The 10 Best Wireless Dog Fences

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Vicki Smirnova

Vicki Smirnova is a professional writer and editor who adores animals and helps readers get along well with their pets. She has been working in digital media for more than 5 years and has great experience writing content about lifestyle, including pets. Vicki specializes in dog health and nutrition, cat feeding, dog training. She is an aquarium lover and is passionate to write about fish care at home. Also, Vicki headed several websites and worked as a news editor.

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Updated on: 08/31/2022

An electronic dog fence is an effective tool for restricting your pet’s territory. Wireless dog fences are designed to limit the pet’s access to unwanted areas. You can protect your flower garden, vegetable garden, or backyard from a pet with an electric fence. This fencing system is necessary if you do not like to put your pet on a chain but want to allow it to run freely in a specific territory. A wireless dog fence is the electronic equivalent of a long chain, the length of which you can adjust.

The first electronic collar appeared in the late 60s of the last century. Georgian ethologist Jason Badridze invented a device that used electronic pulses to study wolves in their natural habitat. The device was attached to the neck of the animal and became the prototype of modern electronic collars. The production was established in the 70s of the last century in the United States, and they were intended mainly for hunting dogs, not to allow them to be distracted by animals that were not game.

Many breeders are afraid to use a wireless dog fence when training. Owners are afraid that this type of wireless dog fence will make their pet aggressive. Such fences will help to protect the pet from danger, spontaneous actions, or undesirable consequences.[1]

best wireless dog fencePhoto by @lukytoky from FreePik

Wireless dog fence has many advantages:

  • Allows you to stop unwanted actions (instincts) of the pet; for example, aggression against other pets, chasing a cat or other animals, picking up unwanted objects from the ground, barking, aggression against people, etc.
  • Helps to form conditioned reflexes to indicate the correct actions of the pet (used in combination with encouragement)
  • Prepare and train the pet for trail work or various sports and draw the animal’s attention during training.

Trainers and experienced breeders recommend starting to use a wireless electric dog fence when your dog older than six months. Depending on the model and manufacturer, this age may vary. You can specify more details in the instructions for the product itself or from consultants when buying.

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There are many opinions about the needs and benefits of using wireless dog fences. This article will try to identify the main pros and cons of each model. We will also highlight the main parameters that are important when choosing and buying electronic collars and wireless invisible dog fence.

Products

Benefits

Links

Best Overall

petsafe wireless containment system

1. PetSafe Wireless Containment System

  • Waterproof receiver collar.

  • Battery included.

  • 5 adjustable levels of correction.

  • Portable wireless system.

  • Neck size: 6 to 28 inches.

Runer Up Pick

petsafe stay play wireless fence

2. Petsafe Stay + Play Wireless Fence

  • 5 adjustable levels of correction.

  • Expand containment size.

  • Rechargeable receiver.

Best Budget

the sonic yard barrier

3. The Sonic Yard Barrier

  • Uses sound - not shock.

  • One collar powers yard barrier.

  • Keeps pets out of restricted outdoor areas.

Best Wireless Dog Fences Reviews

1. PetSafe Wireless Containment System

petsafe wireless containment system
Best Overall

With this system, you can protect your pet from places that it cannot visit. With the help of static correction, you can mark the boundaries of your yard or playground. The fence will emit an annoying signal, reminding your pet that it is entering a restricted area.

The PetSafe wireless system is easy to set up and has five levels of correction. You can buy several collars if you have multiple pets. With a single system, you can control up to five dogs.

This model allows you to do without installing an actual fence. The set includes 50 border flags that extend up to 90 feet in radius. This system is a great portable option for all types of dogs.

Pros

Cons

  • 5 to 90 feet with an additional ½ acre.
  • Low battery indicator.
  • No digging is required.
  • Rechargeable receiver collar charges.
  • Training guide.
  • There is still the typical risk of interference.

Summary: This convenient fence system can be used for owners of multiple dogs and has excellent reviews.

2. Petsafe Stay + Play Wireless Fence

petsafe stay play wireless fence
Runer Up Pick

The PetSafe Stay and Play Wireless Fence system will help you raise your stubborn dog. This system without a wire fence will save you from the hassle of installation. The adjustable dog fence is specially designed for hard-to-train pets. The collar is waterproof, so your pet will be able to walk in the rain without consequences.

The system offers five levels of adjustable correction. The kit includes a basic transmitter, a waterproof and adjustable collar with 50 training flags, and an instruction manual. The device is guaranteed for one year.

This fence is very popular among pet owners. This small, portable device is effortless to set up. You can take this system with you on a trip. This product can fit around a pet’s neck up to 28 inches, weighing 5 pounds or more, and it charges within 3 hours.

