Visible or Invisible Fences

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Visible or Invisible Fences

If you want to let your dog romp outside by himself, you need to provide some kind of containment to prevent him from roaming and getting lost, stolen or injured. Most states have leash laws or containment laws, and you could be cited for breaking an ordinance if you allow your dog to run without a leash. You are ultimately responsible for your pet and for any damages he may cause as he wanders free.

You have several options when confining your dog, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Your decision may depend on your budget, your personal aesthetics, your dog's size and temperament and local zoning laws, which may require permits or impose certain limitations on the size and construction of fences. Before you invest in any kind of fencing, it's important to check out your city's zoning requirements.

When choosing a means of confinement for your dog, you have two basic kinds of fencing to consider - an actual physical fence and an "invisible" electronic fence.

Visible Fencing

You can purchase fencing in many different styles and materials in a wide range of prices.

Here are some common types of fencing:

Masonry: this offers the strongest barrier with the most privacy and is usually expensive.
Picket: this fencing is sturdy but does not totally block the view.
Split rail: this offers a strong base, but some other material must be added inside the fence to prevent your dog from escaping.
Chain link: the most common type of fencing, this heavy-gauge wire is extremely strong and offers good containment, though it offers little privacy.
Snow fence: the least expensive fencing, it consists of a series of brace posts strung together with low-gauge wire and offers minimal privacy.

Traditional fencing usually does a pretty good job of containing dogs, and it also deters other animals and people from trespassing. It does have its drawbacks - dogs may be able to climb over or dig under the fence and escape.

Invisible Fencing

With invisible fencing, you bury an electric wire in the ground along your chosen boundary. The wire transmits a weak radio signal to a receiver, attached to your dog's collar, which beeps as he nears the boundary. If your pet gets too close to the boundary, he receives a mild shock.

Invisible fencing is a good choice for people who don't want to install a fence, or who live within a zone that prohibits fencing. Electronic systems range from those you can install yourself, to more elaborate, expensive models. With either kind, a professional trainer must come to your home and teach your dog to understand the new boundaries. Although some people may consider invisible fencing cruel or inhumane to dogs, many vets and the ASPCA recommend certain types of electronic fencing.

There are potential drawbacks to invisible fences:

They don't keep other animals or people out of your yard.
Receivers are sometimes ineffective in deterring dogs with heavy coats, who may need to be shaved for the mild shock to be felt.
If your dog gets too agitated or distracted by something outside the yard, he may ignore the shock and take off anyway. He may also be disinclined to return to the yard, fearing another shock.

It's up to you to decide on the type of fencing that is most appropriate for you, your dog and your neighbors. Whatever kind of containment you choose, you can rest assured you've done your best to provide for your dog's health and safety.