DIY: Invisible Fence

There are a number of popular electric dog containment fences that use a boundary wire, a receiver collar and a transmitter box. The advantages of this kind of system include being able to let your pet go outside without a leash and without a fence, knowing the pet will be contained within the boundaries of the wire. One disadvantage is that while the boundary wire keeps the dog inside, there is nothing to keep other dogs, people or vermin from coming into your yard.

  1. Preparation

    • Gather your supplies. You'll need a transmitter box, sufficient heavy gauge wire to cover the perimeter of the boundary you select and a training collar with receiver. You will also need a digging implement such as a trencher, or you can choose to do the job by hand with a shovel, although this will add considerable time to the installation. Contact your local utility companies and have them mark where any underground lines are installed so you don't dig through them. Also consider any underground sprinkler system you may have in place. Consider the location of your transmitter. It will need to be close to a power outlet and out of the elements. The boundary wire will make a complete loop, beginning and ending at the transmitter box.

    Installation

    • Lay the wire out in a complete circuit on the surface of the ground. Connect the wires to the transmitter to ensure everything is working properly. Turn the power off and disconnect the wires. Trench the perimeter where you will be laying the power line. Lay the line in the trench and cover with earth. Reconnect the wires to the transmitter and turn the power on. Set the boundary field to at least three feet on either side of the wire. Using the training collar as a guide, install boundary flags around the perimeter of the boundary field no more than six feet apart.

    Training

    • Train your dog to respect the boundary flags to prevent him from wandering into the boundary field where he will receive a shock. Training is a four step process. Step 1 consists of verbal commands when the dog approaches the boundary flag. Step 2 consists of allowing the dog to approach the boundary flag on her own then issuing verbal commands when the receiver collar begins to beep. Step 3 involves adding distractions to the training. Step 4 involves supervised outside time with your dog off the leash.