If you have a dog, then you know that you need a fence. Whether your dog spends a lot of time outdoors or is only in the yard for short potty breaks, a fence helps keep your dog safe and at home. However, many pet owners find themselves wondering whether a traditional fence or “invisible fence” is right for them. Here’s a quick guide to which you should use.
Invisible Fences Explained
If you haven’t heard of an invisible fence, you might be thinking of a see-through fence, maybe made from clear plastic. This is far from the truth. An invisible fence for dogs is not a physical boundary. Instead, it’s an electronic boundary that you establish. Your dog is given an electric collar that shocks the dog when it crosses the boundary. The shock startles the dog but doesn’t hurt it. Your dog quickly learns not to cross the boundary to avoid being shocked.
Factors to Consider
Here are some of the things that you need to consider when choosing between a physical fence and an invisible fence.
Escaping
One of the biggest factors people consider is the likelihood that their pet escapes the fence. Some people worry that their pet will walk through an invisible fence, ignoring the shock. Others worry that their animals will chew through a physical fence and escape. There are physical fences that are designed for dogs, such as our Safety Pup fence, which are designed so dogs can’t escape through them. The better trained your dog is, the less likely they are to escape through either type of fence.
Other Animals
An invisible fence only works when the animal is wearing the collar. This means it will keep your dog in your yard, but it won’t keep other animals out of your yard. You never know when an aggressive dog will escape their yard or even walk by your yard and go after your dog. A physical fence is the best way to protect your pet from other animals.
Appearance
Many homeowners choose an invisible fence because they don’t like the look of a fence in their yard. However, there are many beautiful fences to choose from, so having a physical fence doesn’t mean you have to dimish the appearance of your yard. A beautiful, well-maintained fence can even add to your home’s curb appeal and property value.
User Error
Something you need to take into account is user error regarding your fence. A physical fence only works to keep your dog in if everyone who goes through the yard remembers to shut the fence. (This can especially be an issue with kids.) An electric fence only works if the dog is wearing the collar, which should be taken off regularly to bathe and groom the dog. It’s up to you to decide which is a bigger risk for your family.
Malfunction
Invisible fences have been known to sometimes malfunction during lightning storms (you should probably bring your dog in during a storm anyway, but they can come on quickly and unexpectedly). The collar itself runs on batteries, which can also malfunction or die, rendering your invisible fence useless. On the other hand, if your physical fence is damaged it also allows your dog to easily leave the yard. A durable, maintenance-free fence is the least likely to have issues that will allow your dog to get out.
Affect on Your Dog
Electric fences are designed to lightly shock your dog, not to hurt it. However, many people aren’t comfortable with shocking their dog. The shock can also make some dogs anxious or aggressive. If you are worried about your dog having an adverse reaction to the electric shock from an invisible fence, a physical fence is the way to go.
Overall, the type of fence that you choose for your pet depends on your needs and preferences. If you are looking for a physical fence, we offer a wide range of fences, including a fence designed especially for dogs.