Molly Ayala
Electric fences for dogs, also known as invisible fences, are designed to keep dogs within a predefined boundary without the need for a physical barrier. While some people believe that invisible fences are the best way to keep their dogs in their yard, others argue that they are not very effective and can be controversial. In this article, we will explore the different views on electric fences and provide a guide on how to install and use them safely if you choose to use one. We will also discuss alternative options for containing your dog.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Statistics suggest that invisible wireless electric fences are only about 70% effective. |
| Safety | The shock from approaching and crossing the boundary can be painful for dogs. The collar can also cause injury and electrical burns. |
| Installation | Electric fences can be installed by purchasing a kit from retail stores and following the instructions provided. |
| Training | Dogs need to be trained to understand where the safe zone is, otherwise, they can become fearful, anxious, or aggressive. |
| Cost | Invisible fences are an affordable solution for keeping dogs safe. |
| Customization | Invisible fences can be customized according to the yard size, pet's behavior, and family's unique needs. |
| Maintenance | The batteries in the collar will eventually die and need to be replaced. |
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What You'll Learn
Electric fences can be controversial and cause behavioural issues
Electric fences can be controversial, and there are concerns about whether they cause behavioural issues in dogs. Some people believe that electric fences pose a health risk and can cause behavioural issues, especially if there is a conflict with a neighbour's dog. There are documented cases of dogs developing fence-related aggression. If a dog is confused and exposed to non-customized, high levels of correction without regard for breed, size, temperament, or training, it may develop behavioural problems.
However, electric fences are also touted as a highly effective and safe means of containment or exclusion if set up correctly. They are said to be very effective and quick at modifying several movement and behavioural patterns in most animals. The stimulus of passing cars, kids on bikes, people walking their dogs, etc., can goad some dogs into a state of angry arousal. If the dog is aroused enough to test the limits of the fence, it gets shocked, and this conditions the dog to associate the pain of the shock with whatever it was focused on. This can lead to aggressive behaviour.
It is important to note that some companies that produce electric fences are not very forthcoming about the negative aspects of their products. Electric fence shocks are designed to be unpleasant but not harmful to animals or people. They are a temporary and harmless deterrent that helps keep animals safe and contained. However, there have been reports of electrical burns around dogs' necks.
To avoid behavioural issues, it is recommended that dog owners invest time in training their dogs. Personalized attention and reward-based training can drastically reduce aggressive responses to electronic containment. Dogs will not become traumatized by an electric fence if taught correctly. Invisible Fence, for example, has Perfect Start™ Plus Training, a scientifically-based pet training protocol approved by leading animal behaviourists. Their certified trainers customize the technology and training to each pet's unique needs, so your pet fully understands its boundaries.
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They can pose a health risk to dogs
Electric fences can pose a health risk to dogs, and there are many advantages to physical fences over electronic ones. There are serious physical, behavioural, and legal risks associated with electronic containment systems. A physical fence will not harm your dog, and installing one avoids the behavioural risks associated with electronic containment systems.
Electric fences can cause stress, anxiety, and confusion in dogs. They may learn to associate the shock with the area around the boundary or even passersby, potentially leading to fearfulness or aggression. This aggression can result in bites to humans as dogs attempt to greet them at the edge of the yard and receive shocks. Dr Richard Polsky studied this by examining court cases involving dog bites where electronic containment systems were installed and working. While Dr Polsky's sample was small, this risk alone deserves very serious consideration.
Dogs can also become so afraid of the shocks that they won't go out in the yard at all. Any time a dog feels pain or is hurt, there is a risk of fallout behaviours developing. Dogs may start to generalise the pain to what they see and hear around them, and they can become reactive and aggressive.
There is also a risk of physical injury to your dog, especially if they are left unsupervised. Your dog may become afraid of your yard, the boundary area, anything or anyone that comes near the boundary area, or being on a leash with a new person. There is also a risk of electric shock and fire if your transmitter comes into contact with moisture.
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They require training for the dog to understand the safe zone
Electric fences are a controversial method for containing dogs, and some believe they pose a health risk and cause behavioural issues. They work by using fear and discomfort, and there is a risk that your dog will become fearful, anxious, or even aggressive. It is important to talk to your vet before making any decisions about the health and safety of your dog.
