
More people are now using electric dog fence as an alternative to wooden or traditional fence. This kind of fence is used to prevent dogs from wandering outside their yard and keep them safe within the area. It will be very expensive to put boundary using the traditional fence, especially if your yard is big. On the other hand if you will use electric fence, it will only cost you around hundreds of dollars compared to thousands in using the traditional ones.
Dogs normally love to jump over fences and dig under them and this can potentially harm them. By using electric dog fence, this will discourage them from doing it and prevent them from inflicting harm. This is the reason why this kind of fence is better compared to the traditional ones. As a matter of fact, there is no need to chain your dog in the post or confine them in a crate.
Electric enclosure will provide enough space for him to run and exercise in the yard without any limitations and worries. Being unhealthy, sad and obese can bring harm to their health that is why it is very essential to keep them active and happy. In addition, electric fence can keep any stray animals or intruders away and discourage them from snooping around.
Electric Dog Fence: How does it Work?
This type of enclosure is available in two types and they are wireless or underground fence. Regardless of what type, this fence basically responds to radio signals to be turned off and on thus, covering the areas where you do not want your furry friend to roam around. All you need to do is to let him wear an electric collar which also serves as a receiver.
If your pet gets too close to the boundary or fence, the collar will eventually beep that may startle your dog. Once they go further and cross the electric dog fence, they will receive a small amount of voltage in order to train him and let him know that he is not allowed to cross the boundary.
Although your dog needs some time before he can get used to the electric dog fence, this task is not very hard to do once he is properly trained. Training usually takes about three weeks depending upon the breed, age, and temperament of your dog as well as your dedication to train him. Every session normally takes about 15 minutes and there must be 2-3 sessions every day.
During the training, your dog will gradually learn to abide your established boundaries. If your dog has a problem hearing or seeing, then it is a must to provide additional training since he may not pick up the clues immediately. If this is the situation, electric dog fence may not be the appropriate option for your impaired dog that is why you must search for other alternatives.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages?
This kind of fence provides you as well as your dogs several advantages that include:
Aesthetic
Electric dog fence is more attractive compared to any physical fence around the play area of your dog. This eliminates the need to place physical fence especially if it does not match the decoration of your yard. In addition, it is a fact that in several zoning guidelines, physical boundaries in your property are not allowed depending upon your location.
Cost
This dog fence is cheaper to buy and install wherein you will only spend hundreds of dollars compared to thousands in traditional dog fence. It will cost even more subjected to the size of your yard.
Effectiveness
Electric fence is considered effective if your dog is properly trained than any physical fence. Most dogs can still jump over or dig under the physical fence.
Flexibility
It is more flexible compared to its counterparts as it can be installed anywhere you want even indoors. You can place it in your pool, lawn, bedroom and in other areas. Some electric fence can also be taken when you go for a vacation by simply unplugging it from the outlet.
You can also use an indoor dog fence for areas within your home you would like to keep your dogs away from.
Although electric dog fence offers many benefits, it is not exempted from having disadvantages. Dog training is required in order to achieve its maximum effectiveness. Therefore, this fence is not suitable for owners who are not ready to train their pet for his new environment. This type of fence is also not recommended for less than 6-month old puppies, small dogs and pregnant dogs.
The amount of shock that will be received may be more than what they could take. Aggressive dogs must not be confined in electric enclosures because the level of their negative behaviors and aggression might increase. Moreover, look out for your electronic fence as it may break down during lightning storms. Ask the manufacturer if they are offering warranty for the damaged caused by lightning storms.
Is it Inhumane to Use Electric Fence?
There are some people who think that it is inhumane to use electric dog fence in keeping their pets confined in the yard. They believe that it has a dreadful effect on the behavioral pattern of their dogs. They are also not very much willing to provide their dogs with shock which is being administered when they approach the boundary line. However, the shock used to train them is only mild and the level is definitely adjustable.
It is transmitted to the electric collar only after a sequence of warning tones that have alerted them when they are approaching the prohibited zone. Almost all dogs can easily learn their limitations and the number of correcting shocks required during training is only minimal.
Final Thoughts
Using electric fence is considered an individual choice made by the owners. They need to allot necessary time to commit in training their dogs effectively. Some weeks of regular daily training is generally required but the outcome will be definitely worth it. Owners will have a peace of mind that their pet has freedom to have fun outside without putting harm on themselves as well as the owner. However, the choice of using electric dog fence is accompanied by several factors that they need to consider prior to purchase.
When it comes to electric fence batteries, you want to choose a battery that lasts long and doesn’t require frequent replacements. It’s also crucial to choose a battery that is reliable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Invisible fence battery replacement that are designed to be weather-resistant and durable are an excellent choice for areas with harsh weather conditions. These batteries are built to last longer and are less likely to malfunction during extreme weather conditions.