Moving with 2 dogs who are used to a yard

[mrsstats]

We are considering a move to the Villages. Currently staying here for a few days looking at property. We know there is a limited amount of housing with fenced yards in what we are looking at. We are considering something without the fenced yard but not sure how our 2 dogs will like it. They are on the small side 16 lbs each but are used to being just let out to do their thing. We do walk them on occasion but that is not the norm. Anyone make the move to the Villages with this issue.

[villagetinker]

I am a cat lover, but will add my 2 cents. Florida has leash laws, please understand these. You can get an invisible fence which will probably keep your dogs in BUT it will NOT keep predators out, and yes we have predators. A CYV might work, but you need to be aware of the property lines and the neighbor's access to their property. We also have large birds of prey you will need to be concerned about.
I will now turn this over to all of the dog lovers, but please be careful with your fur babies.

[Trayderjoe]

We are considering a move to the Villages. Currently staying here for a few days looking at property. We know there is a limited amount of housing with fenced yards in what we are looking at. We are considering something without the fenced yard but not sure how our 2 dogs will like it. They are on the small side 16 lbs each but are used to being just let out to do their thing. We do walk them on occasion but that is not the norm. Anyone make the move to the Villages with this issue.

We moved here with 2 small dogs about the same size as yours, but elected to purchase a home without a fenced yard. I would never let them outside on their own as there are predators here that the fence won’t stop. I’d recommend resetting both your expectations and the dogs by getting out and walking them. They will enjoy the time with you. You could also try getting them used to the golf cart and take them for a ride.

There are multiple dog parks that you could take them to and let them run off leash unless they are not other dog friendly.

[JohnN]

We're in a courtyard villa and that's what I'd choose if I had a dog (I love dogs, I've always had dogs, but our last baby passed away).

I have seen bobcats (30 lbs and strong) in the dark hours, and eagles in the day.
Gators if you're adjacent to water, too. Be careful leaving your pups out unattended for long periods. As the other poster mentioned, an electric fence would do if the yard isn't fenced, but again you may have unwelcome visitors.

Best wishes.

[Djean1981]

I would buy a home with a fenced-in yard. A lot of the villages in the south have fences. We are in Hawkins and most homes seem to have a fenced-in yard. Although it is advisable to be outside with them (especially, if they are tiny), it would be good for them to be outside in their own fenced-in yard without a leash.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Bobcats, foxes, eagles, owls, a variety of hawks, coyotes.

Do your dogs a favor and either don't leave them out unattended, or don't bring them to the Villages.

[kansasr]

If they are small, a courtyard villa may provide enough space for them outside and a secure walled in area. Or, look at the veranda series (they are building more and more of them because of their popularity...there are 20 available right now). Basically a designer home in a walled in villa setting. We let our pets outside in the area and it's perfect for them.

[njbchbum]

Seems to me that your pups have trained you - and the big question is whether you are prepared to retrain yourselves and the pups in order to meet the pup's needs. Should you consider a purchase which would need outside renovations to accommodate all - remember to read the area's deed restrictions and external rules to see if what you think you would do will meet the requirements. It also seems that lots of pet owners have figured out what they need and found it - am sure you all can, too.

[vintageogauge]

We all wish we could just open the door and let them out but nope, gotta get up, put on the leash, take them for a walk, put up with the heat and hot roads, rain, other dogs, bring home the poop and save it for garbage day. They will enjoy it but not sure if you will.

[jebartle]

Another FYI, our summers heat up pavement and our fur babies paws, if it's too hot for your bare feet, it will also be too hot for them.

[oldtimes]

We came down with 2 dogs also. We got a corner lot court yard villa that had a nice grassy back yard. In the new section the verandas have walls also. The dogs are free to run around but if they are small they should be supervised as the hawks can carry them away.

[Papa_lecki]

It’s hot. Our dog likes to lay on the concrete in the lanai.
Dog wont want to be outside long, get the house you want - don’t worry about the fence

[blueash]

Can we please stop with the recurring scare story of eagles and hawks carrying away your dog. A bald eagle, the largest eagle, can not lift a sixteen pound dog off the ground. It could catch it on the ground and injure or kill it on the ground. But dogs are not the preferred prey for eagles. We have tens of thousands of dogs and you are not hearing about them being carried away by eagles or hawks.

