Review of the 9 Best Wireless Dog Fences of 2021
A fence is an excellent idea, but it is possible that physical fences are not permitted in your area. In such situations, you can consider the option of an invisible fence. If you are a dog owner worried about the security of your dog, you have made your way to the perfect place, as this guide is all about invisible dog fences.
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Contents
1. Introduction
It is never a bad idea to enhance the safety of your home, especially if you own a pet. A fence is an excellent idea, but it is possible that physical fences are not permitted in your area, and you might not have the budget required for a metal or a wooden fence. In such situations, you can consider the option of an invisible fence. If you are a dog owner worried about the security of your dog, you have made your way to the perfect place, as this guide is all about invisible dog fences.
2. Types of Invisible Dog Fences
There are two kinds of invisible fences – wireless and wired/underground.
2.1 Wired/Underground Dog Fence
The in-ground fence system marks the perimeter with the help of a buried metal wire. This wire will connect to the transmitter unit responsible for communicating signals via the wire. The buried wire surrounding the containment region will emit a radio signal, leading to the activation of the receiver collar. A shock collar placed on your pet will then receive these signals. For people looking for an odd-shaped perimeter, the underground system provides customized options. For instance, if you want to keep your cat away from your vegetable garden, you can make that happen with an underground fencing system, but burying the wire will require a bit of additional installation.
2.2 Wireless Dog Fence
The wireless system makes use of a medially located transmitter. This transmitter conveys wireless signals over a specific radius, which then produces the wireless perimeter of your fence. Although the installation of a wireless fence is pretty simple, there are several considerations that need to be made by houseowners before they decide to go for this kind of fencing. These considerations are:
- A wireless fence might not work well with narrow properties (the property needs to be at least 30ft wide.
- The land lay might not be suitable – wireless fences do not work well with terraced or sloping gardens.
- Wooded areas, much like metal objects, might disrupt the signals.
- For the above reason, your pet cannot wear a wireless fence collar indoors.
- Since these fences are bulky and heavy, they might not be an ideal choice for small pets.
3. Do Invisible Dog Fences Work?
3.1 Wired/Underground Dog Fence
Every underground pet fence, regardless of who manufactured it, operates on the same principle. As we discussed earlier, the system involves using a buried wire loop for broadcasting radio signals. Normally, this signal is quite straightforward – just one sine wave, or perhaps a couple of sine waves operating at different powers. The buried wire behaves like an antenna and transforms the signals into electromagnetic waves.
Since the transmitter does not utilize a great deal of power, the signal surrounding the wire has a very limited range – somewhere around 10 to 20 feet. Certain systems have wires that transmit dual signals, one of which is at a low power while the other one is at a higher power. In such systems, the collar is able to detect various distances through the wire and offer multiple correction levels.
The collar contains a tiny radio receiver (not much different to one of those battery-operated AM radios). Upon getting close to the buried wire, this radio will receive the signals transmitted by the wire. The signal will trigger a correction from the radio, allowing your pet to realize that it is too close to the boundary.
The transmitter will then be looped back by the in-ground wiring surrounding your yard. The transmitter should always be plugged in a dry and safe location, and it is also advisable to install lightning rods close to the transmitters to avoid blowups. The control of the transmitter will determine the width of the electric field in comparison to the installed wire.
3.2 Wireless Dog Fence
A wireless fencing system contains a transmitter and a receiver.
The transmitter is plugged into an electrical outlet, while the receiver is connected to the wireless dog collar. The transmitter communicates radiuses of radio frequencies, and you will be able to maneuver the signal distance to align it with your required boundary space. If your pet goes beyond the boundary that you have defined, they will get an electric static shock. This static shock is neither traumatic nor painful and is very similar to the feeling of getting splashed with cold water. Certain receivers also contain the option of making a noise when the pet crosses the predefined perimeter.
Remember that an underground or wireless fence is more of a psychological device than anything else. Hence, you will only be able to benefit from this fence if you combine it with the effective training of your pet. It is important that your pet knows where the boundary exists, and that crossing this boundary is bad or undesirable. Once the rules have been established, the collar will help your pet remind them of these rules whenever you are not present.
4. What to Look for When Buying a Wireless Dog Fence?
4.1 The area it can cover
The transmitter will decide the area that will be covered by an electric fence. While certain transmitters are only powerful enough to cover an area of 1 acre, others can cover more than 25 acres. Generally, wireless systems are more suited for smaller areas and level landscapes, while wired or underground systems can cover regions ranging from 5-100 acres and can be used on any kind of terrain or landscape.
