An underground fence is a good way to keep your dog contained in your yard. Unlike traditional fences, they can be set up in any configuration without looking unsightly. With a pet containment system you can keep your dog away from the flower beds or the pool. If your dog barks when it's in the front yard, you can use an underground dog fence to contain it in the back yard.
When you install these units, you have a hidden perimeter that effectively contains your dog. Dogs cannot chew through the system. They can't jump over or dig under it either. It can be used to corral several dogs in a large area. If you and a neighbor both have dogs, you can put an containment system around both yards, giving your dogs a larger area to roam. Each dog using the system must have a corresponding collar.
They are more affordable than traditional wood or chain-link fencing. The initial cost is lower than that of traditional fences, and upkeep is cheaper as well. One benefit of the underground fence is that termites will never eat it. Imagine the time you will save by mowing over the system instead of around traditional fencing. And they will never need to be painted. Maintenance is as easy as recharging or replacing batteries.
The system relies on buried wire and an electronic collar that your dog wears. When the dog nears the barrier, the collar emits a warning tone. This tone lets the dog know that it is nearing the perimeter. If the dog continues closer to the fence, it will receive a more intense correction. Eventually, the tone alone will stop the dog from running too close to the boundary of the fence. Electronic corrections will become less frequent the longer you have the system in place.
Some people are concerned about the electric correction, but it is mild and does not hurt your dog. The correction is similar to sliding your feet on a carpet and then touching a door knob; it's annoying but not harmful.
Training your dog to use a containment fence takes about two weeks. The systems come with written instructions; some even have videos or DVDs.
Veterinarians and professional dog trainers agree that a pet containment fence is a safe and effective way to contain your pet. Tying your dog outside or keeping it locked indoors leads to a very bored pet, but a electronic fence gives your dog the freedom to be in the yard and get the exercise it needs. It will also give you peace of mind because you know that your dog is safe and happy.