Advice - How To - All - Fencing
Fencing solutions for livestock farmers

Keep your animals safe and prevent escapes

A well-planned fence is important for every livestock farmer. It keeps your animals safely in their designated area, prevents escapes and protects your land from intruders such as wolves. Whether you keep cattle, sheep or horses, the right fencing saves you time, effort and frustration.

But where do you start? Should you focus on keeping your animals in or keeping wild animals out? We'll guide you through the process step by step.

Do you want to protect or keep out?

Before choosing a fence, determine its primary purpose. Click on the button of your choice and we’ll explain both options in detail.

Protect fencing
Protect
Keep your livestock safely inside the pasture, such as cattle, sheep, horses or poultry. Go to: protect
Keep out
Keep out
Prevent wild animals like wolves and wild boars from entering your land. Go to: keep out
fencing sheep and lambs

Protect your animals

If you want to keep your animals safely within their designated area, you have two fencing options:


Mobile fencing

Ideal for rotational grazing and temporary enclosures. It’s easy to set up and move as needed.View mobile fencing

Permanent fencing

Best for fixed pastures or areas where animals stay for a long time. This option is durable and requires less frequent maintenance.View permanent fencing

What do you need for mobile fencing?

  1. Electric fence energizer: Ensures effectiveness by providing a safe but noticeable shock upon contact.
  2. Posts: Available in plastic or metal, depending on durability and ease of installation.
  3. Wire: Choose between single-strand or multi-strand fencing, depending on the animal type.

When to choose single-strand or multi-strand wire?

  • Single-strand wire: Suitable for large animals like cattle and horses.
  • Multi-strand wire: Recommended for smaller livestock like sheep and goats or as an extra security measure.
mobile-fencing-pole cow
fencing keep out wild boars

Fencing to keep out wild animals

Wild animals such as wolves and wild boars can threaten your livestock and damage your land. A solid fence prevents these risks.

How to keep wild animals out?


Wolves

A multi-strand electric fence with sufficient height (at least 120 cm) and voltage (minimum 4,000 volts) is essential. View products against wolves

Wild boars

Use a robust, low fence with multiple electric strands close to the ground to prevent them from digging underneath.

Extra protection

Using sturdy posts and additional insulators helps maintain the fence’s effectiveness, even under heavy pressure. View insulators

Permanent fencing: a long-term solution

A permanent fence is a durable and low-maintenance choice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you install it properly.
Choose the right fence type and layout
Step 1

Choose the right fence type and layout

Start by determining which animals you want to contain and how your pasture is structured. Plan for adequate access points and consider natural obstacles like trees and ditches.
Select the right power source
Step 2

Select the right power source

Mains-powered energizer: Best for fences near an electrical outlet. Battery-powered energizer: Ideal for locations without access to mains power. Solar-powered energizer: Sustainable and low-maintenance, perfect for remote areas. Choose the right energizer
Choose the right posts and wire
Step 3

Choose the right posts and wire

For larger, stronger animals, posts should be taller and sturdier to provide adequate support. The choice of material— wood, plastic or metal—depends on the desired longevity and strength. When it comes to wiring, tape is highly visible, making it ideal for horses and cattle while also being wind-resistant. Rope, on the other hand, is strong and flexible, making it a great option for sheep and goats.View product range
Use the right insulators
Step 4

Use the right insulators

Good insulators prevent power loss. Corner insulators are extra strong and designed for high-tension areas, while offset insulators are ideal for electrifying existing fences. Standard insulators are easy to install and work well on straight fence lines.View insulators
power supply-energizer-fencing

Choosing the right energizer


Power source

Is there a power outlet (230V) nearby? If so, choose a mains-powered energizer – it’s the most reliable option. No outlet? Then a battery or solar-powered device is a good alternative. Battery units are portable and work with a rechargeable battery, while solar units use solar energy and can function for up to 2 weeks without sunlight.

Fence length

Calculate the total length of electric wire in your fence, including multiple strands. This helps determine the required power capacity of the energizer.

Vegetation around the wire

Keep the wires free from grass and bushes. Excess vegetation can reduce the power output by up to 80%, making the fence less effective.

Bought your fencing? Here’s how to maintain it!

A good fence stays effective only if properly maintained. Here are some practical tips:


Regularly check the voltage

Use a voltage tester to ensure your fence has adequate power. Low voltage? Check for vegetation touching the wire or damaged insulators.View voltage tester

Maintain and inspect your fencing

Walk along your fence regularly to ensure posts remain sturdy. Clear vegetation around the wire to prevent power loss. Replace worn-out wires, posts, or insulators when needed.

Ensure proper grounding

An electric fence only works efficiently if it’s properly grounded. Use at least three grounding rods (each one meter long) and place them in moist soil for optimal conductivity. View earthing

Frequently asked questions about fencing

MS Schippers
Call for personal advice +31-(0)497-339774 or send an email to export@msschippers.com

Do you have a question?

Complete the form and we will contact you within 48 hours.