Tag Archive for: electronic dog fence

dog proof fencing, electric dog fence, invisible dog fence, dogwatch hidden fence

Dog proof fencing – Does it really work?

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Let’s talk about dog proof fencingImage result for dog proof fencing

Dogs are a man’s best friend and we all want them to be part of the family, but trying to keep them contained and safe can be a tricky. Dog proof fencing is not only difficult to source but it can be expensive. According to the highways Agency, in 2016-2017 there were 286 reported incidents of dog deaths on UK roads. When it comes to installing a dog fence that is dog proof what are the options?

We have all spent hours searching online, gathering tips and ideas on how to install dog proof fencing. Often after hours of searching we can still be none the wiser. Lets examine the types of fencing and find those are truly dog proof!

Traditional fencing – is it dog proof?

Some properties have no physical forms of boundary so the idea of traditional fencing could be the only option. The more common form of dog proof fencing is post and rail.

Post & Rail

This is generally a costly option as it is installed by contractors who can charge upwards of £35/hr for labour and equipment and then there is the cost of the fencing itself which can be approximately £15/m. A customer recently spend £6000 for a 4 acre plot on this form of fencing and their dog was still escaping. Most fencing starts from around £30.00 per metre.

Post and rail fencing needs to be high enough to stop the dog leaping over it. German Shepherds, Weimarners and Pointers  can clear a 10ft fence in the blink of an eye. Then there are the diggers! Your dog may work on a tunnel over several days – so you may not be able to see it until it’s too late.

Having high fencing can look imposing and may block any views such as pretty countryside. Equally concreting netting into the ground is costly and unfriendly to small wildlife (in particular hedgehogs).

Trellis

 If you have real leaper you may want to install Trellis on top of existing fencing. This will may depend on local planning restrictions.

Wildlife

 There are pro’s and cons to installing traditional fencing when it comes to wildlife.

  • Wildlife cannot may not be able to pass  from garden to garden
  • Wildlife can damage fencing when trying to gain access to a neighboring garden
  • Dog’s will use holes made by wildlife to escape
  • Expensive patching up fences due to damage.

Dog runs and cages

Dogs love to run around and get as much exercise as they possible. If you have a large garden you may not be able to see where they are. Runs and cages are an ideal a way to keep them contained in an area. By using a run or cage they can still have some outside time. Whilst most cages are dog proof they don’t give much opportunity for exercise. For some dogs such as Labradors, Lurchers and Jack Russells they thrive on running around. They need to be stimulated by chasing birds or rabbits. With a run or cage this will not be possible.

Dog runs are ideal as a temporary measure. This type of dog proof fencing costs in the region of £300 for a 7.5ft dog run and goes up to around £1500 for an outdoor kennel.

Points to consider

  • May be able to dig underneath
  • Must have a kennel or somewhere to shelter within the run
  • Do not offer much exercise opportunity
  • Expensive to purchase

An adult dog can be caged for as long as eight hours on occasion, although daily crating of this length can have negative effects on your dog’s well-being. Make sure that they received adequate exercise before a long stay in the crate. The exercise should be at least 30 to 60 minutes.

All tied up – or dog fence?

Most rural gardens are not dog proof. It can be tricky to monitor dogs all of the time in the garden. They pick up a scent of a rabbit or see a group of people walking across a field. Dogs are social and they naturally want to say hello. Taking your eye off them or not having complete control can result in dogs running into the road and getting injured. Notably dog attacks on sheep are rising and it is essential to keep dogs under control. It maybe that the dog ran out whilst chasing a rabbit and ended up with livestock. These are real day to day scenarios often encountered by rural dog owners.

Is tethering a solution?

According to the RSPCA tethering isn’t illegal but it does have advisories.

dog proof fencing can be using a tether

Tethering does not offer freedom

“Tethering up dogs is only suitable for a very short periods of time, as dogs left for longer may become distressed or potentially cause injury to themselves”. Dogs love freedom and tethering them up isn’t the best way to give them that freedom.

Rather surprisingly we would agree with the RSPCA on this point! We have often been asked to install a dog fence for an escaping dog. On arrival the dog is tethered and usually they are all tied up against the tether post.

