Dog Fence FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Keeping Pets Safe and Secure

How Dog Fences Work

How does an electronic dog fence work?

An electronic dog fence uses a hidden boundary wire that carries a harmless FM radio signal to create an invisible “no-go zone” around your garden. Your dog or cat wears a lightweight receiver collar that is programmed to pick up the signal. As your pet approaches the wire, the collar emits a warning beep. If they continue into the zone, it delivers a mild, harmless static pulse to stop them. With structured dog fence training, pets quickly learn to respect the boundary and stay within the safe area.

A hidden underground dog fence, sometimes called an invisible dog fence or freedom fence, is far more reliable than GPS systems or wireless alternatives. Unlike wooden or wire panels, it can’t be dug under or jumped over and doesn’t block views of your lawn, borders, or patio. The system adapts to any garden shape, works around trees and landscaping, and even crosses driveways or paths without disruption. It’s a secure, discreet, and reliable option for keeping pets safe while preserving the look of your outdoor space.

Explore: Best Dog Fence Designs

Can dog fences be used for both dogs and cats?

Yes. A dog fence for dogs and cats is suitable for multi-pet households. Lightweight, programmable receiver collars are individually adjusted to the right level for each pet. For cats, because they rarely walk on a lead, we use a gentle indoor training technique to introduce them to the system in a safe, controlled environment before giving garden access. With consistent training, both dogs and cats quickly understand the boundary and enjoy safe freedom within your property

Read: Cat Containment with DogFence

At what age can a puppy use a dog fence?

We recommend starting puppy training on a dog fence system from around 12 weeks old, with 16 weeks being the ideal age for focus and maturity. The important thing to remember is that all dogs are different. Before starting containment training, your puppy should already be comfortable walking on a lead and responding to some basic verbal commands. This ensures they are developmentally ready to understand the warning beep and learn the boundary quickly and safely

Coming soon: Puppy Training Guide

Is a DogFence system guaranteed to be a dog proof fence?

Yes. With DogFence Ltd, every professionally installed system comes with our exclusive containment guarantee – something other suppliers don’t offer. This means your pet stays safely contained, even if you leave your driveway gates open. Unlike traditional fencing, which dogs can jump, climb, or dig under, our system creates a secure outdoor boundary that pets cannot cross. It prevents escapes, stops dogs from chasing livestock or wildlife, and protects them from running onto roads – all while giving them the freedom to enjoy your garden safely.

Read: Ways To Dog Proof Your Garden

What is a dog fence collar (sometimes called a dog electric fence collar)?

With DogFence Ltd, every professionally installed system comes with our exclusive containment guarantee – something other suppliers don’t offer. This means your pet stays safely contained, even if you leave your driveway gates open. Unlike traditional fencing, which dogs can jump, climb, or dig under, our system creates a secure outdoor boundary that pets cannot cross. It prevents escapes, stops dogs from chasing livestock or wildlife, and protects them from running onto roads – all while giving them the freedom to enjoy your garden safely.

Coming soon: Dog Fence Collar Guide

Do dog electric fences work outdoors?

Yes. A dog electric fence for gardens is built to work outdoors reliably in all weather. The boundary wire is buried underground and protected from rain, frost, and heat, so it won’t be affected by seasonal changes or lawn care. Collars are fully waterproof to 10 feet, meaning your dog can swim, dig, or play in wet conditions without damage. Even during snow or summer heatwaves, the system continues to function as normal. For added security, every DogFence installation includes surge and lightning protection, making it one of the most durable options for creating a safe outdoor dog fence boundary year-round.

Read: How To Dog Proof Your Garden

Is a DogFence system guaranteed to be a dog proof fence?

Yes. With DogFence Ltd, every professionally installed system comes with our exclusive containment guarantee – something other suppliers don’t offer. This means your pet stays safely contained, even if you leave your driveway gates open. Unlike traditional fencing, which dogs can jump, climb, or dig under, our system creates a secure outdoor boundary that pets cannot cross. It prevents escapes, stops dogs from chasing livestock or wildlife, and protects them from running onto roads – all while giving them the freedom to enjoy your garden safely.

