence follows the contour without gaps at the bottom. ### Attaching Wire For woven wire, start at a corner post and unroll the wire along the fence line. Attach the wire to the corner post with staples or clips, then stretch it to the next corner or brace assembly. Use a fence stretcher to pull the wire taut, but do not over tension it. The wire should be tight enough to resist sagging but not so tight that it pulls the posts. Staple the wire to each line post, using enough staples to hold the wire securely without crushing it. Staple the top and bottom wires at each post, and staple the intermediate wires at alternating heights to distribute the pressure. For high tensile electric, attach insulators to each post first, then run the wire through the insulators. Use a wire strainer or come along to tension the wire to the manufacturer's recommended tension. High tensile wire can store a dangerous amount of energy, so use proper tools and techniques. Never cut high tensile wire that is under tension. ### Connecting Electric Components Once the fence is built, install the energizer, ground rods, and connecting wires. Mount the energizer in a dry, protected location near a power source. Install ground rods in moist soil near the energizer, connecting them with ground wire. Run a lead out wire from the energizer to the fence, using insulated cable that is rated for burial or above ground use. Connect the lead out wire to the fence at a point that is convenient and protected from damage. Use proper connectors and insulators to prevent shorts. Test the entire fence with a digital fence tester. Walk the fence line and check voltage at the far end and at intervals. Any voltage drop below the recommended level indicates a problem that must be fixed before you turn sheep into the pasture. ## Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Many fence failures trace back to a few common mistakes. Understanding these pitfalls can save you time, money, and frustration. ### Undersizing the Energizer The most common mistake is buying an energizer that is too small for the fence. A small energizer may work when the fence is new and vegetation is low, but it will fail as vegetation grows or when the fence gets wet. The result is a fence that does not deliver a reliable shock, and sheep quickly learn to ignore it. Buy the largest energizer you can afford, and size it for the worst conditions you expect, not the best. If you plan to expand your fence later, buy an energizer that can handle the future load. ### Poor Grounding A fence is only as good as its ground. Many producers install a great fence but skimp on grounding, resulting in a weak shock that does not deter sheep or predators. Use at least 3 feet of ground rod per joule of energizer output, and use multiple rods in dry or sandy soil. The ground system should be as close to the energizer as possible, and the ground wire should be heavy gauge to minimize resistance. Check the ground connection regularly, especially after dry spells or soil disturbance. ### Inadequate Post Spacing Posts spaced too far apart cause the fence to sag, creating gaps that lambs can squeeze through and reducing the effectiveness of electric wires. Follow the manufacturer's spacing recommendations for your fence type. It is better to set posts too close than too far apart. ### Ignoring Vegetation Control Vegetation touching an electric fence drains voltage and can short the fence entirely. Grass, weeds, and brush must be controlled along the fence line. Use a string trimmer, mower, or herbicide to keep the fence line clear. Some producers use a vegetation barrier or gravel strip to reduce maintenance. ### Not Training Sheep to the Fence Sheep that are not trained to respect an electric fence will test it and may push through. Before turning sheep into a new electric enclosure, introduce them to the fence in a small area where they can learn the boundary safely. Some producers run a strip of electric wire at nose height for a few days to teach sheep to stay back. ### Forgetting to Inspect Fences fail gradually. A loose wire, a broken insulator, or a fallen branch can reduce fence effectiveness without being obvious. Inspect your fence regularly, at least monthly and after storms. Walk the fence line, check voltage, and repair any damage promptly. ## Decision Thresholds for Choosing a Fence With so many options, choosing the right fence can feel overwhelming. Use these decision thresholds to narrow your options based on your specific situation. ### Flock Size and Management Style If you have a small flock of 10 to 30 sheep and practice rotational grazing, portable electric netting is often the best choice. It gives you flexibility to move your sheep frequently and manage pasture without a large upfront investment in permanent fencing. If you have a larger flock of 50 or more sheep and graze large permanent pastures, permanent fencing is more practical. Woven wire or high tensile electric fence provides reliable containment without the daily labor of moving portable fence. ### Predator Pressure If you have not experienced predator losses in your area, a basic fence may be sufficient. Check with neighboring producers and your local extension agent to understand the predator situation in your region. If you have coyotes, dogs, or other predators in your area, plan for predator exclusion from the start. It is much easier to build a predator-proof fence initially than to upgrade an existing fence later. The cost of predator losses, both in animals and in stress to your flock, quickly exceeds the cost of better fencing. ### Terrain and Soil Rocky or frozen ground makes it difficult to set posts and install permanent fencing. Portable fencing with step in posts may be more practical in these conditions. Sandy or wet soil can make grounding difficult for electric fences, requiring additional ground rods. ### Power Availability If you have reliable grid power at your fence line, electric fences are a good choice. If your pasture is remote or off grid, you need a solar or battery powered energizer. In areas with frequent power outages, consider a physical barrier fence or a backup power system. ### Budget and Time Permanent fencing costs more upfront but lasts longer and requires less daily management. Portable fencing costs less initially but requires more time to move and maintain. Consider both the dollar cost and the labor cost when making your decision. ## Monitoring and Recordkeeping A fence is a management tool that requires ongoing attention. Regular monitoring and simple recordkeeping help you catch problems early and make better decisions about fence improvements. ### Weekly Checks Walk your fence line at least weekly during the grazing season. Look for sagging wires, damaged posts, vegetation touching electric wires, and signs of animal pressure such as dug holes or pushed wires. Check electric fence voltage with a digital tester at the far end of the fence and at several points