4.2 What size pet can the fence be used on
To make sure that your pet is comfortable with the fence collar, you need to make sure that the collar is large enough and not too heavy or light. You can choose from a wide variety of collars, designed for dogs weighing as little as 5 lbs. to those weighing in excess of 100 lbs.
4.3 The features of the receiver collar
Alongside checking for the weight and height of the collar, you can consider some other receiver collar factors, such as:
- Waterproof ability.
- Durability.
- Whether the batteries are disposable or rechargeable.
- The presence/absence of a safety time out.
- The presence/absence of a low battery notification.
4.4 The number of static correction levels
Decades ago, the collars were too powerful, had few (if any) safety features, and almost no levels of static correction. Today, however, receiver collars come with safety features that will keep your dog from suffering pain or getting hurt.
When it comes to static corrections, you need to consider:
- Adjustability – the more adjustability levels, the more you will be able to tweak the settings to find that sweet spot.
- Whether there a beep only training option.
5. Review Of Wireless Dog Fences
5.1 PetSafe Wireless Fence PIF-300
This wireless-portable fence system is one of the most reliable ones on offer, and can cover an adjustable region of up to 180 feet. This means that you can have a large boundary and let your dog enjoy plenty of playing room. Your dog can now enjoy playing in the yard, and you do not have to worry about them chasing a car or a cow, or their safety in general.
Since the PetSafe Wireless Fence does not require any in-ground installing, the entire installation process is pretty simple and delivers a considerably large perimeter. Every one of the 50 boundary flags can extend up to 90 feet in terms of radius.
Overall, it is a very desirable portable option for pet dogs and offers decent value for money. For this reason, it is not hard to notice why this wireless fence model is highly popular and the first item on this list.
Pros
Adjustable tone and static.
5 static correction levels.
Battery indicator and test lights.
Adjustable waterproof collar, ranging from 6 to 28 inches.
Does not require digging.
Comes with a training guide.
Cons
Interference risk: a variety of factors can affect the operating range.
Size restriction: cannot be used for dogs or other pets that weigh less than 8 pounds.
5.2 PetSafe Stay and Play
The second invisible pet fence on our list also belongs to PetSafe, which is just another proof of the quality and desirability of the brand’s products. The PetSafe Stay and Play has a circular coverage of ¾ acre, ranging from the placement point to the indoor transmitter.
The wireless boundary means that you can establish a secure barrier around the yard and make sure that your pets are protected without going through the hassle of burying wires. Moreover, alongside a toning mode, this fence system has five static correction levels.
The system is accompanied by a rechargeable, waterproof collar receiver that can be adjusted for neck sizes ranging from 6 inches to 28 inches. Moreover, the collar can be used for any dog that weighs at least 5 lbs.
Also, the wireless trait makes this system easy to set up, and the entire installation process will not take more than 1 or 2 hours. Moreover, the portability of the system means that you can easily carry it with you should you decide to travel or go camping with your dog.
Pros
Portable.
Can be used on smaller dogs and even on cats.
The transmitter covers a diameter of 44 to 210 inches, which is slightly bigger than the PetSafe fence discussed before this one.
Cons
Much like with the initial PetSafemodel that we reviewed, this one, too, has issues related to circular shapes and interference.
5.3 Sit Boo-Boo Electric Fence
This dog fence is made up of genuine copper, giving it the strength and durability that you require. The fence can expand up to 20 acres. Furthermore, this highly versatile product has seven correction settings, along with default surge protection, allowing you to maneuver the fence according to your needs and requirements.
The Sit Boo-Boo Electric Fence is highly versatile, and can easily be operated even in freezing conditions and temperatures that go below 0 degrees Celsius. Also, the IPV7 rating means that the fence is completely waterproof and can be submerged to a maximum depth of 3ft. This means that this rugged collar does not mind rain, mud, or snow, making it the perfect choice for dog owners who are enthusiastic about traveling in the soothing company of their pets.
Sit Boo-Boo is renowned for its high-quality pet products, and the company’s confidence in this particular fence can be noticed by the fact that the Sit Boo-Boo Electric Fence comes with a one-year warranty, so that you can make your purchase without any kind of anxiety.
Pros
The fence is made up of copper.
Multiple correction settings and a default surge protection option.
Can work in extreme temperatures.
One-year replacement warranty.
Cons
Some users are having problems with the power adapter.
Certain users have also complained about the product manual being ambiguous and hard to understand.
5.4 Pet Control HQ Dog Containment System
Pet Control HQ Wireless Remote Training Pet Containment System
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- Rechargeable
- Waterproof collar
- Underground wire
If you are a pet owner and live in a property that has complicated spaces or large yards, you can benefit from the Pet Control HQ Dog Containment System, as it promises a range of up to 10 acres, and, consequently, also promises a substantial playing area for your pet and peace of mind for you.
