Underground dog fences provide an aesthetically attractive, low-maintenance way to keep your dog within a safe yard. These fences can protect your dog from cars, prevent it from getting lost, keep it from eating toxic substances, and stop it from damaging your neighbor’s property. While underground fencing is not a foolproof method for containing your pet, it is a great option for those who dislike the look of traditional fences or cannot install one due to neighborhood restrictions.
How Underground Dog Fences Work
An underground fencing system consists of a perimeter wire, a receiver that the dog wears, a transmitter placed inside the house or garage, and sometimes a dog training kit with small flags. Installation involves digging a narrow trench around the property’s perimeter to bury the wire. For the system to function properly, the minimum length of the wire should be no less than 500 feet.
The dog wears a collar that receives a signal from the transmitter. When the dog approaches the wire, the collar emits a warning sound to startle it. If the dog continues moving toward the wire, the collar delivers a mild shock (fencing companies compare it to the static electricity from a doorknob, though you may want to test it yourself before using the collar on your dog). The shock reaches the dog through prongs that touch its neck, so dogs with long or thick fur may need to be shaved for the shock to be effective. In most systems, the shock’s intensity can be adjusted to suit the dog’s size.
There is no way for your pet to dig under or leap over the wire without receiving a shock.
Although the underground dog fence is designed to keep your dog within your yard, it is not a substitute for training. The fence is intended to reinforce the training you provide to teach your dog its boundaries. The system typically comes with small flags that mark where the cable is buried. You can leash your dog, with the receiver collar on, and walk him around the yard. When he approaches the buried cable, the collar will emit a warning sound. Upon hearing the warning, say a firm “no” and guide the dog away from the flags. For the system to work effectively, a substantial amount of training time is required to ensure your dog learns the boundaries. This training will help the dog avoid ignoring the warning sound and shock.
Unfortunately, some dogs learn to outsmart the underground system. For example, if they run quickly over the buried wire, like when chasing a squirrel, the shock is brief. Some dogs have a higher pain threshold and may ignore the shock when excited. The system is not recommended for dogs under six months old. In rare cases, the collar may malfunction and shock the dog without reason. To avoid this, change the collar batteries every three months and monitor your dog while outside to ensure the collar is not malfunctioning.
It’s important to note that the system will also shock your dog if it returns to the yard after leaving. Many animals that run away may be hesitant to return due to the shock. If you think your pet might have trouble respecting the underground fence, this system may not be the best option for you.
No fencing system is 100% effective all the time. Underground dog fences are one option for keeping your dog contained, but proper training is essential to ensure the system works to its full potential. The best way to keep your dog safe is to pay attention to its behavior, train it properly, and create a safe and friendly environment.
