Dog fences have been around for many years. However, with the development of wireless dog fence technology, pet owners now have more options than ever before. One thing that makes hidden dog fencing unique is the fact that it is completely invisible to humans and animals alike - this means you can place a barrier around your entire property without having to worry about ugly wire or posts spoiling the look of your yard. But don't take our word for it! We'll discuss everything from installation tips to safety features in this article so you can decide if a hidden dog fence is right for you and your pup.
Beginning Installation
Determine how much area you'll want to cover before you purchase a system. Most basic systems include a transmitter with the potential to enclose an area of about 25 acres. Higher-powered transmitters are also available to enclose even larger areas. An additional wire is necessary for such big jobs. A system will typically come with 500 feet of wire, enough to enclose roughly 1/3 of an acre.
Installation Basics
Step1:
The first step in installing your system is to install the transmitter. Place it in the centre of your desired coverage area. For example, if you want to cover an area with a transmitter that's 500 feet in circumference, place the transmitter at 250 feet from one end of the property line and 125 feet from the opposite side.
Step2:
Connect the ends of the boundary wires to the transmitter, and turn the system on.
Step3:
Test the collar to ensure it's working properly. The collar should emit an audible alert as you near the boundary.
Step4:
Once you determine that everything works, begin cutting a trench 1 inch to 3 inches deep along your previously planned boundary. Avoid running the boundary wire close to chain-link fences.
Training Your Dog
Most systems include white flags that should be placed at the point near the boundary line where your dog will receive the warning beep. These flags, placed about 10 feet apart, will serve as visual training aids for your dog (and for you). The flags can be removed once your dog is trained.
End the boundary wires at the transmitter, and turn on the system. Test your collar to make sure it is working properly. Begin cutting a trench along your planned boundary, avoiding running wire close to avoid any unexpected incidents. To start the training process, set aside 48 hours (most people pick a weekend), and walk with your dog on the inside of the boundary.
Start a training session by walking to each flag and waiting five minutes for your dog to approach it. Every time you stop at a flag, patiently wait until he comes near before continuing onward. When done right, every few steps should result in him approaching one or more flags. After 48 hours, Make sure your flags are up. Let the dog wander near the edge of boundary on its own, just far enough to hear the beep of its receiver collar.
Safety Features
Hidden dog fences are designed to protect your pup from harm. For example, if he or she crosses the boundary wire while wearing a special receiver collar, the static correction may be uncomfortable for him but it won't cause any injury like being caught on an electric fence would. You'll also find that most of these systems come with a barking deterrent mode which helps warn off intruders and keep your yard safe and quiet at night. The system is even adjustable so you can change its level of sensitivity as your pet grows older to accommodate his changing needs!
