Find What You Are Looking For Here
FYI: If you make a purchase via a link on this site, I may receive a commission from various affiliate programs, and as an Amazon Associate and Chewy affiliate I also earn commissions from qualifying purchases—at NO extra cost to you. See the Disclosure page for more information. Thank you!
Guide To Australian Shepherd Training & Care

Electronic Dog Fence vs. Traditional Fencing

By Anton Hout, author of The Guide to Aussie Training & Care

An electronic dog fence is an option well worth considering for dog owners. These high tech fences can have many benefits that make them preferable to more traditional fencing. The type of fence you choose for your property will depend on a number of factors including the size and temperament of your dog, the size of your property and the particular surroundings.

Recommended Dog and Puppy Training Videos

The difference between the two types of fence is pretty obvious. Traditional wood, composite or metal fences provide a physical barrier that the dog can see. They also block his view to keep him from knowing what is on the other side of the fence.

An electronic fence consists of a wire that is buried underground, or a wireless system, and a special collar fitted with a transmitter. When the dog gets close to the barrier, the collar transmits a sound or other correction to stop him from going any further.

Red merle Australian Shepherd in yard with wood fence.

everydoghasastory / stock.adobe.com

An electronic dog fence can have advantages over traditional fencing that are worth considering.

While both types of fence can work to contain a dog, neither is infallible and the type of fence you choose will depend heavily on the kind of dog you have. More timid dogs may not respond well to the corrections transmitted by an electronic dog fence. For these dogs, traditional fencing may be a better option. This way they can adjust to their boundaries without becoming gun shy.

Guide To Australian Shepherd Training & Care

On the other hand, more active breeds like the Australian Shepherd may be too intelligent and too enthusiastic to be held in by a traditional fence. They are likely to jump over, break through or dig under a traditional fence. For these breeds, the extra control of an electronic fence may actually be a necessity. And because electronic fences can be easily adaptable to fit a larger space, they can also give active breeds more room to run while remaining within safe boundaries.

Advantages Of An Electronic Dog Fence

In fact, that flexibility is one of the bigger advantages of an electronic dog fence. The wires can be placed in almost any pattern, allowing you to choose exactly the size of area you enclose. This can also make it easier to block off areas like gardens, landscaping or water features that you want to keep your dog away from. Also, the ability to bury the wires out of sight means that you can provide the safety your dog needs without taking away from the aesthetics of your property, something many property owners appreciate.

By far the biggest difference between electronic and traditional fencing is cost. Electronic fencing can cost as much as several thousand dollars less than traditional fencing, making it the much more cost effective option, particularly for pet owners with large property. That way you can fence in a much larger area without it costing an arm and a leg.

Another big advantage of an electronic dog fence is avoiding wear and tear. While traditional fences are exposed to the elements and can frequently become damaged, electronic fencing, which is buried under the ground or even wireless, is much more durable. About the only regular maintenance required with electronic fencing is replacing the batteries in the collar transmitter. There may be an occasional need to replace frayed wires but that is infrequent and much less expensive than repairing a traditional fence.

As you can see, both types of fencing can be effective, but electronic fencing does have quite a few advantages that traditional fencing just can't match. The choice will depend on your dog and his specific needs, but ultimately the goal is to keep your best friend safe and give yourself peace of mind.

Australian-Shepherd-Lovers.com icon

Guide To Australian Shepherd Training & Care

Have Dog Training Questions?

Check out these introductory dog training videos...

I want my dog to stop being aggressive.

I want some help training my new puppy.

I want my dog to stop barking at everything.

I want my dog to walk nicely and calmly on the leash.

I want my dog to listen and come every time I call!

Australian-Shepherd-Lovers.com icon
Newsletter for Aussie Lovers!

Get Australian Shepherd Info, Website Updates, Special Offers, and Cartoons...

FREE GIFT
You'll also receive a free copy of the ebook
My Everyday Dog Training Tools
by professional dog trainer Daniel Abdelnoor, "Doggy Dan"