FAQ
How do I get the best results from my Electric Dog Fence?
There are a number of factors to consider when installing an electric dog fence. The following main points are essential for any success to be achieved:
For an electric fence to work, the animal must come into contact with the wire or tape when it still has a paw on the ground. This completes the circuit of the wire and the ground rod (a rod that is driven into the ground, similar to a large tent peg), allowing for a pulse to be felt. If your dog is jumping a fence, you are better to locate the wire or tape near where you dog jumps from and not on top of the fence. If the wire was on top of the fence and the dog touches it when jumping, he will not feel anything because the circuit between the wire and the ground rod is not closed.
Ground that is overly dry will also inhibit the success of any electric fence. If you notice that the ground around your electric fence is quite dry, water the area around the ground rod.
The longer the fence the more likely you will need additional ground rods strategically placed to improve performance.
Can the electric fence be used to keep possums away?
Yes, many of our customers are using the Electric Fences to keep possums and other pests away from gardens and the like. It is important to note that in this instance, it is far better to choose a pulsating electric fence rather than a constant current style fence (the Fido-Shock SS725RP is the only constant current electric fence we carry).
Will the containment collar hurt my pets?
The Invisible Fence or Containment System collars are not designed to hurt or harm your pet. The collars give a static correction only when your pet continues towards the fenceline after hearing the warning tone. The static correction, if you or I were to experience it, would be similar when we shuffle across carpet and touch someone. However, it is important to note that dogs do not have sweat glands throughout their skin as we do, they have a typically dry skin as they pant to cool down. Therefore, the correction that they receive is similar to that of a Tens Machine, like a small muscle contraction. Again, it is not designed to hurt your pet whatsoever.
Do the dogs need to touch the wire on the containment system to receive the correction?
The important thing to note with the containment systems is that the dogs do not need to touch the wire. The wire around the perimeter emits a radio signal that dog's collar responds to. When your dog first enters this radio signal field (approximately 2 metres from the wire - this can be adjusted), the collar will give a warning tone to alert your dog (see Q. 7). Should your dog continue to go towards the wire boundary, the collar will give a static correction that is milder to what we experience when we shuffle across carpet and touch someone nearby. See next question for more detail.
Can cats be trained to your containment system?
Yes, we have many successful cat installations. Choose the Petsafe Deluxe Cat Fence and stop your cat from entering other properties and attacking wildlife in parks. The great thing with the PetSafe containment systems is that you can add any of the other Petsafe invisible fence collars for use with your pet dogs. This means you can have an invisible cat fence and then purchase a PetSafe invisibel Dog Fence collar and it will work with the cat fence. The Deluxe Cat fence is also a great choice for use with very small and miniature breeds, such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians and Miniature Dachshunds.
Can I take the system with me if I move?
That is the advantage with our dog fence systems! With traditional fencing, you can't take it with you when you move, and it is often very costly. With one of our invisible dog fences, if you move or if you have a second property, all you will require is the additional wire.
Can I also use the same Innotek collar for indoor pet barrier areas?
Only the collars with the Innotek Ultrasmart Invisible Dog Fences are compatible with the Innotek Zones Indoor Pet Barrier. The Innotek Zones Pet Barrier system allows you to keep your dogs out of certain rooms, off furniture, away from the kitchen bins or anywhere you don't want them to go. By purchasing the Innotek Ultrasmart 4100 or the Ultrasmart 5100 Contain 'n' Train dog containment systems, you are able to also purchase Zones and use them inside your home.
How many dogs can I have on the containment system?
There is no real limit to the number of dogs you can have on the invisible dog fence. Each dog will just need to have their own collar for the system. Extra collars are available for each containment system, including the invisible cat fence.
How do I take my dog for walks outside the property without him getting a correction?
The last thing you want to do is walk your dog through the boundary whilst he is wearing the dog fence collar. The best thing to do is to simply remove the dog fencing collar, and place your dog's walking collar and walking-lead on him before leaving the property. It is recommended, where possible, to use the same exit each time. This way your dog will learn that the only time he can exit the property is when he is with his master and on his walking-lead.
How large an area can the system cover?
Depending on the dog containment system you choose, the signal will reach anywhere from 5 to up to 45 acres. However, it is important to note that each kit supplies you with a spool of 150 metres of wire. To cover these larger areas, you will need to place more wire to suit. Make sure you pace out the distance before you start your installation. See Question 3 for more details on the length of wire you may require.
Please explain how to train your dog to the invisible dog fence system.
