Are you looking for a way to keep your furry friend safe and secure in your yard? Installing an invisible dog fence can be a great solution, but getting the wiring right can be a bit tricky. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step and provide you with a comprehensive wiring diagram to ensure that your system works as it should.
What is an Invisible Dog Fence?
An invisible dog fence, also known as an underground or hidden fence, is a type of pet containment system that uses a buried wire to create a boundary around your property. The wire is connected to a transmitter that sends a signal to a receiver collar your dog wears. When your dog gets too close to the boundary, the collar emits an audible warning tone. If your dog continues to approach the boundary, the collar will deliver a mild static correction.
Invisible fences can be an effective solution for pet owners who want to keep their dogs from wandering off their property, but they do require proper installation and training. We’ll cover everything you need to know to get started.
What You Need to Get Started
Before you start installing your invisible dog fence, you’ll need to gather a few supplies:
| Supplies | Description |
|---|---|
| Transmitter | The device that sends the signal to the receiver collar |
| Receiver Collar | The collar that your dog will wear that receives the signal |
| Boundary Wire | The wire that will be buried around the perimeter of your property |
| Ground Staples | To secure the wire to the ground |
| Twisted Wire | For creating boundaries within your property, such as around gardens or pools |
| Wire Splices | To connect the wire to the transmitter and to create splices in the boundary wire |
| Wire Strippers and Cutters | To strip and cut the wire as needed |
| Battery | To power the receiver collar |
Once you have all of your supplies, you can begin the installation process.
Installation
Determine Your Boundaries
The first step in installing your invisible dog fence is to determine the boundaries of your property that you want to include in the system. You can use a sketch of your property, a satellite map, or walk the perimeter yourself to determine the exact location where you want to bury the wire.
Layout the Wire
Once you’ve determined your boundaries, you can begin laying out the wire. Start by running the wire from the transmitter to the perimeter of your property. You’ll want to bury the wire about 1-3 inches deep to protect it from damage. Use the ground staples to secure the wire to the ground as needed, making sure to avoid any areas with utilities or irrigation systems.
If you need to create boundaries within your yard, such as around gardens or pools, you can use twisted wire to do so. Twisted wire is a special type of wire that won’t trigger the receiver collar when your dog crosses it. To create a twisted wire, connect two sections of wire together and twist them together for 20-30 feet. You can then connect the twisted wire to the boundary wire at each end.
Connect the Wire to the Transmitter
Once you’ve laid out the wire, you can connect it to the transmitter. Use the wire splices to connect the boundary wire to the transmitter. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely to ensure that your system is set up correctly.
Test the System
Once you’ve completed the installation, it’s time to test the system. Turn on the transmitter and walk around the perimeter of your property with the receiver collar to ensure that you’re getting a clear signal. If you notice any areas where the signal is weak, you may need to adjust the placement of the wire or use a signal booster.
FAQ
How deep should I bury the wire?
You should aim to bury the wire about 1-3 inches deep. This will protect the wire from damage from lawn mowers or other equipment, but it won’t be so deep that it’s difficult to locate if you need to make adjustments in the future.
What if my dog doesn’t respond to the static correction?
If your dog doesn’t seem to be responding to the static correction, you may need to adjust the level of correction. Most systems have several levels of correction to choose from, so you can find the one that’s most effective for your dog.
Can I use an invisible dog fence if I have more than one dog?
Yes, you can use an invisible dog fence with multiple dogs. Each dog will need their own receiver collar, but you can connect them to the same transmitter.
Can I use an invisible dog fence with cats?
It is possible to use an invisible fence with cats, but it’s important to note that cats are often more difficult to train than dogs. Additionally, most invisible fence systems are designed with dogs in mind and may not be suitable for cats. If you’re considering using an invisible fence with your cat, it’s best to consult with a professional to determine the best option for your situation.
What if I need to cross my buried wire with a different power or utility line?
If you need to cross your buried wire with another power or utility line, it’s important to do so carefully. You can use a lawn edger or trenching tool to create a deep enough trench to cross the wires without damaging them. Alternatively, you may want to consult with a professional to ensure that the installation is done safely and correctly.
With the right supplies and some careful installation, an invisible dog fence can provide a safe and effective way to keep your furry friend contained in your yard. By following this wiring diagram and FAQ, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying peace of mind and keeping your pup safe and happy.