Eagle Flight and Other Myths, Alaska Department of Fish and Game (https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=wildlifenews.view_article&articles_id=343)


How much weight can an eagle carry? – Wildlife Damage Management (https://wildlife-damage-management.extension.org/how-much-weight-can-an-eagle-carry/)

[Bonanza]

If a fenced yard is very important to you, you might want to rethink being in The Villages because of your dog situation. Many other communities permit fences such as Spruce Creek South (a gated 55+ community) which borders The Villages and there are many other communities close by from which to choose.

Good luck.

[Bonanza]

Can we please stop with the recurring scare story of eagles and hawks carrying away your dog. ]A bald eagle, the largest eagle[/COLOR], can not lift a sixteen pound dog off the ground. It could catch it on the ground and injure or kill it on the ground. But dogs are not the preferred prey for eagles. We have tens of thousands of dogs and you are not hearing about them being carried away by eagles or hawks.

Eagle Flight and Other Myths, Alaska Department of Fish and Game (https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=wildlifenews.view_article&articles_id=343)


How much weight can an eagle carry? – Wildlife Damage Management (https://wildlife-damage-management.extension.org/how-much-weight-can-an-eagle-carry/)

I guess it depends upon which eagle site you look up. The bald eagle is not the largest eagle and depending upon the species of an eagle would determine what its preferred food is. It would depend upon how hungry an eagle is because they do eat other animals and fish; they are carnivores. So yes -- they would eat a dog.

A coyote or alligator would be more of a real threat. Just as a sidebar, it amazes me at the number of stupid people who walk their dogs so close to one of the area lakes. Are they not thinking???

[HospitalCoder]

We are considering a move to the Villages. Currently staying here for a few days looking at property. We know there is a limited amount of housing with fenced yards in what we are looking at. We are considering something without the fenced yard but not sure how our 2 dogs will like it. They are on the small side 16 lbs each but are used to being just let out to do their thing. We do walk them on occasion but that is not the norm. Anyone make the move to the Villages with this issue.

We also have 2 small dogs and for that reason, we chose a courtyard Villa. We were lucky to find one with grass. There is less wildlife on the north side of TV if you want to take that into consideration.

[doctoremery]

My home is a corner lot with a large grass fenced in yard and dog door built into the house. Unfortunately, I am moving to Sarasota. I have my home advertised for sale here on TOTV and Zillow. I would be happy to show the home to you if interested. 880 Nash Loop. Many people in the villages have dogs and I have found it to be a wonderful place to live.

[nativetex]

My husband and I bought a courtyard villa since we have 2 large dogs. The fence is very secure and gives privacy. I am not a fan of letting my dogs out leashed in the heat or rain. As long as I have a dog(s), I will have a fence.

[Joecool]

Buy a Veranda home, they come up for sale often and have great fenced yards. I have doggie doors and they go when they need. Great yard for ball play. We also walk them and do doggie parks. Veranda is the best for dogs.

[jrieker68]

There are now building cottage homes with fences, i.e. cottage verandas. They have some in DeLuna and maybe they are building some in Richmond? I believe some were built in the Citrus Grove area, not sure which neighborhood(s).

[defrey12]

Get a Villa. You…and your neighbors…will not be happy otherwise.

[MollyJo]

Another FYI, our summers heat up pavement and our fur babies paws, if it's too hot for your bare feet, it will also be too hot for them.

Great you mentioned the pavement being too hot for pups feet.

[westernrider75]

We bought a courtyard villa so our dogs can go out and wander around freely like they were used to. Now mine are bigger than yours so I would still be concerned about your small dogs and birds of prey.

[me4vt]

The pets come first…………. It’s not them that want this change so keep them as Happy as they are now! When we bought, the fence was priority #1 for ours!! The fence first and then moving in.

[sallyg]

Courtyard villas, verandas and newer patio villas south of 44 have fenced yards. I would not recommend ever leaving a dog unsupervised even in your own yard for all the same reasons mentioned in the other posts.
Get a couple of leashes and get out with your pups and meet all your neighbors. You will be glad you did and so will your dogs.

[MeKa 25]

We are considering a move to the Villages. Currently staying here for a few days looking at property. We know there is a limited amount of housing with fenced yards in what we are looking at. We are considering something without the fenced yard but not sure how our 2 dogs will like it. They are on the small side 16 lbs each but are used to being just let out to do their thing. We do walk them on occasion but that is not the norm. Anyone make the move to the Villages with this issue.

