# [Sheep Fencing](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-fencing-options-permanent-portable-predator-proof): Types, Installation, and Maintenance for Flock Security ## Key Takeaways - Woven wire fencing, typically 90-120 cm high, offers high predator deterrence against canids and is best for permanent boundaries in high-predator areas, requiring robust corner posts set deep in concrete and line posts spaced 3-6 metres apart. - High-tensile electric fencing, utilizing 5-7 wires spaced 15-25 cm apart with the bottom wire 15-20 cm from the ground, requires a minimum energizer output of 1 joule per kilometre and critical grounding with three galvanized rods to maintain effective voltage for containment. - Sheep netting, available in electric and non-electric forms, is suitable for temporary subdivisions and lambing paddocks, with electric netting providing moderate predator deterrence when properly energized and tensioned. - Portable electric fencing, using polywire or polytape on tread-in posts, is highly mobile for intensive rotational grazing but offers low predator deterrence and necessitates daily voltage checks and vegetation management. - Effective fence design for sheep leverages their flock behavior and response to visual and psychological barriers; a visible fence delivering a consistent electric shock trains sheep within one to two exposures, with lambs and newly introduced sheep requiring training periods. - Predator exclusion strategies for sheep often involve combining fencing types, such as woven wire with an electrified offset wire or multiple hot wires, and in high-pressure areas, burying the bottom 15-20 cm of mesh or laying it flat on the ground. --- Selecting the right fencing system for sheep involves balancing initial cost, ongoing maintenance, predator pressure, grazing management goals, and the physical characteristics of the flock. This article compares woven wire, high-tensile electric, netting, and portable fencing options, providing installation guidance and predator deterrence considerations for commercial sheep farmers. ## At a Glance: Fencing Type Comparison | Fencing Type | Typical Height | Predator Deterrence | Portability | Relative Cost per Metre | Maintenance Requirement | Best Use Case | |---|---|---|---|---|---|---| | Woven wire (fixed knot or hinge joint) | 90-120 cm | High (dogs, coyotes, foxes) | None | High | Low (annual inspection) | Permanent boundary fences, high predator areas | | High-tensile electric (5-7 wires) | 90-110 cm | Moderate (depends on energizer) | Low | Moderate | Moderate (vegetation control, voltage checks) | Large paddocks, rotational grazing systems | | Sheep netting (electric or non-electric) | 90-105 cm | Moderate to high | Electric netting: high, non-electric: low | Moderate to high | Moderate (tension, posts, energizer) | Temporary subdivisions, lambing paddocks | | Portable electric (polywire or polytape on tread-in posts) | 50-90 cm | Low | Very high | Low | High (daily voltage checks, vegetation) | Daily moves, strip grazing, stock containment | ## Fencing Principles for Sheep Sheep are flock animals that respond to visual and psychological barriers more than physical strength. A fence that appears solid and is properly electrified will contain most breeds. The primary fencing objectives are to keep sheep within a defined area, exclude predators, and enable controlled grazing management. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides research on grazing systems and fencing effectiveness as part of its livestock production programs [1]. The Natural Resources Conservation Service offers technical guidance on fence design and installation for pasture management [2]. ### Flock Behavior and Fence Design Sheep learn fence boundaries through experience. Lambs and newly introduced sheep require training periods in small, secure enclosures before being moved to larger paddocks. Breed differences exist: hair sheep and some primitive breeds may test fences more frequently than terminal sire breeds. Horned breeds can become entangled in woven wire if mesh openings are too large. A fence that is visible and delivers a consistent electric shock trains sheep to respect the boundary within one to two exposures. ### Predator Exclusion Considerations Predator pressure varies by region. Canids (coyotes, domestic dogs, foxes) are the most common threat to sheep in many areas. Fencing alone may not eliminate predation but can significantly reduce it. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that predator control is an important component of flock health management [3]. In areas with high predator density, woven wire fences combined with electric offset wires or multiple hot wires provide the best deterrence. Research on human-wildlife conflicts in Shuklaphanta National Park, Nepal, published in PLOS ONE, demonstrates that fencing effectiveness depends on proper design and maintenance [7]. ## Woven Wire Fencing Woven wire fencing consists of horizontal and vertical wires woven together to form a mesh. It is the most permanent and predator-resistant option for sheep. ### Types of Woven Wire Fixed knot woven wire has wires that are crimped and locked at each intersection, providing strength without sagging. Hinge joint woven wire allows some flexibility, which can reduce damage from animal impact but may require more tensioning over time. Mesh openings should be no larger than 10 x 10 cm for sheep to prevent lambs from passing through and to reduce the risk of horn entanglement. Fixed knot is preferred for permanent boundary fences because it maintains tension better over decades. ### Installation Requirements Proper installation of woven wire requires: - Corner posts at least 15 cm in diameter, set 90-120 cm deep in concrete or tamped earth - Line posts spaced 3-6 metres apart, depending on terrain and wire tension - A bottom wire that is tight to the ground to prevent lambs from crawling under - Tensioning every 50-100 metres using in-line strainers or come-alongs - Brace assemblies at corners and gates to maintain tension On slopes, reduce post spacing to 3-4 metres to prevent the fence from lifting off the ground. On rocky soils, use a post driver instead of digging holes to maintain post stability. ### Predator Deterrence Woven wire fences 120 cm tall with a bottom wire 5 cm from the ground will stop most coyotes and dogs from digging under or climbing over. Adding a single electrified offset wire 15-20 cm from the fence at 20-30 cm height improves deterrence. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include predator management strategies [5]. In areas with persistent predator pressure, bury the bottom 15-20 cm of mesh or lay it flat on the ground and cover with soil. ### Limitations Woven wire is expensive to install and difficult to move. It can be damaged by falling trees, vehicle impact, or heavy snow loads. Repair requires specialized tools and time. It is not suitable for rotational grazing systems that require frequent paddock changes. Initial installation costs can be three to five times higher than high-tensile electric fencing per metre. ## High-Tensile Electric Fencing High-tensile electric fencing uses smooth or slightly barbed wire under high tension, powered by an energizer. It is a cost-effective option for large paddocks and rotational grazing. ### Wire Configuration A typical sheep fence uses 5 to 7 wires. The bottom wire should be 15-20 cm from the ground. Wires are spaced 15-25 cm apart. The top wire should be at least 90 cm high. For predator deterrence, use 7 wires with the bottom wire 10 cm from the ground and the top wire at 110 cm. Wire spacing should be closer at the bottom to prevent lambs from crawling through. ### Energizer Requirements The energizer must deliver a minimum of 3,000 volts on the fence line under load. For sheep, a minimum output of 1 joule per kilometre of fence is recommended. Grounding is critical: three galvanized rods 1.2 metres long, spaced 3 metres apart, driven into moist soil. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides guidance on [livestock fencing systems](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/fencing-systems-livestock-permanent-temporary) and energizer specifications [4]. Test voltage at the farthest point from the energizer weekly. ### Vegetation Management Vegetation touching the wires will short the fence and reduce voltage. A vegetation-free strip 1-2 metres wide on each side of the fence is necessary. This can be achieved with herbicides, mowing, or grazing with goats or cattle before sheep are introduced. In high-rainfall areas, vegetation may need to be controlled every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. ### Limitations High-tensile electric fences are less visible than woven wire. Sheep may not respect the fence if they cannot see it. Adding flagging tape or white polywire to the top wire improves visibility. The fence must be checked daily for voltage drops, broken wires, and vegetation contact. Power outages or energizer failure can lead to escapes. Install a lightning diverter on the fence to protect the energizer during storms. ## Sheep Netting Sheep netting is a prefabricated mesh of vertical and horizontal wires, often with a top and bottom wire. It is available in electric and non-electric versions. ### Electric Sheep Netting Electric netting consists of plastic or metal posts with integrated netting that carries electric current. It is portable and can be moved to create temporary paddocks. Typical heights are 90-105 cm. The netting must be kept taut and free of vegetation. It is effective for strip grazing, lambing paddocks, and confinement areas. Electric netting provides moderate predator deterrence when properly energized. ### Non-Electric Sheep Netting Non-electric netting is similar to