  • Does not allow freedom
  • Can be distressful for the dog
  • Must have access to shelter

Dog Fence containment systems – are really these dog proof?

Interestingly here at Dogfence Ltd one of our most common questions is “what is a dog fence”? At DogFence Ltd we supply and install electronic dog proof fencing to keep your pets secure within a boundary. This keeps them safe from roads and away from the threat of a farmer’s gun. The cable is installed underground around an agreed boundary.  White flags are then placed around the perimeter so that the dogs have a visual aid during the training. A radio signal is run through the cable from a transmitter and sent to a small collar worn the the pet. The receiver collar omits a warning beep followed by an impulse when the dogs approach the boundary. Dog Fences are far more dog proof than a traditional fence. cannot jump over signal

  • Cannot dig under the signal
  • Can be installed on any terrain
  • Covers driveways and open areas (river banks, lakes and ditches)

This form of dog proof fencing is positive because it gives the dog their freedom. A Dog Fence gives you as a pet owner the peace of mind that the dog is safe. It has also been proven to show that it strengthens the relationship between owners and their pets. Below are a few other deciding factors:-

Points to consider

An electronic dog fence is affordable for most people. Although electronic fencing can be expensive, it is often significantly less than the cost of materials and installation for traditional fencing.

Electric fences give homeowners some flexibility. Electric fences (stock fences) should not be confused with electronic dog fences. Of course electric fences are still physical fences and if touched by a human or child will give a significant jolt. They are also aesthetically unpleasing as they are designed for agricultural and not domestic users. Electronic fences don’t interfere with surrounding views. In addition, an electronic fence can be installed more quickly than many traditional fencing options and are safe to both wildlife and humans. These fences are often referred to as “invisible fences”.

An Invisible dog fence is proven to be effective. Many dog owners choose this fence because other alternatives have failed to keep their dog within the boundary. The dog either climbs over or digs under a traditional fence. In most cases, dogs quickly learn to stay within the boundary line to avoid the warning signal and correction. They work silently 24/7 covering all areas of the property, even driveways and open areas.

 

dog proof fencing with an electronic dog fence.

Electronic dog fence – a fraction of the cost of traditional fencing.

There are many types of fencing and when it comes to choosing dog proof fencing this will depend on your budget. If you choose to go down the traditional route this will be a large investment but it may also enhance your properties value. Electronic fencing is most certainly the cheapest option. This type of fencing can be moved from one property to another making it the most effective method of dog proof fencing.

To obtain an estimate or learn more call us on 01628 476475.  https://dogfence.co.uk/quote/

stop dogs from escaping through driveway with dog fence

How to stop the dog escaping from the garden?

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Ways to stop the dog escaping from the garden?

A common question that we hear from owners is how can I stop the dog escaping from the garden. Dogs will be dogs, some escape because they have a high prey drive or they are bored, sometimes it’s food driven. When considering dog proofing the garden there numerous options available. An escaping dog is not only dangerous but can be very stressful.

Traditional Fencing:

Close board or wooden fencing is a popular option for smaller properties. The cost of close board fencing starts from around £80.00 per meter installed but it depends on the property location and terrain. Stock fencing is a slightly more cost effective solution for some properties but may not be secure enough for small dogs and of course dogs will be dogs and they can dig and burrow under both close board or stock fences.  In general the weakest part of the property is the driveway. To dog proof a driveway can run into thousands depending on the type of gates chosen. If the dog is escaping onto a road then securing this area is a priority but will be costly and so a traditional fence may not be the best solution to stop the dog escaping from the garden

Radio dog fences

Radio dog fences have been available for over 40 years but many people still do not know that they exist. They are often referred to as invisible fences or a freedom fence. A radio dog fence is usually a much cheaper method to help prevent the dog escaping from the garden. The fence is more like a virtual fence – there is nothing to see and the fence can cover large areas or areas that would not easily be fenced by a traditional fence. A radio fence is a simple solution to stop the dog escaping and in monetary terms an inexpensive solution.

