What Are the Dangers of Invisible Dog Fences?

Invisible dog fences may seem the ideal way to keep your fence-jumping or hole-digging doggie from escaping. But electronic containment is not without its dangers.

  1. Process

    • An electric shock is sent through a special collar when a dog gets too close to the perimeter. A high-pitched noise is sounded as a warning, but a stubborn pooch may ignore the warning.

    Pain

    • Depending on your pup's pain tolerance, he or she may not even feel the shock or it may be unbearable. If the pain isn't felt, there is no stopping your pet from running away.

    Behavior

    • The dog may feel confused: After all, he is being "punished." Frustration and confusion may manifest as aggression.

    Harrassment

    • If people know that your dog is confined, they will be more likely to harass him or her. If provoked enough, your pooch may ignore the noise and shock to get to that person.

    Animal attacks

    • The fence only works on the dog that is wearing the collar, so another dog or rabid animal can enter and attack your helpless pet.

    Stress

    • The stress of electronic confinement can lead to depression and physical problems, including a suppressed immune system.