7 Reasons Why Invisible Fences for Dogs Don’t Work

The premise of an invisible fence for dogs sounds like a dream for both ends of the leash: Dogs seemingly get the freedom to roam and explore outside as they wish, while pet parents can feel reassured that their best friend will be kept safely within the yard without needing to babysit them.

Unfortunately, the reality of an invisible fencing system can be more of a nightmare. While some dogs roam happily within the boundaries of the yard, others can find themselves facing a variety of challenges, from physical pain to behavioral issues. Pet parents considering this type of containment system should be aware of the drawbacks of invisible fencing before making the decision.

How Does an Invisible Fence Work?

Most invisible fencing containment systems rely on radio frequencies emitted by a cable buried underground, which is paired with a control panel or transmitter stationed in the yard. The cable provides the boundary line for the system.

The dog wears a receiver collar with two small prongs that sit at the base of the throat and pick up the digital signal from the control panel. When the dog gets too close to the buried boundary, the receiver collar gives off a warning tone. If the dog keeps going toward the boundary, the collar delivers an electrical shock to the neck.

The intensity of the shock can be adjusted, but no matter the level, the sensation is supposed to be aversive (painful) enough to the dog that they back away from the boundary.

Do Invisible Fences for Dogs Work?

While there’s no denying that radio frequency containment systems do work for some households, there are many potential drawbacks associated with invisible fences. Unfortunately, the freedom these types of fences provide can come at a great cost, including:

1. Potential Injury to the Dog

Not only is the shock from approaching and crossing the boundary painful for dogs, but the invisible fence collar itself can cause injury. The metal prongs that deliver the shock can rub against the dog’s neck and wear away the fur, possibly leading to open wounds and infections.

In worst-case scenarios, the collar can malfunction, causing it to deliver shocks no matter where the dog is standing. The collar can also leave electrical burns at the prong site.

2. Generalized Fear Behaviors in the Yard

The aversive training required for an invisible fencing system can backfire, resulting in dogs that end up too frightened of getting shocked to enjoy the yard. Some dogs might avoid the yard altogether, opting to stay close to the house or on a deck or patio. Others might develop issues with exiting or entering the property.

3. Equipment Failure

Aside from the possible collar injuries, the batteries in the collar eventually die. And if pet parents don’t realize the fence is no longer functioning, the dog can walk right through the boundary. Dogs are smart, and some even grow wise to the way the collar works and patrol near the boundary, setting off the warning tone to tax the battery until it wears out.

4. A Dog’s Prey Drive Might Be Greater Than the Shock

For some dogs, the thrill of the chase is a stronger pull than the fear of the shock. When presented with the right sort of stimulus, like a cat or bike on the other side of the fence, high-drive dogs might push through the pain delivered by an invisible dog fence to pursue the trigger beyond the boundary.

5. Development of Inappropriate Behaviors

Being left alone in the yard for hours at a time can lead to dogs exhibiting behaviors such as territory reactivity.

Unlike with many traditional fences, a dog patrolling a yard with an invisible fence has an unobstructed view of the world on the other side of the boundary. If they perceive a threat getting too close, they might react by barking and lunging in an attempt to keep it away—even if it’s just a neighbor strolling by.

Couple this behavior with repeated exposures every day, and there’s a chance the dog will end up with entrenched reactivity responses no matter who or what is passing by.   

6. Dogs Aren’t Protected From Threats Coming In

You might think that keeping your dog safe outside means making sure your best friend remains inside your yard, but an invisible fence actually leaves your dog vulnerable to threats invading your dog’s space. Other dogs, strangers, and wildlife can still approach your dog in the yard, leading to potentially tragic outcomes.

7. The Warning Tone Can Trigger “Beep Anxiety”

Some sensitive dogs might begin associating the warning tone and resulting shock during the training phase of fence installation to mean that any electronic beep signifies pain will follow. That means similar sounds, such as the tone on your microwave, beeps on your phone, or the low-battery warning from your fire alarm, could trigger a fear or anxiety response in your dog.

Invisible Fencing Alternatives

A solid fence is the best choice for keeping most dogs safe in a yard. But this can be an expensive option on larger properties, and some neighborhoods prohibit fencing or place restrictions on what’s allowed.

Taking your dog out in the yard on a long line is a great way to give your best friend a sense of freedom in scenarios where fencing isn’t an option. Long lines are leashes that are longer than typical “going for a stroll around the block” options, typically ranging 10–50 feet long. A thin, tangle-free long line made of an easy-to-clean material allows your dog to explore the great outdoors while giving you peace of mind.

While it might be tempting to invest in a cable run—a system where a dog is tethered to a cable or line—for your dog, this option still leaves your dog at risk for some of the same drawbacks of electric fences, like territorial aggression and outside threats entering your yard. A cable run can also lead to strangulation. The best option for dogs in need of yard time is to join your dog and enjoy the great outdoors together.