Electronic Dog Fence
Electronic Dog Fence
One of the most useful pieces of equipment that you will ever invest in for your dog is an electronic dog fence. The electronic dog fence is an invisible fencing system that will allow you to set up boundaries for your dog outside, without having a traditional fence in place. Electronic dog fences give you the security of keeping your dog safe and in your yard without investing in an actual fence to do so. This type of fence is also perfect for neighborhoods where fences are not allowed by neighborhood associations (who also frown on dogs running loose, consequently).
How the Electronic Dog Fence Works
Most electronic dog fences work using a collar that attaches around your pet's neck which contains an electronic transmitter that will administer small (harmless) electrical shocks as your dog approaches an area that is out of bounds (like the street) and an underground wire that interacts with the collar.
Hardware for Electronic Dog Fence Systems
When choosing the electronic dog fence that is right for you and your dog, you will be faced with several options. Choose a fence system that includes:
- A multi-level receiver. Multi-level receivers work to correct the dog with increasing levels of shock until the dog realizes that it must turn back. Those that feature single level correction may fail to restrain a larger dog or a dog that is truly intent on getting out of the area.
- Lightning protection. Many of the most popular electronic dog fence systems on the market are equipped with lightning protection - others are not and sell the lightning protection unit separately. Look for a fence that has this valuable protective component so that you don't put your electrical system and fence hardware in jeopardy of damage.
- Warranty. Electronic dog fences are not inexpensive. Look for one that has a lifetime warranty to avoid the expense of replacing the fence if it fails.
Installation of Your Electronic Dog Fence
If you decide to install your electronic dog fence yourself, you will need to take the following into consideration prior to installation:
- Use a good grade, durable wire. Most fence systems come with a particular length of wire, or it may be purchased separately. Look for 14 to 18 gauge wire when installing your electronic dog fence to lessen the chance of damages to the wire that will compromise the effectiveness of the fence.
- Install the wire properly. In most instances, burying the wire that accompanies your electronic dog fence is the best idea, unless your circumstances call for you to staple or otherwise attach the wire. Bury your wire up to six inches below the surface to avoid damages later on. Be sure to draw a figure of your yard and where the wire is buried for future reference.
- Protect your electronic dog fence transmitter. Installation indoors or in a box that is waterproof outdoors is ideal to protect the box from rain, snow and other inclement weather situations.