This wireless fence system is easy to lay out, while the robust core wire and the thick coating can survive even the most extreme of weathers. You can also easily shape the barrier fences to make sure that your dog stays secure.
The wireless training collar comes with a remote control, and ten distinct vibration and beep levels that are highly effective at training your dog. Moreover, the electric shock instantly attracts attention and makes sure that your dog is quick to halt its undesirable habits and behaviors such as jumping, digging, and playful bites.
This Comfort Collar has a shutdown of 8 seconds, which will stop the shock and makes sure that your pet remains safe. Also, the collar has lasting batteries that can deliver around 3 to 7 days of dog training and pet containment. Charging the batteries will only take around 3 hours, and these batteries will not lose their recharge abilities, even after being in use for many years.
The collar is suitable for dogs of almost all sizes, and can be used for dogs weighing anywhere between 11 lbs. to 154 lbs., and with a neck size of 8 to 27 inches. The collar-receiver has an IPX7 rating, meaning that it is entirely waterproof and can be used for when you decide to enjoy the rain or take a trip to the beach
Pros
Easy to install.
Dual containment system.
Durable.
Long battery life.
Cons
The collar will only receive the signal if the collar was placed on the dog’s throat and pointing straight downwards.
5.5 PetSafe Free To Roam
Yet another appearance by PetSafe, this time with an invisible fence that has a range of ½ acres from where the indoor transmitter has been placed.
Since this fence system is wireless, you can easily create a safe barrier that surrounds your entire yard, and you will not have to waste your valuable time dealing with the hassle and efforts associated with the burial of wires. Moreover, the entire system can be set up within a few hours.
What makes the Free to Roam different from conventional in-ground fences is the static reentry option. This means that, incase your pet exceeds the boundary, the wireless fence will let the pet return to your home without performing any corrections.
The waterproof collar can be used for any dog that weighs at least 5 pounds, and has an adjustable neck size ranging from 6 inches to 28 inches. Also, the collar is compatible with any PetSafe Wireless Fence transmitter. The collar has a battery with a long life, and can function for up to two months before you get the ‘low battery’ notification.
The sound-only training option and the 5 static levels are ideal for owners looking to teach their pets about remaining in the safe zone. You can add any number of collars to this fence system and set them according to your pet’s personality.
Pros
Wireless.
Easy to set up.
Static-free reentry.
Healthy battery life.
Allows the addition of multiple pets.
Cons
Setting up the flags is time consuming.
Using the knob to reduce or increase the field size results in excessively dramatic changes.
5.6 KAROTZEH Wireless Dog Fence
The fence system forms a circular region along with the transmitter, with a maximum control range of 300 meters (990 ft). You can change the signal mode according to the use distances, which means that your pet will now have a safe playing area that you can easily control.
The training collar is adjustable, and will fit your pet’s neck curve perfectly, which means greater security for your pet, especially during the night.
The containment system uses a rechargeable battery and, will not only save you money, but also protect the environment.
Being IP65 level waterproof, the fence system can just as easily be used outdoors as it can be used indoors. The management system is highly intelligent and can effectively manage your pet’s activities and movements. If your dog goes beyond the specified boundary, the system will automatically activate the static shock mode and the warning sound.
This fence is easy to install and use and frees you of the complications associated with burying wires; all you need to do to receive signals is make sure that both the transmitter and receiver are switched on. Also, since multiple receivers are supported by the transmitter, you can control all your dogs, simultaneously.
Pros
Rechargeable and adjustable fluorescent collar.
Waterproof.
Smart management.
Easy installation and usage.
Cons
Some users have complained about poor battery life.
5.7 PetSafe Basic In-Ground Dog and Cat Fence
PetSafe continues to dominate this list, and on this occasion, it is with the Basic In-Ground Dog and Cat Fence. The 1/3-acre area means that your furry friends will have sufficient playing space. Moreover, the 4 static correction levels and the tone-only mode will make sure that your pet remains safe.
The receiver collar is suitable for any dog that weighs at least 8 lbs. and has a neck-adjustment range of 6 inches to 26 inches. Also, since the system permits the use of unlimited collar receivers, you can use this fence for any number of pets and keep all of them safe and sound.
Also, the installation is simple and DIY, which means that you can quickly and easily get the system up and running. With PetSafe’s reputation, you can be assured of getting a high-quality product that will be worth every penny.
Pros
Easy to install.
Waterproof and neck-adjustable collar.