woven wire but lighter and less expensive. It requires permanent posts and tensioning. It provides moderate predator deterrence but is not as strong as fixed knot woven wire. Non-electric netting is best used as a visual barrier in low-predator areas or as a temporary fence for docile breeds. ### Installation and Maintenance Electric netting posts are pushed into the ground by hand. On hard or rocky soils, a post driver may be needed. The netting must be tensioned by hand or with a ratchet system. Gates are created by lifting the netting or using a purpose-built gate section. Daily inspection for breaks, sagging, and vegetation contact is required. Replace damaged posts immediately to maintain tension. ### Limitations Electric netting is vulnerable to damage from wildlife, falling branches, and vehicle impact. It can be difficult to tension properly on uneven ground. The energizer must be powerful enough to maintain voltage through the netting, which has higher resistance than single wires. Non-electric netting offers no predator deterrence and is easily pushed down by sheep. UV degradation of plastic posts occurs within 3-5 years in sunny climates. ## Portable Electric Fencing Portable electric fencing uses lightweight polywire, polytape, or electrified netting on tread-in posts. It is designed for daily or frequent moves in intensive rotational grazing systems. ### Components - Tread-in posts: plastic or fibreglass, 60-120 cm tall, with a foot plate for pushing into soil - Polywire or polytape: braided plastic with stainless steel or copper filaments - Reels: for winding and storing wire - Portable energizer: battery or solar powered, with appropriate output for the fence length ### Setup and Management Portable fences are set up by pushing posts into the ground at 5-10 metre intervals, stringing the wire, and connecting to the energizer. The fence should be checked for voltage daily. Vegetation must be controlled along the fence line. Sheep learn to respect the fence after one or two shocks. Use white polytape for better visibility. ### Grazing Management Benefits Portable fencing enables controlled grazing that can improve pasture utilization and soil health. Research on the North Wyke Farm Platform in the UK, published in the Journal of Soils and Sediments, indicates that best management grazing practices can minimize sediment losses [6]. Economic analysis of sheep production under rotational grazing in Tanzania grass, published in the Revista de Economia e Sociologia Rural, demonstrates that managed grazing systems can improve profitability [9]. Portable fencing allows farmers to adjust paddock size based on forage availability and flock size. ### Limitations Portable electric fencing provides minimal predator deterrence. It is easily knocked down by sheep, wildlife, or wind. It requires daily attention and is not suitable for permanent boundaries. The energizer battery must be charged regularly. In areas with high predator pressure, portable fencing should only be used for daytime grazing with sheep returned to secure pens at night. ## Installation Best Practices ### Site Preparation Before installing any fence, walk the fence line and identify obstacles, soil types, and drainage patterns. Remove trees, stumps, and rocks that will interfere with installation. Mark corner and gate locations. For electric fences, ensure the soil has adequate moisture for grounding. Test soil conductivity with a multimeter if grounding is uncertain. ### Corner and Brace Assemblies Corners must be strong enough to withstand wire tension. Use H-brace or diagonal brace assemblies. Corner posts should be set in concrete or tamped with crushed rock. Brace wires should be tightened with strainers. For high-tensile fences, use double H-braces at corners and gate ends. ### Post Spacing Post spacing depends on fence type and terrain: - Woven wire: 3-6 metres on level ground, closer on slopes - High-tensile electric: 10-20 metres on level ground, 5-10 metres on slopes - Portable electric: 5-10 metres for polywire, closer for netting On uneven ground, adjust post spacing so the fence follows the contour without gaps at the bottom. ### Tensioning Woven wire and high-tensile wire must be tensioned to manufacturer specifications. Over-tensioning can break wires or pull posts. Under-tensioning leads to sagging and reduced effectiveness. Use a tension meter for high-tensile wire. For woven wire, tension until the wire is firm but not drum-tight. ### Gates Gates should be at least 3 metres wide for vehicle access. Use heavy-duty gate hardware that matches the fence type. Electric fence gates require a gate handle with a lead-out wire or a buried cable under the gate opening. Install gate posts with the same bracing as corner posts. ## Records and Measurements Maintain records of fence installation and maintenance to track costs and identify problems. ### Installation Records - Date