Pros

Cons

  • Waterproof pet containment system.
  • For dogs, 5 lbs and up.
  • For an unlimited number of pets.
  • Once again, we see the same old issues with interference and circular shapes.

Summary: With your purchase, you’ll get all you need to set a safe space for your stubborn pet.

3. The Sonic Yard Barrier

This system does not use electrical correction. The collar only emits a powerful beep to keep the animal away from forbidden places. You can install the heavy-duty outdoor receiver anywhere.

Users note that pets learn quickly with this pet containment system. Also, this collar is water-resistant, weather-resistant, and inexpensive.

The sound signal is triggered only by your pet’s individual electronic transmitting collar. The range is fully adjustable from 1 to 35 feet. Multiple collars can be connected to the wireless pet containment system, and additional yard barriers can be used to restrict additional areas.

Pros

Cons

  • Includes one collar battery.
  • Keeps pets out of multiple restricted areas.
  • Lightweight, wireless fences.
  • It might not work for stubborn pets.

Summary: This Electronic Fence System for dogs uses painless sound, not electric shock.

4. OKPET Vertical Dog Wireless Fence

okpet vertical dog wireless fence
For Large Dogs

This pet containment system is manufactured using the latest technology. The signal is transmitted to far distances and will not be blocked by walls or other objects. You can connect several wireless dog fences to the database at once and control several pets simultaneously.

The system provides for several types of impact. If the dog violates the boundaries, the system first causes vibration and then an electrostatic discharge. This method of correction allows the pet to realize that it must return to a safe area. If the pet does not return, the receiver will remind you until the dog will back to the safe place.

This wireless pet containment system is suitable for dogs of all sizes. Thanks to the high signal penetration capability, the system base can be placed anywhere in the house. The signal is transmitted to the collar transmitter so that the pet can receive the signal from any position.

Pros

Cons

  • The pet containment system has passed FCC certification.
  • The signal transmission distance is long.
  • Vibration reminder first.
  • Some dogs don’t respond to the correction.

Summary: Reasonable design makes the receiver vibrate first and then electrostatic shock. The signal transmission distance is long.

5. Eyenimal Small Dog Fence Extra Collar

eyenimal small dog fence extra collar
For Small Dogs

This model of electronic collar is great for small breeds. This system has a high build quality. The Eyenimal Small Dog Fence Extra Collar will help you monitor your pet’s location.

You will be able to adjust the width of this wireless fence to suit your pet’s needs. The accessory has several methods of behavior correction. First, the collar emits a warning sound if your friend comes too close to the forbidden border; after that, an electric shock is used.

The system can be recharged when the battery is low. Such a system implies the presence of a wireless fence, which does not allow the pet to go beyond the designated area.

Pros

Cons

  • Made in a high-quality, washable fabric.
  • Adjustable fit allows you to customize the size.
  • Warning beep sounds when your pet is too close to its border.
  • The closure may be flimsy.

Summary: This collar was designed to pair with an Eyenimal Pet Fencing System to help manage your best bud’s whereabouts.

6. PetSafe Extra Wireless Receiver Collar

petsafe extra wireless receiver collar
#1 Electric

This collar will help the pet owner to stop the pet’s unwanted actions. You can use this collar to correct behavior if your pet shows aggression towards other dogs, chases cats or other animals, or constant barks.

The collar has a wide range of functions. With the PetSafe collar, you can form conditioned reflexes to reinforce the correct actions of the pet. If you want to get rid of the dog’s constant barking, this collar is what you need. Models of this type are used to eliminate pet barking by affecting the collar in unpleasant ways to the animal.

The model is well protected from water but does not have complete moisture protection. Therefore, your pet can be in the rain in a collar, but it is not recommended to dive into the water with the device.

Pros

Cons

  • 5 adjustable levels of static correction.
  • This model has customizable correction levels.
  • Safe and effective.
  • Interference issues.

Summary: PetSafe wireless collars are safe and effective. It offers a tone-only mode to alert your pet to his boundary with a beep.

7. Halo Collar Smart Dog Collar with Virtual Fence, GPS, Activity Tracking & Training

halo collar smart dog collar
#1 Portable

The Halo fence system is sold complete with a collar, a replaceable and adjustable strap, a beacon, contact tip, and a charger. With this device, you will be able to specify the dog’s boundaries without the need to install a fence! You need to install the Halo Collar app to create 20 unique wireless fences. You will be able to manage the system wherever you are.

After activating your device, you will need to select a halo subscription to get started. The app also has a few lessons from a pet behavior trainer. In addition to the collar, you will obtain more tips and tricks for raising a pet.

The app will also collect indicators of the activity, such as the number of walks and the time spent on rest.