Compatibility (apart from YardMax, every PetSafe In-Ground Fence receiver collar is compatible with this system).
Cons
The wire loop has splices which make it vulnerable to breakage and water penetrations.
5.8 WIEZ Wireless Dog Fence
Thanks to the dual antenna and 2.4GHz technology, the recent version of this fence is drastically better in terms of signal accuracy and stability. Also, being highly versatile, this product is usable in any type of land and terrain.
The improved working mode will detect when your dog is out of range, and will initially set off a sound, then the vibrations, and lastly, it will trigger mild 3.7V shocks as a reminder for the dog to get back within the range. In other words, the WIEZ Wireless Dog Fence will go the extra mile to ensure that your pet remains protected.
This innovative model combines the dog training and wireless dog fence features. The training mode offers shock, vibration, and sound features, and the newer version comes with 3 adjustable shock and vibration levels which can be used depending upon the dog.
Another aspect that has been addressed in the new version is the battery life and design; the battery in this model is more stable and, assuming normal use, it can last for several weeks. If the collar is not working, the battery will automatically enter the standby mode which can be maintained for a period of more than six months, and can be reactivated through a human touch or the dog’s movement.
TPU material, which is extremely eco-friendly, has been used to design the collar. A reflective belt is placed on the outer layer of the collar, making sure that your dog is safe during the night. The receiver is IPX7 waterproof and IP65 dust-proof, which means it can be used during dust and rain.
Pros
Improved working mode.
Shock and vibration levels are adjustable.
Stabler and stronger batteries.
Eco-friendly product.
Practical design.
Cons
Some users have complained that the strap fabric is rough and can rub badly on the skin.
5.9 PetSafe Stubborn Dog In-Ground Fence
The final product on this list belongs to PetSafe (no prizes for guessing). You can create a customized, 1/3-acre playing area for your friend, allowing them the space that they require without jeopardizing their safety.
The receiver collar has 4 static correction levels and a vibration plus tone mode. You can adjust the static based on the determination that your pet shows during training. The vibration plus tone mode is particularly useful for dogs that struggle to hear clearly.
Like almost all the other PetSafeproducts discussed in this guide, this one, too, is easy to install and does not require professional assistance. And, also like the other PetSafesystems, this one is compatible with every PetSafe In-Ground receiver collar (apart from YardMax). If you have multiple pets, you can get a separate collar for each one of them and ensure their safety.
The collar is waterproof and can be comfortably used for any dog that weighs 8 lbs. or more. You can also adjust the neck size within a range of 6 inches to 28 inches.
Pros
Allows for customized fences.
Beneficial for pets with hearing impairments.
Easy installation.
Compatibility.
Cons
The collar does not come with a battery.
6. FAQs
1. Will my neighbor’s invisible fence interfere with mine?
Unfortunately, a conflict between the two fences is possible, even if both belong to the same brand. Sometimes, the signal distance vanishes from the connected fenced area. This can result in an empty blank line and your dog might find out that they can reach the fence.
2. Is it humane to use a wireless fence?
Although the subject of invisible fences will always remain controversial, the truth is that, with pulsating current and low amps, an electric fencing is quite safe. The factors that make electricity so dangerous are the constant connection and electrical charge. The only potential problem is if your dog is stuck in the fence for a certain amount of time and is unable to free itself. Other than that, it is safe and definitely humane, because, as we have mentioned, the static current is a mild one, and will not hurt or harm your dog in any way whatsoever.
3. How long does it take to train a dog with an invisible fence?
It is believed that it will take around 2-3 weeks for your dog to become acclimatized to the invisible surroundings. It is important to remember that fence training is not something that you can achieve overnight. You will have to exhibit patience, cooperation, and determination, and will require your pet to exhibit the same. However, the actual training process is neither time-consuming nor complicated, and if you can dedicate around 3 or 4 15-minute sessions in a week, your dog should be good to go in a couple of weeks.
4. How do I train my dog to use an invisible fence?
You can use the ‘response to signal’ approach, comprising the following steps: Make sure that the radio collar is set to signal, which will ensure that your dog gets the signal as soon as it approaches the invisible fence and without any corrections. Next, go out on a walk with your dog on a leash and another non-metal collar. Make sure to stay close to the invisible fence line perimeter. When the collar receives the signal indicating the dog is too near to the boundary, take corrective action by moving your dog away. You can reinforce this behavior by offering treats every time your dog moves away upon receiving the signal. Once your dog has familiarized itself with the signal and what to do upon receiving that signal, it is time to switch on the first level of static correction. Continue walking your dog close to the boundary. If your dog does not respond to the audio signal, it will get a mild correctional stimulus. At this point, you have to create distractions on the other side of the fence for your dog. A distraction would be something that would compel your dog to move towards (another dog, for instance). Your dog will receive a correctional stimulus upon moving across the fence. If you find that the dog is ignoring the stimulus, you might have to increase the static correction level until you are sure that your dog will notice the stimulus despite the distractions. You can now go off leash, but continue to monitor. Treat your dog every time it responds to the audio signal. You can also adjust the stimulation as and when required.
