As a dog owner, it's your responsibility to take the necessary steps to keep your dog safe. Keeping your dog safe when outdoors means it has to be secured on your property away from busy roads and other animals. While you could build a wooden fence around your property, that solution comes with a heavy price tag which is more than many pet owners are prepared to spend. For some reason, it's sometimes impossible to build a fence anyway. However, if it's doable, check our recommendation of the best dog gates to find one for yourself.
If you find yourself in a situation like this, a wireless or wired electric dog fence may be the perfect solution. They're highly reliable and will keep your pet contained without the need for lengthy installations, major investments, or damage to your yard. We've prepared a separate article where you can learn about the differences between these two to know which one will be better for you.
In this article, I'm going to focus only on wireless dog fences. I'll look at the different models that are currently available and I'll tell you which fence is the best choice for several different situations, including larger yards, multiple dog households, and frequent travel. I'll also share the best wireless dog fence based on several key factors.
The Backyard Boss Top Wireless Dog Fence for 2021
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Why You Can Trust Us
I grew up in an animal-loving family and can’t remember a time in my childhood where we didn’t have at least one dog living with us. I carried this love of dogs into my adult life, volunteering with local rescue organizations and currently living with two adorable dogs of my own. However, as any dog owner can understand, the process of keeping your dog contained can be challenging.
After moving into a former house, we found ourselves faced with the difficulty of keeping our dogs safely contained with a busy highway nearby. As renters, we weren’t prepared to invest the money necessary to build a fence on the property which led us to research our options. While we don’t currently use a wireless fence, we were impressed by the many options available and the versatility that these systems offer.
The information included in this article has come from a great deal of personal research, both when selecting our fencing solutions and now. I've also expanded my knowledge by asking for the ideas of other dog owners, reading customer reviews, and comparing the basic features of each product. All this combined has allowed me to identify the following five great products.
Best For Multiple Dogs
Set up in only a few hours, this portable and reliable pet containment system provides up to ½ acre of coverage, keeping your dogs safe at home or at the cottage.
- Can support up an unlimited number of collars (additional collars not included)
- Provides correction-free re-entry
- Each collar can be set with its own individual settings
- Transmitter requires access to AC power connection
- Requires purchase of PetSafe RFA-67D-11 battery for collar receiver maintenance
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Why We Like It: Lightweight and portable, the PetSafe Wireless Pet Containment System is an easy-to-use wireless fence system for your home or cottage. After plugging your transmitter unit into an AC power source indoors, the set-up process will take only a few hours. The fence provides circular coverage up to ½ acres, centered around the transmitter. While the wireless fence kit comes with a single receiver collar, the transmitter can support an unlimited number of collars for multi-pet households.
The waterproof receiver unit is supported on a standard nylon collar which can be adjusted to fit neck sizes from 6” to 28”. The battery in the receiver lasts approximately 2 months before it needs to be replaced and provides a low battery indicator alert as a reminder.
The receiver includes a sound-only training mode as well as 5 levels of static, and each collar can be set independently from the others. This allows you to use the same kit for both small and dogs at the same time. It also provides correction0free re-entry. This means that if your dog does happen to leave the yard, they can return home without being corrected as they cross the boundary line.
Who Should Buy It: Multi-pet households, especially those with dogs of varying sizes, will find that the flexibility of the PetSafe Wireless Pet Containment System will make it easier to meet the needs of every dog.
Best For Large Areas
With an adjustable boundary range of up to 1000 feet, the JUSTPET Wireless Dog Fence Containment System creates a reliable boundary with vibration, shock correction, and sound reminders.
- Long transmission distance up to 1,000 feet
- Barrier can be extended by adding an additional transmitter
- Easy-to-adjust dial design
- Collar receiver must be re-charged weekly
- Transmitter requires access to AC power connection
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Why We Like It: With a long adjustable transmission distance capable of reaching 1000 feet, this wireless fence solution is a great choice for larger yards or outdoor spaces.
If you need to require an even larger area, the system’s reach can be extended with an additional transmitter. The strong signal allows you to place the transmitter anywhere in the home without fear of that signal being weakened. The transmitter itself requires an AC power connection while the collar transmitter is a rechargeable battery that will last approximately 1 week on a full charge.
The JUSTPET Wireless Dog Fence Containment System makes use of three different notifications for your dog. As they approach the set boundary line, the collar will vibrate as a warning. If the dog continues forward, the static electric shock cycle will correct the dog twice. For dogs that do manage to escape the designated safe space, the collar will continue to sound a reminder until they return home once again and cross back over the boundary. This collar is suitable for dogs of all sizes and coat lengths.
Who Should Buy It: If you're looking for a solution to keep your dog(s) contained in a larger yard, this wireless fence offers a strong signal and extended transmission reach.
Best Portable Wireless Dog Fence
Lightweight, small, and fully rechargeable, the WIEZ Wireless Dog Fence and Training Collar will serve both as a portable containment solution and training tool.