So what is a radio dog fence. In simple terms it is just a radio transmitter, a boundary wire that surrounds the boundary or the area to be “fenced” and an innovative computer collar which is worn by the pet. The transmitter sends a coded signal through the boundary wire and a “no go zone” is set when the pet enters the no go zone the computer collar activates and lets out a high pitched warning beep to alert the pet that they are in the wrong area. If the pet continues further info the zone the collar then gives out a small static shock (correction) which is set to the pets personality. With the assistance of some temporary training flags and training from the fence installer the pet quickly learns where the boundary is.

The great advantage of radio dog fence is that is covers all areas including the driveway so if someone leaves the gate open the pet cannot wander in the road. Also the radio signal is 360 degrees around the cable so dog or cat cannot climb over or dig under the signal. With the DogFence system the signal is also quicker than any other pet fence worldwide so that dog or cat cannot out run the fence.

Electric stock fencing:

Electric fencing or electric stock fencing can be used for pet containment but it is not advisable and the shock given out by an electric dog fence is 250 times higher than the output on a radio dog fence. Also with an electric fence if the pet gets stuck in the fence they will continue to be shocked until the fence stops or they are rescued but with a radio dog fence the fence shuts down after 15 seconds to ensure the pet is not over corrected. Of course an electric fence is not only more expensive but cannot cover gateways or driveways and if there are children or members of the public close by they are also affected by the electric fence.

Dog Runs

Dog runs are a great solution for keeping your dog within a confined area of the garden but these can be very costly and unsightly and of course will only give the dog a limited area to use. It is also advisable to install a dog kennel within the run so that dog has somewhere to go to if it is very hot or rainy. In some areas planning restrictions may apply and it is always advisable to check with our local council.

Other Solutions to stop the dog escaping maybe to try to train the dog to stay in the garden, for some breeds this maybe a workable solution but for those with a high prey drive or who have had a previous history of constantly escaping the drive to leave the property may be too great.

Summary

Here at DogFence Ltd we meet customers with different breeds and personalities but they all have one thing in common! they want a solution to the stop the dog escaping. Many have tried other forms of fencing and many are sceptical as to whether a radio dog fence will work. Our customers are our best advertisement (Customer Testimonials).

If you would like to learn more about our radio dog fences please call us on 03450 623623 or visit our web site www.dogfence.co.uk.

Wireless dog fence vs wired dog fence showing a circular wireless boundary compared with a wired boundary following the full garden perimeter

Wireless dog fence – the truth – do they work?

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Wireless Dog Fence vs Wired Dog Fence: Which Is Best for Your Garden?

A wireless dog fence and a wired dog fence are both designed to help keep a dog safely within a defined area, but they create that boundary in very different ways. A wireless dog fence generally creates a circular boundary around a transmitter, while a wired dog fence follows a boundary cable positioned around the actual shape of your garden.

That difference can be particularly important in UK gardens, where boundaries are rarely perfect circles and properties may include slopes, woodland, outbuildings, open driveways or neighbouring roads. Your dog’s personality, behaviour and drive also matter when choosing any form of electronic dog containment.

At DogFence, we have specialised in electronic pet containment in the UK for more than 20 years and professionally install wired dog fence systems. We don’t believe one solution is right for every dog or every property, so this guide explains the practical differences between a wireless dog fence and a wired dog fence – including situations where a wireless system may be perfectly suitable.

Wireless dog fence vs wired dog fence showing a circular wireless boundary compared with a wired boundary following the full garden perimeter

Wireless vs wired dog fence: a wireless system typically creates a circular boundary around the transmitter, while a wired dog fence can follow the full shape of your property, including gardens, hedges and driveways.

 

What is a wireless dog fence?

A wireless dog fence uses a transmitter to create an electronic containment area without installing a boundary wire around the perimeter of the property.

The transmitter is normally positioned inside the property and sends out a radio signal. The dog wears a compatible receiver collar and is trained to recognise the warning given as it approaches the edge of the permitted area.

Because there is no perimeter wire to install, wireless dog fences can be relatively quick and simple to set up. For the right dog and the right property, this can be a significant advantage.

