Invisible Fence

This post is sponsored by Dog Fence DIY

Is an Invisible Dog Fence Right for Your Dog?

A popular alternative to a traditional, standard fence is an invisible dog fence. There are many advantages to an invisible dog fence, such as preserving an unobstructed landscape, containment in oddly shaped areas, and saving money. However, they are not for every dog or situation. Here are some simple questions you can ask yourself to help you determine whether or not an invisible fence is an option you should pursue for your dog.

Does Your Dog Have a Strong Prey Drive?

Dogs with strong prey drives are prone to be escape artists. When they see or hear a small animal on the other side of the fence, they may do whatever it takes to get to it, including going under, over, or through a traditional fence. If your dog has a strong prey drive, an invisible dog fence is a reliable way to ensure they don’t leave your yard. The warning tones and corrective shocks of the e-collar prevent them from crossing the perimeter boundary, no matter what.

Does Your Dog Love to Dig?

Digging dogs are also prone to escape traditional fences, because they can dig right underneath. Dogs who love to dig can also wreak havoc in gardens and flower beds, much to the chagrin of their gardening owners. An electronic dog fence is a versatile way to deal with a digging dog, because it can secure the perimeter of the yard and be used to block access to gardens within the yard. The dog fence wire cannot be dug underneath, because your dog will be warned and corrected before they even get close enough to try.

Is Your Dog Aggressive with Strangers?

If your dog is aggressive with strangers, then extra precaution is needed when it comes to containing your dog. For aggressive dogs, an electric dog fence alone is not a good solution. The main concern with using only an invisible fence with an aggressive dog is that strangers, children, or other animals are still able to accidentally cross into your yard. Aggressive dogs may feel threatened and attack anyone who enters their turf. Also, you do not want to risk the liability that would come with your aggressive dog escaping and roaming wild in the neighborhood. For the most aggressive dogs, the best solution is actually to pair an electronic dog fence with a traditional fence, for two layers of security.

Is Your Dog Sick or Younger than Six-months-old?

Sick dogs should not be trained on an electric dog fence. If your dog has a chronic illness, they may be too infirm or weak to handle the corrections of the e-collar. If your dog is younger than six-months-old, they also should not be trained on an invisible dog fence. Once your dog has overcome their illness, or once your dog becomes at least six-months-old, they can be trained to use an electronic dog fence without risk of complications from the e-collar.

Can You Commit to Training Your Dog?

Training is the most important part of using a wired or wireless dog fence. With proper training, your dog will thereafter observe their boundaries, so they won’t experience any warning tones or corrections with regular use. You must carefully follow the training instructions that come with your dog fence. It usually takes about 15-30 minutes twice per day for up to two weeks before training is complete. If you cannot make the commitment to consistent training, then you should not bother with purchasing or installing a DIY electric dog fence. Even the best invisible dog fence will not work without proper training.

The vast majority of dogs will do quite well with an invisible dog fence. Oftentimes, once dogs have learned how it works and their boundaries, they will remain in the yard even if the invisible fence is turned off. Of course, the safest way to use the fence is with it turned on. There are wired and wireless options, and invisible fence reviews will help you decide exactly which electronic dog fence you should purchase for your individual dog and yard.

For more information about dog fences please visit our educational partner www.dogfencediy.com. We encourage you to share your experiences with a variety of dog containment systems in the comments section.