Top 5 Garden Fences to Keep Pests Out: A Review

Imagine waking up to find deer have munched your prize-winning tomatoes or rabbits have turned your lettuce patch into a barren field. Does this sound like a familiar, frustrating morning?

Protecting your beautiful garden from unwanted animal visitors is a constant battle for many homeowners. Choosing the right fence can feel overwhelming. Should it be tall? Should it be buried deep? Different pests require different defenses, and a wrong choice means wasted time and money, plus a hungry bunny still enjoying your carrots.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best types of fences designed specifically to block rabbits, deter deer, and stop smaller critters from raiding your hard work. You will learn exactly what features matter most for effective animal exclusion.

Ready to build a barrier that truly works? Let’s dive into the essential guide for selecting the perfect garden fence to keep those pests out for good.

Top Garden Fence To Keep Animals Out Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

42.5ft(L) x 13in(H) Animal Barrier Fence, 30 Panels No Dig Garden Fence for Dog Rabbit, Rustproof Anti Digging Barrier, Garden Edging Border Ground Defense for Outdoor, Yard, Patio

TOTAL 30 PANELS, 42.5FT LONGER SIZE - Included 30 panels of fences, total length: 42.5 feet, more fences, and longer lengths can meet more of your needs, including filling the gaps under the bottom of the existing fence, building garden edging border, surrounding the garden bed to avoid plant damage, etc
EXISTING FENCE GAP FILLER - The gap of the no dig fence is reduced to 1.5 inches, extending the protection of your fence to the ground, which can effectively prevent your dog from digging under the fence and escaping your yard, prevent small animals from visiting your garden and yard, and causing damage to your yard
STURDY & RUSTPROOF - The animal barrier fence is made of heavy metal welded. The upgraded welding technology improves the stability, durability, and reusability of the fence. The three-layer design ensures that the garden fence panels are not easy to bend and break. The surface has anti-rust coating, not easy to rust, not afraid of bad weather, can be used for a long time
EASY TO INSTALL - The decorative garden fence is installed by cable tie connection, compared with the snap connect method, which is difficult to install and easy to hurt hands, the cable tie method is safer and more convenient. This set includes gloves to protect your hands and cutting pliers to help you cut off excess cables. The bottom of the garden fence is sharp so that you can easily insert the fences into the ground
WIDE APPLICATION - You can use these fence panels as a no dig fence barrier to prevent your dog from digging under the fence and escaping from your yard, and also to prevent small animals from breaking into your yard and causing damage. You can also use these fences as animal barrier fences to keep your dogs or small animals away from your flower beds, vegetable gardens, protect your plants. You can also use these fences as garden decorations to add charm, elegant touch to any outdoor space

SaleBestseller No. 2

Goovilla Garden Fence, Total 10ft(L) x 24in(H) Garden Fencing Animal Barrier, 10 Pcs Rustproof Metal Fence Panels, Black No Dig Fence, Decorative Garden Fences and Borders for Dogs, Flower Bed, Patio

【Our animal barrier fence is not suitable for blocking large animals or pets.【
【Sturdy and Rustproof】Goovilla garden fence border is made of solid metal throughout and a thick black coating on the exterior. Heavy duty material and design make it not eat to bend, waterproof, rustproof, and a must-have factor in guaranteeing year-round outdoor use. In addition, the smooth exterior is easier to clean, so say goodbye to the time-consuming and troublesome maintenance of wooden railings.
【Keep Animals Out】Each piece of metal fencing has 10 narrow grids that keep critters like cats, dogs, raccoons, rabbits, chickens, skunks, etc. out and prevent them from burrowing in. Meanwhile 2 thick metal fence stakes, which are inserted deeply into the soil, hold the fence barrier stable to the ground and are less likely to be knocked over. Fencing off the ground you want to protect with our dig defence animal barrier will prevent the mess caused by critters digging around!
【More Than Just Flower Bed Fencing】 First, use our garden fence panels fencing off your saplings or plants to prevent animals from chewing on them. Second, fence off pond to ensure children and pets playing safely in your garden. Thirdly, fence off your pets to fix their range of movement in the backyard. Fourth, used as a vegetable garden fence to protect from animal damage. Lastly, our outdoor fencing can be used as a temporary fencing for raising small poultry such as chicks and small ducks.
【Complete Accessories & Easy Installation】Except 10 PCS garden fence animal barrier, 20 S-clips and 10 zip ties are also provided in the package. This saves the time and effort of going to offline store to make a purchase. Using the 2 optional linking methods of S-clips as well as zip ties, it can be quickly and easily installed by following the instructions. This decorative garden fence fits for inserting in gardens, lawns, patio, landscape, flower edging and road edges to form a protective border.

