How To Fix A Gap Under A Fence Gate

Ossiana Tepfenhart
by Ossiana Tepfenhart
Fences are great for keeping people or pets in or out of a property. But, if they are not tall enough or if they have gaps, the fence may lose its effectiveness. Follow along as we explore how you can raise a small “speed bump” to fix the gap under your fence.

When you have a dog or a cat, letting them roam around your yard just makes sense. They need fresh air, after all. Unfortunately, if you have a gap under your fence gate, the safety you are trying to offer them through your fence just won’t be there. A gap under a gate doesn’t have to be a major issue, though. All you need to do is know how to fix it.

The best way to fix a gap is to create a small “speedbump” at the base of your fence. This can be done through the use of chickenwire and dirt, pouring concrete, or even just installing a small block of wood at the base of your fence. There are also plastic extensions available to help close fence gaps that you can choose to use.

Getting your fence gate secured is a must if you want to be a responsible pet owner. Thankfully, it’s not that hard to do. This article will show you how to make sure Fido stays indoors.

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How Can You Fix A Gap Under A Fence Gate?

There are several solutions that you can choose from, each of which has its own materials and purposes. Here’s the general run-through for each of your fencing options.

  • Wooden Fences. Adding a small wooden step at the bottom of the fence gate will reduce the gap size and also add more stability to the fence. If you want to extend your fence gate with a wooden bar across the gate door’s bottom, that can also be an option to consider.
  • Chain Link. Installing chicken wire at the bottom of the fence is a good way to fix a gap under the gate and deter your dog from sliding under the fence. If you want to deter a digging dog, roll up some chicken wire, dig underneath the gate, place the chicken wire there as a “speedbump” and then refill your area with dirt.
  • Iron Fences. The best way to make sure a wrought iron fence gate doesn’t have a gap is to weld a bar at the bottom of the fence.
  • Plastic Fencing. Plastic fencing and vinyl fencing can’t be drilled into without potentially causing damage to the structure, but you still have an option. You can install (via glue) a rubber doorsweep at the bottom of the gate, or get a large rubber “speedbump” to place underneath the fence gate. Pouring concrete to create an under-fence bump can also help.

Are There Any Universal Fixes For A Gap Under A Fence?

If you have a unique fence or just need to come up with a fix you know you’ll be able to rely on, there are a couple of options that can be used for just about any fence type:

  • Chicken Wire. Chicken wire gives you the ability to build a structure that can be filled in fairly easily with dirt. If you have a very dig-happy dog, then you can also use this as a preventative measure that will deter your dog from digging.
  • Concrete. Pouring concrete into the shape of a small mound is an easy way to bridge the gap between your fence and the ground. If you want to make a speedbump, get a paver mold at your local hardware store to fix the job.
  • Plastic Speedbumps. Some home improvement stores carry speed bumps
  • Poured Rocks. If your dog is small, using small (but not gravel-sized) rocks as a dig deterrent can also work.
  • Weatherstripping. A rubber weatherstrip that is affixed to the bottom of the gate will help close the gap and also look great. These can be attached through a wide range of methods, so it’s always a good choice.

Why Won’t My Dog Stop Digging Up My Yard?

A lot of the issues that people have with a gap underneath the fence deals with a dog that just seems to want to escape. Dogs are notorious for digging holes, but there’s a certain point where their digging tendencies start to become an issue. At times, a dog that digs obsessively could have an underlying emotional problem or physical problem they need to address.

Dogs often dig as a result of anxiety, boredom, or overheating. Doing these things while you’re dog is in the backyard can help curb digging:

  • Give your dog some water and a small dog house. This can help prevent your dog from overheating in the hot summer sun. If you notice your dog laying down in the holes he’s digging, this might be why.
  • Play with your dog. A little fetch or tug of war will be enough to get him out of his bored funk. If you can’t be present, then at least make an effort to rotate the dog toys available.
  • Consider getting a second dog. Dogs are known for being social creatures, and to a point, it’s something that you should encourage. Getting a second dog is a good way to reduce your dog’s anxiety and boredom levels.
  • Take your dog out for longer walks and jogs. The easiest way to curb a dog from digging is to give him enough exercise to make digging an unattractive endeavor. Longer walks, or picking up the pack to a jog, can be enough to tire your pup out.
  • Keep an eye out when you’re dog is in the yard. A little supervision can help curb digging and also reinforce the training you’ve given the pup.

Should You Consider Getting An Invisible Fence?

If you are very concerned about your dog’s ability to jump the fence or dig underneath, getting an invisible fence might be a good idea. The best thing you can do for your dog is to use an electric fence as a backup measure to prevent your dog’s escape. With that said, this isn’t usually necessary unless your dog has a serious case of wanderlust.

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Related Questions

My neighbor’s dog won’t stop barking. Do I have any legal recourse?

If you have already talked to your neighbor and attempted to curb the barking through privacy hedges without luck, consider hiring a mediator to settle the dispute. If that doesn’t work, a civil small claims court suit or calling animal control to enforce the noise ordinances may be in order.


My neighbor’s dog keeps pooping in my yard. What can I do?

Assuming that you’ve already talked to your neighbor and it keeps happening, you can choose to deliver the poop to them and ask again. If that doesn’t work, you may choose to file a small claims suit or call the police or call animal control on the neighbor. Most neighborhood HOAs also have rules about this, so you might want to check with them as well.


How do I keep my neighbor’s children out of my yard?

Before anything, talk to your neighbor and explain that your yard is not a playground. If they do not listen and let their child roam around, then you may need to be proactive in ending the issue. A fence with a “No Trespassing” sign usually handles most of the problems. If the child still trespasses, getting guard dogs and calling the police will most likely curb the problem.

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Ossiana Tepfenhart
Ossiana Tepfenhart

Ossiana Tepfenhart is an expert writer, focusing on interior design and general home tips. Writing is her life, and it's what she does best. Her interests include art and real estate investments.

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