Invisible electric fences can work with some dogs.  However, they are not a good substitute for an owner's supervision and there are several reasons why.

First of all, most invisible fences work because they detect a signal from a special collar on the dog.  If the collar falls off or the batteries in the collar die without the owner's knowledge then the dog can easily escape. Another problem is that some dogs may see something outside the fence line that gets them overly excited, such as a small animal.  The dog might break through the invisible fence line when they are in an extremely excited state and then, after the feeling wears off, they might not want to come back because of the invisible fence.


Believe it or not, the most common problem with electric invisible fences is not trying to keep the individual dog in.  The biggest problem is actually trying to keep other things out.  Since the invisible fences work based on an electric impulse from one particular dog's collar, they do nothing to keep other neighborhood dogs out of the yard.  For that matter, they also don't prevent wildlife, such as raccoons or coyotes, from coming into your dog's environment either.


Some places don't allow standard fences, such as wood or chain link.  In those instances, an invisible fence may be the only alternative.  If your dog is going to be supervised in the yard then an invisible fence may be fine.  However, there is no substitute for a standard fence when it comes to keeping other animals out.  If you can have a standard fence then you should have one.  That will protect not only your dog, but also the rest of the family. 

Why Do Dog's Dig?

Have you ever wondered what your dog’s fascination with digging is?

In general, most of a canine’s behaviors are based on conditioning or instinctual. Digging, excavating and unearthing are instinctive behaviors. Not to mention, certain breeds are more prone to dig than others.  For instance, both Dachshunds and Terriers were bred originally for their exhuming skills. Otters, foxes, badgers and other game were the objects of these dogs digging pleasures. Nonetheless, all canines dig for different purposes. From boredom, escaping or to acquire shelter, a dog will dig for a myriad of reasons.

When dogs are left alone in the confines of the backyard, they will dig commonly out of boredom. Intelligent dogs require activities to busy their mind. If your dog is left outside for extended periods of time and you wish to discourage their digging behavior, give them toys where treats are buried inside. For example, interactive toys such as a Pet Planet or Kong produce rubber, chewy toys with delicious doggie treats buried inside.

On the contrary, other canines dig to escape the enclosure of a fenced yard. Since a dog's hearing is astute to say the least what lie beyond your back yard is quite compelling to your dog. For the non-neutered or spayed dog, digging represents the opportunity to escape to mate.

For Owners who do not plan to breed their dogs, neutering and spaying are the best alternatives to preventing the digging and escaping behaviors.

For other dogs, digging is a means of finding relief. Deep layers of soil are usually cooler. In hot weather, your dog may use digging to relieve its heated discomfort. The best way to prevent your dog from digging for cold soil is to provide an area of shade so your dog can be healthy and comfortable.