Have you ever been going down the street and a dog sprinted across a lawn to attack you? Just as you anticipate that he will accompany you on your walk, he skids to a stop at the edge of the yard, just short of the sidewalk.
What is happening here? It is almost as though the dog perceives a fence that does not exist. But that’s ridiculous, right? No such thing as an invisible barrier exists…or does it?
Certainly there is! Thanks to sophisticated technology, pet owners can now confine their animals to their yards without constructing enormous fences. Is this a trick? Nope! It consists solely of science, technology, electronics, and training.
How does an invisible fence function?
The invisible fence system delivers energy between the boundary line you designate, a home base monitoring/transmitter device, and the collar-mounted receiver on your dog. The real fence consists of electrically charged wires buried 3 to 4 inches deep around the perimeter of your property. A transmitter is installed in your garage or on a wall within your residence. As your dog approaches the boundary line, she will be deterred by the tone or vibration, similar to how an ultrasonic bark collar will stop the dog from barking.
The majority of invisible fence systems consist of three major components: an invisible perimeter barrier, a receiver collar worn by the dog, and correct training to assist the dog securely acclimate to the system.
Some invisible fence systems consist of hidden wires around a predetermined perimeter, such as a yard. A transmitter linked to the wiring emits a radio signal that flows through the wire.
The other essential component of the system is a collar-mounted receiver for your pet. The radio signal that travels along the buried wire is detected by the receiver.
As an animal wearing a collar with a receiver approaches a buried wire, it will first hear a unique warning sound. If the animal continues to approach or cross the buried wire barrier, a static correction will be administered.
Eventually, due to technological advancements, even invisible barriers became wireless. Today, you may install an invisible fence without burying any wire around your yard’s perimeter. In its place, a wireless transmitter broadcasts a radio signal in all directions to form a circular “safe zone” that may be tailored to your specifications.
With a wireless system, your pet’s collar continuously receives the signal while within the safe zone. Nonetheless, if your pet approaches the perimeter of the safe zone, signal loss will produce a warning tone and, if your pet does not return to the safe zone, a static correction.
Invisible fence solutions allow you to keep your dogs secure and close to your home without incurring the price and inconvenience of constructing traditional fences. It is a necessity if you’re intending to have a new puppy. With some training, your pet will soon be able to freely roam the yard.
Electrical Charge
The electric charge is comparable to a short splash of water on the face; it is just enough to startle your pet and halt his movement without causing any harm or injury. Depending on how the system is configured, the amount of electric force that the receiver (collar) takes in and gives to your dog can vary. The device will have instructions detailing the recommended amount of force for dogs of varying sizes and breed. You can also experiment with the settings to determine the precise amount required to preserve your dog’s happiness and self-assurance while maintaining safe boundaries within the parameters you establish.
Battery-Backup Capability
Some wired dog fences include a battery backup; however, this feature is not standard on all models. A battery backup is an excellent safety feature, since it protects against forgetting to check the battery or replacing it too late. It is just not worthwhile to disable this feature.
The level of interference
Consider the level of interference that could affect the effectiveness of the pet-repellent. Some wired dog fences have low interference, while others have relatively substantial interference. With all the potential interferences in our world nowadays, it is crucial to determine the capability of any wired dog fence you are seriously contemplating purchasing.
Creative Determination of Boundaries
Lastly, you should choose a wired dog fence that allows you to shape the boundaries in any way necessary to preserve the integrity of your landscape while still giving safety and freedom for your dog. In other words, keep in mind that some wired dog fences must be installed in a square, round, or oval shape, but others can block off garden sections inside the principal bounds.
Variations of Invisible Dog Fences
There are two primary types of invisible dog fences, and both have advantages and disadvantages. The type you select will be heavily influenced by the size and layout of your property.
Wireless
Wireless dog fences utilize a transmitter to construct a radio-frequency-controlled, 360-degree perimeter barrier around your yard. They are simple to program and install. Once the transmitter is plugged in, you can modify the perimeter to fit your yard.
If your yard is generally square, a wireless dog fence is a fantastic option, as these systems produce circular, dome-shaped perimeters. They allow your dog to exit the dog door and roam the yard, excluding the corners. If your property is long and slender, a wireless fence may confine your dog to a smaller section of your property.
There are a variety of coverage sizes for wireless dog fences, ranging from half an acre to several acres. Additionally, you may utilize many dog collars to keep multiple dogs safe in your yard using the same system.
Hybrid
Underground or hybrid invisible fences build a barrier for your dog using a buried wire. They are fully configurable, making them an excellent option for large yards, oddly-shaped estates, and restricted places.
You can place the transmitter for an underground or hybrid system in a garage or other location without worrying about coverage. To install underground systems, run the wire around the perimeter of the area where your dog will play. You can reach garden beds or fountains by twisting the wire, allowing you to shut off areas without establishing a physical barrier for your dog.
There are underground systems for both large and small homes, allowing you to ring your entire yard while blocking off gardens, ponds, and swimming pools. These systems can function above ground, but they will be more prone to damage or failure. If the loop fails, the system will not function.