5. At what age can a dog use an invisible fence?
You would need your dog/puppy to be at least eight weeks old before you can start training them to use an invisible fence.
6. Does an invisible fence work for all dogs?
While an invisible fence is an excellent way to ensure your dog’s safety, this method is not suitable for all kinds of dogs. For instance, it is specifically unsuitable for dogs who have a strong prey drive, have aggression problems towards other animals or strangers, and are fearful or anxious.
7. Tips for Buying A Wireless Dog Fence
Tips
- Decide whether you want to use the fence outdoors or indoor:
Decide where the dog fence will be used. For instance, if you want your dog to stay away from the kitchen, you will have to buy a fence that is designed for indoor use. On the other hand, if you enjoy camping with your friends, family, and pets, you will have to buy an outdoor wireless fence. Many of the newer wireless fence models are designed for both outdoor and indoor use.
- Check the amount of space that it covers:
Perhaps the main reason you want to buy an electric fence is to ensure your dog’s safety even at times when you are not there to keep an eye. However, if you buy a dog fence that merely covers a couple of feet from where the transmitter is placed, it beats the objective. Hence, the fence range is crucial, and you should pay sufficient attention to this detail. Ideally, you should have a dog fence that covers at least one acre, but, if your budget permits, you can even buy models covering a minimum of three acres.
- Know the installation process:
Not every pet owner will be a technology buff and possess the skills required to set up a fence. Fortunately, almost all dog fences are extremely easy to set up, and will hardly take around an hour.
- Ensure quality of the collar receiver:
Regardless of the fence coverage, if the collar receiver is not efficient, the entire purchase will prove to be a wastage of money. Only when all the parts are working properly can the invisible fence considered to be fully functional. Also, the collar should easily fit your pet’s neck, and should be durable and waterproof.
- Check the warranty of the fence:
Even though you will find numerous companies selling dog fences, you have to be careful about the one that you deal with. Make sure to buy the invisible fence from a company offering a warranty. This way, you will be able to save yourself the cost of repairs and benefit from free professional services. Hence, if you want to get true value for your money, never buy a dog fence that is not accompanied by a warranty.
8. Using This Guide to Buy A Dog Fence
The main reason behind preparing this guide was to equip dog owners with the knowledge and information required to purchase the right kind of invisible fence for their best friends. The first thing we addressed was the two main types of fences (wired and wireless), which will help you understand the type that will work best in your particular situation.
Next, we addressed the key things that you should consider when buying a fence, so that you know exactly what you need to look for while making the purchase and are able to buy a fence that suits you and your dog.
This was followed by the bulk portion of this article, that reviewed 9 of the best wireless fences available on the market. While everyone will have their own preference, we can assure you that it is hard to go wrong with any of these products. The list of pros and cons will save time as you will not have to look for the advantages and disadvantages by yourself. You can simply weigh in the pros against the cons, decide whether this product is desirable for you or not, and move on to the next step.
The conclusion of the review section marked the beginning of the FAQs, which addressed the most important and frequent questions that dog owners might have while buying an invisible fence for their pets. This section also highlighted the steps that you can take to effectively train your dog with an invisible fence. Other areas that were addressed included the minimum age at which a dog can be trained with an electric fence, the approximate time it will take for your dog to become trained, whether your fence will clash with your neighbors’, and if it is humane to even use an electric fence for dogs.
Lastly, we highlighted the most important tips related to purchasing a wireless fence for your dog. This included factors like indoor or outdoor use, amount of space, installation process, collar-receiver quality, and whether the product comes with a warranty or not.
To put it shortly, once you go through this guide, you will not have to feel lost, confused, or anxious while buying a wireless fence for your dog.
9. Final Word
This brings us to the conclusion of this guide where we would like to reiterate a few points, the first of which is to make sure that the wireless fence model that you choose is safe and effective for your dog. Secondly, remember that this device, beneficial as it is, will be of little use to if you do not put in the effort required to train your dog. Lastly, we would like to wish you luck on your wireless fence-purchasing journey, and hope that, with the help of this guide, you will find a product that matches your needs and requirements to a T.
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