Read: Dog Proof Fencing Does It Really Work?

Safety & Welfare

Are dog fences safe, or are they just shock collars?

Yes, a dog fence system is completely safe when installed and used correctly. Some people mistakenly call them dog shock collars, but that’s misleading. DogFence collars deliver only a mild impulse, similar to the tingle from a TENS machine or ab belt, and are designed as a gentle deterrent – not a punishment. They have been independently DEFRA tested, meet UK animal welfare standards, and are not included in the UK e-collar ban.

Each collar is programmable to your pet’s size and temperament, ensuring a safe and tailored level of correction. Built-in safety features such as auto shut-off prevent over-correction. With professional training, pets quickly learn to respond to the warning beep instead, meaning corrections soon become rare.

Read: Dog Fence Safety Tips

Are dog electric fences safe for dogs and cats?

Yes. A properly installed dog electric fence for gardens is completely safe for both dogs and cats. DogFence systems are DEFRA-tested, meet UK animal welfare standards, and are not part of the UK e-collar ban.

The “correction” delivered by the collar is a mild impulse, similar to the sensation of a TENS machine or abdominal exercise belt. It is not a punishment but a safe, humane way to modify behaviour and teach pets their boundaries. Levels are fully programmable to each pet’s size, temperament, and personality, so the system is gentle enough for cats and adaptable for multi-pet households.

Each collar is lightweight, waterproof, and designed with built-in protections. The key safety feature is auto shut-off, which prevents over-correction if a pet were ever to remain in the avoidance zone. With professional training, pets quickly respond to the warning beep instead of the impulse, meaning they stay safely contained in your garden with confidence and freedom.

Read more about containment fence research for cats here:

Do dog electric fences hurt pets?

No. A properly installed dog electric fence for gardens does not hurt your pet. The collar delivers a mild impulse, comparable to the tingle from a TENS machine or abdominal toning belt. It’s designed to be startling, not painful, and serves only as a gentle deterrent to stop unsafe behaviour such as leaving the garden or running onto a road.

In practice, most pets only experience the impulse a handful of times. With professional dog fence training, they quickly learn to respond to the warning beep instead and avoid correction altogether. The collars are DEFRA-tested, programmable to your pet’s size and temperament, waterproof, and equipped with safety shut-off to prevent over-correction.

This makes a DogFence system one of the safest and most humane ways to create a dog proof garden, giving your pets freedom while keeping them protected.

Will a Dog Fence Work for Stubborn or Determined Dogs?

Yes — a properly installed DogFence system works for all breeds and personalities, including so-called “stubborn dogs.”

When a dog ignores a fence, it’s almost always due to incorrect collar fit or incomplete training, not the system itself. At DogFence Ltd, we tailor every setup to your dog’s size, temperament, and behaviour, and provide a clear, structured training programme to ensure success.

For determined escape artists, a short refresher training plan usually solves the problem quickly. Because our collars are programmable, waterproof, and DEFRA-tested, they can be adjusted to suit even large or strong-willed dogs safely and humanely.

With the right collar fit and consistent reinforcement, your dog will quickly learn to respect the boundary and stay safely within your garden — without stress or confusion.

Coming soon: Training stubborn dogs with dog fence

Can anxious or nervous dogs use a dog fence system?

Yes. Many anxious or nervous dogs adapt well to a dog fence for gardens when training is introduced gently and positively. At DogFence Ltd, our installers use a gradual method that combines voice commands, warning beeps, and visible training flags. Sessions are short and supportive, helping your dog gain confidence without stress.

Collar levels are individually programmed to suit your pet’s size and temperament. For nervous dogs, we keep the settings especially low and focus on positive reinforcement, praise, and consistency. Most pets quickly learn to associate the beep with the boundary and avoid correction altogether, meaning they feel secure and free to enjoy the garden.

