For people with yards that are difficult to fence — such as a yard that is bordered by a stream, full of rocks, or on uneven land – a wireless electrical invisible fence is an option that many dog owners consider. So, how do these systems work? A wire is installed underground for the entire enclosure. This wire has a radio signal, and the dog wears a shock collar. If the dog gets too close to the wire or attempts to cross the boundary, the dog receives a shock. This “shock treatment” trains the animal to stay within its appointed area.
Dog trainer Pamela Dennison says this about the shock that your dog has to receive in order to understand that they are not supposed to cross an imaginary line.
“How many times do you have to be stung by a wasp to be terrified of wasps? I doubt more than once, but then, how do you then feel about wasps? Are you terrified? Do you run around frantically, screaming in a panic, trying to get away from it? Does your heart rate go through the roof? Is this pleasant for you? Your dog may start to become neurotic about weird things or become timid, fearful or aggressive. He may start to become aggressive toward the other dogs you have. He may now be fearful about leaving the property at all – even in “safe” areas. He may also become fearful of new places – especially if you use one of the “dummy” collars and leave it on all of the time. Think about it: He has a real or dummy collar on and you take him to a new location – maybe even a training class. He is now freaked because he doesn’t know where the boundaries are and is terrified of being shocked. He moves around slowly and cautiously because he doesn’t know where the “safe” places are.”
Not everyone agrees that shocking your dog is inhumane, but this is not the only issue.
Common Misconceptions About Electric Pet Fences
Electric pet fences often come with a set of misconceptions that can deter potential users. Let’s clear up some of the most common misunderstandings:
1. Will an electric fence hurt my dog?
Many people worry that electric fences will cause pain to their pets. In reality, these systems are designed to deliver a mild, harmless static correction similar to the sensation you get from static electricity. This shock is merely meant to startle, not harm, guiding pets away from the boundaries.
2. Are electric dog collars cruel?
Another prevalent concern is whether electric dog collars are inhumane. Modern collars are equipped with adjustable settings, allowing owners to customize the intensity to match their pet’s size and sensitivity. Properly used, these collars are safe and effective.
3. Do electric fences require a lot of maintenance?
Contrary to popular belief, electric fences are relatively low-maintenance. Routine checks to ensure the system is working correctly and replacing batteries when needed are usually sufficient. Many systems are designed to alert users to potential issues, simplifying upkeep.
4. Can electric fences be used for all dog breeds?
Some pet owners assume that electric fences work only for certain breeds or sizes. However, these systems can be tailored to suit almost any breed, from small dogs like Chihuahuas to larger breeds such as German Shepherds. Proper training is key to ensure effectiveness across different breeds.
5. Are electric pet fences difficult to set up?
Despite concerns about complicated installation, many modern electric fences are designed for user-friendly setups. Detailed instructions and customer support help guide users through the process, making it accessible even for those who aren’t particularly tech-savvy.
In Summary
When used correctly, electric pet fences offer a reliable and humane way to keep your pets safe within your property. Addressing common misconceptions helps you make informed decisions and ensure a positive experience for both you and your furry friends.
Unless you put collars on every critter in your neighborhood, an invisible fence does nothing about keeping other dogs, coyotes, and other predators OUT of your yard. Strays and/or feral animals can come in and do whatever damage they wish to your dog; he is pretty much helpless to get away.
“Another issue is that dog owners that purchase this type of system rarely provide their dog with the special training necessary to get used to the invisible fence system. This means that a dog is not just shocked once or twice, but is continually shocked, which can cause all sorts of physical and neurotic problems.
Aggressive behavior in dogs is often the result of poor training or misused correction levels. It’s crucial to understand that not all electric fences are created equal. Many DIY dog fences come with 5-10 settings and require pet owners to teach the pet themselves. This can lead to confusion and improper training, which can exacerbate behavioral issues.
If a dog is confused and exposed to non-customized, high levels of correction without any regard for breed, size, temperament, or training, it may develop behavioral problems. Personalized attention and reward-based training drastically reduce aggressive responses to electronic containment, as it allows pets to learn the rules of the system and find reward and satisfaction in following those rules.
However, even with proper training, electric fences still carry risks. Electric shocks may cause dogs to associate the pain with their environment, resulting in anxiety and aggressive behavior. At Pet Playgrounds, our non-electric dog fences offer a safer alternative, allowing pets to enjoy their space without the fear or trauma of electric shocks. Our fences eliminate the risk of anxiety or negative associations that often arise with electric containment systems, providing a peaceful and effective way to keep pets safe.
