Who wants to keep their dog safe in their yard?
Of course all dog lovers want to keep our dogs safe, and safely contained in the yard. The question is how do we go about keeping our four legged family members from leaving the yard and facing danger on the streets?
There are many ways that can be effective when it comes to keeping a dog safely contained in the yard. In this article we’ll look at the two main types of dog fences and their respective benefits and potential drawbacks.
Electric Dog Fence– Most people have heard of the Electric Dog Fence which is also referred to as an underground dog fence or Hidden™ fence. This type of fence consists of an out of sight wire that defines the area where a dog is permitted to go.When the dog -who wears a special collar that works with the fence- goes near the hidden underground wire it receives an audible (sound) warning signal. Then, if it doesn’t retreat backwards it receives a mild electric shock. Through training the dog learns to understand, then respect their new yard boundaries. (remember touching the stove as a kid?).. It’s avoidance learning.
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Pluses + |
Minuses – |
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Works for any dog breed |
Not recommended for aggressive dogs |
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No worry about gates to be left open. Works around entire yard |
If you’re looking for a ‘fenced in look’ you’re out of luck |
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60-70% Less cost than a physical fence |
Doesn’t keep others out |
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Easily change or add to with minimal cost |
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Works on any type of soil, can be put into water. |
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Easy to keep dog out of areas such as flower beds |
Physical Fences can work great at containing most dogs however, when considering a physical fence its important to take into account whether the dog attempting to be contained is either a digger or jumper. Those who have a dog/s that are jumpers should be aware that most dogs wont be able to scale a 6’ fence..However it really depends on the individual dog and the type of fence material. I know, I had a wonderful Labrador who would successfully scale ad 8’ (eight foot) chain link fence. Also, with physical fencing you need to take into account whether there will be others with access to the gate. Particularly children. An open gate is the ticket to freedom. So the latch must be secured very well and an automatic closing device installed to help reduce the potential for ‘gate escapes’.. Also, if you have a hound, or beagle or even another breed that digs.. Beware. A digging dog may soon to be a roaming dog.
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Pluses + |
Minuses – |
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Can provide visual privacy |
Changes the look of the property |
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Keeps others from seeing your dogs |
Doesn’t allow your dog to be with family members around the yard |
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Keeps other people and animals out |
Limited time use before repair and replacement |
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Significantly more expensive |
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Only works when all gates are shut all the time |
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Dogs can still dig out or in some cases jump or climb over |