Are you a pet owner struggling to keep your furry companion safely contained within your property boundaries? An electric dog fence above ground may be the solution you’ve been searching for.
What is an Electric Dog Fence Above Ground?
An electric dog fence above ground is an invisible barrier that uses a mild electrical current to deter your pet from crossing a designated area. It comprises a transmitter, buried wire, and a receiver collar worn by your dog. The transmitter sends a signal through the wire, creating an electromagnetic field. When your dog approaches the boundary, the receiver collar detects the signal and emits a warning beep. If your dog continues to cross, it receives a mild electrical correction.
Benefits of Electric Dog Fence Above Ground
- Containment: Electric dog fences effectively prevent pets from escaping while allowing them to roam freely within the designated area.
- Convenience: Unlike traditional fences, electric dog fences above ground are easier to install and maintain, eliminating the need for extensive digging or physical barriers.
- Safety: Electric dog fences above ground provide a safe way to contain your pet without the potential hazards of physical fences, such as entanglement or injury.
- Flexibility: Electric dog fences can be customized to fit any yard size or shape, making them suitable for a variety of properties.
- Visual Enhancement: Electric dog fences do not obstruct your view or alter the aesthetics of your yard, unlike traditional fences.
How Does an Electric Dog Fence Above Ground Work?
- Transmitter: The transmitter unit emits a radio frequency signal through the buried wire.
- Buried Wire: The wire is buried approximately 4-8 inches underground, forming the perimeter of the containment area.
- Receiver Collar: The dog wears a receiver collar that detects the radio frequency signal.
- Warning Beep: As the dog approaches the boundary, the receiver collar emits a warning beep.
- Electrical Correction: If the dog crosses the boundary, the receiver collar delivers a mild electrical correction.
Key Features to Consider
- Range: Electric dog fences above ground typically cover areas between 1 and 10 acres.
- Adjustability: Look for fences with adjustable containment zones to accommodate different areas within your yard.
- Waterproof and Rechargeable: Consider models with waterproof receiver collars and rechargeable batteries for convenience.
- Training Mode: Some fences feature training modes that allow you to gradually accustom your dog to the system.
- Customer Support: Choose a manufacturer that provides reliable customer support to assist with installation and troubleshooting.
Pain Points of Electric Dog Fence Above Ground
- Initial Installation: Installing an electric dog fence above ground can be time-consuming, especially if you have a large yard.
- Potential Discomfort: While the electrical correction is mild, some dogs may initially experience discomfort.
- False Triggers: In certain situations, such as thunderstorms or nearby construction, the fence may emit false triggers.
- Collar Dependence: The fence only works when the dog is wearing the receiver collar.
- Cost: Electric dog fences can be more expensive than traditional fences.
Motivations for Using Electric Dog Fence Above Ground
- Escape Prevention: Keep your dog from escaping your property and roaming into potentially dangerous areas.
- Safe Containment: Ensure your dog’s safety by preventing it from crossing busy streets or encountering other animals.
- Yard Freedom: Provide your dog with access to designated areas of your yard while keeping it contained within boundaries.
- Training Aid: Use the electric dog fence above ground as a training tool to teach your dog boundary obedience.
- Peace of Mind: Experience peace of mind knowing that your dog is safely contained within your property.
Tips and Tricks
- Proper Training: Train your dog to understand the boundaries and associate the warning beep with the electrical correction.
- Gradual Approach: Gradually increase the area your dog has access to, starting with small containment zones.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog for staying within the boundaries to reinforce positive behavior.
- Proper Collar Fit: Ensure the receiver collar fits snugly but not too tightly on your dog’s neck.
- Monitor Your Dog: Observe your dog’s behavior while it’s wearing the receiver collar to ensure it’s not experiencing any discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is an electric dog fence above ground safe for my dog? Yes, electric dog fences above ground are safe when installed and used correctly. The electrical correction is mild and designed to deter, not harm, your pet.
- How do I train my dog to use an electric dog fence above ground? Start by training your dog in a small, safe area with the correction set to the lowest level. Gradually increase the area and correction level as your dog adjusts.
- Can an electric dog fence above ground be used for multiple dogs? Yes, most electric dog fences can support multiple receiver collars, allowing you to contain several dogs within the same area.
- How long does it take to install an electric dog fence above ground? The installation time varies depending on the size of your yard and the complexity of the wire layout. It typically takes between 1 and 3 days for an average-sized yard.
- Can I bury the wire myself? Yes, you can bury the wire yourself, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and call 811 before digging to avoid damaging underground utilities.
- What happens if the wire breaks? The fence will not function properly if the wire breaks. You should contact the manufacturer or a qualified electrician to repair the wire promptly.
- Can electric dog fences above ground be used for cats? While electric dog fences are designed for dogs, they can also be used for cats. However, it’s important to note that cats are more sensitive to electrical corrections, so the system should be set to the lowest level.
- What are the alternatives to electric dog fences above ground? Alternatives to electric dog fences include traditional fences, invisible underground fences, GPS fences, and ultrasonic fences.
Conclusion
Electric dog fences above ground offer a safe and effective solution for containing your pet within your property. By carefully considering the benefits, limitations, and factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision about whether an electric dog fence is the right choice for you and your furry companion. With proper installation, training, and maintenance, an electric dog fence above ground can provide you with peace of mind and enhance your pet’s quality of life.
