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Why Dogs Jump Fences And Training Them To Stop?

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Dogs **jump fences** for many reasons, but it mainly boils down to their **natural instincts**. They might see a **squirrel or a cat** and get that overpowering urge to chase. Some dogs **get bored** and look for adventure, while others might be anxious or **trying to escape** something scary. Studies show that about **20% of pet dogs** escape their yards regularly. Creating a more engaging backyard can help, like adding toys or even creating an obstacle course. Most dogs don’t jump because they’re mischievous, but because they’re just being dogs. Ensuring they’re happy and secure can make all the difference.

Dogs jump the fence for a variety of reasons; all of which can be frustrating, but more dangerous than anything else.

Not only are dogs that jump the fence a danger to themselves, but they also pose a threat to other persons and animals in your neighborhood.

So, in an attempt to be a good pet owner, you fence in your yard, thinking your family dog can now have a place to play as well as a confined space when they need to relieve themselves when you cannot take them for a walk.

The answer – you have a fence jumper, which is more common than we realize. If your dog is jumping the fence, first take a look at the root of the behavior.

But, one-day animal control contacts you to inform you that they have your dog and you ponder “how did they get out?”

Can he see what is outside of the fence?

Often dogs will see other dogs, people or furry critters to chase (like that pesky squirrel). Your dog may also be jumping in an attempt to protect its “territory”.

Is your dog spayed or neutered?

A dog looking to procreate will stop at nothing to do so, and a fence is no obstacle to his or her desire.

Is your dog just bored?

Dogs need plenty of stimulation, and if you simply put him in the yard with no stimulus, they will quickly tire of the surroundings and begin looking for other sources of stimulation.

Separation anxiety – A lot of dogs do not like to be left alone, especially outside in a yard, for long periods of time.

They can become anxious in the surroundings and feel the need to escape.

Storms, fireworks, screaming children and strangers walking by could all spook your pooch and make him feel like he must flee.

He may begin to see the yard as a type of prison and cannot help but escape over the fence. Your dog also may jump in an attempt to find you, especially if you leave them frequently.

Unfortunately, there are several reasons why dogs jump the fence, but the good news; there are just as many solutions to that issue. We will cover a variety of solutions in the following article.

Can you train a dog not to jump a fence?

Dog On Fence

The short answer is YES.

Training your dog to stay in the back yard requires time, patience, and a big bag of treats. Before you start training your dog not to jump the fence, there are a few things you can do to prepare.

These may include mending any broken fence areas, repairing any holes in the fence, adding plastic slats if you have a chain link fence or removing furniture used as a launching spot.

We’ll discuss dog-proofing a fence more, later.

Choose a time of day when there are not a ton of distractions, you need your dog to stay fully focused on you and the training, which in turn will make the training go faster.

Remember, keeping your dog from escaping could save him from becoming seriously injured, lost, or killed.

How to dog proof a fence?

Walk around your yard and look at everything from your dog’s point of view to get a better understanding of what you need to do.

To stop fence jumpers, take a look at your fence and use your imagination. Does it need to be mended, height added or blocked out.

Do you need to remove any escape aids?

It’s amazing what dogs can use to their benefit when trying to escape from the yard. A garbage can stored next to the fence becomes a step stool.

Firewood piled next to a fence does the same thing; it’s easy to climb up then hop the fence. Take a good look around and then remove all of those climbing aids.

What about restricting the dog’s view?

Depending on the type of fencing you have, there are several ways to limit your dog’s view. Reed fencing comes in rolls and is relatively inexpensive.

You can attach this to the inside your existing fence to cut down visibility. Plastic slats can be woven through a chain link fence and although this won’t block all visibility, it will help.

Many dog owners’ plant climbing shrubs to grow on the fence. This is a more attractive alternative.

Many times dogs try to escape from the yard because they have a clear view of the fun available outside the fence, some simple alterations can solve that.

What are invisible dog fences?

Invisible Dog Fence

An electric fence also called an invisible fence is simply a wired fence placed underground.

This creates an electrically charged “wall” that keeps your dog within the boundaries of your yard without the need for a physical fence.

