Invisible fences are advertised as being a relatively affordable, easy way to give dogs a safe access to the outdoors. However, many professional dog trainers and veterinarians have pointed out that invisible fences are actually very dangerous for dogs—not to mention ineffective. Here are some reasons why, when it comes to fencing in your dog, you’re better off choosing a real, three-dimensional fence.

What Is an Invisible Fence?

An “invisible fence” is a containment system created by a buried wire, a transmitter, and a receiver collar that can create electric shocks. Many different brands and models are available, but they all work on the same theory—that dogs can be trained to avoid crossing a boundary when they hear a warning beep, followed by an electric shock. Often the strength of the electric shock can be increased or decreased, depending on the dog’s responsiveness.

Problem 1: Invisible Fences do Not Actually Secure Dogs

No matter how high the shock setting is on an invisible fence system, it only lasts for a few seconds. Many dogs will learn to take the shock if there’s something they want badly enough on the other side. Passing cars, passing dogs, cats, squirrels, kids on bikes, and delivery people can all excite the average dog so much that he completely forgets, or simply ignores, the warning beep from his collar. If the wire is broken by landscaping, the fence will also fail. Therefore, invisible fences aren’t just bad for behavior; they’re also ineffective.

Problem 2: Electric Shocks Can Induce Fear, Anxiety, and Aggression

Think about how you would feel if you received random shocks every time you accidentally step over a border you can’t see. You would probably become very paranoid, worried, and anxious. That anxiety leads many dogs to become aggressive; to urinate indoors; to lose fur prematurely; or to develop a number of other stress reactions. Some dogs connect the pain they experience with a person walking by, and subsequently come to fear and hate strangers.

Problem: The Shock Collar can Malfunction or Cause Injuries

Shock collars run on batteries, which will eventually run out. This wouldn’t be an issue, except for the fact that most pet owners generally find out the batteries have run out when they notice their dog is missing. Secondly, the collar delivers the shock through two prongs which need to be in direct contact with the skin. The prongs have been known to cause nasty wounds and infections, especially for long hair breeds. 

Need to Secure your Dog? Choose a Wooden, Aluminum or Vinyl Fence

The best way to secure a big dog is by installing a real, physical fence around your property. A custom fence provides many additional advantages like increased security; privacy from your neighbors; blocking smells and sounds from your yard; and increasing your property value. To schedule a free fence installation estimate in Charlotte, contact James Fence and Gate today!