Electronic Dog Fences - How They Work

Do you get complaints from your neighbours about your dog escaping? If a dog is left to wander it can create problems in the neighbourhood. Being caught by the ranger or causing a traffic hazard could be very costly. As the owner of the dog you are responsible.

It is therefore very important that every owner keeps their pet securely on their own property. Physical fencing of the area may not be practical in some homes and other residential surroundings and some can still get out.

So what about an electronic fence? Using a radio Pet Barrier has gained popularity due to their ease of use and operation and how effective they are at keeping a dog safe.

How Electronic Fences Work?

A radio fence uses a wire that runs along the perimeter of the area containing the dog. Mostly the wire can be attached to an existing fence or buried underground. A radio signal is projected some distance from the wire.

An electronic receiver placed in a dog collar is worn by the dog which produces a beep followed by a mild static pulse when it approaches the wire. On receiving the beep and static stimulation the dog is trained to withdraw from the boundary area. Boundary flags are often used to signal the 'No-Go' zone during the initial training.

This fencing method is less expensive than traditional fencing and can be installed by a professional who will also complete the necessary training. Even if the area is irregular and uneven the radio fence wire can be adjusted to suit the layout of the property. It is common to be able to leave gates open once it is trained correctly.

What You Need to Know Before Training?

To be successful with electronic fences, extra care should be taken to train the dog, you should discuss your property, your fences and your dog's personality with an experienced fence provider. Incorrect selection or poor training could see your efforts and investment go to waste. The training should begin step by step so that the dog learns how to behave correctly at the boundary.

Train Using Low Stimulation First:

It is essential that low levels of stimulation are used during the training process. Using high levels initially, may result in fear and insecurity in the dog. Over doing it could create a 'Porch Sitter' where the dog sits at the back door too frightened and scared to enter the yard or area where dog fencing has been erected.

The dog collar (receiver collar) should have adjustable levels to start the electronic stimulation at a comfortable level and increase slowly. A dog that is scared of the radio Pet Barrier is more likely to rush through the system in a fear based response. Low levels help the dog understand the new boundary and make their own decision to stay inside the radio dog fence boundary.

The boundary line can be marked with small flags in order to teach the dog to stay inside the 'safe zone'. Only audible beeps should be applied for a few days, the trainer can just alert the dog to a safe withdrawal on hearing the beeps.

After a few days, the static stimulation the dog feels can be gradually increased through the adjustable levels on the receiver. Pretty soon the dog will be refusing to go past the boundary flags, a result that can be rewarded. Taking it slow helps the dog understand the boundary and prevents any run through. It is unwise to rely on the static stimulation; the training is crucial. The Flags can be removed at a later date.

After each training session the dog should be praised for his good behavior. It is better not to scold the dog as this approach may make the dog scared of the training area. The dogs should be monitored for a few days even after the training before leaving them alone in the yard with electric fencing or radio dog fencing.

Seek the advice of a professional before making a selection on the Pet barrier you need. Your dog's safety depends on it.