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A wireless dog fence, or invisible dog fence, is a great way to keep your dog safe on your property while also giving him enough room to run around and play. There are several different types of wireless dog fences, so it’s important that you do your research and find out which is best for both your dog and the property you will be using it on. Here are a few tips and reviews to help you find the best wireless dog fence for your pup.
Best Wireless Dog Fence Reviews
When choosing a wireless dog fence, it’s really important to look at all your options. Wireless dog fences vary a lot between set up, comfort for your dog, installation, and cost, so it’s important to find the right one for your property, budget, and, most importantly, your dog. Our number one pick for the best wireless dog fence is the Halo Collar due to its ease of use, installation, and comfort level of your dog.
IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
---|---|---|---|
Our FavoriteOur Favorite | Halo Collar |
| SEE BEST PRICE ➤ |
Runner UpRunner Up | SpotOn Virtual Fence |
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Larger DogsLarger Dogs | Petsafe Stay & Play |
| SEE LATEST PRICE ➤ |
PortablePortable | PetSafe Wireless |
| SEE LATEST PRICE ➤ |
Best ValueBest Value | Extreme Dog Fence |
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Our Favorite: Halo Collar
Pros:
- It doesn’t come with wires
- You can use it on any type of terrain
- It has an easy to use the built-in app
- It gives you vital statistics on your dog’s health
- The system is run by GPS
- You get several feedback mechanisms to choose from
Cons:
- You need a subscription plan to use it
- It only has manual tools to train your dog
All dog parents want to make sure their dog stays safe and happy. But, if you have a dog that loves to roam, it can be hard to keep him safe. The Halo Collar GPS Smart Dog Fence can help you with that. Halo Collar uses a shock collar to deliver a mild electric shock to your dog when they try to leave the boundary area. Halo Collar is safe and effective. Not only can it keep your dog safe in his yard, but it also uses modern technology to resolve old fence issues.
The Halo Collar comes with an app that lets you create up to 20 different fence zones that provide tons of room for your dog to play and run around. When you activate the collar, you get an alert that your pup has left his approved area and will redirect him back to safety. Using GPS tracking, you get accurate results within a few feet of where your dog is.
The activity tracking feature on the Halo Collar also provides vital statistics through the app, which can tell you how long you walked your dog during a specified period of time and how much time your dog has been outside. You can also use the Halo Collar to do remote training that includes praise and warning sound for your dog to curb problem behavior.
This product does not use wires that need to be buried in the ground in order to activate the fence. This is an easy-to-install product that is set up through the smart app, plus you don’t need wi-fi to operate it since it relies just on GPS satellites.
The Halo Collar also includes a battery that won’t need to be charged until the end of the day. You can also easily recharge the collar using any USB-C connection that is available. Plus, you can choose from several subscription plans at various price points that will work with your budget and needs.
>> Check out our in-depth Halo Collar review <<
Runner Up: Spoton Fence
Pros:
- It’s easy to install
- The GPS coverage is very accurate
- You get a lot of flexibility with multiple fence setups
- It works well with different dog sizes and types
Cons:
- You need cell coverage to track your dog
- It’s on the expensive side
The Spoton Fence Collar is an easy-to-install product that only requires a quick walk of your yard’s perimeter to set up. Without needing to bury wires or install markers, you only need the collar to set up the fence, and it can be easily done on the first try.
Using a simple concept, the Spoton Fence Collar utilizes virtual mapping to let you set up your own fence, so all the hardware is found on the dog. And you don’t need to buy several setups or extra wires for different dogs since everything is found in just one place.
This comfortable collar is very lightweight and is designed with a dog in mind. Your dog will quickly stop noticing the Spoton Fence Collar and the long battery life is perfect for a dog that spends a lot of time out in the yard. Lasting up to 36 hours, the Spoton Fence Collar provides less collar failure and lets you charge the collar overnight, so it can continue to protect your dog during the day.
You also get the option of a plan that will track a dog within 10 feet, which is a great choice for anyone that keeps the Spoton Fence Collar on a dog when the fencing function is not attached. This makes it super easy to know exactly where your dog is at all times. Spoton virtual smart fence product also does not require the use of wires, so you don’t have to dig up your yard or worry about storms that can cause typically invisible fences to stop functioning.