Pros

Cons

  • Easy to install.
  • Utilizes satellite technology.
  • Creates up to 20 virtual, wireless fences.
  • Snap collar comes off easily.

Summary: Smart collar with the all-in-one virtual fence, GPS location, activity tracking, and remote training capabilities.

8. PetPi Wireless Dog Fence Containment System

petpi wireless dog fence containment system
#1 for Multipet Household

This reliable and secure wireless pet containment system with Wi-Fi is used simultaneously for obstacles and training. The device combines several options for actions on the dog’s body; the user’s power setting.

When your pet approaches the forbidden border, the collar receiver under the dog’s neck will first send a warning beep. If your dog continues to run towards the border, the receiver will emit an electrical pulse until your pet returns to the permitted area.

Pros

Cons

  • Wireless fence trains pets to stay within boundaries.
  • Portable; no need to bury wire.
  • Additional collars available for multiple pets.
  • Some dogs don’t respond to the correction.

Summary: The receiver collar in your dog’s neck will issue a warning tone and vibration and static correction, so as to remind or prevent your pet from moving on.

9. PetSafe SMART DOG Training Collar

petsafe smart dog training collar
TOP Bluetooth

This system will help the owner teach the pet commands and stop unwanted behaviors, such as jumping, digging, and chasing other animals. The collar has three types of influencing the pet: a sound signal, vibration stimulation, and 15 levels of static stimulation. The signal from the phone to the collar is transmitted via Bluetooth.

The training collar can be adjusted to fit the size of the pet. You can use the replaceable, 28-inch nylon collar for 8-pound dogs. Recommended for use with dogs six months and older.

Pros

Cons

  • PetSafe brand has been a trusted global leader in pet behavior.
  • The collar is waterproof.
  • Range up to 75 yards.
  • Reviewers note some durability issues.

Summary: The SMART DOG fence is controlled by phone, it is a huge advantage.

10. PetSpy M686 Premium Training Collar

petspy m686 premium training collar
Great for Big Areas

With this system, you can quickly and effectively teach your dogs new tricks and eliminate unwanted behavior. If you want to stop your pet from constantly barking or being aggressive towards others, then this collar will help you control your pet – even at a distance of up to 1,100 yards.

The system offers four training modes. Combined methods of exposure: electric pulses, vibration, and sound. You can adjust the strength of the vibration and electric pulses.

The innovative contact points are made of conductive rubber. Therefore, the use of this collar does not cause a pet’s skin irritation. The device is also waterproof. Intuitive button design allows you to work quickly without even looking at the remote.

Pros

Cons

  • Invisible fence is rechargeable.
  • Waterproof.
  • Intuitive button layout design.
  • May malfunction after a few months.

Summary: PetSafe Fence includes a waterproof and adjustable collar, so you won’t need to worry about rain.

Owner’s Buying Guide

To choose the most suitable system, you need to know how electronic collars work. An electronic collar is a device that affects a dog with the help of electrical impulses of different power and different duration. This device allows you to control the actions of the pet at a distance.

Typically, an invisible dog fence consists of a base station and one or more electronic receivers with a collar. You can use the buttons on the station to adjust the length of the range of the permitted zone. Electronic collars will help strengthen and speed up your dog’s training. Such devices are successfully used for both regular and professional training.

How does an electronic wireless fence work? The electronic fence station contains a wireless transmitter that sends a signal to a receiver located on the collar. As soon as the signal level received by the collar becomes weak, the warning vibration mode is activated. When the signal disappears (when leaving the permitted zone), the electric shock mode is activated. When the animal returns to the permitted area, the dog collar stops vibrating and turns on electrical discharges.[2]

The pet moves freely around the area, plays, and runs – without feeling any impact – until it begins to approach the permitted perimeter’s border or goes beyond it. If you follow the recommendations, the training of the pet is as fast and simple as possible. You only need to set the allowed radius for walking the animal at the base station and the force of the electric shock when going beyond the zone’s boundaries. Over time, the pet will reflexively get used to the fact that you can not leave a certain area not to feel the vibration and electric discharges.

what is the best wireless invisible dog fencePhoto by Mathew Smith on Unsplash

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Important Things to Consider When Buying a Wireless Fence System

The first criteria for choosing an electric collar are the weight and size of the dog. The wireless dog fence can be used when training a dog after it is six months old.