along the line. ### Seasonal Maintenance At the beginning and end of each grazing season, do a thorough fence inspection. Tighten loose wires, replace damaged insulators, and repair or replace broken posts. Cut back vegetation that has grown into the fence line. Check gate latches and hinges. ### Record What You See Keep a simple log of fence inspections and repairs. Note the date, what you found, and what you fixed. This record helps you identify recurring problems and plan for fence replacement. It also documents your management for farm insurance or cost share programs. ### Track Predator Activity Note any signs of predator activity near your fence, including tracks, scat, or attempted digs. If you lose an animal to predation, document the circumstances and the fence condition. This information helps you decide whether to upgrade your fence or add additional predator control measures. ## When to Call a Veterinarian or Extension Agent Fencing is primarily a management decision, but there are times when professional advice is valuable. Your local extension agent can provide region specific guidance on predator species, fence design, and cost share programs. They can also connect you with other producers who have experience with fencing in your area. Call your veterinarian if you have sheep that are injured by fencing, especially if injuries are recurring or severe. A veterinarian can help you identify fence design issues that may be causing injuries and recommend changes. They can also advise on treating fence related injuries and preventing infection. If you suspect a predator problem, your extension agent or wildlife agency can help you identify the predator species and recommend control strategies. In some areas, wildlife agencies offer technical assistance or cost share for predator fencing. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How tall should a sheep fence be? A fence for sheep should be at least 32 to 36 inches tall for containment. For predator exclusion, increase the height to 48 inches or more. The bottom of the fence must be close to the ground to prevent lambs from crawling under, and the top should be high enough to discourage jumping or climbing. Some producers add an offset top wire for additional height and predator deterrence. ### Can I use cattle fencing for sheep? Cattle fencing can work for sheep if the spacing is small enough at the bottom to prevent lambs from passing through. Standard cattle panels have large openings that lambs can squeeze through, so they are not recommended for sheep. Barbed wire cattle fences can injure sheep and do not provide adequate containment. It is better to use fencing designed for sheep or to add electric wires to a cattle fence to make it sheep safe. ### How much does sheep fencing cost per foot? The cost of sheep fencing varies widely by type and quality. Portable electric netting costs $0.75 to $1.50 per foot. High tensile electric fence costs $0.50 to $1.50 per foot installed. Woven wire sheep netting costs $1.50 to $3.00 per foot installed. Predator-proof electric fence costs $1.00 to $2.50 per foot. These costs include materials but not labor, which can add significantly to the total. ### How long does sheep fencing last? Woven wire and high tensile electric fences can last 20 to 30 years or more with proper maintenance. Portable electric netting typically lasts 5 to 10 years, depending on UV exposure and handling. Traditional woven wire with barbed wire top can last 20 to 40 years. Regular inspection and prompt repair of damage extends the life of any fence. ### Do I need a permit to build a sheep fence? Permit requirements vary by location. Check with your local planning department or county office before building a fence, especially a permanent one. Some areas have height restrictions, setback requirements, or rules about fence materials. Agricultural fences are often exempt from some regulations, but it is best to confirm before you invest in materials. ### What is the best fence for keeping coyotes out of sheep? A properly built electric fence is the most effective option for coyote exclusion. Use a fence at least 48 inches tall with 7 to 9 strands of high tensile wire, or use electric netting designed for predator control. The fence must deliver a strong shock, maintain at least 5,000 volts, and have no gaps at the bottom. Some producers combine woven wire with electric offset wires for additional physical and electric deterrence. ### Can sheep be trained to respect an electric fence? Yes, sheep can learn to respect an electric fence, but they need to experience the shock at least once. Introduce sheep to a new electric fence in a small area where they can test the fence safely. The fence must deliver a strong shock, and you should keep sheep in the training area until they show clear avoidance behavior. Well trained sheep will stay back from the fence even when it is not energized, but you should never rely on training alone. ### How often should I check my sheep fence? Check your fence at least weekly during the grazing season and after any major storm. Walk the fence line and look for damage, vegetation contact, and signs of animal pressure. Test electric fence voltage at the far end of the fence. Monthly inspections are sufficient for off season periods when sheep are not grazing the pasture. ## Related Farming Guides - [Sheep Fencing: Types, Installation, and Maintenance for Flock Security](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-fencing-types-installation-and-maintenance-for-flock-security) This section will be populated with links to related farming guides on sheep management, pasture rotation, predator control, and livestock guardian animals as they are published. ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Sheep Grazing Lease: Terms, Rates, and Legal Considerations](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-grazing-lease-terms-rates-and-legal-considerations) * [Sheep Breed Selection for Meat, Wool, Dairy, and Low-Input Systems](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-breed-selection-for-meat-wool-dairy-and-low-input-systems) * [Sheep Barn Flooring for Hoof Health: Best Materials and Practices](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-barn-flooring-hoof-health-materials-practices) ## References - American Consortium for [Small Ruminant Parasite Control](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/food-animal-medicine/small-ruminant-parasite-control-diagnostic-strategies-anthelmintic-stewardship) (ACSRPC): https://www.wormx.info/ - USDA APHIS Sheep Health: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/sheep-goats - FAO Sheep and Goat Production: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/ - FAO Animal Production and Health: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/ - WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health): https://www.woah.org/en/home/ > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.