Having extra space to roam and play around is important for dogs. They’re naturally energetic, and your dog must have a secure space to move around in order to spend this energy. This is one of the main reasons why dog fences exist and are used. One of the most innovative dog fence types today is electronic fences. But there’s a big question around these fences: are they safe for smaller dogs?
This article answers that question. Learn more about electronic dog fences, including whether using one for small dogs is safe. Also, find out when you should use and not use one for your beloved pet.
What Is an Electronic Fence and How Does It Work?
An electronic dog fence is also called an invisible dog fence. These fences come in two main types: wired and wireless. A wired fence is either buried or raised above the ground where it’s installed. It creates an electrically charged barrier that keeps your dog confined in the space, removing the need for a physical fence. It’s also usually connected to a transmitter in your dog’s collar.
Is It Safe to Use an Electronic Dog Fence for Small Dogs?
When you get an electronic fence, you’ll likely install transmitters around the perimeter of a space. Remember that these transmitters are linked. This creates an invisible barrier around that area. The transmitter is also connected to the transmitter in your dog’s collar. The device in their collar will audibly “beep” when the dog goes beyond the fenced area. If the dog ignores this beep, the device will then send a small electric impulse, like a light vibration.
This means that using an electronic fence for your small dog will be safe and effective, as long as you set up the fence correctly. With short bursts of safe electric power, using the fence would be effective in modifying your dog’s behavioral patterns and movements. It will help teach your dog to remain in the contained space.
Take note that these impulses will not hurt your little baby. The shock is designed to be unpleasant but not harmful. Numerous studies have shown and proved that these fences are safe to use for both dogs and cats. Plus, these fences are known to use low-voltage current to create that barrier. They have lower voltage levels compared to other fences for other animals.
When to Use and Not Use an Electronic Fence for Small Dogs
Generally, electronic fences are safe to use for small dogs whenever you need one. Containing or keeping them in a safe area outweighs the quick impulse they will feel when they get out of the zone. Most animals only tend to try to touch and get past the fence once or twice before they learn not to attempt to.
But it’s still important that you know when you should not use an electronic fence for your pet. These situations include:
- If you’re not sure of the power output of the electronic fence and the transmitter on the dog’s collar.
- If your pet shows any signs of physical weakness, illness, or other unknown conditions.
- If your pet is still young and can’t take and learn the concept of staying within a fence, even after just a few shocks.
Tips When Getting an Electronic Dog Fence
Before you get and use an electronic fence for your pet, take note of these tips:
- Consult a Veterinarian
Before using an electronic fence for your dog, consult your veterinarian to determine if it's suitable based on your dog's health and temperament.
- Consider Installation Options
There are different types of electronic fences based on their installation method: subterranean, above-ground, and wireless. Subterranean fences have buried wiring, above-ground fences have wiring above the ground, and wireless fences use transmitters without cables.
Conclusion
Using an electronic dog fence for small dogs would be a safe and convenient way to keep your pet within an area. Even if your dog is small, this type of fence can contain them safely and effectively within a space. However, make sure to consult your veterinarian before buying if your dog has some health or temperament problems. But if you’re ready to buy, you can visit our electronic fence collection.