Many dog owners have different views about the principle used in the electric dog fence. Some people embraced the idea while others consider it as a poor option.
A majority of articles on the web are promoting the advantages of these pet containing devices. This leaves fence-sitters wondering about the less desirable qualities of these invisible electric enclosures. All the positive points about the invisible dog fence have been said but nothing is almost said about its disadvantages. To give you a balanced outlook about these devices, I would like to share with you a few factors that discourage dog owners from using the electric fence:
1. The need to train the dog to acknowledge the boundaries.
A lot of potential buyers of invisible fence think that it is a “plug and play” device, assuming that it works instantly once you install it and put the collar around the dog’s neck. But it just doesn’t work that way. You have to train your dog to realize and accept its new boundaries before you will see results. If you are not willing to put in some dog training effort for it, there’s a big tendency that the device may not work as expected.
2. Electric shock is a big issue.
Electric dog fencing operates on the principle that the dog is made to wear a collar that produces electric impulses when the canine approaches the boundary line. For some dogs that are so determined to cross the invisible line, the shock level is high. The pain and trauma caused by the electric shock might be too much for the dog to take. This can change a lot in your pet’s attitude and personality.
3. Some dogs are really determined to go through an electric fence.
Most canines that are determined to cross the boundary often succeed, but the fear of getting another shock prevents them from coming back into your premises. Dogs learn by association. They can realize that once they got close to the boundary, a shock is sure to come. This makes them wander even farther away into the open where they are free to play with other dogs and chase other animals, cars, etc.
4. Electric fences cannot prevent other animals from entering your property.
An invisible fence is a containment device for your own pet. It cannot prevent other animals from entering your property. You will have no way of protecting your place from other dogs and stray animals with this device. If you have neighbors whose pets are free to roam, your place is not safe from them. It is your own dog that cannot go out of the invisible boundary.
These are some of the most common factors that make people hesitant to buy electric dog fence. Now that you know them, it’s time for you to evaluate whether this device is ideal for your place and your pet’s personality.
And by the way, have you seen this page? This can help you to learn more about the invisible dog fence.
You may also like:
17 Mistakes to Avoid With Electric Fencing (ibiblio.org)
8 Dos and Don’ts When Buying an Electronic Fence System for Your Dog (ebay.com)
K9 Electric Dog Fence Frequently Asked Questions (k9electricdogfence.com)
Pet Lover's Guide 