I moved here with two dogs who were used to the backyard. Now one loves the walks, the other not as much (older dog). One thing not mentioned is a lot of people use dog strollers. You can get your dogs from point A to Point B without burning their paws, being victims of prey, etc. Take them to a dog park or walk them in the shade, like I do. I thought it was silly when I first saw the strollers, but this way, both my dogs get to go out and walk the amount they want.

[joelfmi]

Do your due diligence before you buy their or you will very unhappy

[Marvivo]

Agree with you, However an adult eagle can carry a 25lb dog.

[Dlbonivich]

Thank you for saying what I was thinking. I have a 5 lb. I have a leash (long) I hook my baby inside the house. I put him on it and I open the door check the yard let him out. I stand at the door and keep watch. Once a day I take a golf cart ride and I let him roam. He loves it.

[raney3099]

Why save for garbage day? Dump in the toilet and flush🤷*♀️

[airstreamingypsy]

The thing is, as others have said, there are many predators here in Florida...... the biggest problem for your dogs, because of their size, is coyotes. They are crafty, and will watch until they know your routine, and if your dogs are out alone, they will snatch one. The only way I would let a small dog out alone is if I had a walled courtyard villa. No fenced yard, anywhere in Florida, would be 100% safe.

[mkjelenbaas]

We are considering a move to the Villages. Currently staying here for a few days looking at property. We know there is a limited amount of housing with fenced yards in what we are looking at. We are considering something without the fenced yard but not sure how our 2 dogs will like it. They are on the small side 16 lbs each but are used to being just let out to do their thing. We do walk them on occasion but that is not the norm. Anyone make the move to the Villages with this issue.
You may want info for part of your situation and work with your sales person - also why would you take info of this importance from people on this site - time to make a decision in your own- just saying.

[Lindaws]

There is 1 house on Nash Loop in the Village of Hemingway. It has a totally 6ft. high fence around the whole backyard. We are the only street with this. This is
not a villa. It is a ranch home. It also has the golf cart garage

[Berwin]

Speaking of predators, there was a panther passing through a yard in the middle of the night caught on a home security camera over in the Del Webb community off 441 about a month ago.

[gighilton]

Look to locate in a veranda style home. Hawkins, St Catherines, Citrus Grove and more..

[Chitown]

I was in exactly the same situation two years ago. You have two options. First option is either a courtyard villa or a bungalow villa. Courtyard villas are typically two bedroom two bath, bungalow villas are typically three bedroom two baths, both have fenced in backyards. The next option is what I chose which is a veranda. All of the verandas are south of US 44 in the newer section of the villages. Veranda homes are designer homes with fenced in backyards.

[GmaLisaG]

We had the VERY same concerns. We bought a veranda home on a golf course and they do just fine. But... we also started walking them, which we had never done before, and they absolutely love it and it's great exercise for us all!! Some people complain about dogs peeing and pooping in their yard, I respect that. Mine go in our yard but we walk for the exercise..

[Ptmckiou]

We have two hawks and an eagle that sit frequently near the lake in our backyard. Our yard is fenced, and a bobcat jumped the fence one evening, We have a very large dog, so it didn’t scare us. However, most definitely your dogs would have been in danger. We have photos of a black bear, and a Florida panther in our neighborhood prowling. There are a lot of cameras on people houses in the area, so people do get photos of the wildlife.

Just remember when walking your dogs. Don’t walk near water. You can’t out run a gator. They are faster than you think. Also, put on a fur coat and walk barefoot, to see how your dogs are feeling. Most likely will need to walk early mornings. You can fry an egg on the concrete at times and it will burn your dogs paws.

[Villages Kahuna]

An electric fence is the answer. My son has two very active Australian Shepards and an electric fence keeps them “contained” perfectly. I don’t know of an instance when they didn’t stay “in their yard”.

[Joe C.]

To be truthful, but blunt, and not trying to sound rude, but if you let your animals out without a leash and allow them to do "their thing", you are asking for trouble.

[NYCAROL]

We first purchased a courtyard villa which is enclosed so our dog could run around the property. Now we live in Hemmingway on Nash Loop where houses on inner circle have fences. There are new homes that have fences now.