Proper training, tailored to the dog’s breed, size, and temperament, is crucial to prevent these issues. Personalized attention and reward-based training can drastically reduce aggressive responses to electronic containment systems. This approach allows pets to learn the rules of the system effectively, finding reward and satisfaction in following those rules. By incorporating positive reinforcement, dogs can associate containment boundaries with positive experiences rather than fear and pain.
Providing this specialized training ensures dogs understand the limits without developing anxiety or aggression. It helps them to confidently navigate their environment, knowing where they can roam freely and where boundaries lie. This not only improves their well-being but also fosters a harmonious relationship between the pet and owner, minimizing the risks associated with electronic fences. But with a Pet Playgrounds non-electric fence, you get all the benefits of secure containment without the potential behavioral drawbacks of electric fences, giving your dog the freedom to explore safely and happily.”
Poor Training and Behavioral Problems
Poor training or misused correction levels often lead to aggressive behavior. Many DIY dog fences have limited settings—usually between 5-10—and require pet owners to teach the pets themselves. However, without proper guidance, these systems can cause more harm than good. If a dog is confused and exposed to non-customized, high-level corrections without considering its breed, size, temperament, or training, behavioral problems are almost inevitable.
The Importance of Personalized Training
Personalized attention and reward-based training can drastically reduce aggressive responses to electronic containment. When dogs understand the rules of the system and find reward and satisfaction in following those rules, they are much less likely to develop negative associations. Proper training ensures that dogs learn to navigate their boundaries safely, without fear or trauma.
To sum up, if taught correctly, dogs will not be traumatized by an electric fence. The key lies in the combination of appropriate correction levels and a training program that considers each dog’s individual characteristics. This balanced approach helps in preventing anxiety, aggression, and other behavioral issues, ensuring a happier and healthier pet.”
One of the biggest issues, however, is that shock collars simply don’t work on 30% of dogs. That means for every ten wireless electric fence installations 3 dogs simply run right through. Now, you might think to yourself that the dog may just need a more powerful shock. However, some dogs get habituated to the shocks and learn that they can escape if they can tolerate the pain close to the fence line. Once they escape, they are rewarded with no more shocks. In this way, the dog learns that escaping is a good thing, whereas staying in the backyard is not. This is where the training is supposed to help, but when people see the $700 – $1000 price tag typically associated with shock collar training, they opt out of training their dog, which only worsens the situation.
Do Electric Fence Collars Cause Burns?
Myth Busted: No, Electric Fence Collars Do Not Cause Burns
It is a common misconception that electric fence collars can cause burns on your pet. However, this is not true.
Understanding How Electric Fence Collars Work
Electric fence collars operate at a much lower intensity compared to sources that can cause burns. Thermal burns require a high-frequency discharge of 3,000 to 5,000 Hz and a current of around 5 amps. In stark contrast, most electric fence collars emit only 100 milliamps at their peak.
To put this in perspective:
- Thermal burn threshold: 5 amps
- Electric fence collar output: 0.1 amps (100 milliamps)
That’s only 2% of the power needed to cause a burn. Additionally, the sensation from these collars is significantly mild, often even less intense than the static shock you might get from touching a door handle after walking on a carpet in dry weather.
Key Points to Remember:
- Low Current Emission: Electric fence collars emit far less current than the amount needed to inflict burns.
- Safety Standards: These devices are designed with safety in mind to ensure they are humane and effective.
- Perception vs. Reality: Many fears about burns are based on misinformation or misunderstanding of how these collars function.
However, even though electric fence collars may not cause burns, they come with other significant risks, such as anxiety, fear, and potential behavioral issues. At Pet Playgrounds, our non-electric dog fences offer a superior alternative that completely eliminates the need for collars. Instead of relying on electric shocks—no matter how mild—we provide a physical barrier that safely keeps pets within their boundaries. With our system, there’s no need to worry about potential discomfort, confusion, or the stress associated with electric collars. Our fence allows pets to enjoy their space naturally without the complications and risks that come with electric containment systems.
What Causes Pressure Necrosis in Pets?
Pressure necrosis in pets often results from chronic irritation or restricted blood flow due to ill-fitted collars. Electric fence collars, in particular, can pose this risk if they are too tight or not regularly adjusted, creating constant pressure on the skin and leading to inflammation and swelling.