Bestseller No. 3

Blingluck Garden Fence, 22 in(H) x 10.83 ft(L) Arched Rustproof Metal No Dig Fence Garden Fence Border, Ground Stake Animal Barrier Fence for Rabbit Dog, Outdoor Decor for Yard & Patio

【Upgraded Garden Fence】 Classic arch shape design garden fencing single piece size height is 22 inches(5'' stakes in soil), length is 12.6 inches, and the fence gap is 1.9 inches, total 10 pieces of fence, overall length about 11 ft. Equipped with 11 Pcs height of 17 inches metal stakes. More convenient installation. This fence will be the best choice for your beautiful garden, yard & patio！
【More flexible Installation】Our metal garden fence is equipped with metal stakes, no need to knock the fence itself, not easy to deform or damage the fence. The smooth arch shape design also makes the connection of the two pieces of fence form a groove, it is easy to install with a drop hammer. To install, simply insert the metal stake into the eyelet between the two pieces of fence to connect them, and choose a good installation location to install by tapping the metal stake directly. Done!
【Rustproof and Decorative】This black metal yard fence is made of thick metal wire welded to enhance the welding strength, not easy to crack more solid, the surface has been baked paint process, rust-resistant and durable. Even in the outdoor wind and solarization, it can work for you for a long time. The classic arched appearance will add a touch of modern simplicity to your garden, patio and yard
【Multipurpose】This fencing for yard can be used as a small garden fence or animal barrier fence by inserting metal stakes into the ground to prevent small animals from escaping or entering and destroying your garden, or it can be used as an indoor pet fence directly by simply connecting the metal stakes without inserting them into the ground. It will be very practical for garden border, yard fence, patio fence, animal barrier, dog fence, rabbit fence and many other uses. As any way you want!
【Customer Service】Our products have gone through strict quality tests and are quality assured. If you have any questions during use, please feel free to contact us. Our customer service staff will resolve it for you within 24 hours to ensure that you get a full range of services and a product worthy of its value. We are here and happy to help you!

Bestseller No. 4

26 Panels No Dig Fence, 28ft(L) x 17in(H) Dog Digging Fencing Barrier, 1.2in Gap Animal Barrier for Bottom of Fence, Rustproof Metal Garden Edging Border Ground Defense Blockers for Outdoor Patio

1.2IN GAP ANIMAL BARRIER FENCE - The upgraded garden fence gap is reduced to 1.2 inches, which is more effective than a 2-inch gap in preventing pets from escaping through the gap or other small animals from visiting and damaging your garden and yard. Extends the protection of an existing fence underground
PERFECT SIZE - Single pannel size: 17 in (H) X 13 in (L), total 26 panels size: 17in (H) X 28ft (L). These fence panels can be assembled into different shapes according to your needs
EASY TO INSTALL - Our fence panels are removable for easy installation, the no dig design allows for quick installation without damaging your lawn or garden. This set includes wire cutters to help you cut excess cables, and free gloves to protect your hands
STURDY & RUSTPROOF - The fence panels are welded with wire. We have upgraded the welding process to make the welds stronger. The three-layer design enhances stability and ensures that they won't break when inserted into the ground. The metal wire surface is treated with anti-rust coating to prevent rust, not afraid of all kinds of bad weather, strong and durable
WIDE APPLICATION - Dog fence barrier can be used as a dog digging deterrent, no digging dog fences. Also can be used as temporary fences, very suitable for flower beds, plant beds, lawns, backyard, etc. The metal garden fence is a multi-purpose outdoor decorative fence