Created for active dogs, the Spoton Fence Collar is waterproof, so you don’t have to worry if he splashes in a pool or jumps headlong into a pond. You can also customize the perimeters of the fence and even create multiple perimeters for different dogs or situations.
>> Check out our in-depth SpotOn Virtual Fence review <<
Best Wireless Fence for Larger Dogs: Petsafe Stay & Play
Pros:
- You get five static correction level choices
- More than one dog can use this system
- The system can be set up in less than two hours
- It has a tone-only mode for skittish dogs
Cons:
- It’s not a good choice for small dogs or puppies
It can be hard to decide on a wireless dog fence, but the PetSafe® Stay & Play® Compact Wireless Fence features the smallest sized transmitter that will keep your dog safe in your yard allowing him to enjoy napping, running, and playing in the sun. You can set up this wireless fence in under two hours, and this wireless, circular boundary can adjust to fit a yard up to 3/4-acre.
This wireless fence comes with a rechargeable PetSafe® Wireless Fence Receiver Collar that includes both a tone-only mode as well as five static correction levels that you can adjust to your dog’s training response. In only two weeks, you can teach your dog to learn his new boundaries with a little bit of training.
When your dog does leave his boundary area, your dog will not feel a correction until he reenters that safe play area once again. For anyone that has more than one dog, you can buy additional receiver collars that allow all your dogs to play in your yard safely and happily.
The Petsafe stay and play is a portable fence that is perfect for anyone that travels. It works best for dogs that are five pounds are more and that are six months or older. The included adjustable collar fits dog neck sizes between six and 28-inches, and the dog collar can charge within three hours with each of the charges lasting up to three weeks.
>> Check out our in-depth PetSafe Stay & Play Compact Wireless Fence review <<
Best Portable Wireless Fence System: PetSafe Wireless
Pros:
- This is a long-lasting product
- It is easy to set up and use
- There is no limit to the number of dogs that can use it
- You can buy extra collars
Cons:
- It’s not consistent
- It may continue to shock your dog when the system is actually off
Wireless Pet Containment System: Keeps Pets Safe and Secure
All dogs need boundaries. The PetSafe Wireless Containment System can easily provide the boundaries your dog needs without requiring a fence. Just mark your dog’s boundaries of your dog’s play area or yard, and when he crosses them, the wireless unit inside your home will send a static correction along with an annoying tone to your pup’s collar to remind him that he is crossing into an off-limits area. These electric dog fences are easy to install and provide a safe and reliable way to keep your pets contained.
The PetSafe Wireless Containment System is easy to set up and includes five correction levels. A waterproof receiver collar is included for dogs that are eight pounds and over that have neck sizes between six and 28-inches. This wireless fence can cover a circular area that is up to a 1/2 acre. You can adjust this containment area and expand it with additional transmitters.
You can also add an unlimited number of dogs by purchasing extra wireless receiver collars. The dog owner can adjust the levels of correction through five levels as well as tone-only mode alerts for your dog that include a 30-second Time Out-Correction that will stop after just 30 seconds.
This portable wireless system can be set up in under two hours. The PetSafe Wireless Containment System will also work with the Free to Roam Wireless Fence and the Free to Roam Wireless Receiver Collar. Plus, the Low battery indicator requires a PetSafe RFA-67D battery that is included in this system.
>> Check out our in-depth PetSafe Wireless Containment System review <<
Best Value Wireless Dog Fence: Extreme Dog Fence – Second Generation
Pros:
- It has a great price for the quality fence you get
- This is a long-lasting product
- You get more than enough wire for your yard
- The waterproof collar can be submerged up to 10 feet
Cons:
- The surge protector doesn’t hold wires well
- The quick connects are not made well and disconnect when bumped
Covering up to six acres, the Extreme Dog Fence – Second Generation has the updated electronics that are designed to be compatible with all of the new collar options. This dog collar is waterproof as well as submersible up to 10 feet deep. Your dog can literally swim with this collar on, and it won’t affect the functionality of the fence.