- Rechargeable transmitter allows you to go off the grid
- Small transmitter can be placed in a bag or purse while traveling
- Options available for 5 different radius settings from 100’ to 990’
- Can only support a maximum of 3 collars
- Transmission radius is limited to just the 5 set distances
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Why We Like It: Unlike most other wireless fence options on the market, the WIEZ Wireless Dog Fence & Training Collar is a fully portable and travel-friendly option. The transmitter is a rechargeable handheld controller that also doubles as the controller for the training collar function. As this requires no AC power connection to operate, this fence can be used completely off the grid for those that enjoy camping and exploring.
This wireless fence offers 5 different options for transmission radius including 100 ft, 200 ft, 300 ft, 500 ft, and 990 ft. It uses sound, vibration, and shock functions to warn your dog that they're nearing the boundary line, correct your dog for crossing that line, and for the training option of the collar. A maximum of 3 collars can be synced with the transmitter. The collars are IPX7 waterproof and adjustable from 8” to 28”.
Who Should Buy It: Frequent travelers should consider the WIEZ Wireless Dog Fence & Training Collar to protect their dogs at home and during their travels, including off-grid camping.
Best For Smaller Dogs
With the ability to cover an area of up to ¾ acre, this wireless fence kit will keep your dogs of all sizes safely contained.
- Can support an unlimited number of collars (additional collars not included)
- Small minimum weight (5 lbs) accommodates smaller dog breeds
- Provides correction-free re-entry
- Transmitter requires access to AC power connection
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Why We Like It: With a minimum estimated size of only 5 lbs and a collar that can be adjusted down as small as 6”, the PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence is a suitable option for smaller or toy dogs breeds.
The rechargeable receiver is waterproof and offers a sound-only mode as well as 5 correction levels. If your dog leaves the property, this fence allows for static-free re-entry to avoid correcting your dog while they're attempting to return home. If you have multiple pets, simply purchase an additional receiver collar for each pet as the transmitter can support an unlimited number.
The transmitter is small and compact, making it a portable option if you're traveling somewhere like the cottage. As long as you have access to an AC power outlet, you'll be able to set it up quickly and easily. The adjustable circular coverage can extend up to ¾ acre total, or a radius of 105 feet. If this isn’t a large enough space, add an additional transmitter to expand it further.
Who Should Buy It: Dog owners with one or multiple small dogs will be able to safely contain their pups using the PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence.
Best For Large Dogs
This invisible fence offers users the option of using wireless or wired functions, making it a versatile option for any outdoor space.
- Can switch to wired coverage for irregular shaped yards or uneven terrains
- Maximum recommended weight of 154 lbs accommodates larger dogs
- Collar receiver must be re-charged weekly
- Can only support a maximum of 3 collars
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Why We Like It: The Pet Control HQ Wireless Pet Containment System is a highly versatile option that can be used either as a wireless fence for easy installation or a fully wired invisible fence if you're trying a larger area or irregular terrain.
In addition to working as a wireless fence, the unit can also be used as a training collar, allowing you to smoothly transition from outdoor playtime to your next training session. In its full capacity, with the use of the wired option, the fence can provide 10 acres of coverage.
This fence can support up to 3 collars for multi-pet households, with the option for individual control when setting correction levels or performing training. There are 10 correction levels available for additional flexibility. The receiver is rated for dogs weighing 11 lbs to 154 lbs, and the collar itself can be adjusted from 8” to 27”. The receiver is waterproof for not only rain but also swimming. It can be submerged for up to 30 minutes at a depth up to 3.3 feet.
Who Should Buy It: If you're searching for a fencing option that can contain a larger dog or a highly stubborn dog that requires a stronger correction level, this is a great solution.
How to Install a Wireless Dog Fence
Image Credit: Skyler Ewing from Pexels
One of the biggest reasons that dog owners choose to use a wireless fence system is the ease of installing and setting it up. Unlike wired invisible fences, there is no need for digging up your yard and burying wires. The set-up process can be done in as little as 20 minutes with some models, making it a quick and easy solution for keeping your dog contained safely.
Set-Up Your Transmitter
The location of your transmitter will influence the boundary lines for your electric fence setup. This is because wireless devices transmit their signal with circular coverage, creating a permitter centered on the transmitter. If you want a barrier that extends evenly around your home, find a place for your transmitter in the center of the house. Alternatively, if you would like to give your dog access to a large portion of the backyard while avoiding the front yard, you should set the transmitter up closer to the back of the house.
Transmitters work best on flat ground, requiring their placement to be on the main floor of your home for optimal coverage. You can also improve the signal strength by mounting the transmitter approximately 3 to 5 feet off the ground. Most transmitters will require AC power to operate and should be placed near a power outlet. Pay careful attention to avoid placing the transmitter near any metal appliances or fixtures as this could interfere with the signal.
Activate the Receiver
The receiver is the portion that is attached to your dog’s collar and makes contact with your dog’s neck using metal contact points. Put a working battery in the receiver or charge the receiver fully for use. Depending on the model of the fence, you may need to register the collar with the transmitter to create the connection. To do so, follow the installation instructions provided with your specific wireless fence model.
