If you are looking to contain your dog to one area, but do not want a large, noticeable fence around the perimeter of your yard or the area you want your dog contained, you may be looking at a hidden, also called electric, dog fence. This type of fence is made from wiring buried below the ground that is connected to a sensor. When your dog is outside, it must wear a special collar. When your dog gets near the fence, they get a small buzz or jolt, which tells them not to go any further. The closer they get to the wiring, the stronger the buzz becomes until they turn around. The buzz is often likened to the static electricity energy you feel when someone shocks you, which is safe and not harmful for your dog. If you are considering a hidden dog fence, you may be wondering about the pros and cons. Here are a couple of the pros and cons of a hidden dog fence.
The Cons of a Hidden Dog Fence
- Doesn't Keep Other Animals Out
The biggest downside to a hidden dog fence is that the fence does nothing to keep other animals, such as wildlife or other dogs, off of your property. If you want to contain your dog while also keep others out, an electric fence is not the way to go. However, if you are solely concerned about containing your dog, an electric fence may be ideal.
- Can Fail if the Batteries Die
The other disadvantage to this fence is that the batteries in the collar must be good. If they are bad, the dog won't receive a shock, and therefore may not turn around when they should.
The Pros of a Hidden Dog Fence
- Allows You to Maintain Your View
One of the biggest advantages to a hidden fence is that you are able to maintain your view. If you have a beautiful view, you may not want to put up a fence that hides, deters, or takes away from the view. This type of fencing option does not take away from your view at all, since it is completely underground.
- Can Be Installed Fast
The other benefit to a hidden dog fence is that it can be installed fast. Most wood, metal and vinyl fencing options can take all day or a couple of days to install, depending on the size of your yard. A hidden fence can be installed in just a couple of hours, making it the fastest option for creating a perimeter in your yard.
A hidden dog fence is not ideal for every household. Taking the time to learn the pros and cons of a hidden dog fence will help you determine if it is right for you. Contact a fence contractor to learn more about the available options for dog fencing.