[smartenson]

We live in a courtyard villa. We have a doggy door so Max can go out anytime he wants. It is awesome. We have rock and turf in the backyard which works great for him. We can close off the opening if we are going to be gone more than a short time.

[Glorantha]

Another option is to buy or build a house with a yard big enough for a large bird cage. Add a garden area or two with some dog friendly plants. One of my neighbors has grass that seems to be working. I have found that my dogs, both under 15 lbs, find pine straw as an acceptable option to do their business.
This option protects your pets from critters and bugs and gives you the added benefit on additional space to relax when the weather gets cooler.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Courtyard Villas and The Verandas are the only home that have completely fenced in back yards.

[Lisanp@aol.com]

We are considering a move to the Villages. Currently staying here for a few days looking at property. We know there is a limited amount of housing with fenced yards in what we are looking at. We are considering something without the fenced yard but not sure how our 2 dogs will like it. They are on the small side 16 lbs each but are used to being just let out to do their thing. We do walk them on occasion but that is not the norm. Anyone make the move to the Villages with this issue.
We felt the same way and bought a courtyard villa but have since sold it and bought a designer. We thought we would let the dog out back the way he was used to just wandering around. But with the number of hawks circling the yard every day we never felt comfortable doing so (he’s 8lbs). We walk him 3x a day and take him to the dog park almost every afternoon to run around with all of his friends. He hangs on the lanai during the day instead of in the yard. In addition to hawks there are lots of other dangerous wildlife to a small dog left alone especially in the southern areas with more preserve land, not to mention the gators in every pond. Our winter nighttime walks in the dark are with a flashlight and a bat because of the heavily preserved area where we live - he does smell something lurking in that brush and I have seen bobcats.

[Libbyporter]

We moved here in January. The cat was use to being outside whenever he wanted and the dog had 3 acres. The cat loves the lanai and fence. Makes him feel safe. He comes in at night. The dog had a hard time not having his running space at first. He loves his walks and the neighbors. Wait on a villa or Veranda. You will all be happier. We also almost jumped the gun and bought without the walls. Our agent told us he did not think we would be happy. He was so right. The walls are alot more pet friendly because more people have dogs. We love it here. Good luck.

[AliAst]

We had what seems to be a similar situation, moving from a half-acre property where we did walk our dog twice a day but also just opened the back door and let her do her thing. We debated about the walled in & fenced in properties, which would have been fine for the dog but not so fine for us. Instead we went to the area just above 466 and bought a property with lots of open area facing a pond. Yes, we let our dogs (one large 65-pounder, one small & quite old schitzu) outside in the back without a leash, but due to having even more predators than we had up north (up there it was primarily coyote & fox; here we've had lots of fox, some coyote, neighbors have seen bobcats at night, & yes there was a gator for a while), they are NEVER unsupervised. We are also in the midst of expanding our lanai so that they can be out in the air (if not in the grass) without supervision.

[LucyP]

I guess it depends upon which eagle site you look up. The bald eagle is not the largest eagle and depending upon the species of an eagle would determine what its preferred food is. It would depend upon how hungry an eagle is because they do eat other animals and fish; they are carnivores. So yes -- they would eat a dog.

A coyote or alligator would be more of a real threat. Just as a sidebar, it amazes me at the number of stupid people who walk their dogs so close to one of the area lakes. Are they not thinking???

There are walls or fences in certain area in TV would be great for your dogs. There dog parks to go too. Be with dogs outside all times for their protection. I walk my dog and we visit neighbors with dog and play outside together while we watch. Stay on leash running around playing.My actually go to house and bark to come out to play. I just watch my surroundings because we do have wildlife looking for food. Just learn from neighbors what they have seen in that area. I see bobcats as big as large dog where I live.

[Normal]

Watch out for leaping lizards, they like dogs. Also there are gorillas that escaped during hurricane Andrew that are still around, so get pet protector spray (sold at Lowes) when you walk your dogs. Your dogs will be OK if you do this and the only thing you will have to worry about are the pop-up coral snakes.

Just kidding of course. We moved here with our two pups and they couldn’t be happier. There were some routines that became ingrained and things we did since we arrived:

We walk our dogs early at day break to avoid the sun baked asphalt
We found a vet and kennel that were readily available
We registered our dogs at the county building
We had new name tags made
We take our dogs to the dog park once and a while
We bought lots of poop bags and have our dog food delivered from Chewy
And we always leash our dogs when they travel in the golf cart

I hope you find something suitable for you, and I encourage you to enjoy the villages. It was one of the best calls we ever made.

