If you’ve ever dealt with goats or sheep, you know they’re escape artists. Goats climb, sheep squeeze, and before you know it, they’re roaming where they shouldn’t be. A high tensile fence is the best way to keep these animals contained while also being durable and low-maintenance. But not all fences are created equal—installing the right setup makes all the difference.
Why Goats & Sheep Are Escape Artists
Goats Are Natural Climbers
Goats aren’t just mischievous—they’re built for climbing. Whether it’s a rock, a hay bale, or your fence, they’ll find a way up and over. If your fence isn’t tall enough, they’ll leap over it. If it has any kind of foothold, they’ll scale it like a pro. That’s why a high tensile fence needs to be at least 4.5 to 5 feet tall for goats and designed without anything they can use for leverage.
Sheep Can Squeeze Through Anything
Sheep might not have the climbing skills of goats, but they’re just as crafty. They love to push against fences, and if there’s even a slight gap, they’ll squeeze their way through. A high tensile fence with tightly spaced wires (especially near the bottom) prevents them from slipping out. Unlike traditional barbed wire, high tensile fencing won’t bend under pressure, keeping the fence line secure.
Traditional Fencing Fails
A lot of farmers start with wooden post-and-board fencing or barbed wire, thinking it’ll do the job. The problem? Goats chew on wood, push against weak boards, and eventually break them. Barbed wire? Not strong enough to hold up when sheep lean into it. A high tensile fence solves these issues by providing a strong, flexible barrier that withstands pressure without sagging or breaking.
The Problem with Sagging & Weak Fencing
Even the smallest weakness in a fence is an invitation for escape. Goats will test every corner, and sheep will slowly wear down weak spots. A properly installed high tensile fence stays tight and durable, eliminating escape routes before they start.
Why High Tensile Fencing is the Best Choice
Unmatched Strength & Durability
When you’re dealing with animals that push, rub, climb, or charge, you need a fence that won’t give in. A high tensile fence is made from high-carbon steel wire, designed to hold its shape under pressure. Unlike traditional fences that sag, break, or require constant tightening, high tensile fencing stays strong year after year. It’s built to handle extreme weather, rowdy livestock, and the wear and tear of daily farm life.
Minimal Maintenance, Maximum Security
Nobody wants to spend every weekend fixing fences. A high tensile fence requires far less upkeep than barbed wire or wooden fences. Once it’s properly installed and tensioned, it holds firm with minimal adjustments. It doesn’t rot like wood, it doesn’t sag like woven wire, and it doesn’t rust away like low-quality metal fencing. Just check your tension from time to time, and you’re good to go.
Cost-Effective for the Long Haul
Yes, a high tensile fence might have a higher upfront cost than cheap wire or wooden fencing, but in the long run, it saves you money. You’ll spend less on repairs, replacements, and maintenance. Plus, since it requires fewer posts and can be installed quickly, you’re also cutting down on labor costs.
Customizable for Any Farm Setup
Whether you have a small homestead or a large-scale livestock operation, a high tensile fence can be tailored to fit your needs. You can adjust the number of wire strands, the height of the fence, and whether or not you want it electrified. Need tighter wire spacing for sheep? No problem. Want a taller setup to stop goats from jumping? Easily done. This fencing system adapts to whatever your animals throw at it.
Electric Option for Extra Protection
For extra stubborn animals, an electric high tensile fence is a game-changer. A properly charged wire discourages climbing, pushing, and rubbing. Goats and sheep quickly learn to respect the fence line, meaning fewer escape attempts and less stress for you. Plus, an electrified fence adds a layer of security against predators, keeping coyotes and other threats at bay.
Recommended High Tensile Fence Design for Goats & Sheep
When it comes to keeping goats and sheep contained, not just any high tensile fence will do. These animals are known for their ability to escape, so your fence needs the right height, wire spacing, and reinforcement. Here’s how to build a high tensile fence that works.
Wire Spacing: Keeping Them In & Predators Out
- Goats: Need at least 5–7 strands of high tensile wire. The wires should be spaced closer together at the bottom to prevent them from squeezing through and farther apart toward the top to discourage climbing.
- Sheep: A woven wire high tensile fence is best for sheep since they can squeeze through gaps in traditional strand fencing. If using multiple wire strands, spacing them 6-8 inches apart keeps them from slipping out.
Fence Height: Stop the Jumpers
- Sheep: 4 feet is usually enough to keep them contained.
- Goats: At least 4.5 to 5 feet tall, since they’re more likely to jump. If you have particularly ambitious goats, you may even need to go higher.
Electric vs. Non-Electric: What Works Best?
- Electric High Tensile Fence: The best option for goats, as it discourages climbing and rubbing. Goats learn fast, and after one or two shocks, they’ll keep their distance. Sheep also respond well to electric fencing, especially if they’ve had issues with predators.
- Non-Electric High Tensile Fence: Works for sheep if the wires are spaced close enough, but goats are more likely to test and break through it. Adding a woven wire panel to the bottom of the fence helps reinforce it.
Additional Reinforcements for Maximum Security
- Strong Corner Posts: Prevents the fence from sagging over time.
- Tension Adjustments: A high tensile fence needs to be properly tensioned so animals can’t push it out of shape.
- Offset Wires: Placing an electrified offset wire a few inches inside the main fence line deters animals from leaning on the fence.
