How Do Radio Fences for Dogs Work?

What Is a radio fence?

Radio fences for dogs are not really fences. Rather, a radio fence is a containment system that allows you to keep your dog within a boundary without the need for a fence. Many homeowners would prefer not to fence in their yards, and a radio fence gives them the ability to keep their dogs and their neighbors safe without the necessity of a cumbersome fence. It also allows them to let their dogs in the front yard, where traditional fences do not work well, and to keep dogs out of gardens or children's play areas in the yard. These containment systems are sometimes called underground fences or hidden fences.

A radio fence has a wire that is buried under the ground around the perimeter of the boundary you have chosen for your dog. The wire is connected to a transmitter plug that you plug into a wall outlet inside your home. This wire emits a radio signal to a receiver collar worn by the dog. When the dog nears the boundary, the receiver collar emits a warning beep. The beeps intensify if the dog continues to approach the boundary. If he chooses to cross the boundary, he will receive a mild static shock as a correction. This is not intended to inflict pain, but rather to get the dog's attention and serve as a deterrent from crossing the line.

Photo by Julie Elliott
Dog owners who wish to use radio fences instead of traditional fences must be willing to train their dogs about the invisible boundary. Radio fences will simply confuse dogs that are not properly trained. Training begins after the fence has been installed. Small marker flags are placed around the boundary to give the dog a visual reference during training. The owner then takes the dog near the boundary on a leash, but just close enough to hear the warning beep. The dog is then pulled away from the boundary and praised for backing up. The correction shock is not used at first. After the dog has learned to back away from the warning beep, he is given slightly more freedom on the leash and is allowed to approach the boundary and feel the shock. Once the dog consistently avoids the boundary, distractions should be introduced to try to lure the dog across the boundary. If these are unsuccessful, the flags are removed and the dog is given freedom to roam the yard under supervision.

Photo by Daniel Jaeger Vendruscolo
Some dogs should not be contained within a radio fence. Dangerous, aggressive dogs or dogs that tend to be overly excited should not be contained with this system. Also, particularly timid dogs may be afraid of the collar and the beeps, keeping them from enjoying their new freedom with the system.