Standard Loop Layout
How to Install an Electric Dog Fence Around 4 Sides of Your Yard
A full perimeter loop is the most common electric dog fence layout, especially on larger properties where dogs can access the front and back yards. A continuous wire loop must leave the transmitter, run around all boundaries, and return back to the transmitter.
Full Yard Layout Explained
The standard installation uses a single boundary wire running around all four sides of your property. This is known as a perimeter loop and is the most popular configuration because it provides maximum roaming freedom while maintaining containment.
The boundary wire creates a radio signal field detected by the dog’s collar. As the dog approaches the boundary, warning tones and correction levels guide them back into the safe zone.
Corners should be smooth rather than sharp angles, and the wire must always return to the transmitter to complete the electrical circuit.
1. Choose Transmitter Location
Place the transmitter inside a garage or sheltered area with power access. The boundary wire will start and finish here, forming a complete loop.2. Run Wire to Boundary
Run the wire out to the closest boundary. This section may need to be buried. The easiest way is with a shovel, create a shallow slot in the ground to sit the wire in (5-10cm). It doesn't need a trench.3. Lay Wire Around All Four Sides
Run the wire around the entire property perimeter. If there is an existing fence, the wire can be attached to it. If there is nothing to attach to, it is best to bury using the same shovel technique above.4. Driveways and Gateways
If the wire needs to cross a driveway, bring the wire to the ground to bury across. If the driveway is gravel or dirt, dig a small section and run through some thin PVC pipe or rubber hose for added protection.If the driveway is concrete or bitumen, there may be an expansion joint nearby to sit the wire in, or you may need to cut your own slot with an angle grinder. See more tips on running the wire here.
5. Complete the Loop
Return the wire back to the transmitter along the same path as the wire leading out from the transmitter. Twisting the return wire around the lead out wire will cancel out the signal in this section, allowing the dog to go near the twisted section without the collar activating. Electric dog fences only work when the circuit forms a continuous loop.Fence Boundary Calculator
This will help determine how much wire you may need. This is only accurate in square or rectangle properties, and does not factor in the distance from the power source and back again.
