[snowbird]

We live in the city and we were thinking of getting an invisible fence because it is cheaper and I hear they work pretty good. If not a fence, I was thinking of a shock collar. Have any of you had any experiences with these? What are the pro's and con's?

[lablover]

One of the reason's we didn't go with an invisible fence was it doesn't prevent other dogs and cats coming in your yard. We have a 4 foot high chain link fence in the back yard and I love it. I know they are safe when they go out there if I can't be out with them. I have a 2 year old so sometimes I only have time to let them out and then let them back in and not be outside with them. This way I don't worry. I am not a fan of the shock collar. But that is just me. You have to do what works for you.

[roy2boy]

I have an invisible fence. It works awesome. I have a peekapoo malteese, or I could say a small mutt. Also had a 4lb yorkie. THe fences usually come with flags to set up your boundaries so your dog can visually see them. After setting up the flags (of course the fence line should already be underground) walk your dog along the inside of the peremiter and if he wants to venture out say a stern "NO!" and pull him back by you. Basically one experience sets the learning in motion. Be fore worned when he gets zapped you will feel really bad. I did in fact my dog did not want to go outside after that happened. I litterally had to force him outside and take him to the grass to do his job. They eventually loosen up and venture out to their yard. My dog was trained in 3 days. Keep in mind they get a warning click if they go too close to the boundary. They usually will skurry back away. Eventually you take a few flags off every 3-4 days and by about 2 weeks your flags will be all gone and doggy knows where he can go.

Down side is like the other member said, it does not keep other dogs out of your yard. That is where you will have to decide if you can handle that. My mutt had no problems with other dogs but my small yorkie would let others know that she owned our yard. Being small, mighty and looking like a fun little rabbit to chase was the cause of her early death. A large supposedly "gentle" black lab came into my yard and gave her a couple shakes and killed her. Even after all the unfortunate stuff I still highly encourage the invisible fence. I for one hate the looks of fences and we can't have one in our area anyway.
If you have small tiny dogs like a yorkie you just need to keep an eye on them when they go out. I don't worry at all about my 12 lb mutt.

HOpe this helps

[Curbside Prophet]

I've never seen one of those dogs that a homeless person has trailing behind their shopping cart full of recyclables, wearing a shock collar. My point is, if your dog respects you as the pack leader, she'll have no need to run away. My opinion (take it for what it's worth) is that a dog who runs away is not getting enough exercise and discipline at home. What's enough? You're dog will tell you. Just remember what we're taught in our puppy schools, "a tired dog is a good dog."

[GSD lover]

Never used either ope. Just stick to my good 'ole privacy fence. But, good luck with your decision.

[Whirling Dervish]

Good point, Curbside. I never actively trained my dog, and he'd stay by me because he loved me. For instance, in his previous home he was yelled at for getting out of the yard--so he learned not to come when called. When he got out of mine once or twice, I gave him all sorts of hugs, kisses, and lovin's when I found him. He learned quickly to come to me.

I don't think those collars are necessary, either, and if I lost my companion because of an invisible fence I'd never forgive myself. Short walks would be better than that, and would be good for my behind as well. :-)

[RJMARTIN]

Interesting topic. I have heard the radio ad’s for those fences and was wondering how they worked.
Similar to what others are saying is that the dog could end up getting trapped. If other dogs, or coyotes, surrounded your dog it would be pinned inside the invisible fence.
The coyotes around here are pretty crafty at getting dogs, but I have seen some small ones survive out here by simply running like heck.

Ronald Martin