How to Train a Dog to Use an Electric Fence

A Safe Dog

They are the ubiquitous invisibilities that cloak the pristine lawns of suburbanites across the country, their presence evident only by the barking dogs kept at bay because of them. Electric fences are a great solution to the tied-up pet, giving Fido free range to the bounds of his property. However, imperative to their success is proper training. Without a full understanding of the consequences, doggie dearest can risk the zap and run past the perimeter and into onrushing traffic or unsuspecting pedestrians.

Instructions

1. Research the gamut of electric fences before you buy, choosing one which best suits the breed, age and personality of your pet. Pre-test the device with your dog, if possible.

2. Familiarize yourself with the specifics of your fencing system. While they all operate on the same basic principles -- perimeter fencing, warning sound, deterrent charge -- you should know the ins and outs of your electric fence. Even before installation, work with the company to choose appropriate and realistic boundaries for the fencing. Be certain to avoid close proximity to neighboring properties where a faulty landscaping effort might inadvertently harm the system and render useless any training you perform.

3. Allow enough time for the pet and you, his owner, to be fully trained. Effectively training your dog can take between four to six weeks of daily sessions between owner and dog. Don't rush it; your pet's life may very well depend on your success.

4. Put the unit's collar on the dog and take him by leash to the flag-marked boundaries of the fence. Lead him to the signal field and when you note that he has heard the warning sound, say "no" and walk quickly back into the yard. Praise him for following you. You need to teach and interpret the warning signal for him -- danger at property's edge, praise at retreat. Perform this at different areas of the yard, for 15 to 20 minutes. Repeat for two to three days. Your dog has passed his first lesson when he retreats from the sound without clues or guidance from you.

5. Distract your pet. With the help of another person, distract your pet from the warning signal. Using the same procedure as in step 4, with your pet on a leash, have a friend walk through the boundary. If your pet attempts to follow the friend and is not deterred by the warning sound, pull him back. Reward him with praise. Repeat. Allow him ample opportunity to obey the warning signal rather than receive the shock, but if he pulls from you, allow the fence to emit its shock to the collar.

6. Reinforce the lessons in steps four and five by repeating the procedures for up to two weeks. Add further distractions, such as toys, cars, bikes, people, pets and other animals. You need to teach your pet that there are no exceptions to your boundaries. Some fully trained pets will not pass the boundary unless carried.

7. Play with your pet. Giving your pet your attention and your praise makes the training experience a positive one. When you are done with the day's lesson, take him indoors, remove the collar and give him some indoor one-on-one time. He shouldn't equate training with the only time he receives your attention.

8. Unleash your pet. Once you are satisfied that your pet is truly trained, take his leash off and supervise him closely in your yard. Remind him if he strays with your voice; reward him with your praise. Allow for a week of this close supervision with frequent trips to the yard and its boundaries.

9. Trust your work. Only after you are confident that your pet has truly assimilated his new boundaries should you risk leaving your pet alone. Allow him outside with his collar, offer him a treat and tell him to stay in the yard. As you leave, he should stay. Make your first trip inside the house, then venture further and farther -- leaving for short trips outside the neighborhood. Once your pet has succeeded, so have you -- your pet is trained.

10. Remove the boundary flags -- first every other, then every one.

11. Check the fencing. Periodically, you should affirm that nothing has come between your fence and its effectiveness. Lightning strikes, power surges, area digging and landscaping can all disrupt the underground system.

Tips & Warnings

• During training it is important to reinforce prior lessons with repetition. If at any time during training you feel your dog is not ready, start the training over from the beginning steps.

• Ask about fencing money-back-guarantees before you purchase. Electric fencing takes a commitment from pet and owner alike and some people are not as trainable as their pets.