Five Tips for Getting the Most Out of Installing the Best Invisible Dog Fence in Your Backyard

An invisible fence can make living with your dog a lot easier. Instead of dealing with your dog darting from the yard, installing an expensive fence, or staking a chain in the yard, you can keep your pooch contained without the hassle. That’s because, according to Dog Digz, “Using gentle static and sometimes sound, invisible fences warn pets that they’re exiting their own yard. Most dogs train quickly to stay within the invisible line.”

Just don’t make the mistake of thinking that just because you install an invisible fence that it will work effectively. There are some things you can do to make the most of your new installation.

Plan Ahead

There are a lot of steps involved when it comes to installing an underground dog fence, but the first should always be planning. By being thoughtful about where you’re going to place the fence, you can avoid problems later on down the road.

That includes knowing exactly where you want your dog to run, but a few other things you might want to consider include:

  • How close to place the line next to a sidewalk or curb
  • Make sure entrances to the home aren’t blocked by a line
  • Consider blocking off other areas of your yard, like a garden or hot tub

Draw out rough plans on a piece of paper before you get started to ensure you place the line exactly where you want it. Then, follow the installation direction that came with the fence.

Start With Lower Static Levels

It is no surprise that shock collars can be harmful to dogs. There is always the potential for injury. Not to mention, strong shocks can cause your dog to become fearful, which can create new behaviors that you would rather avoid, like hiding, trembling, or urinating.

That doesn’t mean your dog is guaranteed to have a negative relationship with an invisible fence! It just means that you should start with the lowest static level possible when determining which level is appropriate for your dog.

You may not need to use static at all! Some invisible fences use sound instead of shocks. When properly trained, the sound can be just as big of a deterrent as a shock, without the potential for injury.

Spend Some Time Training Your Dog

Training your dog is important, and that includes training your dog to use the invisible fence. You can’t just put on your dog’s new collar and open the door to let him out into the yard without preparing him for what to expect.

It’s important to walk around the yard with your dog on a leash, showing him the boundaries that you have laid out. Every time he gets too close, you should pull sharply on the leash. Flags can help mark the boundaries while your dog is learning.

The next day, you can allow your dog to get close enough to feel the shock. Gauging his reaction can help you determine if you need to turn up the dial or not.

When you feel confident, allow your dog in the yard without a leash, but continue providing him with supervision for at least a few days while he gets used to it.

Talk to Your Neighbors

There are some good reasons to maintain decent relationships with your neighbors. Unfortunately, seeing your dog out in the yard without restriction or supervision isn’t a good way to build a good relationship.

Visit with your immediate neighbors about your plan to install a fence, and let them know where it will be installed. That way, they aren’t surprised to see your dog wandering around in the yard alone.

Post Invisible Fence Signs Clearly

It’s important to clue your neighbors into your new invisible fence so they aren’t worried about your dog running loose, but you can’t tell everyone about your plans. That’s why posting invisible fence signs clearly in your yard is important.

By posting signs in the yard, people walking by won’t be alarmed when they see your dog run up to the edge of the sidewalk. Signs can also help direct visitors to the entrance that isn’t accessible to your dog so they aren’t bombarded trying to cross your lawn to the front door.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking all you have to do is install an invisible fence and let your dog out into the yard. With the tips on this list, you can make sure your new fence works for both you and your dog.