Coming soon: Training Nervous Dogs on DogFence

Is a dog fence safe for homes with children?

Yes. A professionally installed dog fence for gardens is completely safe for families with children. The boundary wire is buried underground and the transmitter is mounted indoors, out of reach, so there are no exposed parts for children to touch. The receiver collar is designed only for pets — the mild impulse it delivers is harmless to humans and cannot be triggered without the collar being worn correctly.

DogFence systems are DEFRA-tested, welfare-approved, and not part of the UK e-collar ban, giving parents complete peace of mind. This makes them one of the safest ways to keep pets contained while ensuring your garden remains a secure, child-friendly space.

Coming soon: Family & Child Safety with DogFence

Installation & Training

Can I install an electric fence for dogs myself?

Installing a dog fence for gardens can be done as a DIY project or by using a professional installer.

For a DIY dog fence kit, the boundary cable is usually laid around the edge of the garden and buried 2–6 inches below ground to protect it from lawn mowers, weather, and wildlife. The cable connects back to the indoor transmitter, which sends a harmless FM radio signal. Finally, the receiver collar is programmed to your pet, completing the setup so that you are ready to train your pet.

While a DIY dog fence installation is possible, it usually means digging the cable in by hand and carefully sealing joins. Some owners lay the wire above ground, but this makes it far more likely to be damaged.

That’s why many owners choose DogFence Ltd for professional underground dog fence installation. We use specialist trenchers and disc cutters to bury heavy-duty cable neatly into the ground — even across tarmac, gravel, or block-paved driveways.

We supply waterproof joins, surge protection, and carry out a full training programme for each pet. The result is a reliable, discreet system that keeps your pets safely contained — without the hassle of doing it yourself.

Compare: Professional Installation | DIY Dog Fence Kits

How Do Dogs Learn the Invisible Dog Fence Boundary?

Training your dog to an invisible dog fence is a gentle, step-by-step process that helps them understand where the safe boundary is. Using a mix of sound, sight, and mild static cues, dogs quickly learn to stay safely within their designated area.

The system works via a buried boundary wire that outlines your garden. Your dog wears a lightweight receiver collar that communicates with this wire. As your dog nears the boundary, the collar emits a warning beep — a clear signal that they are approaching the edge of their safe zone.

If your dog continues forward and crosses the boundary, the collar delivers a brief, harmless static impulse — similar to a light tap on the shoulder. This mild correction captures their attention and encourages them to turn back.

Dogs quickly associate the warning beep with the boundary, learning that turning back keeps them safely inside their garden. Most pets master this within days using positive reinforcement.

The Step-by-Step Dog Fence Training Process

At DogFence Ltd, we use a proven, gentle programme that’s been refined over decades to ensure your dog learns safely and confidently:

1. Introduce the Flags

Visible training flags are placed along the boundary line to give your dog a clear visual marker. These flags help both you and your pet understand where the boundary lies.

2. On-Lead Practice

After the initial professional training, you’ll reinforce learning with short, on-lead sessions for 3–5 days within the flagged area. This helps your dog associate the warning beep and visual boundary.

3. Supervised Off-Lead Sessions

Once your dog consistently stops at the boundary while on the lead, you’ll move to supervised off-lead training, building confidence and consistency.

4. Gradual Flag Removal

As your dog reliably respects the invisible line, the training flags are gradually removed. By this stage, your dog has fully learned to stay within the safe zone — even without visible markers.

Most dogs are fully trained within a week, and many adapt in just a few days.
The keys to success are consistency, calm reinforcement, and ensuring the collar fit and signal strength are set correctly for your pet.

Coming soon: Dog Fence Training: Step-by-Step Guide

Can I install an electric fence for dogs myself?

Yes, you can. Our DogFence DIY kits are designed for confident homeowners who prefer to install their own system. Each kit includes everything you need for a professional-quality setup — robust boundary cable, full-size training flags, waterproof cable joins, detailed instructions, and ongoing telephone support from our technical team.