If you do opt for an electric fence, it is important to put in the time to train your dog so that they understand the safe zone. Training can help to ensure that your dog does not become scared of the yard or learn to run through the fence. Begin by setting your dog's special collar to a warning tone and walking them around the yard on a leash. As they approach the fence line, they will hear the beep, and you can call them back towards you away from the boundary. Give them lots of praise when they turn away from the fence and head back to the safe zone.
Once your dog seems to understand the warning tone, you can set the collar to the lowest level of static correction and repeat the process. If your dog does not seem to notice the static shock, check that the collar is fitting correctly, and then consider raising the intensity by one level. When your dog seems to understand where the barrier is, you can introduce some distractions. Keep your dog on a loose leash and have a family member walk across the line.
It is important to be patient and go at your dog's pace. Do not force them to do anything that scares them, and be prepared to reinforce their decisions to venture towards or into the yard. You can also try giving them treats randomly in the yard to help them understand that it is not a scary place.
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They are not always effective, with some dogs breaking through the boundary
Electric fences are not always effective, and some dogs may break through the boundary. This could be due to a number of reasons. Firstly, it is important to note that electric fences do not provide a physical barrier, so while they may keep your dog in, they do not prevent other animals or people from entering your yard. This could be a concern for your dog's safety, especially in areas with wildlife such as coyotes.
Additionally, some dogs may be highly motivated to chase something interesting on the other side of the fence, causing them to break through the boundary. This is more likely with high-energy or prey-driven dogs, and those that are ultra-stubborn. In these cases, the fear of an electric shock may not be enough to deter them from crossing the boundary.
The effectiveness of electric fences also depends on the training of the dog. It is essential that dogs understand the boundaries and the warnings given by the collar. Inconsistent training or a lack of training can lead to confusion and barrier frustration, causing some dogs to break through the boundary.
Furthermore, some dogs may become anxious or aggressive due to the fear of receiving an electric shock. This can lead to reactivity and aggression towards strangers and even family members. As a result, some dogs may actively try to escape the electric fence to avoid the shocks.
Finally, there are some technical limitations to electric fences. For example, boundary wires need to be separated by at least 4 feet, or they can negate the signal. Other wires, like power lines and satellite hookups, can also interfere with the fence, causing the system to malfunction and allowing dogs to break through the boundary.
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They can be installed by professionals or via a DIY kit
If you want to install an electric dog fence, you can hire professionals or do it yourself. Many companies offer professional installation services for wired or wireless electric fences. They will meet your pets, assess your property, and provide a personalised quote. They can also provide training for your pets to ensure they get used to the fence.
If you want to install the fence yourself, you can purchase a DIY kit from many retail stores. You will need to plan your fence layout before you start your installation. Use graph paper to plot out your yard and map the fence line, rounding off the corners as transmitters don't work well with right angles. You should also ensure that your fence is within range of the transmitter.
The installation process involves installing the transmitter in a protected indoor area, such as a garage, and then burying the wire and grounding the fence system. You will also need to ensure that the boundary wires are separated by at least 4 feet to avoid negating the signal.
After installation, you will need to test the collar before putting it on your dog. You should also be aware that electric fences may not work for all dogs, and some prior training may be required.
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Frequently asked questions
An invisible electric fence is a system designed to keep a dog within a predefined boundary without the need for a physical barrier. It works by using a wireless signal or radio frequency to create a virtual perimeter. The dog wears a special collar that receives a signal from a central transmitter unit, usually placed inside the home. As the dog approaches the boundary, the collar emits a warning sound, and if the dog continues to move closer or tries to cross the boundary, the collar delivers a mild electric shock.
There are several risks associated with using an invisible electric fence for dogs. Firstly, the shock from approaching or crossing the boundary can be painful for dogs, and the metal prongs on the collar can cause injuries and electrical burns. The aversive training required for an invisible fencing system can also backfire, resulting in dogs becoming too frightened to enjoy the yard. Additionally, invisible fences cannot keep out other animals or strangers, potentially exposing your dog to threats within their space. Some dogs may also develop behavioural issues, such as territorial aggression, anxiety, or frustration.
It is important to schedule time to train your dog to ensure the success of an electric fence system. Start by setting your dog's collar to a warning tone and walk them around the yard on a leash. As they approach the fence line, they will hear the beep, and you can call them back towards you away from the boundary. Praise them when they turn away from the fence and head back to a safe zone. Once they understand the warning tone, you can gradually introduce distractions and set the collar to the lowest level of static correction. Repeat the process, gradually increasing the intensity of the static correction if needed.