However, a traditional wireless dog fence generally creates a circular or radial boundary around the transmitter. The electronic boundary therefore does not necessarily follow your fences, hedges, driveway or actual property line.

Wireless systems can also be more affected by the environment in which they are used. Uneven or undulating ground, dense woodland, trees and buildings can potentially affect how consistently a wireless signal reaches different parts of a property.

What is a wired dog fence?

A wired dog fence uses a boundary cable to establish the containment area. The cable can be positioned around the perimeter of the garden or property, allowing the electronic boundary to follow its actual shape.

The dog wears a receiver collar and, just as with a wireless dog fence, must be properly trained to recognise the boundary and respond appropriately to its warning.

Because the boundary is determined by the position of the wire rather than the transmission of a wireless signal across the whole property, a wired electric dog fence can be designed around:

  • irregularly shaped gardens
  • existing fences and hedges
  • driveways and entrance gates
  • long or narrow gardens
  • woodland and heavily wooded areas
  • undulating or sloping ground
  • outbuildings
  • large gardens and rural properties
  • farms and equestrian properties
  • areas within the property where the dog should not have access
  • ponds, swimming pools and other exclusion zones

This flexibility is one of the principal reasons DogFence specialises in professionally installed wired dog fence systems.

Wireless vs wired dog fence: what’s the difference?

Wireless dog fence vs wired dog fence UK comparison showing differences in boundary shape, uneven terrain, woodland, buildings and driveways

Wireless vs wired dog fence comparison. Wireless systems typically create a circular radio boundary, while a wired dog fence can follow the actual shape of a property, including irregular gardens, woodland, slopes, driveways and outbuildings.

Neither type of electronic dog fence is automatically right for every dog or every property. The most appropriate system depends on the layout of the land, nearby hazards, terrain, buildings and how accurately the containment boundary needs to be positioned. Your dog’s personality, behaviour and drive are equally important considerations.

When can a wireless dog fence work well?

A wireless dog fence can be a practical option where the property has plenty of relatively level, open space and a circular containment area can be positioned safely away from roads and other hazards.

It may also appeal to owners who want a system that can be installed relatively quickly without laying a boundary cable.

The important question is not simply whether a wireless dog fence works. It is whether the boundary created by that particular system works for your property and your dog’s personality, behaviour and drive.

If the permitted wireless area fits comfortably within the safe part of the garden and the property is suitable for a radio-based boundary, a wireless dog fence may be sufficient.

When is a wired dog fence more suitable?

A wired dog fence can be particularly useful when the electronic boundary needs to follow the actual shape and features of the property.

This is common in UK properties where a garden may have hedges on one side, fencing on another, an open driveway at the front, neighbouring properties nearby or uneven ground.

Instead of fitting the garden inside a predetermined wireless containment area, the wired boundary can be designed around the property.

A wired dog fence can be particularly suitable for:

  • long or narrow gardens
  • L-shaped or irregular plots
  • open driveways
  • properties bordered by roads
  • dogs escaping through hedges
  • dogs digging underneath existing fencing
  • dogs jumping or climbing physical fences
  • properties requiring specific exclusion areas
  • properties with undulating or sloping ground
  • properties with outbuildings
  • woodland and heavily wooded properties
  • farms and equestrian properties
DogFence wired dog fence installation across steep and undulating ground

Unlike wireless systems, a wired dog fence can follow the contours of steep and undulating ground. Here, the DogFence boundary wire is being installed across challenging rural terrain.

Can a wireless dog fence follow the shape of my garden?

A traditional wireless dog fence generally cannot follow an irregular property boundary in the same way as a wired dog fence. Its containment area is determined by the radio signal produced by the transmitter and is typically circular or radial.

This may not matter on a large, open property. However, it becomes much more important when the safe boundary needs to run close to fences, hedges, roads, neighbouring gardens or an open driveway.

A wired dog fence provides greater control because the boundary is established by the position of the cable.

Can a dog fence create exclusion zones within the garden?

One of the advantages of a properly designed wired dog fence is the ability to create boundaries around specific areas within a property, not just around its outer perimeter.

Depending on the system design, dogs can be kept away from areas such as swimming pools, ponds, children’s play areas, vegetable gardens, flower beds or other places where you don’t want them to go.

