{"id":5244,"date":"2026-08-21T13:20:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-21T13:20:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cloture-discount.fr\/distriblog\/uncategorized\/installing-a-sheep-fence-mesh-height-and-tension\/"},"modified":"2026-09-07T14:31:42","modified_gmt":"2026-09-07T14:31:42","slug":"installing-a-sheep-fence-mesh-height-and-tension","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cloture-discount.fr\/distriblog\/en\/advice\/installing-a-sheep-fence-mesh-height-and-tension\/","title":{"rendered":"Installing a Sheep Fence: Mesh, Height, and Tension"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"Installing<\/figure>\n

Whether you are starting livestock farming or simply need to enclose a new plot, installing a sheep fence requires careful planning. Given the physical pressure from animals rubbing against it, lambs trying to squeeze through, and the threat of predators, your installation must be robust. To avoid unpleasant surprises, three elements must be closely monitored: the type of mesh, the height of the fence, and the tension of the wires. <\/p>\n

Which mesh to choose? Graduated mesh <\/h2>\n

For sheep and ewes, knotted mesh fence (often called sheep fence or Ursus type) remains the most suitable option. Its strength lies in its graduated mesh: the mesh openings are very tight at the bottom and widen as they go up. <\/p>\n

This arrangement meets two specific needs. First, it prevents lambs from sticking their heads through or getting caught in the fence. Second, it blocks small dogs or passing pests. If your animals tend to push against the enclosure limits, opt for large-diameter galvanized steel wires to prevent the entire structure from deforming too quickly. <\/p>\n

What fence height should you plan for?<\/h2>\n

The correct height primarily depends on the breed of your sheep and the local wildlife. Generally, a height of 1 m to 1.20 m is sufficient for most lactating or dairy ewes. <\/p>\n

For hardy, light, and agile breeds (such as Ouessant or certain moorland breeds), plan for at least 1.20 m in height to prevent them from jumping over at the slightest stress. Conversely, for heavier and calmer animals, a 90 cm fence may suffice, provided it remains well-tensioned. <\/p>\n

Tension Wires: The Key to Preventing Sagging<\/h2>\n

A flexible fence will always sag if ewes rub against it to scratch themselves or to grab a tuft of grass from the other side. To maintain a rigid structure over time, galvanized steel tension wires must be used. <\/p>\n

These horizontal wires are attached to the corner posts (reinforced by brace posts) and support the fence along its entire length.<\/p>\n

For a solid installation, plan for:<\/p>\n