At Millers Wolfhaven we take pride in educationg people on differant aspects of caring for wolfdogs. Below is just one those aspects and thats containment.
When you are thinking of owning a wolfdog the first thing and most important thing to concider is containment and what we will require before you can purchase one of our pups. We recommend strict minimum requirements for safe and humane containment of captive wolves and wolf-dogs. Enclosures must be a comfortable size for the animals and of sufficient strength to prevent escape. The following are intended to be minimums.
Height
Chain link fencing should adjoin to a ground barrier and extend upwards a minimum of six feet, with a two-foot extension of lighter-weight fence at the top. Overall fence height must be a minimum of eight feet. It is suggested that an electric wire be strung at the top of the fence on the inside of the enclosure to stop jumpers and climbers. All primary fence and gates should be of 9-gauge, 2-inch square chain link. There are othere options out there that can be disscussed if you are inttersed in a pup and we will go over that during your interview process.
Ground Barriers
Buried concrete with reinforced mesh should extend two feet vertical into the ground and be attached to the base of the primary chain link fence to prevent animals from digging out. In place of concrete, a ground mesh four feet wide may be attached to the base of the chain link and lie flat on the ground extending into the enclosure. Logs, rocks, and soil (3-6 inches deep) should be placed on top of the mesh to act as weight and prevent injury to feet of animals.
Drainage
The enclosure must provide adequate drainage to allow animals to find dry ground in wet conditions.
Shelter
All enclosures are required by law to contain a shelter. Whether a manufactured dog house or something home-built, the shelter needs to safely provide the animal(s) with space to get away from rain, snow, and direct sun. Wolves and wolf-dogs chew on everything, so keep this in mind. They also like to perch above everything and look down on the world (kind of like cats), so make the shelter sturdy and safe enough for them to climb or jump on.
Vegetation
Enclosures should contain enough vegetation and ground cover to provide the animal with shade, hiding places, and grass to eat. However, make sure that no trees or bushes are too close to the fence. A tree can easily fall on the fence, and a wolf can climb up it to escape — yes, wolves and wolf-dogs are capable of climbing trees when given enough time!
Wolves and Wolfdogs are very smart and they are problem solves so never underestimate their ability to find escape routes if they have the desire. So always do perimiter checks aand keep all containments repaired as needed.