The installation process is straightforward: the cable is laid around the perimeter of your garden (either buried a few inches below the surface or attached along existing boundaries such as fences or walls) and connected back to the indoor transmitter. Once the system is tested, your pet’s receiver collar is programmed and ready for training.

While DIY installation is a cost-effective choice, it’s important to allow enough time for careful layout planning and thorough joining of any cable connections. The wire must form a continuous loop for the transmitter to send a signal, so precise handling is key to long-term reliability.

For smaller gardens or simple layouts, self-installation works beautifully. For larger, sloped, or complex properties — or where driveways or multiple zones are involved — we usually recommend a professional installation. Our engineers use specialist trenchers and driveway-cutting tools to bury heavy-duty cable cleanly, ensuring an invisible, durable boundary with built-in lightning protection and a lifetime equipment warranty.

How will the dog fence wire cross my driveway?

The dog fence boundary wire crosses a driveway by being installed discreetly beneath the surface. The method used depends on the driveway material to ensure a seamless and durable result.

Here’s how a professional installation handles different driveway surfaces:

Hard Surfaces (Concrete, Tarmac, Block Paving): A fine, shallow groove is cut into the surface with a specialised saw. The electric dog fence wire is placed inside this groove, which is then sealed with a professional-grade filler that matches the driveway. This makes the wire completely invisible and protects it from vehicle traffic.

Soft Surfaces (Gravel, Grass, Dirt): The invisible dog fence wire is buried just a few centimetres deep using a professional cable plough. This ensures the wire is out of sight and safe from damage.

Learn: About how the dog fence wire will cross the driveway.

How Do I Take My Dog for a Walk with a Dog Fence Installed?

It’s one of the most common questions we’re asked — and the good news is that walking your dog with a dog fence installed is easy and stress-free.

With simple, consistent practice, your dog learns that crossing the invisible boundary is only allowed when they’re on a lead and with you. Most dogs master this routine within 7–10 days.

The Key Rule: Reverse Training

We use a technique called “reverse training.”
It teaches your dog to understand the difference between being safely contained in the garden and going for a walk. Your dog learns that they may only cross the boundary under three clear conditions:

1. The dog fence collar is removed.
2. They are on a lead and under your control.
3. They receive a specific command from you to cross.

This clear distinction ensures your dog stays safely contained at all times, while still enjoying freedom and walks beyond the garden.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Leave the Garden

Follow this same calm, structured routine every time you go for a walk:

1. Remove the Collar – Always take off the receiver collar before leaving the property.
2. Attach the Lead – Clip on your dog’s regular lead or harness.
3. Pause and Command – Stop just before the boundary line. Give a clear cue such as “walk” or “go.”
4. Cross the Line – Step confidently across the boundary, keeping your dog close beside you.
5. Praise and Reward – Once outside, give verbal praise or a small treat to reinforce the behaviour.

When returning home, reverse these steps so your dog understands that the boundary is back in effect.
Consistency builds confidence — and makes the process second nature for both of you.

Watch our video demonstration with Lionel to see how quickly dogs grasp this simple routine. Watch here on How to take your dog for a walk with a dog fence.

Why This Method Works

This method eliminates confusion and strengthens your dog’s understanding of the invisible boundary.
By always associating the same actions — collar off, lead on, verbal command — with leaving the garden, your dog learns that the dog fence remains active at all other times.

The result?
A confident, well-trained dog who enjoys safe off-lead time in the garden and calm, happy walks with you.

Legal & Practical

Are invisible dog fences legal in the UK?

Yes — hidden or invisible dog fences are fully legal in England, Scotland, and Wales when installed and used responsibly. The key requirement is that they must be used with welfare-led training and DEFRA-approved equipment.

In 2018, the UK Government reviewed the use of electronic collars. Following expert consultation, including input from DogFence Ltd, containment fences were specifically exempted from the ban on remote static collars. This exemption recognises that professionally installed systems — when paired with correct training — are safe, humane, and effective for keeping pets secure.