This in-ground dog fence includes training flags, a collar with battery, a digital transmitter, a heavy protective jacket, and splice kits as well as high tensile 20-gauge boundary wire. Featuring a one-year warranty, this electronic dog fence has the performance and reliability to work up to 25 years. It also includes three antennas and a 12 times battery check.
Best Underground Wireless Fence System: SportDog Brand
Pros:
- You get more than enough wire to set up the fence on your property
- It’s a straightforward system with easy to follow instructions
- Teaching your dog to use it only takes a few days
- You aren’t limited to how many dogs can use it
Cons:
- It takes a long time to setup
- You may need several people to help set it up if you have a lot of acreages
Simple to install a system, the SportDog Brand Wireless Fence is a kit that includes all that you need to cover one and 1/3 acres of land for only one dog. You can also expand this system to cover a yard of 100 acres with additional flags and wire. The included waterproof collar uses a typical nine-volt battery that can last up to 12 months.
The included collar will fit a dog up to ten pounds, plus, the SportDog Brand Wireless Fence can handle an unlimited number of dogs. When your dog reaches the boundary line, the collar will emit a tone and then vibrate before giving one of the four static stimulation levels that you have chosen for your pup. The transmitter is equipped with a built-in Lightning Protector as well as a wire break alarm.
Easiest Wireless Fence for Dog Training: Free Spirit In-Ground Fence
Pros:
- It is easy to install and use
- Dogs easily take to the fence after a few weeks
- A nice quality collar that charges quickly
- You can customize the perimeter to fit your property
Cons:
- You have to drill into your wall to connect the transmitter
- The charging plug can get stuck easily
Giving your dog room to run around, the Free Spirit In-Ground Fence will also keep him safely confined to your yard, without running off. Featuring boundary markers and more than enough wire, this system can cover up to 1/3 of an acre with everything that you will need to customize your yard’s perimeter. The included collar uses vibration and tones to warn your dog when your dog is approaching the boundary wire where he will receive a gentle shock if he goes past it.
The Free Spirit In-Ground Fence has five levels of shock that will deter your dog from going beyond the fence line. This waterproof collar can also stand up to the elements, and you can expand the perimeter up to an acre with additional markers and wire. This is the perfect way to keep your dog within its boundaries while also giving him a lot of freedom. This is a great choice for dogs over five pounds that have a neck size between six and 26-inches.
Best Stubborn Dog Wireless Fence: PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence for Stubborn Dogs
Pros:
- This is a great choice for a small dog and yard
- You don’t need to bury wires
- There are five adjustable levels for correction
- The collar is waterproof and ergonomically designed
Cons:
- The battery does not last long
- It doesn’t work for every dog type and size
Keeping your dog secure and safe, the PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence for Stubborn Dogs is a portable system that doesn’t require installing a fence or burying wires. All you need to do is place the fencing system inside and then adjust the circular ¾ -acre range in order to cover the required area for your dog. You can set up the entire system in under two hours and train your dog in under two weeks.
The collar on the PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence for Stubborn Dogs includes five levels that you can adjust for correction, and it is also waterproof, so it can withstand wet outdoor conditions. With its ergonomic design, this is a comfortable system for your dog to help him stay safely contained. Plus, this system allows the dog owner to add an unlimited number of dogs.
>> Check out our in-depth PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence for Stubborn Dogs review <<
Most Affordable Underground Fence System: PetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence System
Pros:
- It’s affordable and a good value for the price
- This product works well and keeps your dog safe
- This company has great customer service
- It’s easy to customize for your property
Cons:
- Installation can be very frustrating
- There are problems with the barriers constantly changing
The PetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence System is a containment system that keeps your dog contained securely and safely in your yard. It only takes a weekend to install this system and requires burying wires and setting up the transmitter. Covering up to five acres with flags and extra wiring, you can easily and quickly train your dog his new boundaries in fun training sessions over a two-week period.
When your dog gets close to the edge of the yard, his waterproof collar will remind him with a warning beep and then follow it with a gentle and safe static correction. You can add an unlimited number of dogs by simply purchasing a collar for each dog. Each waterproof collar will fit a dog that is eight pounds and more and will fit neck sizes between 6 and 28-inches.
The PetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence System features four levels of static correction that you can adjust as well as tone-only mode alerts. You can also increase the correction as your dog tries to run through each of the boundary zones. The collar uses a PetSafe RFA-67 battery and can cover up to 1/3 of an acre using the included boundary wire and can expand up to five acres if you add more wire.
Best Waterproof Wireless Dog Fence: Groovypets Fence & Remote Dog Trainer System
Pros:
- You can use it on as many dogs as you need to
- It comes with a waterproof collar and remote control
- The system uses a rechargeable battery
- You can train your dog remotely
Cons:
- The signal isn’t very strong
- Battery life needs to be longer
Multi-collar compatible, the Groovypets Fence & Remote Dog Trainer System can train up to three dogs and also contain as many dogs as you want. This remote training system is capable of training three large or medium dogs individually. It also includes a fully waterproof and rechargeable remote controller that has a 1000 meter range. Plus, the collar is designed to withstand some tough conditions, which is great for dogs that spend a lot of time outside.
The Groovypets Fence & Remote Dog Trainer System has a five-day battery life before you need to recharge it. This electric fence and remote dog training combination use a remote along with an underground dog containment system all in one package. The electric fence is customizable and uses both a progressive tone and vibration stimulus to keep your dog from exiting the set boundary area.
Easiest to Use Wireless Dog Fence: FOCUSER Electric Wireless Fence for Dogs
Pros:
- It comes with a rechargeable battery
- The radius can be set up to 500 meters
- The collar is waterproof
- The system is easy to set up and use
Cons:
- It takes several hours to set up and train your dog
- It’s hard to find a good place to install your transmitter
The Focuser Electric Wireless Dog Fence System is straightforward and easy to use. You can use it in areas with a radius of up to 500 meters thanks to its radio base station, so you don’t have to rely on underground wires. The wireless dog collar has an IP67 waterproof rating, so it can be worn in the rain or when your dog jumps in a pond.
The included wireless dog collar will fit neck sizes between eight and 21-inches. The Focuser Electric Dog Fence System is easy to use and ready to go to work as soon as you plug it in. This wireless electric fence is simple to set up and can be used indoors or outdoors. The rechargeable collar features a built-in, high-capacity battery that features a low power consumption design.
>> Check out our in-depth FOCUSER Electric Wireless Fence for Dogs review <<
Best Coverage Wireless Dog Fence: JUSTPET Wireless Pet Fence
Pros:
- This electronic fence gives dogs a larger freedom zone
- This is a great long-distance training system
- It can be used in any type of weather
- This product is suitable for any dog type or size
Cons:
- It can take your dog a while to get used to it
Creating a very protective boundary around your property, the JUSTPET Wireless Fence doesn’t require burying any wires. Using a 433MHz frequency, this wireless fence won’t interfere with any other wireless product. You install the transmitter in the center of your property in a location that is weather-proof.
The JUSTPET Wireless Fence has a radius distance from 10 to 1000 levels, and it is adjustable at the 100 levels. Featuring highly accurate distance displays, this training system is equipped with a collar that includes a warning sound as well as a static shock for training. Using the latest in technology, this fence will ensure that you won’t have to worry about your dog’s safety, and the shock function is totally secure for him even at the highest level.
The system is easy to activate by just pressing the switch key. The JUSTPET Wireless Fences include a warning sound, vibration, and static shock. The 3.7 Volt low-voltage static shock function will not hurt your dog providing reliable training without harm. The receiver gives you a stable signal, even at a long distance, and it can execute and process actions quickly and accurately.
This waterproof product has an IPX7 rating, which pet owners can use in humid and rainy conditions. The battery is rechargeable and built-in, and it’s easy to use thanks to its long lifespan. You can equip one main unit so that you can control each of your dogs separately.
>> Check out our in-depth JUSTPET Wireless Dog Fence Review review <<
Choosing the Best Wireless Dog Fence
When you are choosing a wireless dog fence system, you aren’t just buying the fence. You are also purchasing the boundary flags, batteries, and transmitter, which all work together to create a strong perimeter. On top of that, you need to consider if it comes with a good quality collar and how the collar will impact your pup. Each of these components needs to work well together to provide a reliable and seamless operation that gives your dog the right warnings and can maintain a consistent boundary.
