Designing Electric Fence / Gallagher Fence

When designing electric fencing, consider that multiple wires and line posts set at a relatively close spacing strengthen an animal’s perception that the electric fence, indeed, presents something of a physical barrier.

When multiple wires are used, we suggests first setting the bottom wire at a level that discourages an animal from going underneath. Next, set the top wire at the face level of the target species to be contained. Set the middle wires at spacings relative to the size of the animal.

“On a five-wire sheep fence that’s 3 feet high, space the wires 6 inches apart,” he says. “For rabbits and poultry, you might space the wires 2 to 3 inches apart.”

Animals well trained to electric fencing may require only one wire.