DogFence systems are DEFRA-tested and compliant with UK animal welfare regulations, featuring automatic safety shut-off, anti-linger protection, and adjustable correction levels. They are widely used by vets, behaviourists, and pet owners across the UK to prevent roaming and road accidents.

Learn more: UK Dog Fence Law: What Owners Need to Know

Can You Install an Invisible Dog Fence in a Rented Property?

Yes — you can safely install an invisible dog fence in a rented property with your landlord’s permission. The system is non-invasive, removable, and leaves no lasting damage to lawns or driveways. The boundary wire is buried just below the surface and can be lifted easily when you move or can be surface laid and pinned down with tent pegs.

For tenants, an invisible dog fence offers a flexible, cost-effective way to keep pets secure without needing to build physical fencing — ideal for gardens where permanent changes aren’t allowed.

DogFence systems are fully portable, so if you move house, you can take the transmitter and collars with you and reinstall the layout at your new address. Our team can even help you plan the new layout and retrain your pet to the new boundary.

Learn more: Dog Fencing for Rental Properties: Safe, Temporary Solutions That Work

Does an outdoor dog fence work on large or uneven properties?

Yes — modern wired dog fence systems work from small town gardens to estates of 350+ acres, and they handle slopes, woodland, and water boundaries with ease. We design the boundary to follow your land (fields, tree lines, lake edges, driveways), using heavy-duty, buried cable with surge protection for long-term reliability. Internal “no-go” loops can protect areas like stock yards, ponds, veg beds, or play spaces while leaving the rest of the land open.

For very large or complex sites, our team completes a professional survey and layout plan, sets collar levels for each pet, and provides structured training so pets learn the boundary quickly. If budget is a concern, here are ways to keep coverage high and costs sensible:

Read: Cheap Dog Fence Ideas

Does an Invisible Dog Fence Work on Large or Uneven Properties?

Yes — modern wired invisible dog fences work reliably on any size or shape of property, from small town gardens to estates of 350+ acres.

These systems easily adapt to slopes, woodland, and water boundaries. Our engineers design each boundary to follow your land — including fields, tree lines, lake edges, and driveways — using heavy-duty buried cable with surge protection for long-term reliability.

You can even add internal “no-go” loops to protect specific areas such as stock yards, ponds, vegetable gardens, or children’s play spaces, while leaving the rest of the land open and safe for your pets.

For very large or complex properties, our professional installers will:

• Complete an online site survey and layout plan
• Set collar levels for each pet
• Provide structured training so dogs and cats learn the boundary quickly and confidently

If budget is a concern, we also offer practical ways to maximise coverage while keeping costs sensible.

Get Quote: Quote

Can a Dog Fence Be Used in Extreme Weather or Near Electronic Devices?

Yes — DogFence systems are built to perform reliably in all UK weather conditions and around most household or garden electronics.

The buried boundary wire is fully weatherproof and protected against rain, frost, snow, and summer heat, while the indoor transmitter operates safely year-round.

Because DogFence uses an FM radio frequency (not AM like other brands), it’s highly resistant to interference from nearby electronic devices — including Wi-Fi routers, electric gates, and robotic lawnmowers. This ensures a stable signal and consistent boundary, even in homes with advanced smart technology.

During installation, our engineers carry out signal integrity checks to prevent crossover with other electrical systems and confirm that the field remains strong and stable.

Regular maintenance checks after storms or power surges will keep your fence performing perfectly for years to come.

Learn more: Dog Fence Safety Tips

What Are the Running Costs of a Dog Fence?

Running costs are minimal — around 25p a day to power the transmitter. That’s less than the price of a cup of tea for complete peace of mind.

Collar batteries are replaced every 6–24 months, depending on the collar model and how many pets are using the system.

DogFence collars are known for their exceptional battery life and reliability — the longest in the industry:

• Mini Collar: up to 6 months
• Standard Collar: up to 2 years

Optional battery plans are available to keep your system running effortlessly year-round, ensuring your pets stay safely contained without interruption.