PS. There is little to no pet foot wiping required here. It is a definite plus.

[justjim]

We all wish we could just open the door and let them out but nope, gotta get up, put on the leash, take them for a walk, put up with the heat and hot roads, rain, other dogs, bring home the poop and save it for garbage day. They will enjoy it but not sure if you will.

Hit the nail on the head. Our last dog passed 15 years ago and decided not to replace her. She couldn’t be replaced anyway. We wanted to travel more in our retirement and that was another major deciding factor. If we change our minds regarding another dog, our home would definitely be fenced. We have seen several dog owners here who are irresponsible dog owners and that has shed a “bad light” on the majority who are good dog owners. Perhaps this was there first “rodeo” who knows.

[SilverMema]

I always walk my dog but bought a home with a fenced yard because with the summer heat and thunderstorms I didn’t want to be out in either to walk my dog. Much easier to open door and let her out!

[worahm]

A threat I have not seen mentioned is drowning. During the thirty some odd years I have lived in Florida, three of my friends and neighbors have loss their dogs to accidental drowning in their pool. Another neighbor loss their puppy to a cayote when the puppy was left unattended inside an invisible fence. The vast number of animals are lost because they stray or are stolen from their home.

[Annie66]

Can we please stop with the recurring scare story of eagles and hawks carrying away your dog. A bald eagle, the largest eagle, can not lift a sixteen pound dog off the ground. It could catch it on the ground and injure or kill it on the ground. But dogs are not the preferred prey for eagles. We have tens of thousands of dogs and you are not hearing about them being carried away by eagles or hawks.

Eagle Flight and Other Myths, Alaska Department of Fish and Game (https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=wildlifenews.view_article&articles_id=343)


How much weight can an eagle carry? – Wildlife Damage Management (https://wildlife-damage-management.extension.org/how-much-weight-can-an-eagle-carry/)

Blue ----- You are correct that we hear very few reports of small animals being injured or killed by predators. Unfortunately, it does happen here in TVs; possibly more frequently than we have heard. We have 2 dogs, and they are always on a short leash whenever they are outside. I know how I'd feel if one were injured or killed by a predator because I thought it couldn't happen in our neighborhood.

[Sandy and Ed]

We had two Yorkie but now only one Lasa. A Courtyard villa NOT backing up to a golf course would answer your need. You can get a 3 bedroom 2 bath with a glass enclosed lanai and possibly a larger garage and or birdcage. Just takes a bit to find the right one. Also look for a bond paid deal and maybe already furnished if decor suits you

[Sandy and Ed]

Can we please stop with the recurring scare story of eagles and hawks carrying away your dog. A bald eagle, the largest eagle, can not lift a sixteen pound dog off the ground. It could catch it on the ground and injure or kill it on the ground. But dogs are not the preferred prey for eagles. We have tens of thousands of dogs and you are not hearing about them being carried away by eagles or hawks.

Eagle Flight and Other Myths, Alaska Department of Fish and Game (https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=wildlifenews.view_article&articles_id=343)


How much weight can an eagle carry? – Wildlife Damage Management (https://wildlife-damage-management.extension.org/how-much-weight-can-an-eagle-carry/)
Thank you!!!! They are making our home sound like Jurassic Park. A courtyard villa would do him and his pooches just fine

[lindaelane]

In my opinion, your dogs have been used to a measure of freedom. Such a measure is not available here - any fenced yards are small. Your dogs will feel as if they have moved to a place of relative imprisonment. It is up to you to decide if good treatment of your beloved dogs is important enough for you to move somewhere where their freedom is not significantly decreased.

And certainly, if you do move here, I believe you must be prepared at the very least to walk them, on the required lease, regularly. Or else be prepared to see your dogs really suffer from a new level of confinement.

But this is me...I would not live here with a dog, no matter it's size as I believe they are animals who need freedom to move about in more than a small yard and/or small house.

Please no trolls who think differently from me - everyone is entitled to their beliefs.

[Sandy and Ed]

Watch out for leaping lizards, they like dogs. Also there are gorillas that escaped during hurricane Andrew that are still around, so get pet protector spray (sold at Lowes) when you walk your dogs. Your dogs will be OK if you do this and the only thing you will have to worry about are the pop-up coral snakes.