The key factors contributing to pressure necrosis include:
- Chronic Irritation: Continuous friction or pressure from the collar can damage skin tissue over time.
- Poor Blood Circulation: A collar that’s too tight or not properly fitted can impede blood flow, causing tissue to break down.
- Lack of Adjustment: Infrequent collar adjustments can exacerbate these issues, especially as pets grow or their coat thickness changes.
To prevent this, it’s essential to ensure the collar fits correctly, regularly inspect for signs of discomfort, and rotate the collar position to alleviate pressure points.
However, with Pet Playgrounds’ non-electric dog fences, you can avoid these risks altogether. Our fences provide a safe and effective containment solution without the need for collars that could cause discomfort, irritation, or injury. With our system, your dog can roam freely and safely, eliminating the health risks associated with electric fence collars. This means no constant adjustments, no pressure on your pet’s neck, and, most importantly, no worry about causing harm to your furry friend.
Are There Several Different “Invisible Fence” Companies?
No, there aren’t several different “Invisible Fence” companies. The term “Invisible Fence” is often used generically to describe any buried wire and collar system designed to keep pets within a designated area. However, not all invisible fences are created equal, and different companies provide varying levels of technology and service.
Exploring the Landscape
When researching electric dog fence reviews, it’s important to understand the distinctions between different providers:
- Variety of Options: Multiple companies manufacture and sell invisible pet containment systems, each with its own unique features and levels of effectiveness.
- Technology Differences: Some companies may offer advanced technologies like GPS-based containment, while others rely on traditional buried wire systems.
- Training and Support: The quality of training programs and customer support can significantly differ between manufacturers.
- Brand-Specific Features: Some brands may offer exclusive features or patented technologies that set their products apart.
Examples of Companies
- PetSafe: Known for offering a wide range of pet containment systems, including wireless options.
- SportDOG: Provides robust and durable systems for both domestic pets and hunting dogs.
- Extreme Dog Fence: Specializes in customizable underground dog fences suitable for varied properties.
Key Takeaways
When evaluating the right invisible fence for your needs, consider these factors:
- Customer Reviews: Check multiple sources to get a balanced view of product performance.
- Technical Specifications: Make sure the system you choose meets your specific requirements, such as the size of the coverage area and the type of correction used.
- Installation and Training: Look into the installation process and the availability of training support to ensure your pet adapts well to the system.
But why settle for a system that relies on electric shocks when you can choose a safer, more reliable option? At Pet Playgrounds, our non-electric dog fences provide all the benefits of effective pet containment without the risks of shock collars or buried wire systems. Our fences offer a physical barrier that is secure, durable, and easy to install, ensuring your pet stays safe without the need for complicated technology or painful corrections.
With Pet Playgrounds, there’s no need to compare invisible fence companies because our solution is completely different—and better. Our hybrid dog fence system is designed to eliminate the stress, anxiety, and confusion often caused by electric fences. It’s a humane, long-lasting alternative that gives your pet the freedom to explore their space safely, with no shocks, no hidden boundaries, and no fear.
Do Electric Fence Collars Cause Abrasions?
Short answer: No, not inherently.
Abrasions from electric fence collars are typically not due to the collars themselves but rather from improper use. When collars are too tight or left on for extended periods without adjustment, they can cause pressure necrosis. This condition occurs when chronic irritation or reduced blood flow leads to inflammation and edema.
Preventing Abrasions
To avoid complications, follow these best practices:
- Ensure Proper Fit: Adjust the collar to fit snugly but not too tight. You should be able to slide two fingers under the collar comfortably.
- Regular Removal: Remove the collar every 12 hours to give your dog’s neck a break and prevent skin issues.
- Inspect Frequently: Regularly check your dog’s neck for any signs of sores or irritation. This is critical if your dog’s activity level or coat thickness changes.
Understanding Responsibility
As a pet owner, being attentive to your dog’s needs is crucial. Think of it as wearing the same pair of shoes continuously without taking them off; sooner or later, discomfort and sores will develop. By ensuring regular collar rotation and fit adjustments, you can significantly reduce the risk of abrasions and keep your pet comfortable and safe.
However, why risk these issues at all? At Pet Playgrounds, we offer a non-electric dog fence that eliminates the need for collars entirely. With our fence system, your dog can enjoy their freedom without the discomfort, skin irritation, or risks associated with electric fence collars. No more worrying about collar fit, rotation, or potential pressure points—our fence offers a humane, stress-free containment solution that allows your pet to roam safely without any of the drawbacks of electric fence systems.
