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A great way of keeping your dog inside of the yard without having the need to hide your landscaping or deal with constant repairs to a traditional fence is to use an invisible dog fence.  These fences work by connecting your dogâs collar electronically to an underground wire that lines the perimeter of your property.  If your dog approaches the wire, its collar will give of a warning beep.  If the dog continues towards the fence, then the collar with mildly shock him.

Training Your Dog to Use the Fence

There are generally dog training materials included with invisible dog fence systems.  Such materials include visual symbols that are to be installed in your yard until the dog becomes accustomed to the placement of the fence.  It is always advised to line your yard with flags or above-ground ropes, so that your dog becomes aware of his boundaries and associates them with the mild shock.  These symbols will only be a temporary measure, until your dog understands where his boundaries are positioned.  They can be removed once the dog fully understands.

Pros and Cons of an Invisible Fence

It is believed by supporters of the invisible dog fence that it works wonders on their pet and does not harm the animal in any way.  The ideal situation of course, is that your dog is bright enough to be mildly shocked only a couple of times before realizing what he must or must not do.  However, after saying this, it is believed by some animal rights activists that the shock is cruel to the animal.  It has been said that some dogs act aggressively when they are being shocked, which makes them dangerous towards people and other animals around them.

Another disadvantage to the invisible dog fence is that the dog is not actually physically restrained from leaving the premises, if he wishes to.  If you have a dog that is absolutely determined to escape from the yard and is more than willing to receive a shock in order to do so, then freedom is theirs.  And of course, your dog will not be protected from other passing or neighborhood animals that can cross the line into your yard.

I think it can safely be said that the best way in which you can keep your dog within the confines of your yard, is to provide it with the correct training.  The invisible dog fence is certainly not a replacement to training your dog.  It is seen as being a quick fix by some people; however it can contribute to problems.  It is important to remember that each dog is unique, and this system may not work well for some canines. 

It is certainly advised to undertake sufficient research on the invisible dog fence as well as see how it works before heading out to purchase one.  Another great option is to speak with your veterinarian or local humane society.

The Cost of an Invisible Dog Fence

A majority of invisible dog fences retail in the range of $300 to $500, depending on its features.  There are some companies that now offer wireless versions that do not require digging up the ground for installation purposes, and these of course, are well above the general price range.

Take all of the above details into consideration if you are thinking about purchasing an invisible dog fence. 

Tags: Invisible Fence