This can be particularly useful on larger or more complex properties where the dog can have considerable freedom without necessarily having access to every part of the land.

Read more about using DogFence to create dog exclusion zones around areas of your garden.

Can wireless and wired dog fences work with existing fencing?

Yes. An electronic dog fence does not necessarily replace an existing fence or hedge.

Many DogFence customers already have physical boundaries but have a dog that has discovered a way to escape – perhaps by digging underneath a fence, jumping or climbing it, squeezing through gaps or pushing through a hedge.

In these situations, a wired dog fence can be positioned to work alongside the existing physical boundary and provide an additional layer of containment.

Read our guide to dog-proofing your garden and preventing common escape routes.

Can I install a wireless dog fence myself?

Yes. Many wireless dog fences are specifically designed for DIY installation, and this is one of their main attractions. Some wired dog fence systems can also be self-installed, while others are supplied as part of a professional installation and training service.

However, installing the equipment is only one part of establishing a successful electronic containment system. The position of the boundary is important, but training is one of the most important parts of any dog fence set-up.

Whether the dog fence is wired or wireless, the complete recommended training programme should be carried out. The dog needs to learn where the boundary is, understand the warning and know exactly how to respond to it. Good training helps create a successful outcome in which the dog can confidently enjoy the freedom available within its safe area.

If you are installing a system yourself, check that it is supplied with enough training flags to mark the boundary clearly. As a practical guide, we recommend at least 20 training flags for every 100 metres of boundary, together with comprehensive, easy-to-follow training instructions.

Support is also worth considering before choosing where to buy your dog fence. If purchasing through a general third-party online retailer, check what specialist dog-fence training and technical support will actually be available after purchase. A reputable specialist dog fence supplier should be able to help not only with the initial set-up and training, but also with questions and ongoing support after the system has been installed.

At DogFence, our professionally installed systems include an assessment of the property, boundary design, installation and structured training with the dog and owner, together with ongoing support.

Why is training so important with a wireless or wired dog fence?

Training is fundamental whether you choose a wireless dog fence or a wired dog fence. The technology establishes the boundary, but the training teaches the dog what that boundary means.

A receiver collar should never simply be placed on a dog and the dog left to discover the boundary for itself. The dog should be introduced to the boundary in a structured way so that it learns to recognise the warning and retreat confidently into the safe area.

DogFence has always regarded training as part of the containment system rather than an optional extra.

A dog in training on a DogFence electronic dog fence systems

Training the dog using the marker flags

DogFence and the UK Government: why installation and training matter

DogFence consulted directly with the UK Government in 2018 during discussions surrounding electronic training collars and electronic containment fences.

At that time, the Government’s proposals envisaged electronic containment systems being supplied with professional installation and training, reflecting the importance placed on correct system set-up and proper training when using this type of containment.

That principle remains central to the way DogFence works today. When an electronic dog fence is correctly specified, installed and introduced through appropriate training, it can help prevent dogs escaping from their property, becoming lost or reaching hazards such as nearby roads, while allowing them greater freedom to enjoy their garden.

Whether you choose a wired or wireless dog fence, the technology is only part of the solution. Correct boundary design and thorough training are fundamental to a successful outcome and a confident, happy dog.

Can a dog run through a wireless or wired dog fence?

Because neither a wireless nor a wired electronic boundary is a physical barrier, a dog can technically cross it. Effective electronic containment therefore depends on appropriate system design and, importantly, the dog learning where the boundary is and how to respond to its warning.

The objective is for the dog to recognise the warning and turn back before crossing the containment boundary.

The dog’s personality and drive also need to be considered. A dog with a strong chase instinct, for example, needs to be assessed and trained appropriately rather than assuming that simply installing a dog fence will solve the problem.

Read our full guide: Can a Dog Run Through an Invisible Fence?

Why does DogFence use a wired dog fence?

DogFence has specialised in electronic pet containment in the UK for more than 20 years. We use professionally installed wired dog fence technology because it allows us to design the containment boundary around the individual property rather than requiring the property to fit within a predetermined wireless boundary.