of installation - Fence type and specifications (height, wire spacing, mesh size) - Post type, spacing, and depth - Energizer make, model, and output - Ground rod configuration - Total fence length and number of gates - Total cost (materials and labour) ### Maintenance Records - Date of inspection - Voltage readings at multiple points along the fence - Vegetation control actions (mowing, herbicide application) - Repairs made (broken wires, damaged posts, energizer issues) - Predator incidents and fence condition at the time ### Voltage Log Record voltage at the energizer and at the farthest point from the energizer. A drop of more than 2,000 volts from the energizer to the far end indicates a problem. Acceptable voltage for sheep is 3,000-6,000 volts. Log voltage weekly and after storms. ## Common Failure Patterns ### Voltage Loss Voltage loss is the most common failure in electric fences. Causes include: - Vegetation touching the wire - Broken insulators - Poor ground connection - Faulty energizer - Wire-to-wire contact at corners or gates Check the ground system first when voltage drops. Dry soil reduces grounding effectiveness. ### Physical Damage Sheep can push through or under fences that are not properly tensioned or grounded. Lambs are most likely to escape through gaps at the bottom. Horned sheep can become caught in woven wire with large mesh openings. Inspect fences after storms and during lambing season. ### Predator Breaches Predators may dig under fences, jump over, or push through weak sections. Coyotes and dogs are persistent and will test fences repeatedly. A single breach can lead to flock losses. After a predator attack, inspect the entire fence line for weaknesses and repair immediately. ### Weather Damage Heavy snow, ice, and wind can damage fences. Snow can short electric fences. Ice can weigh down wires and break posts. Falling trees and branches are a hazard in wooded areas. Clear fence lines of overhanging branches and dead trees. ## Welfare and Safety Context ### Sheep Welfare Fencing directly affects sheep welfare. Poorly maintained fences can cause injury, entanglement, and stress. Sheep that escape are at risk of predation, traffic accidents, and exposure. The Merck Veterinary Manual emphasizes that proper fencing is part of a comprehensive flock health program [3]. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal welfare standards for livestock operations [5]. Check fences daily during lambing to prevent lambs from becoming separated from their mothers. ### Worker Safety Electric fences pose a risk of shock to workers, especially in wet conditions. Always disconnect the energizer before handling fence wires. Use insulated tools and wear rubber boots when working on live fences. Post warning signs on electric fences near public areas. Keep children away from electric fence energizers. ### Biosecurity Fencing is a biosecurity tool. It prevents contact between sheep and neighboring livestock, wildlife, and stray animals. This reduces disease transmission risk. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides guidance on biosecurity measures for livestock operations [4]. Double fencing or a 3-metre buffer zone between sheep and adjacent livestock operations reduces disease spread. ### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) Fencing that prevents sheep from accessing contaminated water, manure piles, or chemical storage areas supports food safety. Proper fencing also prevents sheep from grazing near roads where they could be exposed to vehicle emissions or road salt. Fence off compost piles, chemical storage, and water bodies that may contain pathogens. ## Professional Escalation Criteria Consult a fencing professional or agricultural engineer when: - The fence line crosses wetlands, streams, or steep slopes - Soil conditions are unstable (sand, peat, rock) - Predator pressure is extreme (wolves, bears, mountain lions) - The fence must meet regulatory requirements for certified organic or conservation programs - You are installing more than 2 kilometres of fence - You are unsure about energizer sizing or grounding requirements Contact your local NRCS office for technical assistance and potential cost-share programs for fencing [2]. The USDA Agricultural Research Service can provide research-based recommendations for specific regions and production systems [1]. For predator-specific fencing designs, consult with your state wildlife agency or extension service. