An invisible dog fence is a good way to keep your dog safe and secure in your own yard without installing unsightly pet-proof barriers such as chain link fences.
Invisible fences, which are usually cheaper to install than standard fences, are basically maintenance-free. Standard fences require painting or staining and they may need boards replaced from time to time.
While invisible fences are looked at as today’s answer to the problem of pet outdoor safety, it is important to note that the underground fences are a training tool. They are not a foolproof guarantee that Fido will not cross them.
The most common invisible dog fences are electronic fences that work by giving the dog a mild shock when he or she tries to leave the fenced-in area. Some systems use ultrasound or a combination of ultrasound and electric shock to deliver the “stay inside the boundary” message.
Most invisible fences are said to be “wired.” These systems have three main components.
There is a transmitter that emits a radio signal to a system of wires that make the boundary around your yard. The transmitter is placed indoors. The transmitter is effective because it transmits a signal to the specialty collar worn by your dog. If the dog gets too close to the set boundaries, the collar will emit some simple beeps to warn the pet that he or she is approaching “the end of the rope.” If the dog continues to go toward the boundaries, the collar will then emit a mild electrical shock. Most invisible fence systems let you choose the strength of the shock.
Invisible fences help the dog learn that your yard is the boundary. However, they do not protect your dog from any predators – other dogs, rabid animals or unauthorized people – that enter the yard.
Training a dog to respond to the invisible fence takes about 15 minutes of training a day for approximately a two-week period following installation. However, some dogs will require more training.
Some invisible fence systems can be used indoors too. They serve to keep the dog out of areas you do not want them to use. One example might be to keep them out of the living room that is decorated with white furniture and carpet. You might use it to keep the dog out of food preparation area.
Not all invisible fences are created equal. You should plan on doing some homework before purchasing one. Systems vary as to how much ground they cover. While some are designed for small yards, there are a few that can handle up to 25 acres.
Dogs can build an immunity to the shock that is delivered from the transmitter to the collar. Thus, it is best to start by using the minimum shock that works to keep the dog from crossing the underground barrier. The dog can progress to the point that he or she no longer seems to mind the shock. This means probable escape from the security of your yard which is again why it is important to use these as a training-tool only.
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