How to Dog Proof a Balcony: 10 Simple Tips to Keep Your Pup Safe

Some may think having a balcony and a dog isn't a good idea. While there is the possibility of your dog falling and getting injured, there are many ways you can pet-proof your balcony to keep your dog safe and enjoy your balcony as a family. Aside from always supervising your dog on the balcony, here are 10 great tips on how to dog-proof your balcony railings.

The 10 Tips to Dog Proof a Balcony

1. Netting for Your Balcony

One of the easiest ways to dog-proof a balcony is to put up netting around the railing to block the bars. This is an easy and cheap solution for many pet owners, but owners of strong dogs or ones that love to chew may not think that netting will be able to keep their dog from getting through, so they may need to use something more substantial or more permanent to keep their dogs safe on the balcony.

You can easily find netting in any hardware store, and you can cut it to size and attach it to your railings with zip ties. However, check it daily for damage since even the strongest netting will wear down eventually.

2. Plexiglass or Strong, Shatterproof Glass Panels

Plexiglass or shatterproof glass is an option for owners whose dogs like to chew or are big and strong enough to break through the netting. However, this is a more expensive option, and you have to measure your balcony to ensure a proper fit; if the glass has any corners sticking out, it could easily cause injuries.

This is also a more permanent option, and plexiglass will need to be fixed firmly to your balcony. If you're renting your property, some landlords may not allow the installation.

Still, plexiglass is an excellent option for those who can use it since it will be challenging for dogs to break through, if not impossible. It's an attractive option that allows dogs to see out onto the street.

3. Bamboo Fence

Bamboo fences are another attractive option and are popular for those who can't use plexiglass as a permanent solution but need something slightly stronger than netting.

The fence can be attached to a balcony using cable ties. However, check the wear and tear daily, as determined dogs may be able to chew through the cable ties or the bamboo itself (which can present the problem of having a hole in your new balcony railing cover and potentially causing injury to your pup).

If your dog isn't a chewer, this may be the perfect option. It's relatively inexpensive, particularly if you install it. Bamboo is ideal for smaller dogs since they won't be able to get through the gaps in the bamboo.

4. Lattice Fence

A lattice fence is another option for those who need something substantial to keep their dogs safe and can be the perfect option for those who want something that looks elegant and can be bought from a store with no assembly required.

A well-made lattice fence looks beautiful and will keep large dogs safe on your balcony, allowing them to see through the lattice bars into the area below. However, because there are gaps in the lattice, it's unsuitable for small dogs who may be able to fit through the holes and the balcony bars.

Although you can construct the fence from scratch, we recommend purchasing one to ensure stability and strength. Lattice fences are not permanent and can be attached with cable ties; just make sure to check the cable ties daily for wear and tear.

5. Chicken Wire

Thin chicken wire is cheap and very effective. It can be the solution if you have a strong and determined dog but don't want to block the view from your balcony and can't install plexiglass.

Chicken wire may not be the prettiest of balcony railing covers, but it does the job and performs well. It's durable and waterproof, and even the strongest dog won't be able to break through it. Make sure it's completely affixed to your railings, and check for any damage as often as you can since chicken wire isn't indestructible.

6. Collar Bumpers

The Collar bumper is unique; you attach it to your dog rather than the balcony railings. It can be attached to your dog's neck with a Velcro strap or fastened to your dog's collar. Collar bumpers ensure your dog can't put their head through the balcony railing bars.

They are also inexpensive, and you can feel good about letting your dog on the balcony without worrying about them getting through the bars. However, your dog may feel uncomfortable if you leave them in a collar bumper for long periods, so they shouldn't be worn for too long.

7. Adjust the Height of the Railings

If you own your home or get permission from your landlord, adjusting the height of the railings may be an option. Many balcony railings have bars that are close enough together that dogs cannot get their heads through or the rest of their bodies.

However, some of the railings aren't tall enough, and acrobatic dogs may be able to jump over them. Adjusting the height of the bars by adding extra sections beneath is an option, and it may solve the problem.

8. Consider a Strong Privacy Screen

Privacy screens can be made of many materials, including bamboo, wood, or fabric. They also come in many colors, shapes, and sizes, so you'll be able to find one that fits the aesthetic of your home and the dimensions of your balcony.

Installing a sturdy screen can keep your dog safe on the patio, particularly if you're always out there with them and they're not on their own.

If you cannot attach the screens to the balcony railing, you'll need to set them up whenever your dog is on the balcony. In addition, you may need to supervise your dog's time on the balcony in case they get their nose around the privacy screen between the bars.

9. Move Furniture Away From Railings

Some dogs are very clever, and keeping furniture, such as chairs, tables, or couches, away from your balcony railings can prevent your dog from being able to climb up and over them.

However, they may learn how to push the furniture against the railing to climb up and have a better look over it or jump from the furniture. It's best to get furniture that's too heavy for your dog to move but light enough for you to move.

10. Check the Railings Themselves for Safety

The last tip is to check the railings regularly for any safety issues. If you notice the plexiglass cracking, broken bars, or pointed bits of metal, wood, or plastic, keep your dog off the balcony until you can make repairs.

Can I Leave My Dog on the Balcony?

Dogs should never be left on a balcony for any amount of time if you're not supervising them. Leaving them outside is, in fact, illegal in some places, such as in Canada, where leaving a dog on a balcony is considered animal cruelty. You may think that because the balcony is covered and your dog has food and water, they have adequate shelter, but you couldn't be more wrong.

Most balconies have hard floors, and the sun can be easily reflected off them, leaving your dog at the mercy of heat stroke. The same goes for cold climates since your balcony will not protect your dog from cold wind or rain. The other obvious issue of leaving your dog on your balcony for any time alone is that they could die if they fall off it. So, it's best not to let your dog out onto the balcony unless you're with them at all times.

Conclusion

We hope you found this list of 10 tips to dog-proof your balcony useful, as there's a delicate balance between finding something that looks amazing, works very well, and can be incorporated into your property.

Whether you decide to construct a barrier or buy a ready-made balcony cover for your pup, we hope you found a solution from our list and can enjoy your balcony with your dog for as long as possible.

Featured Image Credit: Daniel Malinowski, Shutterstock