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the best fence height for sheep? The best height depends on breed and predator pressure. For most sheep, a fence 90-105 cm tall is adequate for containment. For predator deterrence, especially against coyotes and dogs, a height of 110-120 cm is recommended. Woven wire fences should be at least 120 cm tall in high predator areas. Horned breeds may require taller fences to prevent them from jumping. ### How often should I check my electric fence voltage? Check voltage daily, especially during the grazing season. Record voltage at the energizer and at the farthest point from the energizer. A drop of more than 2,000 volts indicates a problem that needs immediate attention. After storms or heavy vegetation growth, check more frequently. Use a digital voltmeter designed for electric fences. ### Can I use barbed wire for sheep fencing? Barbed wire is not recommended for sheep. It can cause severe injuries to wool, skin, and eyes. Sheep are more likely to become entangled in barbed wire than cattle. Smooth high-tensile wire or woven wire is safer and more effective. If barbed wire is already in place, add a smooth electric wire offset from the fence to keep sheep away. ### How do I train sheep to respect an electric fence? Confine new sheep in a small paddock with a visible electric fence for 24-48 hours. Use flagging tape on the top wire to improve visibility. Ensure the fence delivers a strong shock (3,000+ volts). After one or two shocks, most sheep will respect the fence. Lambs learn from their mothers. Do not train sheep in wet conditions when the shock may be less effective. ### What size energizer do I need for sheep fencing? The energizer must deliver at least 3,000 volts on the fence line under load. For sheep, a minimum output of 1 joule per kilometre of fence is recommended. For fences longer than 2 kilometres, use a larger energizer or multiple energizers. Consult the manufacturer's sizing guide for your specific fence length and vegetation conditions. Add 20% more capacity for fences in heavy vegetation. ### How do I prevent predators from digging under my fence? Install a bottom wire 5-10 cm from the ground. For woven wire, bury the bottom 15-20 cm of mesh or lay it flat on the ground and cover with soil. Add an electrified offset wire 15-20 cm from the fence at 20-30 cm height. In high predator areas, use a combination of woven wire and electric wires. Check for digging signs weekly and fill any holes immediately. ### Can I use portable electric fencing for permanent boundaries? Portable electric fencing is not designed for permanent use. The posts and wire degrade from UV exposure and weather. Use permanent fencing (woven wire or high-tensile electric) for boundary fences. Reserve portable fencing for temporary subdivisions and strip grazing. Replace portable fence components every 2-3 years. ### How do I fence for sheep on steep or uneven ground? On steep slopes, reduce post spacing to 3-5 metres. Use longer posts on the downhill side. For electric fences, ensure the wire follows the contour of the land without sagging. Woven wire may require additional tensioning on slopes. Consider using high-tensile electric fencing on very steep terrain because it is easier to tension and maintain. On rocky ground, use a post driver instead of digging holes. ## Related Farming Guides - [Rotational Grazing Plans For Sheep Flocks](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/rotational-grazing-plans-for-sheep-flocks) - [Sheep Farming Flock Nutrition Grazing Lambing Parasite Risk And Welfare](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-farming-flock-nutrition-grazing-lambing-parasite-risk-and-welfare) - [Shrimp Farming Biosecurity Water Management And Crop Observation](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/shrimp-farming-biosecurity-water-management-and-crop-observation) - [Bale Grazing With Sheep Site Selection And Nutrient Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/bale-grazing-with-sheep-site-selection-and-nutrient-management) - [Fish Farming Water Feed Stocking Biosecurity Welfare And Harvest Decisions](/knowledge/animal-farming/aquaculture/fish-farming-water-feed-stocking-biosecurity-welfare-and-harvest-decisions) ## 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 and Further Reading - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/) - [www.nrcs.usda.gov](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Does cattle and sheep grazing under best management significantly elevate sediment losses? Evidence from the North Wyke Farm Platform, UK.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34720744). Journal of soils and sediments, 2021. - [Spatio-temporal patterns of human-wildlife conflicts and effectiveness of mitigation in Shuklaphanta National Park, Nepal.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37068090). PloS one, 2023. - [Effects of stocking rate on the state transition processes of plant community in desert steppe.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41535743). BMC plant biology, 2026. - [Análise econômica da produção de ovinos em lotação rotativa em pastagem de capim tanzânia (Panicum maximum (JACQ))](https://doi.org/10.1590/s0103-20032006000400009). Revista De Economia E Sociologia Rural, 2006. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.