It is linked electronically to a matching invisible fence collar that the dog wears around its neck making invisible dog fences an effective and safe deterrent.

Features vary among the invisible dog fences currently available on the market, but while the basic concept is the same, the qualities of the features are not.

Some basic features to look for and make a decision on are the amount of shock, battery options, interference, and design.

Amount of Shock

This refers to the amount of energy in the deterrent “zap” so consider how many levels of shock the fence offers.

If you have a strong-willed, or physically resilient dog, or even multiple dogs of variable sizes, you will want to have more levels available in order to custom-design the shock.

Battery

Some invisible dog fences have a battery-backup function, but this is not standard on all systems.

A battery-backup capability is a very good safety feature, covering the possibility that you forget to check the battery, or are late in changing it.

Interference

Another factor to consider is the amount of interference that may impact the restriction on your pet.

Some invisible dog fences have low interference while others can be relatively high.

With all the potential interferences available in our environment these days, it is very important to find out what the capacity is for any dog fence you are considering purchasing.

Design

Finally, you want to make sure you choose a fence that allows you to outline your boundaries any way you need to in order to maintain it’s reliability while still providing both safety and openness for your dog.

In other words, be aware that some fences have to be laid in a square, oval or round shape, while others may block off wanted running areas within the boundaries.

How Does an Invisible Fence Work?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2WPBkP7M3g

Invisible fences operate on a structure that transmits energy between the border you establish, a home base monitoring or transmitter device, and the receiver that is attached to the dog’s collar.

The fence itself is a set of electrically charged wires that are placed about 3-4 inches underground around the outer border of your property.

A transmitter is set up in your home or garage and as the dog approaches the border, the sound or vibration will encourage the dog from continuing to advance any further.

The electric charge is similar to a quick splash of liquid on your face – just enough to surprise your dog and stop their movement, but not enough to wound or cause any sort of damage.

The amount of electric force that the collar takes in and gives to your dog can vary, depending on how you set the system up.

The system will come with guidelines on how much force is recommended for dogs at various weights.

You can also experiment with the settings to find out exactly how much shock is required to keep your dog confined yet happy and safe.

Let’s look at some Pro’s and Con’s to help you make a better decision.

Pros

  • No physical fence maintenance
  • Doesn’t change your landscaping
  • Provides safety for your dog while also giving them the freedom
  • Protects your dog from traffic, strangers, and any other dangers
  • Easy to install it
  • Cheaper than a regular fence
  • Aids in training your dog

Cons

  • Must regularly check batteries
  • Installation can be time-consuming
  • No protection from other animals getting inside the periphery

Conclusion

Dogs want to spend time outside, but not confined, when they can see, hear and smell a whole other world just beyond their fence.

If they have not been given enough toys or exercise, are left alone for too long, suffer from anxiety or are looking to mate they will undoubtedly jump a fence in search of those freedoms.

Because it is a self-rewarding behavior, once your dog jumps a fence, it is likely he will jump again.

Do not leave your dog alone in the yard for long periods of time, give him plenty of stimulation, and train him from the beginning that it is in his best interests to stay in the yard.

Once you figure out why your dog is jumping the fence, you can work to prevent the bad behavior immediately with just a few modifications to their routine and environment. 

Keep in mind; teaching them to stop jumping the fence could save their life.

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Best Invisible Dog Fence: Train and Restrain Your Dog at the Same Time

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So, your dog is an escape artist.

You’ve tried absolutely everything possible to keep your pup from jumping fence, digging under the fence, or just destroying your fence to get to the other side.

You are probably extremely frustrated.

This behavior of backyard escape is a dangerous one.

Sure, some dogs do other naughty things, but escaping a yard is a particularly bad behavior.

Dogs who escape their yard are exposed to all sorts of danger.

Dogs that are repeat escape artists, are at higher risk for encountering injury or death.

So what do you do?

Well, have you thought about an invisible fence?

Invisible fences are a great option for dog owners that have escape artist pups, or maybe just don’t want to look out at a physical fence.