Typically, the transmitter will sit in the center of your yard, so it can transmit out into a predetermined radius. Remember that the larger the radius, the more area your dog will have to run around and play. You will want to look for an easy-to-install system that is also reliable and won’t be affected by signals and interference from metal objects. You should always test out the system to make sure you understand the area and terrain before you put the collar on your dog.
There are several types of best wireless dog fences or the best invisible dog fence on the market, so it’s important to really think about the collar and the signals it gives your dog. Consider the type of response that your dog will get when he reaches the boundary of your yard. Some collars give off noises and others use a static charge. You need to choose the system that provides the alerts that you are the most comfortable using on your dog. Also, consider the adjustability and the weight of the collar to make sure it is comfortable for your dog since not all collars will work with every breed. Some of the dog collars have weight limits and size limitations so make sure to take a look at the unit’s specifications.
Tips to Consider When Using a Wireless Dog Fence
When you first have the system set up, it’s important to get your dog used to his new boundaries. Make sure that you have set the flags up around your yard’s perimeter to give your pup a visual representation of where the fence is.
Also, make sure you are using a non-metallic collar along with the electronic collar. This will allow you to attach the leash to your dog without attaching it to the electronic collar, which will cause the metal prongs to place more pressure on your dog’s neck. Also, ensure that the non-metallic collar isn’t interfering with the signal that is being sent by the transmitter to the electronic collar.
Use the beep-only training mode when first introducing the system to your pup since the static correction can be confusing and scary to your dog, which can prolong your pup’s training time. The beep will let you know when you need to redirect your dog using the leash away from the flags so that he will begin to understand that hearing the beep means he should turn around.
When introducing the static correction, start with the lowest setting and only increase the level if necessary. Many dogs will respond well at the lowest level and won’t require the higher levels to stay away from the boundaries. Once your dog has mastered the static correction training, you can test him with distractions and temptations to see if he will still try to cross the yard’s boundaries. Finally, take him off his leash and but make sure you continue to monitor him at first to ensure he is staying within the boundaries you set.
Why Use a Wireless Dog Fence?
Most people that use a wireless dog fence or invisible fence want to give their dog more time to run around and play without having a leash on. It can also be helpful if you have an older dog that needs to use the yard to go potty when its owners aren’t home. Mostly, these dog owners want to make their dog’s life better.
Wireless fences can also be useful if you live in a subdivision that has strict rules against using any type of visible fencing. A physical fence can also be pretty expensive to install, and a wireless dog fence is just a cheaper option.
How Wireless Dog Fences Set Up Boundaries for Your Dogs
Creating a circular containment area, wireless dog fences uses a transmitter that is placed in the center of the circle you want to create. It’s important to ensure that the entire area your dog will be able to access is within your property boundary before setting up the transmitter. Some transmitters allow you to set your containment area while others have a preset radius that you can choose the correct setting to work with that radius. So, if your boundary area is under 45 feet from the transmitter, you can set the transmitter on low, but if it’s more than 45 feet, you should place it on high.
Remember that you can also move the transmitter if you need to adjust the containment area location so that it falls within your property lines. It’s important to use the included boundary flags in order to give your dog a visual of his perimeter.
Wireless vs Underground Dog Fences
There are advantages and disadvantages to both underground dog fences and wireless dog fences. Here are a few of the pros and cons of each.
Wireless dog fences are super easy to install since all you need to do is plug in the transmitter and set the size of your containment circle before putting out the flags and placing the collar on your dog. This is also a very portable fence that you can take with you on vacation or to a new home.
Wireless dog fences are not a good choice for yards that have slopes or hills or too many trees. It also won’t work well if you have stucco siding, a metal roof, or a metal object anywhere in your containment area. These features will either interfere with the transmitter, so your dog will be able to get out, or it will shock your dog when it’s not supposed to. The circle that the transmitter creates is also not customizable beyond setting the radius, and it will only work on a property that is an acre or less.
