Stock Fencing for Hobby Farmers: A Starter Guide to Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Introduction

Starting out in hobby farming is an exciting journey—whether you’re keeping chickens, goats, sheep, or a small herd of cattle. But one thing every new smallholder in Newmarket and surrounding Suffolk areas quickly learns is the importance of proper fencing. Without the right stock fencing in place, animals escape, predators sneak in, and boundaries blur. It’s not just about marking your land—it’s about keeping your animals safe, your neighbours happy, and your investment secure.

At Fast Fix Fencing Newmarket, we regularly assist hobby farmers who’ve either been given the wrong advice or learned the hard way. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you avoid the most common stock fencing pitfalls before you hammer in the first post.

1. Choosing the Wrong Fence for Your Livestock

Not all animals have the same fencing needs. What works for sheep won’t hold back goats, and chickens require very different protection than cattle. A key mistake is installing a one-size-fits-all system.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Sheep – Require strong, low fencing with tight mesh to stop them pushing through or getting stuck
  
• Goats – Notoriously escape-prone; need taller, reinforced fencing with minimal footholds
  
• Chickens – Benefit from smaller mesh sizes and buried fencing to deter foxes
  
• Cattle – Need sturdy fencing, often with a single or double strand of barbed or electric wire
  

Consulting a fencing expert ensures you get the right setup from day one.

2. Underestimating Ground Conditions

The soil around Newmarket varies considerably—from dry, chalky ground to heavy clay—and this affects fence stability. Posts that aren’t driven deep enough or that sit in poorly drained ground will lean or shift over time.

Professional installers take soil type into account when choosing post depth and spacing. For hobby farmers, overlooking this can mean rebuilding sections far sooner than expected.

3. Skimping on Gates and Access Points

A well-built stock fence isn’t just about keeping animals in—it’s about easy access for you. Hobby farmers often forget to include enough gates, or place them in inconvenient locations. That means hauling feed, equipment, or animals longer distances than necessary.

Plan your fencing with movement in mind. Think about:

• Vehicle access for deliveries
  
• Safe passage for animals
  
• Room to manoeuvre during emergencies
  

4. Ignoring Tension and Sagging Issues

Loose wire is an open invitation to escape. It sags, loses its shape, and quickly becomes ineffective. Proper tensioning of wire fences is critical, especially over longer runs or uneven ground.

Using strainers, tensioners, and quality intermediate posts helps avoid this common problem—and keeps your fence upright and functional in all weather.

5. Neglecting Maintenance Plans

Fencing isn’t a one-and-done job. Weather, animal pressure, and ground movement all take their toll over time. Hobby farmers often install fencing, then forget to check it regularly until something goes wrong.

Build a simple maintenance routine:

• Walk your fence lines monthly
  
• Check for leaning posts, rust, or broken mesh
  
• Clear vegetation that might put pressure on the wire
  

Proactive upkeep saves time and expense in the long run.

6. Going It Alone Without Advice

One of the biggest mistakes new hobby farmers make is relying solely on DIY knowledge or online videos. While the motivation is admirable, stock fencing is both a skill and an investment. Poor installation leads to short lifespans, unhappy animals, and more work for you.

Working with an experienced local fencing contractor ensures your setup suits the landscape, the livestock, and your long-term goals.

Conclusion

Stock fencing might not be the most exciting part of starting a smallholding, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most important. The right fence gives peace of mind, protects your animals, and allows your hobby farm to flourish from day one.

At Fast Fix Fencing Newmarket, we specialise in fencing solutions that are tailored to Suffolk’s conditions and your specific needs. Whether you’re housing hens or building paddocks for ponies, we’ll help you avoid the common pitfalls and get the job done properly. Contact our friendly team today to discuss your project and let us help secure your smallholding for years to come.

Call us on: 01638 591 198
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