Just kidding of course. We moved here with our two pups and they couldn’t be happier. There were some routines that became ingrained and things we did since we arrived:

We walk our dogs early at day break to avoid the sun baked asphalt
We found a vet and kennel that were readily available
We registered our dogs at the county building
We had new name tags made
We take our dogs to the dog park once and a while
We bought lots of poop bags and have our dog food delivered from Chewy
And we always leash our dogs when they travel in the golf cart

I hope you find something suitable for you, and I encourage you to enjoy the villages. It was one of the best calls we ever made.

PS. There is little to no pet foot wiping required here. It is a definite plus.
Amen to all of that. Early walks on cooler roads, poop bags, tags, maybe chipped, good vet and kennel, golf cart restraints. All good advice

[Radio guy]

I have a designer house with a fenced in yard. I am thinking of selling but can’t until February. I live in the village of DeSoto. If you are interested.

[Mystwarien]

We have 2 small dogs under 16 pounds. I wanted a 4 bedroom veranda, but couldn't find one (or win the lottery system ) on the ones we liked, so we opted for a Designer home on a pond. Love the view, but am definitely aware of potential predators. Mine have a fenced yard now, but they only go out to do their business. We plan on landscaping the side yard a bit for them and putting one of those corkscrew things you put in the grass with a leash on it so they can sniff and walk around. I still won't leave them out there alone. I plan to sit out with them or take them for walks.

[Bitsee]

I'm sorry....but I beg to differ.

We lived in Northern Wisconsin for many years. My neighbor has live footage of a brand newborn fawn being lifted off the ground by a huge eagle. He made 3 attempts to lift that fawn up to it's nest and unfortunately he dropped it mid-air into the lake in the process.
The mother dear was frantic and running up and down the shoreline...very sad.

Another co-worker of mine left his ****zu dog on the deck to go potty and 6 minutes later he heard a ruckus, went to open the deck door, and witnessed his dog screaming as he was being carried off by an eagle latching on to his collar.

Another neighbor here in Florida, was walking her new Teddy Bear ****zu puppy in her back yard and the neighborhood hawk actually had the nerve to swoop down on her and try to get that puppy. The women screamed, grabbed that puppy and ran for the house ! The hawk actually did scratch her shoulder in the process of her grabbing her dog. Very real, Very scary !

I'm keenly aware of large birds overhead when I'm out hiking with our dogs, it's a genuine threat to small animals in my opinion because I witnessed it.

[oldtimes]

In my opinion, your dogs have been used to a measure of freedom. Such a measure is not available here - any fenced yards are small. Your dogs will feel as if they have moved to a place of relative imprisonment. It is up to you to decide if good treatment of your beloved dogs is important enough for you to move somewhere where their freedom is not significantly decreased.

And certainly, if you do move here, I believe you must be prepared at the very least to walk them, on the required lease, regularly. Or else be prepared to see your dogs really suffer from a new level of confinement.

But this is me...I would not live here with a dog, no matter it's size as I believe they are animals who need freedom to move about in more than a small yard and/or small house.

Please no trolls who think differently from me - everyone is entitled to their beliefs.

Many of the dogs here are rescues. They think they are in heaven.

[mrsstats]

To be truthful, but blunt, and not trying to sound rude, but if you let your animals out without a leash and allow them to do "their thing", you are asking for trouble.
I would not let them out unleashed to go on someone else’s property.

[mrsstats]

Another option is to buy or build a house with a yard big enough for a large bird cage. Add a garden area or two with some dog friendly plants. One of my neighbors has grass that seems to be working. I have found that my dogs, both under 15 lbs, find pine straw as an acceptable option to do their business.
This option protects your pets from critters and bugs and gives you the added benefit on additional space to relax when the weather gets cooler.

Thank you. That is a very good idea.

[Bonanza]

An electric fence is the answer. My son has two very active Australian Shepards and an electric fence keeps them “contained” perfectly. I don’t know of an instance when they didn’t stay “in their yard”.

Sorry, but I disagree with you; an electric fence is NOT the answer.

We also had an electric fence. Hated it! If your dog is a jumper like ours, she was able to jump above the point where the signal would emit the charge -- higher than where the electronic fence would work/shock. Also, the electronic collar is a pain in the you-know-what! It is bulky and you absolutely should not leave it on your dog all the time which means you have to put it on them each and every time they need or want to go out.

