Do Electric Dog Fences Really Work?

Yes. A properly installed electric dog fence is an extremely effective way to keep your dog safely contained within your property. The key is selecting a system that suits your dog's size, temperament and motivation to escape.

How Does an Electric Dog Fence Work?

A containment fence works by running a boundary wire around your property, connected to a transmitter. Your dog wears a receiver collar that detects the radio signal from the wire and warns them as they approach the boundary zone.

If the dog continues closer to the boundary, the collar delivers a static stimulation until they move back into the safe area.

Read more about how Dog Containment Fences Work.

What Is the Best Electric Dog Fence?

The best system depends on your dog's size, temperament and your property's layout. Larger properties, stubborn dogs or properties with metal fencing may require more advanced containment systems.

Read more about Choosing The Right Dog Fence.

How Much Does an Electric Dog Fence Cost?

Costs vary depending on the size of the property, the quality of the system, and how many dogs need to be contained. Additional collars or extra boundary wire may increase the total cost.

How Do I Choose the Right Containment System?

The right system depends on several factors, including:

• Your dog's breed and temperament
• Your dog's size and age
• The size of your property
• Your existing fencing
• How your dog currently escapes

How Large an Area Can a Dog Fence Cover?

Containment Fence Systems can cover small areas like driveways or garden beds, up to very large properties. With additional boundary wire, certain systems are capable of securing properties up to 100 acres.

Can a Dog Run Through an Invisible Fence?

Dogs have been known to run through poor-quality systems or systems that are not matched to the dog's temperament. With the correct system and proper training, this is extremely rare.

What Age Can Dogs Use an Electric Dog Fence?

Most containment systems are suitable for dogs over four months old. Younger dogs may require additional training and lower correction levels.

Does the Boundary Wire Have to Form a Loop?

Yes. The boundary wire must form a complete loop returning to the transmitter in order for the radio signal to work correctly.

View Common Dog Fence Layouts.

Do I Have to Bury the Boundary Wire?

No. The wire can be buried, attached to an existing fence, or placed above ground (and anchored in place). The goal is simply to keep the wire protected from damage.

Read More on Running A Loop of Wire.

How Deep Should the Wire Be Buried?

The wire only needs to be buried just below the surface (5-10cm). The depth is not critical – it simply keeps the wire protected and hidden.

How Do You Bury the Wire?

Most installers simply make a small slice in the ground using a shovel and push the wire into the cut before pressing the soil back together.

Do I Need to Train My Dog?

Yes. Training is one of the most important steps when installing an electric dog fence. Dogs must learn how to respond to the warning tone and correction zone so they understand where the boundaries are.

How Do I Train My Dog to Use the Fence?

Most systems include training manuals and step-by-step guides. Training typically involves boundary flags, warning tones and short training sessions that teach your dog to retreat from the boundary.

Can My Dog Wear the Collar All Day?

Dogs should generally wear their containment collar for no more than 10–12 hours per day. Wearing the collar continuously may cause irritation or pressure sores on the neck.