That can be particularly important around roads, driveways, neighbouring properties, woodland, undulating terrain, outbuildings, irregular garden boundaries and areas within the property where access needs to be restricted.

For farms, equestrian properties and larger rural homes, it also means the containment boundary can be designed around the way the property is actually used.

But we don’t believe that means everyone should buy a wired DogFence.

A wireless dog fence may be perfectly adequate for some dogs and properties. Equally, there are dogs and circumstances where we may advise that an electronic containment system isn’t appropriate at all.

Find out when an electronic dog fence may not be suitable for your dog.

Wireless dog fence vs wired dog fence: which should I choose?

If you have a large, relatively level and open area where a circular containment zone can sit comfortably inside the safe part of your property, a wireless dog fence may offer a convenient solution without installing a boundary cable.

If your garden is irregularly shaped, has an open driveway, sits close to a road, contains woodland or outbuildings, has undulating ground, or you need the electronic boundary to follow existing fences and hedges accurately, a wired dog fence offers considerably more flexibility over where the boundary can be positioned.

The most important consideration is not simply whether the system is wireless or wired. It is whether the containment system, boundary design and training programme are appropriate for your dog, your dog’s drive and personality, your property and the hazards around it. 

Wireless vs wired dog fence FAQs

Is a wired dog fence better than a wireless dog fence?

Not in every situation. A wired dog fence offers much greater flexibility over the shape and position of the containment boundary. A wireless dog fence can be quicker to set up and may work well on a relatively level, open property where a circular containment area is appropriate.

What is the main disadvantage of a wireless dog fence?

One of the principal limitations of a traditional wireless dog fence is the shape and consistency of its containment area. Because the boundary is created by a radio signal from a transmitter, it cannot normally follow an irregular garden perimeter as precisely as a wired boundary, and terrain, trees or buildings may affect some systems.

What is the main advantage of a wired dog fence?

A wired dog fence allows the containment boundary to be designed around the actual shape and features of the property. This provides greater flexibility around fences, hedges, driveways, gates, woodland, uneven ground and outbuildings.

Does a wired dog fence have to be underground?

Not necessarily. Although wired systems are sometimes called underground dog fences, the purpose of the boundary cable is to establish the electronic boundary. The most appropriate installation method depends on the property and the particular system.

Do wireless dog fences work in UK gardens?

Yes. A wireless dog fence can work in a UK garden where its containment area can be positioned safely within the property and the site conditions are appropriate. For irregularly shaped gardens, woodland, undulating ground or properties where the boundary needs to follow existing fences, hedges or driveways closely, a wired system may provide greater flexibility.

How many training flags do I need for a dog fence?

The boundary should be clearly marked during training so that the dog has a strong visual reference while learning where it is. As a practical guide, DogFence recommends at least 20 training flags per 100 metres of boundary. Follow the training programme supplied with your particular system and make sure you have enough flags before beginning.

Are wireless and wired dog fences suitable for every dog?

No. No dog containment method is appropriate for every dog. The dog’s age, health, temperament, behaviour, personality and drive, together with the property itself, should all be considered before choosing an electronic dog fence.

The aim of any dog fence is to give your dog freedom while keeping them safe. DogFence has been surrounding pets with freedom since 2003 and has safely contained more than 20,000 pets – real-world evidence that hidden dog fencing can work effectively when it is correctly set up and supported by thorough training and ongoing support.

Golden Retriever running towards an invisible dog fence boundary

Dog running freely within a hidden dog fence boundary marked by training flags

Wireless or wired? Not sure what’s right for your dog?

Tell us about your dog, your garden and what you’re trying to achieve. With more than 20 years’ experience in pet containment, we’ll tell you whether we think a DogFence is suitable – and we’ll tell you if we don’t.

📞 Call us on 01628 476475
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No pressure. No one-size-fits-all solution. Just experienced advice about the safest way to give your dog more freedom.

Image note: Some images used in this article may be AI-generated for illustrative purposes. They are not intended to show a specific DogFence installation, product or individual dog. All advice and information in this article is written and reviewed by DogFence based on more than 20 years’ experience in electronic pet containment.