Invisible Fence for Dogs Components

Is an invisible fence for dogs right for you and your pet? As subdivisions continue to pop up around cities of all sizes, homeowners associations are being formed and they are busy drafting pet policies and ordinances. Another policy they are enforcing is to restrict the structure of fences including the size and type. Some policies even forbid the existence of fences due to aesthetic reasons. Some consider fences as visual clutter. If you live in a neighborhood with these limitations or if you are just looking for an inexpensive, maintenance free way to protect your dog, an invisible fence for dogs is an excellent wise choice. These underground invisible fencing systems consist of three components: a transmitter, underground wiring and a receiver placed on your dog’s collar.

• Transmitter. The transmitter produces a radio signal that travels through underground wiring. The transmitter must be mounted in a dry location like a garage, porch or a shed and must be near an electrical outlet which it will plug into.
   
• Underground Wiring. Underground wiring is a single strand of insulated wire that begins at the transmitter, goes around your property and then ends at the transmitter. If you are installing an invisible fence for dogs yourself, it is a good idea to use something (a hose or spray paint) to trace around your yard to give yourself a visual idea of where you want the wiring to go. You should also strongly consider enclosing vegetable gardens and swimming pools, or any other place where you do not want your dog to wander.
   
• Receiver. A receiver is a lightweight, waterproof device which will connect to your dog’s collar. A collar will come with the transmitter; however you do not have to use the collar that comes with the system. You have the option to take off the receiver and put it on a collar that you already have. The receiver requires a battery that will probably need replaced about every three months. Some receivers come with a rechargeable battery so this is a good thing to inquire about before you purchase a system. Batteries can be expensive. 

An invisible fence for dogs will not harm your animal. It is recommended by vets and national humane societies; however, you will need to be patient and take the time to train your dog. Many systems offer three operating modes: a warning, a warning and a correction and a correction only. A dog must be trained to turn about when they hear this warning. You will be pleasantly surprised at how quickly your dog will adapt its behavior to heed the warning and not go any further than the area you have laid out for them to roam. An excellent training tool is to keep them on a leash for the initial training since this is something your dog is probably used to and you will also have control over their actions. A training video will more than likely be included with the system you decide to buy. 

Knowing that your dog is getting the exercise they need and the freedom to run, will put your mind at ease while you are away from home. It will also give your dog the independence they need to stay healthy, physically fit and happy!