Buyer's Guide - So You Need a Dog Fence

…Doing the research and understanding the hidden dog fence industry.

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DO IT YOURSELF VS PROFESSIONALLY INSTALLED

DO IT YOURSELF (D.I.Y.) the self-installed system, purchased from a retail store or Internet.
Clearly the least expensive ($200-400). Although the price is attractive, you are less likely to succeed with a high probability of “stray signaling”.
Stray signaling: the collar goes into “shock mode” away from the boundary (even inside the house) set off by any electronic product: i.e. cell phones, remote controls, televisions, vacuum cleaners, garage door openers, etc. from devices that emit magnetic or radio signals.

Installation & tools:
Most homeowners usually do not have the proper equipment to install anything that is required to be underground. Even with the instructions provided, there are physics that must be followed and might not be understood.

Lightning protection is extremely important as you are setting up an “antenna” system. Proper grounding is required to redirect any energy surges.

Training:
NO TRAINING PROVIDED: Even if you follow the instructions and receive a DVD on training. If you have not trained on an electronic collar, you will probably over (or under) correct your pet.

Some D.I.Y products do not offer variable correction levels. This is a crucial part of training. The concept is not shock the dog into submission, it is to teach the dog to understand and heed the audible warning.

Service:
If you have a question, retail store staff will not be able to assist you. On-line help will be difficult at best. Resulting in frustrations & a high probability of not using the product at all. Should you have a wire break, (and you will eventually have a break) you will need the proper tools to locate and repair your fence. Possibly resulting in the need to replace all wire.

THE PROFESSIONALLY INSTALLED SYSTEM:

Although the cost will be higher, the benefits clearly out weigh the additional cost. Time is money; the professional will properly install the system in hours (rather than days).

Installation & Tools:
Having the proper tools to trench the wire 4—6 inches underground, score the driveway, drive a ground rod, drill through the foundation (exiting the house) are a must. The professional knows what has to be done and will guide you through the application.

Configuration:
The professional understands the physics of the product and will help in the decision making part of the setup. Example: Where to place the wire, how far the pet will be kept from the wire, how to set up the property with two “zones” (keeping the dog out of front yard, etc.), how to set up internal avoidance areas.

System Features:
Dealer installed systems come with more training features. Not all products are adjusted the same. Some mandate only the dealer do all the adjustments, other products allow adjustments to be done by the customers. This will depend on what product you purchase. Your dealer will explain these features and select the right settings for your pet.

Training:
Most professional companies include both initial and follow-up training help. They will “initiate” the pet and set forth a training outline to be followed. All electronic fences require teaching the pet their new rules. You (the customer) must follow the training outlines (DIY or Dealer Installed). Dogs require repetition to learn an electronic fence system.

Service:
Once you (and your pet) have the freedom of an electronic fence, you will not want to be without it. Wire breaks, system failures, training help are all provided in a timely fashion by your Dealer. Yes, at a fee – it is a service, like that provided by any product you purchase.

HOW TO SELECT A PRODUCT

DIY: Purchase the most expensive product you can find. Also, purchase any additional warranties available. Read the manual prior to using the product. If “stray signaling” is mentioned – test on all electronic devices in your home prior to setting up the system.

This can be done by simply putting the battery in the “receiver” (collar) and testing it on your electronic devices.

Dealer Installed: All products look alike, all features are not alike.

Request a demonstration on all features offered.
Feel the different correction levels. YES – feel it. Confirming programming was done and what the dog will feel.
Who does the programming (dealer or customer)?
If only by the dealer: What are the fees to program the equipment.
Is training provided or purchased?
Is lightning protection with ground rods or surge protection? Internal surge protection and external grounding provides the best security against lightning damage.
What is the expected battery life?
Where can you purchase replacement batteries?
How do you know when to change the battery?
How will you know if the wire is broken?
What are the warranties? (Purchased or included.)

Make sure you quiz the prospective vendor as to what is included, the on going costs. In your interview, ask how long they have been in business, a reference list of nearby users (by zip code – not hand picked by any vendor) confirm they have an established dealer network that will allow you to take your fence with you should you move?

Buyer's Guide Comparison Chart