Bestseller No. 5

10 Pack Garden Fence Animal Barrier Fencing 1.44 inch Spacing Total 10.8ft (L) x 24in High Rustproof Metal Wire Yard Blocker Dog Fences Border for Outdoor Flower Bed Landscape Fencing Decor Black

𝗦𝗜𝗭𝗘: Each decorative garden fence panel is 17 inches high, and 7-inch stake inserts into the soil for added stability, with a width of 13 inches, there are a total of 10 panels that can be connected to form a length of 10.8 feet. The garden fencing can also be expanded into different shapes according to your specific needs. 𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗶𝗴 𝗱𝗼𝗴𝘀, 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝟯𝟯-𝗶𝗻 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝗳𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲
𝗦𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗗𝗬 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗥𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗧: Animal barrier fence is made of high-quality thickened metal wire that is welded together and coated with a paint finish to prevent rusting. It is not easily bent and has strong anti-rust and durability properties, making it able to withstand various weather conditions, including sunlight, rain, and snow, without the need for replacement over long-term use.
𝗦𝗠𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗥 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗩𝗔𝗟𝗦: The 1.44-inch spacing of the no-dig fence is smaller than the gaps in ordinary fences, effectively preventing small pets such as kittens, hamsters, moles, hedgehogs, gophers, and groundhogs from passing through.
𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗬 𝗧𝗢 𝗨𝗦𝗘: Dog fence requires no assembly, simply insert the stake into the circular hole between two connecting panels and press down firmly, without the need for any tools, to ensure the fence's stability. This greatly simplifies the installation process and reduces your workload.
𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗟𝗘 𝗨𝗦𝗘: Fence can be used as a decorative garden fence, flower bed fence, animal barrier fence, outdoor dog fence, temporary fence, roadside barrier, pet fence, no-dig fence, and more. It is also suitable for use in patio, porch, corridor, and balcony. (However, please note that this fence may not prevent large dogs).

Bestseller No. 6

HIHADUUM 20Ft(L) X 13Inch(H) Animal Barrier Fence - 14 Pack Garden Fence Animal Barrier Garden Border Rustproof Metal No Dig Fence Panels for Dog Rabbit Defense Bottom Blocker for Outdoor Yard Patio

Longer Size: Good cost performance with longer fence. Each piece of the garden fence barrier is 17" long and 13" high, 14 panels. The entire length of the fence set is 20 feet long! More quantity, longer garden fence can more effectively prevent small animals from digging pass the fence to enter and leave the garden.
Shape and Match at Will: The animal barrier fence can be unfolded into different shapes according to suit your use: rectangle, square, straight line, "L", "O", or other shapes. It can be used as an extension of a regular fence to help close any gaps at the bottom of the fence line to protect your garden and backyard.
Wide Application: This garden fencing animal barrier is suitable for your garden, lawns, vegetable garden fence, garden border fence and path edge, protecting them from a variety of small to medium creatures. Our animal barrier fence can also be used as a supplement to existing fences to prevent pets from digging under the fence, protection of your extension fence. You can expand the fence into different shapes according to your use.
Easy to Install: Compared to the snap method, you can connect the decorative garden fence panels together with the zip ties(Set Included) quickly, safer and more convenient. You just need to pull them tight together and hammer the garden fencing into the soil.
Better Quality: The metal fencing panels are made of durable metal material, the surface of the metal wire is treated with an anti-rust coating to prevent rust, hard and rustproof, perfect for outdoor decoration. Upgraded welding technology enhances stability and ensures they won't break when inserted into the ground.