By choosing Pet Playgrounds, you’re not only providing your dog with a safer environment but also removing the need for complicated and potentially harmful equipment. Our hybrid dog fence system is designed with your pet’s comfort in mind, ensuring they remain happy, safe, and free from the risks of abrasions or skin irritation caused by electric collars.
The issue of using shock collars may be polarizing to some, however formal studies have shown that electronic shock collars can increase stress in dogs and reduce their quality of life. The results from Schalke’s study indicate that electronic collars are extremely risky to use even for the short term. Stress levels of the dogs were high after just 7 days and were elevated as soon as they returned to the shock treatment environment. This is consistent with Polsky’s study, which shows that dogs may associate the shock and stress they receive, with the environment itself indefinitely.
At Pet Playgrounds, we believe that non-electric dog fences are a better, safer solution. Unlike electric collars that can induce fear, anxiety, and confusion, our non-electric fences provide a humane way to ensure your dog’s safety without the risk of shocks or behavioral issues. With our system, dogs can enjoy their environment freely, with no fear of crossing imaginary lines or encountering painful corrections.
Debunking Common Myths About Electric Fence Collars
There are several misconceptions surrounding electric fence collars that need to be addressed:
- Myth: Electric fence collars cause burns.
False. Contrary to popular belief, electric fence collars do not cause burns. Thermal burns occur at a frequency discharge of 3,000 to 5,000 Hz from a source producing 5 amps. Most reputable electric fence collars emit a maximum of 100 milliamps. That’s just 2% of the power needed to create a burn, and about 40% less than the shock you’d receive from a nylon carpet on a low-humidity day. - Myth: Electric fence collars cause abrasions.
False. Pressure Necrosis (inflammation and edema) is caused by chronic irritation or reduced vascular flow from over-tight or rarely-adjusted collars. Proper collar fit, as ensured by certified trainers, and best practices for collar removal and rotation, coat thickness, and regular inspection can prevent such issues.
So, given all this information, what is the best way to contain your dog on your property? Traditional fences are a thousand times better than underground invisible electrical fences. However, they are not designed to keep dogs from digging, chewing, or climbing out of their enclosure. Not only are they ineffective, but they are incredibly expensive. Our most popular product, a DIY 5-foot tall 200 linear foot fencing kit, sells for $1,299, but the materials for a traditional wood fence would cost you well over $6,500. (Note both prices include materials only). A chain link fence is less expensive. The materials to put up a chain link fence over the same property would run you roughly $2,250.
Additionally, chain link fences are like ladders to dogs and other predators. Most dogs can easily climb a traditional chain link fence. Our hybrid dog fence is strong and flexible. This flexibility is part of what makes climbing our fence virtually impossible from either side. The fence also feels like a net that dogs and other animals can’t climb.
In summary, while the emotional and psychological impacts of shock collars are significant and should not be dismissed, the physical harm often attributed to electric fence collars is largely based on misinformation. Understanding the proper use and fit of these collars can mitigate many of the purported risks, ensuring a safer environment for your furry friend. However, at Pet Playgrounds, our non-electric fence systems eliminate these risks entirely, giving both pets and their owners peace of mind without the complications associated with shock collars.
Giving your dog an area where he can exercise is critically important for the health, happiness, and behavior of your dogs. Owners that purchase shock collars think they are providing their dogs with a safe area to play in – however, as we have shown, many dogs are actually harmed by this inhumane product. A Pet Playgrounds non-electric dog fence is a physical fence that is affordable, easy to assemble and is the best way to keep your dog contained on your property. Don’t make the mistake of buying an invisible fencing system only to see your dog get out and then turn to other solutions. With Pet Playgrounds, you can afford to contain your dog for the first time.
Still have questions? Call us at 1-800-985-9202 or chat with us online.
6 Reasons why you should select a Pet Playgrounds non-electric dog fence
- Pet Playgrounds offers REAL climb, dig, and chew protection for any breed.
- It is nearly invisible. Stepping back just 10-15 feet makes the fence virtually disappear.
- It’s the most affordable fencing option to protect your dog.
- It can be installed virtually anywhere – by anyone, on any terrain, even over rocks, tree roots, and uneven land.
- Unlike wireless electric fences that might harm your dog, Pet Playgrounds fences keep other critters out as well as ensure that your dog does not run away.
- All materials last for 15-20 years and are virtually maintenance-free.
