Fence peepholes for dogs are growing in popularity and many dog owners are interested in their use. However, as with many things in life, fence peepholes for dogs offer some pros and cons. Before committing to purchasing one, it therefore helps considering all the advantages and disadvantages associated with their use. Learning more about the effect fence peepholes for dogs have on dogs using them, can help dog owners make a better informed decision before committing to purchasing one.
Helps Dogs Investigate
Many dogs when kept in a fenced yard, have a strong desire to know what is happening in their surroundings. When dogs hear noises or detect a scent, they may therefore feel compelled to investigate it. A fence often blocks their view and may lead to dogs pacing back and forth the fenceline and maybe even biting or scratching the fence.
Some dogs may even feel compelled to jumping just to see over the fence what is going on. This can be problematic with old dogs or dogs with hip or knee problems.
A fence peephole for dogs may therefore help these dogs stop jumping, chewing or scratching the fence out of frustration of not being able to see what’s going on the other side.
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Many owners therefore report that, with the installation of a fence peephole for dogs, their dogs stop engaging in these behaviors and head right away to the peephole so they can investigate their surroundings.
May Encourage Barking
On the other hand, several dog owners see fence peepholes for dogs just as opportunities for encouraging barking. Some dogs may not bark until they have the chance to see what they are dealing with. For instance, if you have a private fence your dog cannot see through, a peephole may give dogs the opportunity to see what they are dealing with which may translate into problematic barking.
When dogs bark at stimuli passing by their properties such as delivery people, people walking their dogs or simply people walking by, the barking is often reinforced because these stimuli eventually leave. In the dog’s mind, therefore, the barking was ultimately what sent these stimuli away from their properties. This means that behavior will likely repeat in future similar situations.
When a behavior repeats and becomes stronger, it means that reinforcement is at play. Reinforcement maintains behavior and allows it to put roots and establish. It may therefore take some time to eradicate a behavior as such because it has a strong history of reinforcement.
Fence Peepholes for Dogs 
There are a variety of peepholes for dogs on the market nowadays. The most popular look like a “fence bubble” providing dogs the opportunity to witness their world beyond the fence. It is similar in looks to a porthole you would see on a ship.
These latter are the best types because they allow dogs to look without putting themselves or others at risk. With this style of peephole, no one can touch the dog from the outside of the fence. Unless you are dealing with vandalists, who may feel tempted to remove the plastic dome, s that your dog is free to escape, you dog is pretty much safe behind the bubble.
Many dog owners wish to save money and simply make a hole in the fence. However, this can be risky business. As one can see in the picture, ill-intent people may feel more compelled to feeding harmful foods to the dog through the hole or even poisoning the dog. This can be done quite easily.
At the same time, if the hole is big enough, people may be at risk for bites. Somebody may not know there’s a dog in the yard and may lean against the fence. A child may stick his/her fingers through the hole and risk being bitten. Even though this happens in your property, you may be liable for any injuries incurred.
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