Dog Eared Fences

Wood privacy fence with dog-eared pickets along a backyard property line

Dog Eared Fences

A classic Louisiana privacy style with clean lines, durable pickets, and a timeless look for homes and businesses.

Statewide service across Louisiana • Residential & commercial

Why dog-eared is popular

Dog-eared pickets have clipped top corners to help shed water and reduce sharp edges. It’s a great fit for backyard privacy, pets, pool enclosures, and side yards when you want a traditional wood look.

  • Classic privacy look that pairs well with most homes
  • Easy to repair by swapping individual pickets
  • Flexible options for height, spacing, and top trim
Close view of a wood privacy fence with dog-eared pickets and natural grain

Dog-eared fence options

Choose your privacy level, height, and upgrades to match your yard, budget, and maintenance goals.

Standard privacy

Dog-eared pickets installed tight for full privacy. Great for backyards, pets, and pool areas.

  • 4′, 5′, 6′, and 8′ heights
  • Pressure-treated pine or cedar options
  • Optional rot board / kick board

Shadowbox (good neighbor)

Alternating pickets on both sides for airflow and a finished look from either yard—popular for side yards and shared property lines.

  • Balanced look from both sides
  • Helps reduce wind load
  • Great for humid areas

Top trim & cap rail

Add a cap rail, fascia board, or decorative top trim for a cleaner finish and extra rigidity across long runs.

  • Improves curb appeal
  • Helps keep pickets aligned
  • Pairs well with stained cedar

Picket spacing options

Go tight for privacy, or add a small gap for airflow and a lighter look—useful in shaded yards where moisture lingers.

  • Tight pickets (full privacy)
  • Small gap (airflow + faster drying)
  • Custom spacing for HOA guidelines

Post & framing upgrades

Choose stronger posts and framing for long runs, higher fences, and storm-prone areas.

  • 4×4 or 6×6 posts
  • Steel post option (wood pickets)
  • Extra rails for 6’–8′ fences

Stain & seal options

Louisiana humidity and sun can be tough on wood. Staining and sealing helps slow fading, cupping, and moisture absorption.

  • Transparent / semi-transparent stains
  • Solid stains for maximum UV protection
  • Water-repellent sealers

Dog-eared fence photos

A few examples of the look and finish you can expect. Ask us about matching your fence to your gate style and hardware.

Built for Louisiana weather

Heat, humidity, heavy rain, and storm winds can shorten the life of a wood fence if it isn’t built and finished correctly. We recommend options that help your dog-eared fence stay straighter, dry faster, and resist rot.

  • Drainage and grade planning to keep pickets out of standing water
  • Proper post depth and concrete for soft soils and seasonal movement
  • Airflow choices (shadowbox or small gaps) for shaded yards
  • Stain/seal schedules to slow UV fading and moisture absorption

General pricing factors

Every yard is different. These are the biggest factors that affect cost (we’ll quote after a quick site check):

  • Total linear footage and fence height
  • Wood type (pressure-treated pine vs cedar)
  • Number of gates and gate size (walk gates vs double drive gates)
  • Terrain, drainage, and access for equipment
  • Post size, rail count, and upgrade options (cap rail, trim, rot board)
  • Removal/disposal of old fencing

For gate options, see Gates & Entries and Walk Gates.

Dog-eared fence FAQ

Is dog-eared fencing the same as a privacy fence?

Dog-eared refers to the picket shape. Most dog-eared fences are built as privacy fences (tight pickets), but you can also build dog-eared in a shadowbox configuration for more airflow.

Should I choose cedar or pressure-treated pine?

Cedar is a premium option with natural rot/insect resistance and a great look when stained. Pressure-treated pine is budget-friendly and performs well when built correctly and maintained. We’ll recommend the best fit for your yard conditions and goals.

How do I keep a wood fence looking good in Louisiana?

Good drainage, keeping pickets off the soil, and a stain/seal plan make a big difference. In humid or shaded areas, airflow options and regular cleaning help reduce mildew and discoloration.

Get a dog-eared fence quote

Share your approximate fence length, preferred height, and gate needs. We’ll recommend the best configuration for your property.

Explore more wood fence styles: Wood Fences, Cedar, Soft Wood, Picket, Solid Privacy, Board on Board, Post and Rail.