That Doggy in the Window: Steel Fences with Dog-Friendly Gates

We’ve got a cool story for you… a story, in fact, of the very first client we sold metal to.

A story about a dog, a fence, and a solution that’s fit to trend all over social media.

If you’re a dog owner, you know dogs can get frustrated when they hear the world outside but can't see it. This can trigger excessive barking and anxiety. So when installing a solid corrugated metal fence on their property, our client experienced a conundrum. 

What could they do? A costly replacement with a railing fence? It wouldn’t be much better; visitors feel uneasy when a dog stares at them through open bars. The solution? Thoughtful design that works for everyone; a simple feature: a "doggy window."

So cute, right?

Doggy window installed in a black metal fence "The Canadian" panel from BarrierBoss.

Win-Win: The Doggy Window

Instead of choosing between fully open metal fences and gates or completely solid privacy gates, they installed a built-in window at their dog's eye level. The small viewing window in the metal gates made a real difference.

Dogs are calmer when they can confirm what they're hearing. A controlled viewing area satisfies their curiosity without overwhelming them—or your neighbours. From outside, a modest window is far less intimidating than a large dog behind full bars.

A Few Tips on Material and Design

When building metal fences and gates that dogs will lean against or jump near, choose weather-resistant options like galvanized corrugated metal or fluidized dip-coated black metal fencing. Use metal fence posts with steel fence post supports for maximum stability—dogs put real force on gates.

Black metal fencing and black metal fence panels are popular for good reason—they're durable, stylish, and low-maintenance. For those seeking privacy, you can’t buy a better panel. But when a pet is involved, there’s another viewpoint to consider.

Elegant vertical bars are classy on most properties, but they give your dog a front-row seat to every passing jogger and squirrel. For energetic or territorial breeds, all that visibility means constant barking, pacing, and anxiety.

Window to the World

Designing steel fences with gates for dogs isn't about choosing between your dog's needs and your own. A well-designed gate acknowledges your dog's natural curiosity while reducing stress and reactivity. It makes your home more welcoming for visitors and gives you peace of mind knowing your dog is secure and comfortable.

We think this dog is lucky to have an owner who found a solution that's both functional and aesthetically wonderful!