Lastly, any critter can still enter your yard, i.e., a coyote, alligator, or other nasty critters and even someone who wants to steal your dog.

[Bellavita]

Invisible fence is great


We are considering a move to the Villages. Currently staying here for a few days looking at property. We know there is a limited amount of housing with fenced yards in what we are looking at. We are considering something without the fenced yard but not sure how our 2 dogs will like it. They are on the small side 16 lbs each but are used to being just let out to do their thing. We do walk them on occasion but that is not the norm. Anyone make the move to the Villages with this issue.

[JeanC]

We moved here with two large dogs who were used to fenced yards. They were troopers. We put out a lead in the back yard tied to a tree and tie one up there just to do his business. The other didn’t like that so I walk him in the yard. They much prefer the AC indoors and only go out to do their business. So it works great for them.

[Dusty_Star]

Sorry, but I disagree with you; an electric fence is NOT the answer.

We also had an electric fence. Hated it! If your dog is a jumper like ours, she was able to jump above the point where the signal would emit the charge -- higher than where the electronic fence would work/shock. Also, the electronic collar is a pain in the you-know-what! It is bulky and you absolutely should not leave it on your dog all the time which means you have to put it on them each and every time they need or want to go out.

Lastly, any critter can still enter your yard, i.e., a coyote, alligator, or other nasty critters and even someone who wants to steal your dog.

:agree:

[nancymiller217@yahoo.com]

We moved here with 2 small dogs about the same size as yours, but elected to purchase a home without a fenced yard. I would never let them outside on their own as there are predators here that the fence won’t stop. I’d recommend resetting both your expectations and the dogs by getting out and walking them. They will enjoy the time with you. You could also try getting them used to the golf cart and take them for a ride.

There are multiple dog parks that you could take them to and let them run off leash unless they are not other dog friendly.

Exactly what we did, except I would mention that I started taking my dog on leash walks every day as soon as we decided to move. I knew she would miss her yard, but she did love greeting the neighbors and adapted quickly.

Your dogs just want to be with you.

[Worldseries27]

bobcats, foxes, eagles, owls, a variety of hawks, coyotes.

Do your dogs a favor and either don't leave them out unattended, or don't bring them to the villages.
coyotes are smart. They can schedule an attack if you do things routinely

[Debra Freeman]

Why not get an invisible fence? Solves all the problems.

[NotGolfer]

I know of two examples, ,make it three....#1. friends have an electric fence for their 2 dogs. One dog has been known to run away, despite the fence. #2. a handful of years ago a man went out on his lawn at night so the dog could do it's thing. A coyote came and snatched it before the man could react and save it. Oh---one more story #3--man lived on a pond that his large back yard abutted to. His dog was running along not far from the pond when a gator came and snatched it. Man reacted quickly and dove in and saved his dog but not without both receiving some injuries. This last story even made the t.v. news and papers. Living in FL isn't the same as living "up north".

[Sunny923!]

I was in exactly the same situation two years ago. You have two options. First option is either a courtyard villa or a bungalow villa. Courtyard villas are typically two bedroom two bath, bungalow villas are typically three bedroom two baths, both have fenced in backyards. The next option is what I chose which is a veranda. All of the verandas are south of US 44 in the newer section of the villages. Veranda homes are designer homes with fenced in backyards.

Incorrect-Courtyard Villas are typically 3/2 in the south, either concrete or wood. All CV have private walled in back yards. Its the best option for dog owners.

[jimschlaefer]

We are considering a move to the Villages. Currently staying here for a few days looking at property. We know there is a limited amount of housing with fenced yards in what we are looking at. We are considering something without the fenced yard but not sure how our 2 dogs will like it. They are on the small side 16 lbs each but are used to being just let out to do their thing. We do walk them on occasion but that is not the norm. Anyone make the move to the Villages with this issue.

Similar situation. We hunted until we found a Veranda model we liked. That took some doing but we ended up with a fenced yard "with a view". Had to get used to walking "the boys" on leads since we are originally from a more rural area in Texas where leads were more for keeping your dog from running away. It has worked out well so far. "The boys" have some space to stretch their legs and also socialize some on walks. May not be the most attractive approach to spend extra time and lots of effort hunting for what you want, but in our case it really paid off. And don't shy from new builds as they may be more cost effective than "used" in this case. Just one personal experience. On the side, the Invisible fence idea is also a great alternative if your dogs aren't too headstrong to ignore the shock and you are used to having that type of collar on them.