SaleBestseller No. 7

HIHADUUM 20Ft(L) X 13Inch(H) Garden Fence Animal Barrier - 14 Pack No Dig Fence Animal Barrier Fence Panels Metal Fencing Edging Border for Dog Rabbits and Outdoor Patio Yard Decorative Bottom Blocker

Longer Size: Good cost performance with longer fence. Each piece of the garden fence barrier is 17" long and 13" high, 14 panels. The entire length of the fence set is 20 feet long! More quantity, longer garden fence can more effectively prevent small animals from digging pass the fence to enter and leave the garden.
Easier to install: Compared to other single fence installation methods, our no dig fence panels have more installation options. You can choose zip ties (included) or self-locking snaps (included) to install. Recommended to use zip ties&self-locking buckles together to make your fence more stable, prevent it from falling and becoming fragile when attacked by animals.
Upgraded thickened design：The animal barrier fence is welded with upgraded thickened steel, make it strong and not easy to bend. The upgraded design increases stability and prevents it from falling due to animal attack or bad weather.
Shape and Match at Will: The garden edging fence border can be unfolded into different shapes according to suit your use: rectangle, square, straight line, "L", "O", or other shapes. It can be used as an extension of a regular fence to help close any gaps at the bottom of the fence line to protect your garden and backyard.
Wide Application: This garden fencing animal barrier is suitable for your garden, lawns, vegetable garden fence, garden border fence and path edge, protecting them from a variety of small to medium creatures. Our animal barrier fence can also be used as a supplement to existing fences to prevent pets from digging under the fence, protection of your extension fence. You can expand the fence into different shapes according to your use.

Bestseller No. 8

VANCASTLE Decorative Garden Fence Outdoor, Total 10.5ft (L) x 24in (H), Rustproof Metal Landscape Barrier Fence, Black Fence for Yard, Patio Lawn, 10 Panels

Important Notes: Decorative Garden Fence is not suitable for blocking large animals. It is designed for small pets only. Please confirm the size and intended use before purchasing.
【Sturdy and Rustproof】Crafted with an all-solid metal structure and a thick black coating, the garden fence border features a sturdy material and arched design that resists bending, water, and rust—standing strong against harsh outdoor conditions. Its smooth surface wipes clean easily, saving you from the time-consuming maintenance of wooden railings. Built to withstand years of seasonal weather, it’s the reliable helper your garden deserves.
【Adjustable Size】Customize your garden layout with these versatile fence panels. Each panel is 24.2 inches tall (with an 8-inch stake for secure installation) and 12.6 inches wide. Featuring 1.9-inch gaps across 12 small grids per panel, it effectively deters cats, dogs, raccoons, rabbits, and other small animals from entering or digging. Connect up to 10 panels to create a protective barrier of up to 10.5 feet, and easily adjust the shape to suit your garden's unique design.
【Effortless Installation】Set up your garden fence in three simple steps: First, screw the pointed feet tightly onto the fence panel. Next, press the assembly firmly into the soil. Finally, connect adjacent panels using the included S-clips. For extra stability, the 8-inch stakes anchor the fence securely
【Versatile Garden Solution】 More than just a fence, it's a versatile tool to redefine your outdoors. Beautify your flower beds while keeping pesky rabbits and curious dogs at bay. This panel is your go-to for: 1) Safeguarding precious seedlings and vegetable patches; 2) Creating a secure playpen for small pets; 3) Forming a crucial safety barrier around garden ponds, ensuring peace of mind while children and pets play.

Choosing the Right Garden Fence to Keep Critters Out

Keeping unwanted animals out of your garden is a top priority for any green-thumbed enthusiast. A good fence acts as a barrier, protecting your hard work from hungry rabbits, determined deer, or curious raccoons. This guide helps you select the best defense for your yard.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for an animal-proof fence, several features make a big difference in keeping pests at bay.

Height Matters: Taller fences stop jumpers. Deer need fences at least 7 to 8 feet high. Smaller animals like rabbits need lower fences, but the bottom must be secure.
Mesh or Spacing Size: This is crucial for small pests. Chicken wire or hardware cloth with small openings (1 inch or less) stops rabbits and groundhogs. Larger openings allow small animals through easily.
Ground Coverage: Animals often dig under fences. Look for fences that allow you to bury the bottom edge a few inches into the soil, or those that have an apron (a flat mesh extension laid on the ground) to prevent tunneling.
Durability and Visibility: The fence must withstand weather. You also want a fence that doesn’t completely block the view of your beautiful garden, unless complete visual blockage is your goal.

