F.A.Q.
What is a Hidden Fence System?
The DogWatch hidden fence system is a pet containment system that uses radio signals and correction training to keep your dog within a designated boundary they are often referred to as an invisible fence or electronic dog fence.
How does it work?
A buried wire carries a harmless radio signal around the designated area. Your pet wears a small receiver on a collar that signals him by emitting a mild stimulation, or correction, when he gets too close to the boundary.
How does my dog learn where the boundary is?
Your dog learns the boundaries through audio tones and visual marker flags in conjunction with our professional training protocol. Our experienced trainers come to your home after the fence is Professionally installed by our representatives. They teach your pet how to understand the boundaries through positive reinforcement training. Through repetition and consistency, they learn where they can run and play while staying at home. With training, your pet remembers the placement of the flags and is taught to stay within the border. During the training period, flags are slowly taken away. If your pet goes to within 5-10 feet (most properties) of the boundary, he will hear an audible warning sound from the receiver that means he’s getting close to the boundary. If he reaches the boundary, he will receive a correction.
Do all pet containment systems run on the same type of system?
DogWatch is the only underground fence system that works on a FM Digital radio signal frequency. This patented FM system, called SafeLink®, is an exclusive DogWatch technology that provides the pet with maximum protection from accidental stimulation caused by stray radio signals. All other pet containment systems run on an AM radio frequency that often picks up stray radio signals. These AM signals can cause the dog to receive an unintentional correction when the dog is not near the fence’s hidden boundary. This may cause the dog to become confused because of the inappropriate correction. Only DogWatch’s SafeLink ® system safely ignores all AM radio signals.
Are there any specific breeds that cannot be trained to the system?
No, with a 100% success rate we believe that with our proven training protocol, all dogs regardless of breed can be safely and effectively trained to stay within your boundary while on your DogWatch Hidden Fence. Every dog is an individual with different personalities and temperaments. Our training protocols have been developed to teach all dogs, regardless of breed, age, or personality to respect their Hidden Fence boundary. With our training service, you get personal attention with yourpet on yourproperty.
Is the Hidden fence similar to an electric fence?
No! DogFence installs the fence underground and the fence runs on harmless radio signals. A transmitter (which is plugged in) allows the fence to emit radio signals, which are picked up by the receiver collar worn by the dog when he approaches or reaches the boundary. Electric fences are visible and deliver a high mJ (milli joule) rating. Some can be as high as 110mJ. The correction from the dog fence is about ¼ of the static shock that you would receive around the house.
Will the stimulation from the collar hurt my dog?
No. Our collar only delivers 1millijoule of stored discharge energy; which is scientifically defined as: “a threshold of feeling, or tingling sensation”. Furthermore, the amount of correction can be adjusted so that a dog receives the appropriate level of stimulation for its size and temperament. Your personal trainer from DogFence Fence will meet your dog and evaluate the proper setting for your pet. DogWatch systems have been tested by a major veterinary college, and are used and recommended by veterinarians, Animal Behaviorists worldwide.
What does the correction feel like?
The correction from a Receiver collar is similar to the sensation you feel when you walk across a carpet and touch a metal doorknob. The sensation momentarily surprises you and gets your attention. The stimulation is 4 times less than static electricity.
Will the system work for more than one pet?
Yes. There is no limit to the number of pets a system can protect at one time. Both dogs and cats can be contained on the system and in unusual cases people have also contained pigs!
Can my cat use the Hidden fence system?
Yes. Your cat can use the system, both outdoors and indoors. The outdoor system keeps your cat safe while allowing him outdoor exercise. Indoor systems keep your cat away from , tables, and furniture or out of a room entirely; you can create a cat-free zone anywhere in your home. The lightweight receiver is small and light enough to be worn by a cat.
Can my pet ever get over-corrected?
No, the receiver has a safeguard system and shuts down automatically after 15 seconds to guard your pet against over-correction.
Is the system safe during a lightning storm?
The Hidden Fence System has the only Internal/External lightning surge protection available. Much like a surge protector for a computer, the internal surge unit will protect your investment. This along with additional External surge protection which comes with all our hidden fence systems (except GroundsKeeper) will prevent any such occurrences.
How much does it cost? What if I move?
DogWatch systems cost much less than traditional fencing and once you buy the system, you can expand it, add garden loops, or take it with you when you move. Contact us for an estimate or further advice.