Answering the practical needs of pig farmers and homesteaders, these portable electric fence options help contain pigs while offering animal-friendly design and easy setup. This guide highlights devices best for rotating pastures, temporary pens, or garden protection. The top picks are evaluated for portability, durability, and ease of use, with guidance on which type of buyer each fence suits.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Decofy Electric Fence Netting | Small to mid-scale farms; garden protection | Wide area coverage with 1681 sq ft, double-spiked posts |
| Premier 1 Pig QuikFence Starter Kit | New setups; quick deployment | Complete kit with solar energizer and tester |
| Premier 1 PigletNet Plus | Mesh for piglets; moisture-prone areas | Tight mesh, 30″ height to deter ground predators |
| Gallagher Smart Fence 2 | Temporary fencing in varied terrains | Self-contained with posts and reels; portable |
| Premier 1 ElectroNet | Sheep, goats, and mixed livestock | Nine electrified strands; easy to connect rolls |
Note: Each product is designed to be powered during operation. If left unpowered, pigs or other animals may push through. Always operate with a functioning energizer and follow safety guidelines.
Decofy Electric Fence Netting 42.5″ x 164′
This netting is best for farmers needing broad coverage and straightforward setup. It includes a 42.5″ high perimeter and 164′ length, with 14 posts and double spikes. It works with an energizer (not included) to keep large animals like pigs contained. Its wide area helps manage larger herds or gardens that require flexible boundaries.
- Best for larger paddocks or garden protection in a single setup.
- Not suitable for poultry; designed for larger livestock.
- Ensure the net is electrified to prevent escapes.
Best for: Farms needing a portable, wide-area fence that supports extended grazing zones. Choose this if you want a ready-to-expand netting solution with robust post support.
Premier 1 Pig QuikFence® Electric Netting
This model is a prefabricated fence designed for quick deployment. It arrives with posts preinstalled at set intervals and includes strong plastic struts to reduce sagging. It supports multiple rolls connected together, making it suitable for expanding as pig containment needs grow. Best for: farmers needing a plug-and-play solution with quick setup and easy transport.
- Best for quick installation and modular expansion.
- May require extra corner support posts for long runs.
- Not ideal as a permanent replacement for very heavy resistance fencing.
Premier 1 PigletNet Plus Electric Netting Fence
This fence is optimized for piglets and sows in moist, green areas. It features tight mesh spacing near the ground to prevent small animals from passing and a 30″ height that deters ground-based predators. Best for: piglets and young pigs in wet pastures or near gardens. Limitation: mesh closeness is specifically beneficial for piglets, but may be less practical for very large boars in rough terrain.
- Best for small to medium pig groups in moist environments.
- Close mesh helps prevent ground penetration by smaller pigs.
- Height may require taller barriers for larger adult pigs in some setups.
Gallagher Smart Fence 2
This portable fencing system offers four-wire containment with built-in posts and reels for quick deployment. It supports up to 328 feet of fencing in a single setup and is designed for cattle, sheep, goats, and other trained livestock. Best for: users needing a flexible, field-ready solution for temporary pens or fencing in varying terrain. Caution: fence charger and grounding rod are not included; power is required to operate effectively.
- Best for field fencing during rotations or quick repairs.
- Lightweight at about 16 lbs; easy to move.
- Not a complete system without the energizer and ground components.
Premier 1 ElectroNet 35″H x 164’L
ElectroNet provides a widely used, electrifiable portable mesh option with built-in posts. It accommodates sheep, goats, and other livestock, and it connects multiple rolls for longer boundaries. It is not recommended for poultry or very small animals. Best for: mixed livestock fencing where a sturdy, low-hassle net is desired. Limitation: not ideal for poultry or tiny critters that could slip through gaps.
- Best for multi-species paddocks requiring easy expansion.
- Offers nine horizontal strands with eight electrified; the lowest strand is non-electrified to avoid grounding.
- Not specifically optimized for very small animals like poultry.
Buying Guide
What type of livestock and pasture size should guide my choice?
For larger pigs and active paddocks, netting fences with higher heights and sturdy posts offer better containment. For piglets or smaller pigs, tighter mesh and lower gaps improve security. Consider the available space, the need for rotational grazing, and whether you prefer a plug-and-play kit or a configurable system.
How important is ease of setup and portability?
Portable fencing reduces labor and downtime. Look for preinstalled posts, integrated reels, and lightweight materials. For frequent moves, a system under 20 pounds with simple connecting ends speeds deployment.
What about power sources and safety?
Many fences require an energizer (not included). Ensure you have a compatible solar or AC/DC energizer and follow safety guidelines. Check for safety features like ground clearance, warning signs, and pet-safe lower-risk designs to reduce accidents.
Durability and weather considerations
Weather resistance matters for outdoor use. Choose fences with strong fiberglass posts, stainless wiring, and weatherproof connectors. Look for windproof kits and included repair supplies to extend longevity.
Cost vs. scalability
Starter kits are convenient for new setups, while modular nets allow future expansion. Weigh the upfront cost against long-term flexibility, especially if you plan to fence larger areas or multiple groups of pigs.
FAQ
- Q: Can I use these fences for poultry? A: Some models are not recommended for poultry; check product notes to avoid gaps or structures that poultry can pass through.
- Q: Do I need to buy a separate energizer? A: Yes, energizers are usually sold separately and must match the fence type and voltage requirements.
- Q: How do I determine the right fence height? A: Consider pig size and behavior. Taller fences deter larger pigs and stronger wind resistance, while lower fences may be sufficient for small piglets in calm environments.
- Q: Are these fences suitable for permanent installations? A: They are designed for portable use and temporary setups; for permanent fencing, heavier duty or fixed fencing should be considered.
- Q: What maintenance is required? A: Regularly inspect posts, repair damaged sections, replace worn wires, and ensure energizers are functioning correctly.