In comparison, an underground dog fence is totally customizable since wherever you place the dog fence wire is the actual perimeter of the dog fence. It is also extremely reliable and won’t be thrown off by a metal object or roof.
However, an underground dog fence is hard to install since you need to complete a circuit for it to work, which means that the fence has to start and end at the same point. It also needs to be buried between three and six inches deep, so you will probably have to rent a wire trencher to dig the groove before placing the wire and covering it up again. When connecting the fence to the transmitter, you will need to splice the included twisted wire to a boundary loop that you then take into your home where the transmitter will be located.
The collar on an underground dog fence also requires programming and testing. You will probably need to plan for at least a day of work when installing an underground dog fence. There are a lot of wireless dog fence models on the market. Some are great, and some are not so great.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dog containment system?
Out of all the systems on the market, the Halo Collar ranks as the best wireless dog fence on our list, and we’ve also chosen it is the best GPS dog fence you can find today. This easy-to-use system features a collar and an app that allows you to create 20 different boundaries if you want so that your dog has plenty of room to run around and play. The collar itself uses GPS tracking, so you will know exactly where your dog is at all times, which can also be handy if he does get out.
You also can get vital statistics with the app, and the Halo Collar also allows you to do remote training in case you need to stop the problem behavior. The biggest advantage of this system is that you don’t need to bury wires or need a transmitter since you set up everything through your smart app. Plus, you don’t need wi-fi since it operates using GPS satellites.
Do wireless dog fences really work?
Wireless dog fences really do work for most dogs. As with anything regarding your pup, there are some dogs that train well with a wireless dog fence and some that don’t. You need to have the patience to make sure your dog is trained properly and also have the right system that won’t scare your dog. Do not use a collar that isn’t comfortable for him. Otherwise, when used correctly and with a properly trained dog, a dog fence can be a very effective way to keep your dog safe and secure.
How far will a wireless dog fence work?
A wireless dog fence will actually work quite well, as long as you have a clear line of sight between the transmitter and the receiver. However, there are some things that can interfere with the signal and cause it to not work as well as it should. One of the biggest things that can interfere with the signal is trees or other large objects. If you have a lot of trees in your yard, it’s possible that they are blocking the signal and causing it to be weaker.
What is the best wireless fence for dogs?
The best wireless fence for a dog is the Halo Collar. It does not require wires or the use of a transmitter, but it operates through an app on your smartphone. The included collar is comfortable and easy to set up, plus you can set up 20 different fences if needed. This is a very portable wireless fences solution that uses GPS for operation and gives you highly accurate results of where your dog is at all times.
It also features a long-lasting battery that won’t need to be charged until the end of the day, and it easily recharges using any available USB connection. The Halo Collar also gives you vital statistics in case you need to know how much activity your dog has gotten recently, and the many different subscription plans easily fit your needs and budget.
Do invisible dog fence systems have to make complete loops?
An invisible dog fence is not required to make a complete loop around your property. However, it is important to ensure that the fence line does not cross any paved surfaces, as this could create a gap in the coverage. It is also important to bury the wire at least six inches deep along the entire length of the fence line to prevent chewing.
Which is better wired or wireless dog fence?
It really depends on your needs and your dog. Each has advantages and disadvantages, and a lot of it depends on how your home and yard are set up. A wireless dog fence is a great option for its portability, so you can take it on vacation or to a new home, and it’s very easy to install since all you need to do is plug in a transmitter and set up your containment area before putting the collar on your dog.
In comparison, a wired fence requires digging up your yard to bury wires and then hooking the wires up to a transmitter in your home. This option is probably best for someone that knows they won’t be moving soon.
However, a wired fence is better if you want to customize the area your dog will have to run around in since a wireless dog fence will only be able to set up a circular radius. Plus, a wireless dog fence or invisible dog fence won’t work if you have a home with a metal roof or a metal object in your yard since either will cause interference with the transmitter, so it either won’t work at all or it will shock your dog at incorrect times.
Wireless electric dog fence or Invisible fence Both types do require patience and proper training for your dog. Otherwise, it really depends on your preferences and your property.