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Quick Summary
- Proper training is crucial for the success of an invisible fence system. Tools like the training flags, your dog’s leash, and the collar beeper are essential for this.
- The static correction feature of the receiver collar should only be used as a last resort, and the intensity level should be adjusted gradually based on the dog’s size and temperament
- Positive reinforcement and firm, consistent guidance are key when teaching your pet to keep their distance from the fence.
Effective training is vital for an invisible dog fence system, using tools like training flags, a leash, and a collar beeper. Gradually adjust the static correction level and focus on positive reinforcement and firm, consistent guidance for your pet’s success.
As a dog owner, I have found that leash training is the best way to get my pet used to the invisible fence. I always make sure to have a long leash handy so that I can keep my pet close by while they’re getting used to the boundary. With the right approach, you can make sure that your pet has a positive association with the fence and understands its boundaries. It’s important to note that training your dog to use an invisible fence is crucial for the success of the containment system. While it may require some time and effort, with a well-thought-out plan and proper preparation, the training process can be made simple and effective.
Using training flags
When introducing an invisible or wireless dog fence, it’s important to train your pet to understand the concept of boundaries. Placing training flags can help demarcate the boundary clearly, but merely placing them won’t be enough. Pet owners should make sure consistent training is done so that their dog promptly retreats as soon as they approach the boundary, pulling them manually or with a receiver collar if necessary.
Using boundary flags are your main visual training aid for teaching your dog where the new boundaries are. Later on in their training process, this will be vital for them to know the fundamentals of how to avoid static correction, leading to your furry little family member feeling a lot safer and happier. In this process, it’s crucial to understand the importance of static correction and how to use it to create a positive association with the boundary.
Putting on the collar without static correction
Before applying static correction, it’s important to allow your pet to become accustomed to the fence without correction enabled. A dog retreat is a great way to create a safe zone for your dog to explore and become familiar with the fence.
Correction should only come when your dog has grasped boundary training. Right now, the dog is to be introduced to the boundary only.
Dog retreats are a great place to introduce your dog to an invisible fence. A dog retreat is a safe, enclosed area where your dog can explore and get used to the fence without the worry of them running off.
Associating the beep with negative feedback
Reinforce boundary awareness at this stage involves a two-tiered response to your dog trying to cross the boundary line.
- Manually pulling back on your dog’s leash when it crosses the line to tell them that crossing is not allowed.
- The warning beep signaling your denial. It will take time for your dog to associate it with the fact that crossing the boundary is wrong. Once the association is made, your pet will begin retreating on its own.
Remember, the receiver collar should not have static correction enabled during the initial stages of training. In this way, pet owners can ensure their dog’s boundary awareness is reinforced and static correction is only introduced later.
How to say a firm NO
Your dog may be used to hearing you say “no”, but when it comes to the invisible fence system, it’s important to be firm and clear. Using a strict tone, but without yelling, enunciate a loud NO — loud enough to stand out from your usual speaking voice, but not too much as to badly startle or upset your dog.
You can use hand gestures to reinforce your message. Make sure to keep a firm hold on your dog’s collar to ensure they listen, even if they are distracted. Where possible, I also advise that you make eye contact when you say “no” to them.
This may strike you as harsh, but it’s essential to ensure that your dog stays safely within the confines of the invisible fence when you’re not around.
Do not force your dog to cross the boundary line
Sometimes your pet may not naturally cross the boundary, which can confuse them if you push them to do so. Allow your furry friend to learn at their own pace.
Positive reinforcement is the best approach when teaching your pet to use the fence. You can begin by using boundary flags and practicing for a week, three times a day. This will help your dog learn its new boundaries and build its muscle memory. Remember to also use the static shock feature of the receiver collar only as a last resort.
Finding the right correction level
The static shock from the receiver collar shouldn’t even be so strong as to be considered a shock. Your dog should only feel a harmless, tingling sensation; enough to be noticed and get irritated by, but not enough to actually feel pain from. Collars with invisible fences often have varying intensity levels, so adjust the jolt depending on your dog’s size and temperament.
Gradually increase the intensity until you find the right level to reinforce the boundary. Repeat the process while walking your dog to the flags and retreating to the safe zone. I find that profusely praising my dogs when they manage to do this is often better for retaining the habit of keeping their distance from the invisible fence boundary. Remember to take frequent breaks, too.
Test your dog’s mastery of the training process
Once your dog recognizes the boundary line and retreats without interference, introduce distractions, such as toys or familiar people, to test the dog’s behavior. If your pet does not cross the boundary line, move to the next step when you are satisfied with the results.
Remove the leash when you are confident that your dog can retreat from the boundary without interference. Watch your pet’s behavior in the containment area and intervene if necessary. It is normal for a curious dog to challenge the boundary a few times but praise your dog as long as it stays within the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to train dog on invisible fence?
The training typically lasts for three weeks, but more than one training session may need to be conducted if your pet is particularly stubborn about the boundaries.
What is the best age to train for invisible fence?
The ideal time is a little before 16 weeks of age. However, many dogs can be trained as early as 12 weeks.
Do invisible fences really work for dogs?
Yes, as long as the dog isn’t too resistant or too sensitive to the correction method. But it’s worth noting that while invisible fences can be effective in containing pets, they do not prevent outside access from wild animals, cats, dogs, or humans, particularly children, who can enter the property and cause harm to both the pet and themselves.