These great tools for dog training and protection are a great way to keep your dog close to home without the fear of them escaping a fence, again.

In this article, we’ll break down the best invisible fences on the market, to help you make a great, informed decision about buying an invisible fence.

We’ll also give you some handy information to help you better understand the pros and cons of installing an invisible or electric fence.

Our Reviews Of The Invisible Dog Fence

#1 Extreme Dog Fence – Second Generation

The eXtreme Dog Fence PRO Grade system is the premiere D.I.Y. static correction, pet containment system for the dog owner with up to 10 acres of coverage needs.

The eXtreme Dog Fence Professional grade kit is a step above the Standard Grade kit.

There are several advantages of ordering the Professional Grade kit.

Above all, is the quality and longevity of the included 14-gauge wire. It is so durable that you don’t even have to bury it.

This means that the Professional grade kit is the perfect choice if you want to run your dog fence wire along an existing fence, or simply tack the wire to the top of the ground.

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#2 SportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Systems

Dog care training color users advance anti-jamming technology which supports a strong and stable signal for multiple training environments. 

These training collars are designed with low voltage, so the gentle static will not hurt your pet. 

If you have more than 2 dogs in your house, Dog Care training shock collar would be the perfect option for you. 

You can adjust the accurate static level for your dog. Also this dog training shock collar is size adjustable. Perfect for all size dogs (15lbs~100lbs)

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#3 PetSafe Stay & Play Dog and Cat Wireless Fence

The PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence allows you to create a secure ¾ acre circular boundary around your yard without the hassle of burying wire or installing a physical fence.

To set up, simply place the Stay & Play Wireless Fence transmitter in a weather­proof location, plug into an outlet and adjust the dial to cover the perfect size area for your dog.

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#4 JUSTSTART Wireless Dog Fence Electric Pet Containment System

The intelligent wireless fence system is the unique and new product type on the market, with a lovely design shape and simple operation.

It’s capable of reliably protecting your pet and excellent at containing your pet within the set boundary.

If the dog exceeds the set activity range, beep and static shock dog training functions will automatically start to warn the dog back to the safe area.

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#5 JUSTSTART Wireless Dog Fence Electric Pet Containment System

Give your pet the freedom to enjoy life outside. 

Offer your pets a secure yard to play in with this durable and waterproof in-ground fence. 

This weekend do-it-yourself project comes with clear step-by-step instructions on how to design and install your fence. 

Give all of your pets the freedom to play outside with the purchase of additional PetSafe collars.

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Introduction to Invisible Dog Fences

What is an invisible fence, you may be asking?

Well, an invisible fence is just that, a barrier around your yard that cannot be seen, but yet is effective in keeping your dogs from escaping your yard.

Invisible fences have been around for a long time. Their technology has improved, but the basic principle of their function has remained the same.

There are a variety of different types of invisible fences on the market.

When you are shopping for a new invisible fence, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind.

First, the size of the area you are looking to fence in.

Some types of invisible fence are not great for large areas, but are amazing for smaller yards.

Second, you need to understand how much maintenance you are willing to do on your invisible fence.

Fences that you transponders or relay posts, require that you frequently check the alignment of the relays. If these relays are out of position, you may lose your barrier, without knowing. If you don’t have much time to dedicate to maintenance, choose a wired invisible fence.

Invisible fences are great options for the people that want to keep their view clear, and without the interference of a physical fence.

They are also a perfect solution for the dog owner that has a pup that has repeatedly escaped a yard.

Not only can they be used as a stand-alone feature, but they are also great to go along with an existing physical fence.

An invisible fence is also a great option for the homeowner that wants to limit their dog’s access to parts of the yard.

Putting up an invisible fence can keep dogs out of vegetable gardens or away from features like swimming pools.

The best thing about invisible fences in this case is that your dog won’t pass the barrier, but you can walk through without a problem, and you don’t have to build a physical fence that may not be attractive in your yard.

Invisible Dog Fence FAQ

Before you run out and buy a shiny, new invisible fence for your home, you probably have some questions.