Important Materials for Your Fence

The material determines how long the fence lasts and how effective it is against different animals.

Metal Fencing

Metal is often the strongest choice. Steel wire fencing, like welded wire or woven wire, resists chewing and bending better than plastic.

Galvanized Steel: This steel has a zinc coating. The coating protects the metal from rust, making it last much longer outdoors.
Aluminum: It resists rust very well but is generally lighter and less sturdy than steel, making it better for keeping out small pests rather than large deer.

Plastic and Polypropylene Fencing

Plastic fences are usually cheaper and lighter. They are good for temporary setups or keeping out smaller, less determined animals.

UV Resistance: Ensure any plastic fence is UV-treated. Without this treatment, the sun will make the plastic brittle, and it will break quickly.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality isn’t just about the material; it’s about how the fence is built and installed.

Improving Quality

Gauge (Thickness): Thicker wire (lower gauge number) means a stronger fence. For serious protection against deer or determined diggers, choose a heavier gauge.
Tensioning: A tightly stretched fence stays upright and resists pushing. Use proper tensioning hardware to keep the fence taut.
Post Spacing: Closer fence posts provide better support. Posts set too far apart allow animals to push the fence inward, creating gaps.

Reducing Quality

Thin Wire: Very thin wire bends easily when an animal leans on it or tries to push through.
Improper Installation: If the fence is not buried adequately, even the strongest fence becomes useless against groundhogs.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about what you are trying to protect and where the fence will go.

For Vegetable Gardens: You need a fence that is both strong and relatively easy to see through. A 3-foot welded wire fence is often perfect for rabbits and groundhogs. Make sure the bottom is secured to the ground.

For Landscaping/Deer Protection: Deer jump high. You must use a tall, often black, vinyl or wire fence that blends into the background slightly. Many people angle these fences outward slightly, which discourages deer from attempting the jump.

Ease of Installation: Rolls of fencing are easier for DIYers. If you buy pre-built fence panels, installation is faster but often more expensive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Garden Fencing

Q: What is the best height fence for keeping out deer?

A: Deer are excellent jumpers. Experts recommend a fence that is at least 7 feet tall, but 8 feet provides the best protection for valuable plants.

Q: How do I stop animals from digging under my fence?

A: You must secure the bottom. Bury the fence wire at least 6 inches deep, or lay a 1-foot wide mesh apron flat on the ground extending outward from the fence line. Anchor the apron with landscape staples.

Q: Is plastic fencing strong enough for my garden?

A: Plastic fencing works well for small pests like chickens or small dogs. However, it usually breaks easily if a large animal like a raccoon or a determined dog tries to push through it.

Q: What does “gauge” mean when buying wire fencing?

A: Gauge refers to the thickness of the wire. A lower gauge number (like 14 gauge) means the wire is thicker and stronger. A higher gauge number (like 20 gauge) means the wire is thinner and weaker.

Q: Should I use chicken wire or hardware cloth?

A: Hardware cloth has smaller, square openings and is generally much stronger than standard chicken wire. Hardware cloth is better for stopping small burrowing animals like moles and voles.

Q: How often should I place fence posts?

A: For stability, place posts no more than 8 to 10 feet apart. If you have heavy-duty wire or are expecting strong pressure, reduce the spacing to every 6 feet.

Q: Does the color of the fence matter?

A: For deer, yes. Black wire fencing is less visible to deer than bright silver galvanized wire. They are less likely to try jumping something they cannot easily see.

Q: What is the easiest fence to install myself?

A: Rolls of woven wire or welded wire mesh are generally the easiest for homeowners. You roll it out and attach it to existing posts or T-posts you install yourself.

Q: Do I need a permit to install a tall fence?

A: Check your local city or homeowner association rules. Some areas limit fence height, especially near property lines, regardless of the fence’s purpose.

Q: How long should a quality metal fence last outdoors?

A: A good quality, galvanized or vinyl-coated steel fence can easily last 15 to 20 years or more with minimal maintenance.