We supply you with a training DVD that takes you step-by-step through the process. The process will last for approximately 10 minutes per day for a period of 2 weeks. You will introduce your dog, whilst on a lead, to the boundary which is marked by the training flags. The training will introduce your dog to the warning tone and the correct response. The purpose is to encourage your dog to return to the safety of the yard and away from the flags. You are there to prevent him from panicking and possibly running through the radio signal. Offer treats and play time as a reward after each training session when your dog returns to the safe area. You will need to repeat this 3 or 4 times at different places around the boundary. Your dog will learn to stop before reaching the flags or when he hears the audible warning tone. After the first week of training, you can remove every second flag, and at the end of the training you should be able to remove all remaining flags. Your dog will have learned to stay in his newly appointed area.
Does the wire need to be buried?
No, you can attach the wire to your existing fence with cable ties, hook nails or similar. You can also bury it 3 to 5cm underground. This keeps it from being damaged when mowing or edging. When it comes to areas like driveways or gates, there are a number of options to consider. If it is dirt, gravel or similar, simply bury the wire inside a piece of old garden hose or conduit to protect it when being driven over. If the driveway or path is concrete or asphalt, look to place the wire in an expansion joint or seam, it is advisable to secure it in place with some caulking. Where necessary, you may have to cut a groove for the wire, this will require a circular saw with a masonry blade). However, if you feel a bit stuck as to which is the best option, feel free to contact our Service Dept on 1300 032 491 for advise for your particular situation.
How easy is it to install an Invisible Dog Fence?
You do not need an electrician or tradesperson, anyone can install a containment system. Your kit will include an instruction/installation manual, some kits even include a DVD on installation and training. There are 4 Steps to establishing an Invisible Dog Fence:
Preparation - This involves going through the manual, and drawing up a plan on how you will intall the wire and position the transmitter
Installation -Setting up the transmitter and placing the wire and training flags is the main aspect of this stage
Fitting - ensuring a proper and firm fit of the collar to the dog. This will see that the probes are in constant contact with the dogs skin whilst the collar is worn
Training - 10 minutes per for about 2 weeks. The training program is included with the kit and will explain everything you need to know
•The transmitter simply plugs into a standard powerpoint. It emits a radio signal along the length of the wire.
•The wire is insulated and can be buried or attached to an existing fence (except colourbond). It connects to the transmitter and carries the radio signal. This creates the boundary to contain your dog (like an invisible barrier). The strength of this radio signal can often be adjusted to suit the area you wish to contain your dog in.
•The collar, also known as a receiver, is placed around your dog's neck. The collar responds to the radio signal traveling along the wire and alerts the dog when he gets to close to the boundary. If the dog continues toward the boundary wire, he will receive a correction from the collar as it responds to the radio signal.
How does Containment Systems keep my dog safe at home?
The pet containment systems are sometimes known as in-ground fencing. Easily installed, they keep your dog safe at home but don't spoil or clutter your landscaping. Wire is used as a radio antenna around your property and plugs into a wall mounted transmitter creating an adjustable radio field. Your dog wears an electronic collar which picks up the signal when he approaches the boundary wire. He receives a "harmless" but "effective" stimulus which reminds him to stay within the boundary area or out of garden beds.
How do I calculate the length of wire I need to install my containment system?
It is best to measure or pace out the perimeter of your boundary. This will give you an idea of how much wire will be required. You will also have to measure the distance from the fenceline to where the transmitter will be located (remember, it has to be out of the weather and able to be plugged in), and double this measurement. Click on the link below for a guide to the amount of wire required based on the acreage you want to cover (This is an estimate only but it would be advisable to pace out your property).
Calculate the wire you need with this guide
Which Invisible Dog Fence should I look at for my German Shepherd?
Factors you should consider:
1.Are you containing more than 1 dog? If so, our range of containment systems with rechargeable collars offer you a low maintenance option with no ongoing battery costs.
2.How large an the area do you want for your dog? All of our invisible dog fences come with 150 m of wire which covers up to 1/2 acre, depending on
the shape of your block. Extra Boundary Kits containing 150 m of wire & 50 training flags, are available
3.Are you after a particular brand or model? We carry the major brands, including PAC, Innotek & PetSafe. The Petsafe range of collars can be used with any of the Petsafe contianment systems. However, the Pac Invisible Dog Fence collar is both waterproof and rechargeable and represents some of the best value for money!
4.If you are after an Invisible Dog Fence that stops your dog from escaping and allows you to resolve some behavioural problems - consider the Innotek Ultrasmart 5100 Contain 'n' Train
5.Also note that the Ultrasmart 4100 and the Ultrasmart 5100 are compatible with our Indoor Pet Barrier Zones, which may be helpful if training a young puppy or your dog is allowed inside at night.
I need more than 150 metres of wire for the area I want to contain my dog in.
Our range of Invisible Dog Fences include 150m of wire with the kit. We have Boundary Kits available, these include 150m of wire and 50 additional training flags. The Boundary Kits allow you to expand the distance of your Invisible Dog Fence. For example, you will need one Boundary Kit to complete approximately one acre. A few questions down we provide a table as a guide for how much wire you will require based on the acres you want to enclose.