Learn more: Call us on 01628 476475

What Maintenance Is Required for a Dog Electric Fence?

Very little — your DogFence system is designed for long-term reliability with minimal upkeep.

To keep it performing perfectly, just follow these simple steps:

• Check collar fit regularly to ensure comfort and consistent performance.
• Keep the transmitter clean and dust-free.
• Inspect the boundary wire after any landscaping, digging, or major weather events.
• Replace collar batteries as recommended for your model.

A quick visual check once a month is usually all that’s needed. With proper care, your DogFence system will provide years of dependable protection — quietly keeping your pets safe every day, in all seasons.

How Do I Know if My Dog Fence System Is Working?

Your DogFence system includes several built-in features to help you confirm that it’s operating correctly. A quick check only takes a minute and gives complete peace of mind.

Here’s what to look for:

• Transmitter lights: The status light shows when the boundary is active.
• Collar check: Walk the collar slowly along the boundary line — it should emit a warning beep (and, if enabled, a brief correction).
• Wire break alarm: If the boundary loop is broken, the transmitter will sound an audible alarm.
• Pre-use test: Always test the collar directly at the transmitter box before each use to ensure it’s responding.

⚠️ Note: Sometimes a partial wire break — often from a temporary repair with tape — can still complete the loop but weaken the signal so the collar doesn’t activate. If this happens, perform a short loop test to confirm and isolate the issue.

Watch our step-by-step video: How to Perform a Short Loop Test

With these quick checks, you can be confident that your DogFence system is functioning perfectly and keeping your pets safe day after day.

Can Lawn Care or Mowing Damage the Invisible Dog Fence Boundary Wire?

It’s very unlikely that normal garden maintenance will affect your DogFence boundary wire. The cable is buried 3–6 inches underground, safely below the reach of lawnmowers, aerators, or scarifiers.

Because the wire sits beneath the surface, you can mow, rake, or treat your lawn as usual without risk of damage.

If the wire is accidentally cut during digging, edging, or landscaping, the transmitter will instantly sound an alarm, alerting you to the break.

Repairs are quick and straightforward using DogFence splice kits, which permanently reseal and protect the wire for long-term reliability.

Do You Offer Repair and Servicing for Invisible or Electric Dog Fence Systems?

Yes — DogFence Ltd provides full repair and servicing for all types of invisible and electric dog fence systems, including those installed by other brands.

Our experienced engineers are equipped to handle everything from minor faults to full system overhauls. We can:

• Locate and repair wire breaks quickly and accurately using professional signal-tracing equipment.
• Replace damaged collars, transmitters, or cables — even for non-DogFence systems.
• Upgrade outdated or unreliable fences to our modern FM digital technology for improved safety, consistency, and reliability.

If your fence has stopped working or the transmitter alarm is sounding, we can often diagnose and fix the fault on-site the same day.

Some repairs may even be covered under warranty (hardware only), depending on the model and installation date.

Contact our support team to book a repair visit or discuss your options — and get your system back to keeping your pets safe where they belong.

What Happens If a Dog Fence Collar Battery Dies?

If your dog fence collar battery runs flat, the collar will no longer warn or correct your pet — which means they could cross the boundary. That’s why it’s important to check battery levels regularly and replace them as recommended.

DogFence collars are fitted with long-life, replaceable batteries and include a low-battery warning before power runs out.

We’re proud to offer the longest battery life in the industry:

• Mini Collar: up to 6 months
• Standard Collar: up to 2 years

When your collar starts flashing red instead of green, it’s time to replace the battery. Replacement batteries are easy to fit and available directly from DogFence.

For complete convenience, we also offer an automatic battery replacement programme, where a fresh battery is mailed to you at the correct interval — so you never have to worry about remembering.

If your dog fence collar battery runs flat, the collar will no longer warn or correct your pet — meaning they could cross the boundary. That’s why it’s important to check battery levels regularly and replace them as recommended.

Contact us to order replacement batteries or check your collar model.

What Happens to an Invisible Dog Fence During a Power Cut?

