Electric Dog Fences Pros and Cons
In recent years, electric dog fences have become increasingly popular.
Electric fences, however, have some disadvantages that dog owners should consider before installing them in their yard.
To help you make a more informed decision about whether electric dog fences are right for your dog, this blog post will discuss the pros and cons of electric fences.
Although electronic fence advertisements make promising claims, owners should consider a few factors before investing in such fences.
It is common practice for manufacturers of electronic containment systems for dogs to market their product's qualities, but few are aware of their drawbacks.
There are several drawbacks to using electronic containment systems, and unfortunately, most dog owners cannot recognize them until after purchasing the system.
What Are Electric Dog Fences?
Electronic containment systems are also known as invisible fences, radio fences, and hidden fences.
An electronic containment system for dogs is a containment system using a transmitter, receiver, and buried wire.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links (Amazon Associate or other programs we take part in). As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
How Do They Work?
When the dog passes through the fence, most electric dog fences deliver static corrections, but some also emit ultrasonic noises or spritzes of citronella.
You can get a DIY kit or hire a professional to install them. You can find them at your local hardware store or even on Amazon.
Disadvantages of Electronic Dog Fences
For people who cannot afford a fence, electronic pet fences may seem like a good solution.
However, there are important factors to consider before committing to such devices. Consider the following factors before investing in such devices.
They Are Expensive
The installation and maintenance of electric fences can be costly as well.
An installation by a professional can easily cost over $1,000, while a DIY kit costs $150 to $600.
Possible Aggressive Reactions
The electronic boundaries don't always work for all dogs.
Just as with electronic collars, electronic fences can also have negative side effects. An example is aggression.
Dogs, for example, may see a person and want to go greet him.
If the dog gets shocked upon approaching the person, it may soon learn to associate the shock with the person.
So it is not surprising, if getting shock after shock, that the dog starts barking and growling at people walking by.
Possible Fearful Reactions
Another potential problem is the possibility of fearful reactions. Upon passing the barrier, some sensitive and soft dogs may be easily intimidated by the shock.
The dog may become frightened of the yard after repeated shocks.
As a result, dogs may be frightened of leaving their porches or decks and might shut down.
They may be hesitant to even go outside to use the bathroom.That would be undesirable and difficult too correct.
Do You Have a Digger?
A dog that likes to dig or wander will have no trouble escaping from the confines of an electronic fence.
A dog can easily dig up a wire that marks the boundary of an electric fence if it is buried just a few inches below ground level.
Is it Wet Out?
Electric fences do not work well in wet weather since the electric current cannot penetrate moisture.
Therefore, if your pup likes to play in the rain or snow, he will be able to easily escape from the electric fence.
Possible Malfunctions
Sometimes dogs figure out how to get around the whole fence system.
Although they may hear beeping sounds that warn them they are getting too close to the boundary, they know that if they run fast, they may outsmart the collar, which needs a few seconds to reset itself before delivering the shock.
Some breeds, such as Siberian Huskies, excel at this.
Sometimes receivers stop working, or batteries die without the owner realizing it. The dog could be left stranded on the other side of an electric fence from his home and yard.
Unwanted Critters
It is important to note that electronic fences will not deter critters or other roaming animals from entering the boundaries.
Other dogs, cats, and other animals may freely enter the area where your dog is contained, and may even attack it.
They Can Be Deadly
Electric fences can be harmful or even deadly to dogs. This is one of their primary disadvantages.
Some electric fence shocks can cause cardiac arrest in dogs and, sometimes, death.
Electric fences are not guaranteed to keep your pet within your set boundaries.
There Is No Guarantee
In addition, an electric fence does not guarantee that your dog will be contained.
There have been cases where dogs have jumped over or dug under fences to escape. Therefore, using this type of containment system may put your pet at risk.
With using electronic containment fences, there are a variety of pitfalls to be aware of.
Dog owners are better off using a traditional fence, or if they cannot afford it, they may work on teaching their dog boundary respect without a fence.
Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links (Amazon Associate or other programs we take part in). As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
Alternatives to an Electric Fence
No-Dig Fences - an easy alternative is a no-dig fence. These fences are quick and easy to install. We installed a ¼ acre lot in a day. You simply hammer in a stake and attach the fence. Viola your done.
Chicken Wire - Chicken wire is a great and cheap alternative to a wood fence. You will want to use either poles or even wood pieces to attach the chicken wire to the stake.
Chain Link - this is a fairly economical and permanent way to install a fence. With chain link you’ll have a post that will need to be dug down and set in concrete. Then the chain link is wrapped across the post.
Wood fences - these are the most durable, but expensive fences. I know of someone who had to fence in an entire acre of property.
They started with a chicken wire fence and every month they purchased a couple of pre-fab wood fence panels, slowly adding to it every month until their entire lot was fully fenced.
Fence Height Extender - Need a taller fence? A fence extender is a great option.
Final thoughts on Electric Dog Fences
If, despite reading these disadvantages, you are still considering an electric fence for your dog, be sure to do your research and consult a professional before making a purchase.
Extreme Dog Fence - Second Generation -2020- Professional Grade (Premium) Kit Packages
The Extreme Dog Fence - Second Generation can easily cover up to 10 acres. Plus it's waterproof and completely submersible.
PetSafe Basic In-Ground Dog and Cat Fence – from the Parent Company of INVISIBLE FENCE
The PetSafe Basic In-Ground Pet Electric Fence is perfect for about ⅓ of an acre.
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