How to Train Your Dog to Use an Invisible Fence

Every dog owner knows his dog very well. We know his or her tastes, needs, personality, and character.

Someone has a very curious dog who likes to explore all corners of the world.

Someone has a dog that loves to play with lizards, butterflies, squirrels, and other little friends.

Someone's dog thinks the neighbor's property is his or her property.

And someone else's dog likes to chase anything that moves.

All these situations seem like fun, but if the owner is not in control of the dog at that moment, it can turn into a problem under certain circumstances. 

Defining Tasks

Of course, controlling a dog 24/7 is nearly impossible, but if you have a yard and you keep your puppy in the house all the time, is that restricting his freedom? So what are the solutions?

• fence, which isn't bad, but it's pretty expensive, gets dirty a lot and some dogs can easily jump over it;
• underground fence, but be prepared to say goodbye to a perfect lawn;
• wireless dog fences.

The last option also has minor drawbacks, but the most important fact is that there are so many dog fence collars. Thus, you can choose the most suitable collar for your furry friend's needs.

There are 2 main categories in which you can decide on all dog fence collars: wireless or GPS models. 

• Wireless models use radio signals to determine your pet's boundaries. They are incredibly easy to install, suitable for small yards, and ideal for areas with trees.

• GPS models are incredibly accurate, suitable for larger lots, and good for open areas.

Both collars create a secure territory with boundaries. These boundaries help the dog realize his or her limits.

It's also important to note that both options are waterproof, so you don't have to worry if your pet loves water adventures.

How does a dog realize these limits?

• by trial and error. When the dog crosses the boundary, he or she is immediately warned by sound, vibration, and if the dog keeps moving, he or she is warned by shock if you have chosen shock mode. 

• by using different training techniques. But be prepared to spend time and have enough dog treats.

Have plenty of treats that immediately create an appropriate mood and involve your dog in the training process. Your dog’s favorite toys also may be in handy. They help to encourage your dog. Additionally, many dogs consider their toys as their friends. It will be incredibly effective if you show your dog how is he or she supposed to act with the help of her favorite toy. For instance, when the toy crosses the boundary, show that it gets the punishment. And when the toy comes close to the boundary but doesn’t cross it, it gets the treat.

By the way, most invisible fencing systems have boundary flags that help to mark the limits.

One more tip, try to use the long leash. This will help your dog to explore the yard. And provides the feeling of the boundary. It may be quite effective. 

After you have got all the necessities, you are ready to start the training with the help of the collar. 

There are 3 main methods

The Response to Signal Method

The first one is the signal method, which allows your dog to get used that when he or she crosses the boundary, he or she gets the signal. For sure, dogs don’t like this signal. This is an effective but non-traumatic and safe way to teach your dog to understand boundaries.

To make this process more clear and understandable, we would like to provide you with easy steps that you can follow to feel all the benefits of this method and show you how simple they are.

Step 1. You need to set only the signal and vibration modes. It is better not to use the shock mode for this method.

Step 2. The dog needs to understand where the fence line is. It all seems like a difficult task, but all you need to do is take your dog with the leash very close to the invisible fence line. 

Step 3. After walking around the entire territory and passing several times near the fence line, trying to cross the line. When the collar beeps to indicate that your dog has gone too close to the boundary, correct him by steering him away from the invisible fence line. Reward your dog with a treat when he moves away from the fence line after the signal.

Step 4. Continue to walk around the perimeter of the fence line but without corrections.

If your dog ignores the beep and steps out of line, he will receive a gentle corrective stimulus. Do it till the dog relies on the boundaries.

Step 5. If possible, provide distractions, such as another dog or something that your dog likes to chase. 

Step 6. If your dog crosses the invisible fence line, he will receive a corrective stimulus that pays his or her attention. At this point, your dog may be confused. Call out to him or her. When your pup returns to the safe area, give him or her a treat.

Step 7. Move on to off-leash training. Continue to supervise. Don’t forget about giving the treats as rewarding.

The Recall and Flags Method

It is very similar to the previous one, but you need to set up 10 boundary flags. It is very similar to the previous one, but you have to set it up. This will help your dog better understand where the fence line is. 

The goal will be achieved when you remove the leash and all flags and your furry friend understands where the fence line is and reacts to approaching it by retreating when you hear a beep.

Continue to observe until you are satisfied that the dog knows where the perimeter is and responds correctly to the signal to back away within the perimeter.

The Positive Reinforcement Method

Step 1. Install the boundaries and set up the flags. 

Step 2. Take your dog’s favorite toy. Take your dog in the yard. And play with your dog and a toy. Enjoy your yard.

Step 3. If your dog dares to come to the place where the collar signals you with a beep that he is too close to the boundary, call your dog and reward him for coming to you to play.

Step 4. Try the trick with a toy. As we have already mentioned, many dogs think that toys are their friends, hence, show your dog how to act with his favorite toy. 

Step 5. If your dog ignores you and proceeds across the fence line, he will receive a corrective stimulus. 

This method is also very similar to the previous one, but instead of walking, you are playing with your dog. So, your pup can understand his or her limits in a playful way.

That’s it! We hope our tip will be helpful for you and your furry friend.