Tips for Proper Fence Installation by ProFence
A high tensile fence is only as good as its installation. If it’s not set up correctly, your goats and sheep will find a way out. That’s why trusting professionals like ProFence ensures your fencing is done right the first time. With expert installation, you get a strong, low-maintenance fence that stands the test of time. Here’s what ProFence does to guarantee a secure fence for your farm.
Strong Corner & Brace Posts for Maximum Stability
The corners are the foundation of your high tensile fence. If they’re weak, the entire fence will sag. That’s why [roFence installs:
- Heavy-duty wooden corner posts at least 8 inches in diameter, set 3–4 feet deep to prevent shifting.
- H-brace or diagonal brace systems to maintain fence tension over time.
- Metal T-posts for line posts, strategically spaced every 20–30 feet for extra support.
Proper Wire Tension for Long-Lasting Strength
A loose fence is an invitation for escape. Goats will push, sheep will lean, and before long, your fence is useless. To prevent this, ProFence ensures:
- Wires are tensioned correctly using professional-grade ratchet strainers.
- The fence remains flexible but firm—tight enough to deter animals, but not so tight that it snaps under pressure.
- Periodic tension checks are performed to maintain strength through weather changes.
Offset Wires for Extra Security
Goats love to test their boundaries, rubbing against the fence until it weakens. ProFence installs offset electric wires as an extra layer of protection:
- Hot wire placed 6–8 inches inside the fence line prevents animals from pushing or leaning.
- Reduces long-term wear and tear, saving you money on repairs.
- Ensures a low-maintenance fencing system that keeps your livestock contained.
Bottom Wire Placement to Stop Crawling
If a goat or sheep sees an opening, they’ll try to squeeze under. ProFence eliminates this issue by installing:
- Bottom wires set 2–4 inches off the ground for sheep.
- Additional woven wire or a ground-level hot wire for goats that like to dig or nudge their way out.
Routine Fence Inspections to Keep It Escape-Proof
A high tensile fence is built to last, but like anything on a farm, it still needs occasional upkeep. With ProFence’s expert installation, maintenance is minimal, but regular checks help ensure peak performance. Best practices include:
- Walking the fence line every few weeks to inspect for weak spots.
- Looking for loose wires, leaning posts, or signs of animal pressure.
- If electric fencing is used, ProFence ensures the voltage stays consistent to maintain security.
When you choose ProFence for your high tensile fence, you’re getting a fence built for durability, security, and minimal maintenance. Our expert team ensures the right installation so you can focus on your farm, not on fixing fences.
Additional Measures to Prevent Escapes
Even with a professionally installed high tensile fence by ProFence, goats and sheep are known for testing boundaries. The right fencing system is crucial, but adding a few extra measures can make all the difference in keeping your animals where they belong.
Provide Proper Enrichment to Reduce Escape Attempts
Goats are naturally curious and will test a fence out of sheer boredom. Keeping them entertained can minimize their desire to escape.
- Climbing structures like stumps or platforms give goats something to jump on instead of your fence.
- Salt licks and mineral blocks keep them engaged and satisfied inside the fence.
- Consistent feeding schedules prevent animals from wandering near the fence line looking for food.
Sheep tend to push against fences when they feel confined or stressed. A spacious pasture with access to food and water reduces their desire to roam.
Check for Weak Spots Before They Become a Problem
Even a high tensile fence can develop vulnerabilities over time, especially in areas with heavy animal traffic. Regular inspections help prevent breakouts before they happen.
- Walk the fence line weekly and check for signs of pressure or movement.
- Look for loose wires, bent posts, or any areas where animals are rubbing.
- Trim vegetation around the fence to prevent weeds and branches from interfering with the electric current.
ProFence installs high tensile fences designed for durability, but these simple maintenance checks keep your investment secure for years.
Train Your Livestock to Respect the Fence
Goats and sheep are quick learners. When introduced properly, they’ll understand the fence is a barrier, not a challenge.
- If using an electric high tensile fence, introduce animals to it gradually. Let them touch the wire and feel a light shock so they learn to avoid it.
- For non-electric fencing, create a barrier inside the fence line using extra posts or an offset wire to discourage pushing and rubbing.
Once goats and sheep respect the fence, they’ll be far less likely to test it.
Use Guardian Animals for Extra Security
For farmers dealing with predators, guardian animals provide an extra layer of protection.
- Livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) deter predators and keep sheep calm, reducing stress-related fence testing.
- Donkeys and llamas are great at protecting goats and can discourage escapes by keeping the herd together.
Pairing a high tensile fence with a guardian animal ensures your livestock stays safe inside while keeping unwanted visitors out.
A high tensile fence from ProFence is your first line of defense against wandering goats and escaping sheep, but these extra steps help reinforce your fencing system for maximum security.
Secure Your Livestock with a High Tensile Fence
Keeping goats and sheep secure isn’t just about putting up a fence—it’s about choosing the right fence. A high tensile fence installed by ProFence provides the strength, durability, and low maintenance you need to keep your animals where they belong. With proper installation, strategic wire spacing, and additional reinforcements like electric strands and offset wires, your fencing system will stand up to even the most determined escape artists.
If you’re ready for a high tensile fence that works as hard as you do, let ProFence handle the job. Contact us today for a free consultation and get a fencing solution built to last!
