An underground pet fence, also known as an invisible fence or a wireless dog fence, is a pet containment system designed to keep your furry friends safe and prevent them from escaping your yard. It consists of several components that work together to create a boundary that your pet can't cross without receiving a mild electric correction.
How Does It Work?
An underground pet fence works on a simple principle of conditioning your pet's behavior through positive reinforcement and aversion. Here's a breakdown of the key components and how they work:
1. Transmitter: The transmitter, which is usually installed near an electrical outlet, is the heart of the system. It emits a radio signal that establishes the perimeter of the containment zone.
2. Wire Loop: A thin wire is buried underground around the perimeter of your property, creating the boundary line. The transmitter sends a signal through this wire.
3. Receiver Collar: Your pet wears a receiver collar that picks up the radio signal emitted by the transmitter. When your pet approaches the boundary, the collar beeps or vibrates as a warning. If your pet continues to move closer to the boundary, a mild electric correction is delivered to discourage further movement.
Training Process
Setting up an underground pet fence requires some patience and proper training to help your pet understand the boundaries. The training process generally involves the following steps:
1. Initial Setup: Install the transmitter and bury the wire loop according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure the wire forms a complete loop around the desired area.
2. Familiarization: Let your pet wear the receiver collar around the house without activating the correction mode. This helps your pet get comfortable with the collar.
3. Boundary Flags: Place flags along the boundary line to help your pet visually identify the perimeter.
4. Training Sessions: Start training your pet by walking alongside them near the boundary flags while keeping them on a leash. As your pet approaches the flags, issue verbal commands like "No" or "Back." If your pet crosses the boundary, the receiver collar will emit a warning beep or vibrate.
5. Correction Phase: Gradually increase the correction level until your pet learns to respect the boundary. Remember, the correction is meant to be a deterrent rather than a punishment.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the effectiveness of your underground pet fence:
- Check the wire loop periodically for breaks or damage.
- Replace the batteries in the receiver collar as needed.
- Verify the transmitter is functioning correctly.
Consult a Professional
If you're unsure about installing or training your pet with an underground pet fence, consider hiring a professional pet fence installer or trainer for assistance. They can guide you through the process and help ensure your pet's safety and comfort within their designated area.