Set the ‘Safe Zone’
Your ‘safe zone’ is the area that your dog is allowed to move freely within the boundary line. This is generally measured by the radius or the distance from the transmitter to the edge of the circular coverage area. Depending on the model of wireless fence that you're working with, you can either set any distance up to the stated maximum or you will have to choose between several set distance options.
If you're unsure of where the boundary line will fall with a specific setting, take your receiver, and walk towards the boundary area. As you approach close to the boundary line, you will either feel a vibration or hear an audible tone as a warning.
Select the Appropriate Correction Level
Your wireless fence will offer several different correction levels. This allows you to adjust the strength of the correction to suit your dog, as some are more stubborn or unbothered by the correction than others. Depending on the model, this may be set either on the receiver or the transmitter. Start the training process with the correction level set at the lowest and you can increase it slowly depending on your dog’s response.
Place the Training Flags Along the Boundary
This is an important step in preparation for training your dog as it provides a visual aid. With the receiving collar in hand, walk out to the edge of the boundary until you hear the warning beep. Place the flag in a visible spot on this line. Continue this process around the full boundary of the safe zone. The distance between flags will depend on the number of training flags that came with your wireless fence kit.
Training Your Dog
Unlike a tall privacy fence, any wireless fence will require training for it to contain your dog properly. If you send your dog out with the collar and no training, it'll only create confusion as they won't understand why there is a correction being administered as they step over the boundary line. This is the longest part of the set-up and installation process.
It's important to be consistent with your dog during the training process to avoid giving mixed messages. Set aside some time each day for short, frequent training sessions. In the beginning, your dog should be on a leash as you demonstrate the boundary line and set your expectations. As your dog learns the boundary, you can introduce distractions and unleashed opportunities slowly working up to fully trusting that your dog will respect the boundary.
FAQ
Image Credit: Hemera Technologies from Picspree
Wireless vs Invisible Dog Fences: What’s the Difference?
Both wireless and invisible dog fences work to contain your dog by creating an invisible boundary around your home or outdoor space. This is done through the transmission of a signal to a receiver on the dog’s collar. The difference between the two is how this signal is delivered.
A wireless fence uses a central transmitter and radio signal to create a circular coverage area around its location. If you move the transmitter, the circle will effectively move with it. While most wireless units will allow you to set the zone by changing the size of the circle, it'll always remain a circle. They're also limited in the size that can be covered as the radio signal becomes weaker as you move further from the transmitter.
An invisible dog fence works on the same idea. However, it uses a wire to deliver the signal. This wire can be buried underground, staked down above ground, or mounted on an existing fence along the boundary line. For it to work, a full circle must be completed starting and ending at the transmitter. However, it can take any shape along the way. This allows it to accommodate the unique shape of your yard. These fences do take more work to install as you must install the full wire boundary. Also, if you want to change the boundary later, you'll have to adjust the location of the wiring.
Does A Wireless Fence Work on Hills?
While a wireless fence does work on smaller hills or mildly sloped yards, an extremely uneven terrain may impact the strength of the signal. This means that it could cause your wireless fence to fail to alert your dog, allowing them to pass through with no warning or correction. The same is true for properties with too many trees. In these situations, it's recommended that you use an invisible fence instead.
Are Wireless Dog Fences Safe for Humans?
The radio signals used by wireless fences are low-frequency radio waves, lower than the electromagnetic fields (EMF) that are released by mobile phones and home appliances. These radio waves are non-ionizing and therefore have no impact on your overall health and well-being. When studying the impact of EMFs on cancer, studies have shown that there are no known ways that non-ionizing EMF’s could cause illnesses like cancer by damaging the boy’s DNA. Therefore, you can rest assured that your wireless dog fence poses no health risk to you or your dog.
How We Picked
There are a variety of different factors to consider when choosing the best wireless dog fence for any given situation. While putting together this list, I looked at the quality of both the fencing technology as well as the actual collars that the dogs will wear, range, battery life, portability, and the number of dogs that can be supported by a single fence.
I compared the different features that each fencing system offered while also looking at the customer reviews for real-life opinions of the fences in action. This combined with my personal experiences allowed me to narrow the list down to the five products that I featured.
Our Choice for Best Wireless Dog Fence
Each of these fences has its strength, making it the top contender in a specific situation. However, the PetSafe Wireless Pet Containment System earned the top spot due to its ability to adjust to a wide variety of different scenarios. Highly portable, easily extended with the addition of a second transmitter, and capable of supporting an unlimited number of receiver collars, it'll deliver at home and on vacation (if there is an accessible AC connection).
When choosing a wireless fence for your home, you'll need to consider the number of dogs that you're trying to contain and the overall size of the yard. Don’t forget that the most important factor in whether your wireless fence will be successful is the training. Even the highest quality fence is going to fail if your dog isn’t taught to respect the boundaries and acknowledge the warnings.
Feature Image Credit: Spiritze from Pixabay