If there’s a power cut, your DogFence transmitter will temporarily stop sending the boundary signal, so your pet’s collar will not activate until power is restored.

However, the system remains completely safe — the collar won’t trigger or correct your pet while the power is off.

If you have a battery backup fitted, your fence will continue running for up to 10 hours, ensuring your pets stay protected even during longer outages. When electricity returns, the boundary signal automatically resumes, and you don’t need to reboot or reset anything.

All professional DogFence systems include built-in surge and lightning protection to prevent damage during storms and power fluctuations. Power cuts are generally rare and short, but if you live in an area with frequent power cuts, we recommend adding one of our simple backup battery options (available on the Performance and SmartFence models) for uninterrupted safety and peace of mind.

Learn more about system reliability: Dog Fence Safety Tips

Are Dog Fence Collars Waterproof?

Yes — DogFence collars are fully waterproof, tested for submersion up to 10 feet (3 metres) in both fresh and salt water.

Your dog can swim, paddle, or play in the rain without damaging the collar or affecting performance.

Each collar is completely sealed against moisture and corrosion, ensuring it continues to work safely after swimming, washing, or wet-weather play.

Unlike many cheaper DIY or wireless systems, DogFence collars are tested for full submersion, not just “splash-proof” conditions — making them ideal for active dogs that love water.

How Long Does an Electronic Dog Fence Last?

With professional installation and basic care, a DogFence system can last for decades.

The underground boundary cable is designed for long-term outdoor use and is fully protected against moisture, frost, and sunlight.

All professionally installed DogFence systems include a lifetime equipment warranty, covering transmitters and collars for as long as you own the system.

Our DIY kits use the same premium-grade components and include 2–4 year warranties, depending on the model.

Simple routine checks — such as collar fit, battery replacement, and a quick inspection of the wire after groundworks — will keep your fence performing perfectly year after year.

Learn more: About professional installation and DIY dog fence kits.

Pricing & Costs

How Much Does a DogFence System Cost?

The cost of a DogFence system depends on your garden size and shape, the number of pets, and whether you choose a DIY kit or a professionally installed system.

Our DIY dog fence kits start from a few hundred pounds and include everything you need for safe installation — transmitter, receiver collar, heavy-duty cable, and training guide.

For professional installations, prices start from around £1,000 for a half-acre property, including full pet training and a driveway crossing. Every professionally installed DogFence system is custom-designed to suit your garden and includes:

• Expert layout planning and installation
• On-site pet training with our team
• Lifetime equipment warranty
• Containment promise
• Surge protection and professional-grade components

Choosing a DogFence system means long-term safety and reliability, not just a quick fix. With the longest warranties in the industry and proven FM digital technology, it’s a secure investment in your pet’s freedom and safety.

Learn more: or Request a Free Quote to receive a tailored estimate for your property.

Is DogFence Cheaper Than Traditional Fencing?

Usually, yes — especially for large or complex gardens.

Installing traditional fencing around a one-acre property can cost several thousand pounds, and even then, determined dogs may jump over, dig under, or damage it.

A DogFence hidden containment system secures your entire garden at a fraction of the cost, without affecting your views, landscaping, or garden design.

Installation is quick, maintenance is minimal, and there are no ongoing repair or replacement costs like you get with wood, wire, or mesh fencing.

In most cases, customers save hundreds — even thousands — of pounds compared with installing new physical fencing, while enjoying a safer, more flexible solution for their pets.

Learn more: Get a free quote or read why traditional fencing fails for escape artist dogs!

What Are the Ongoing Costs of a DogFence System?

Almost nothing — DogFence systems are exceptionally low-cost to run.

The only regular expense is replacing the collar batteries, which last between 6 and 24 months depending on the collar type and the number of pets you have.

The transmitter uses just around 25p of electricity a day, making DogFence one of the most cost-efficient pet containment systems in the UK.

There’s no servicing or maintenance plan required — simply check your pet’s collar fit and battery level regularly to keep the system running perfectly year after year.