[Laurawilcox]

We are moving from a place with little concern for ticks and fleas with our two 45 pound dogs. Recommendations? Are the prescription versions worth the difference in price?

Thank you.

[fdpaq0580]

Why not get an invisible fence? Solves all the problems.

Wrong! I was bitten and bloodied by a dog that got out of his invisible fence. Invisible fence is not 100%!.

[jmpate]

I understand ur concerns as we had the same. So look for homes w/fencing.
More likely to find them in villages south of 44. Cottage homes, Courtyards villas are usually fenced but other homes styles also have fences.

We looked at homes facing water & preserves but they have wrought iron fences that have about 4 inches bw bars, thereby allowing critters & snakes to come into yards. U'd have to line the back fence w/some type of metal to deter critters.

There's more availability of fenced homes in the last 2-3 years for families w/dogs suite of Route 44.


We are considering a move to the Villages. Currently staying here for a few days looking at property. We know there is a limited amount of housing with fenced yards in what we are looking at. We are considering something without the fenced yard but not sure how our 2 dogs will like it. They are on the small side 16 lbs each but are used to being just let out to do their thing. We do walk them on occasion but that is not the norm. Anyone make the move to the Villages with this issue.

[airstreamingypsy]

Why not get an invisible fence? Solves all the problems.

An invisible fence for a small dog doesn't solve anything. Predators can get to the dog.

[Bonanza]

Invisible fence is great

Why not get an invisible fence? Solves all the problems.

Boo-boo, Hiss-hiss to both of your comments!
While there are those who like an invisible fence, there are far more reasons not to have one.

You obviously have not read prior comments. Refer to one that I made -- Comment #64. What I stated are realistic reasons NOT to have one.

[Dee Smith]

We are considering a move to the Villages. Currently staying here for a few days looking at property. We know there is a limited amount of housing with fenced yards in what we are looking at. We are considering something without the fenced yard but not sure how our 2 dogs will like it. They are on the small side 16 lbs each but are used to being just let out to do their thing. We do walk them on occasion but that is not the norm. Anyone make the move to the Villages with this issue.

My life is easier because of my fenced yard. I have a small dog and got her as a puppy. The yard is handy early morning and late at night. We also go to a dog park and I walk her. I had to search for a courtyard villa with grass but they are available and work great. I can see it well from inside but usually am in the yard with her. Good luck.

[Rsenholzi]

Check out courtyard villas - there are plenty to be had - corner properties are best with the biggest back yards

[Garywt]

We have a CYV which works well. Easy to let them in and out. There were many reasons we bought a CYV, the fenced in yard was just one of them.

[Morgan65]

Thank you for your comments and sanity

[valuemkt]

Sorry, but I disagree with you; an electric fence is NOT the answer.

We also had an electric fence. Hated it! If your dog is a jumper like ours, she was able to jump above the point where the signal would emit the charge -- higher than where the electronic fence would work/shock. Also, the electronic collar is a pain in the you-know-what! It is bulky and you absolutely should not leave it on your dog all the time which means you have to put it on them each and every time they need or want to go out.

Lastly, any critter can still enter your yard, i.e., a coyote, alligator, or other nasty critters and even someone who wants to steal your dog.


Disagree with the above. It is true that old style base level Invisible fences could be easily breached, and once the dog was out he / she could stay out. HOWEVER, the newer models from Invisible Fence broadcast out much further, so if FIDO decides to breach he will quickly come running back into his yard. Both my neighbor and I have them installed at our respctive properties and both have very independent minded medium to large dogs. After one training session and a month of keeping the flags up, neither of us havehad anything close to a breach. And they have been teased by humans and dogs and water birds to go off property. At night we light the yard up like a baseball field so we can see where FIDO is going. The gators don;t read the KEEP OUT signs, but they also dont like the bright lights and have never come close to the property.

[Miboater]

We back up to a preserve in Hawkins that has a metal fence along the back. I hook up a 50 foot lead to the fence so my dog has some room to roam but she stays on my property and it works out well. My dog is about 75 pounds so I'm not too worried about predators but I always go out with her at night just to be sure. I would think if you have an open yard you could tie a lead down to a corkscrew stake that is made for dog leads.