We’ve searched the internet for the most commonly asked questions about invisible fences, and how they work with your dog.

We’ve compiled a list of these questions, and provided you with handy answers, all in one spot!

How do invisible fences work for dogs?

Invisible fences work by sending a correction signal to your dog, when they get to the boundary. 

Invisible fences are relatively simple in how they work, but are easiest to understand, it you know the parts and how they work together.

Controller

The control box is the central unit for controlling your electric fence. 

This part is usually installed in a discreet, weather protected spot like your garage, shed or barn. 

The controller is where the fence signal originates from, and it is the primary functioning part of the fence. 

The controller is where wired fences are connected or the point where a relay signal originates.

Wire or Relay Posts

Depending on the type of fence you purchase you will need to install either an underground wire that connects the fence to the controller, or you will need to install relay posts. 

Both of these create the invisible barrier that reacts to your dog’s collar.

Boundary Markers

Many invisible fence kits come with boundary markers. 

These simple flags remind you and your dog where the boundary is, and are helpful when training your pup.

Collar

Each type of invisible or electric fence comes with a unique collar. 

This collar will react with the signal sent by the boundary infrastructure, and will give your pup a gentle correction if they get too close to the fence. 

These collars contain a small battery, so it’s important that you make sure that the battery is charged or replaced frequently or you’ll be stuck with a pup that escapes your new fence.

Also, make sure that the system you purchase also has a collar with adjustable correction levels.

Some dogs aren’t phased by a gentle shock or a quiet beep.

If your dog is stubborn, you’ll want to select a more aggressive correction level.

The type of fence you choose really depends on the size of your yard, and the type of correction you want. There are a variety of options on the market, so make sure you pick the right one for your yard and your pup.

How old does your dog need to be for an invisible fence?

Invisible fences are a great option for dogs of any age.

They are most effective for pups that already understand basic training techniques, but if you are willing to take the time with younger dogs, to help them learn the basics of an electric fence, you can even use them for puppies.

However, be mindful when training a puppy on an invisible fence that uses a static correction.

Many invisible fence companies have size or age recommendations for their product. While some fences are great for larger dogs, or dogs that are a bit older, these fences may not be ideal for smaller pups or puppies.

Make sure you read the manufacturers recommendations carefully before investing in an invisible fence for a puppy.

If the manufacturer recommends their product for dogs over a certain age, make sure you follow that suggestion.

For some small puppies, even the lowest level of correction could be too much “shock” so be mindful of your puppy’s reaction.

You may want to adjust the correction mode if possible.

However, if it still seems too much, make sure you set up a safe, physical boundary for your puppy, until they are a little bigger, and are able to adjust well to an invisible fence.

Can dogs get through an electric fence?

Believe it or not, yes.

Some dogs can get through an invisible fence.

However, you need to make sure that your dog isn’t getting through because there is an issue with your fence.

The most frequent way a dog sneaks through an invisible fence is because the power is out, their collar battery is dead, or one of the relay posts is out of alignment.

Frequently check your system to make sure that everything is running the right way.

Some dogs are just that sneaky, though. Some really tenacious, and large breeds are just unphased by the correction from the collar, and walk right through the fence.

Do your research and make sure that you’ve bought a product that will be substantial enough for a large breed dog or a really tenacious pup.

How long does it take to train a dog with an invisible fence?

This really depends on two things.

First your commitment to training your dog, and second, your dog’s willingness to learn. 

Most invisible fences will come with a guide to training your dog to the invisible fence. 

This takes time on your part to make it work.

If you are willing to take the time to teach your pup, then teaching your dog to understand the fence, may take a few hours or a couple of days.

However, if your dog is hard-headed and has always been a challenge to train, or if you aren’t willing to take the time to teach them, this process can take weeks, if they learn at all.

Like with any training, consistency and repetition are the keys to success.

Invisible fences are a great tool to help keep your dog close to home.

Whether you pup is an escape artist or you just don’t want to look at a physical fence, an invisible or electric fence is a great, reliable option for you and your dog.

With time and training, both you and your pup can enjoy the freedom that an invisible fence can provide for your family.

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