  • Dog size. If the pet weighs from 3 – 17 pounds, then wireless fences for small dogs will suit it. A distinctive feature of such collars is their small size and weight. For medium-sized dogs from 17 – 110 pounds, large shock collars are suitable — dogs with a weight of 110 pounds or more need more powerful electronic collars. An essential element when choosing an electric collar is the power adjustment. For the management of large and hunting dogs, discharge power is essential.
  • Type of your dog’s coat. It is necessary to take into account the density and length of the dog’s coat. The metal electrodes should touch the dog’s skin, so these electrodes should be longer for long-haired dogs.[3]
  • The number of dogs: Wireless fences allow you to train two or more dogs simultaneously using only one transmitter.
  • Don’t forget about your initial purpose of purchasing a collar. If you want to use a wireless fence on walks so that the pet does not run away, then electric collars will suit you with a range of up to 1000 feet. If you are a dog handler and buy an electric dog training collar, it is better to choose a model with a more extended range; for example, electric collars up to 3500 feet.
  • Water-resistance: If you train your family friend in extreme conditions or water, it is advisable to choose a collar with the designation “submersible” (water-repellent and waterproof characteristics will not give 100% protection from water).
  • Collars for phones: Your mobile phone is used as a remote control in such electronic collars. The signal is transmitted via Bluetooth or GSM (unlimited range).
  • Battery type. When choosing a wireless fence, you should consider whether a rechargeable device is suitable for you. Accumulator collars are ideal for regular and long-term use, while battery collars are suitable for infrequent use.

Some models of training collars anti-bark, and you can also wean the dog from barking without your participation. If you turn on the anti-bark, and the dog barks, it will receive an automatic effect from the electronic collar.

Is a Wireless Dog Fence Better Than Underground/wired?

The main advantages of a wireless electronic fence are the need to not lay wires. The adjustment of the allowed radius for walking the pet is set using the conditional levels on the transmitter.

Installing an underground fence for a non-wireless fence can cost up to $1,000. This is not always convenient, especially when you change your place of residence. You will need to re-install the fence.

How to Choose the most suitable Wireless Dog Fence?

The right wireless fence must meet the needs of success training. A dog collar can be selected according to some parameters; for example, depending on the type of correction it offers. In the market, we can find mainly the following types.

  • Electronic collars – electronic training collars, which use an electrostatic pulse as a correction. Some collar manufacturers give a choice of up to 100 levels of impulse, which you can use to draw the dog’s attention to inappropriate behavior. Electronic collars are safe, easy to operate and usually offer several additional correction types (vibration, sound, etc.).
  • Vibrating collars – this type of training collar offers correction by vibration, which is unpleasant for the dog but does not cause any pain. Vibrating collars from leading manufacturers have up to 100 vibration levels, so they can be perfectly adjusted to the needs of your pet. Like electronic collars, vibrating wireless fences usually work with other types of signals (sound, electrostatic pulse, etc.).
  • Sound collars – The sound warning is used during training as the first level of correction, followed by vibration or a pulse, immediately after the sound warning. The sound collar also offers other types of notifications (vibration and electrostatic pulse).
  • Ultrasonic collars -This type of training collar works by using ultrasound, which irritates the dog.
  • Aerosol collars -This training collar uses a correction spray that is sprinkled under the dog’s nose. In some cases, this is better than correcting with a pulse or vibration.
best wireless invisible dog fencePhoto by Helena Lopes on Pexels

READ MORE: Outdoor Activities for Dogs

FAQ

How does a wireless dog fence work?

The wireless fence is handy if your dog has such behavior problems as picking up food on a walk, chasing cyclists or pets, or ignoring commands. An electric collar is a replacement for a leash, but it helps correct the dog’s behavior over a long distance.

Are wireless dog fences effective?

The wireless fence will be a helpful assistant in the upbringing and training of the dog. With such a device, the dog owner will be much easier to cope with some problems, and in some cases, the electric collar can be simply an indispensable method of training.

Are wireless dog fences safe?

The wireless fence for dogs (electronic collar) is an advanced training device that is entirely safe and, when used correctly, does not harm the animal.

How much does it cost to install an electric dog fence?

Installing a wireless fence is free of charge. In case if you choose the standard version of the electronic fence, the installation cost is from $950 to $1500. Besides, it is worth considering many factors that affect the cost of your underground electric fence, such as the quality of the wiring, the cost of the collar, and more.

How do you train a dog with an invisible fence?

Every dog is different, and successful pet training depends on consistency, patience, and clear commands. The wireless training fence serves as an accentuation of the team, which facilitates the dog’s training. In professional cynology, collars are used for fine-tuning details, as well as for training problem dogs.

Article Sources:

  1. “History of Invisible Fence.” FlexPetz, flexpetz.com/history-of-invisible-fence.
  2. Invisible Fence Brand Introduces Pet Access Solutions. 30 June 2018, prnewswire.com/news-releases/invisible-fence-brand-introduces-pet-access-solutions-173116361.html.
  3. Palmer, Ashley. “Electronic Fences and Shock Collars”. PETA, 21 Nov. 2013, peta.org/living/animal-companions/caring-animal-companions/dogs/electric-fences-shock-collars/.