dogwatch of central ct

Outdoor Hidden Dog Fence Support

Frequently Asked Questions about Outdoor Hidden Fences

Explore the resources provided below to learn more about your DogWatch product. Our extensive collection of information covers various aspects and features, ensuring you have all the details you need. If you don't find the answer you're looking for, our team is always available to assist you. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us through our Contact Us page for further information and support.

  • What is a hidden fence?

    A hidden fence refers to an innovative underground pet containment system that utilizes a radio signal. It effectively keeps your dog within a designated area, such as a yard, while also preventing access to restricted zones like swimming pools, patios, or gardens. Additionally, hidden fences can be used indoors to establish boundaries, keeping your pet off furniture, out of specific rooms, or away from kitchen counters.


    It's important to note that hidden fences are often mistakenly referred to as "invisible fences". However, it's worth mentioning that Invisible Fence® is a registered trademark and brand name exclusively owned by the Invisible Fence Company.

  • How do hidden dog fences work?

    Hidden fences are created by burying a 'boundary wire' a few inches underground around your property. This wire carries a harmless, low-level radio signal from a transmitter installed in your house or garage. Your pet wears a receiver collar that detects the radio signal. As your pet approaches the buried wire, the receiver collar emits a warning signal, either audible or through vibration. If your pet continues to move closer to the wire, the receiver collar delivers a mild but safe stimulation, also known as a "correction". Through a training program, your pet learns to recognize the boundaries of the fence and stops at the warning signal.


    While there may be variations in product features, this is the general principle behind all hidden fences, including DogWatch®, Invisible Fence®, and other radio fence brands.


    For indoor systems, the hidden wire can be placed strategically around furniture, counters, trash areas, doorways, or any other location where you need to create a containment or "off-limits" area. We also offer wireless indoor units that eliminate the need for a boundary wire. Contact us to discuss the options available to you.


  • How does my dog learn where the hidden fence boundary is?

    Training is a crucial component of the process. Once the hidden fence is installed, we'll work closely with you to train your pet effectively. Our training program involves teaching your dog to recognize the boundaries of the containment area. This is achieved through a combination of voice commands, audible warning signals from the receiver collar, and visual flags strategically placed in the yard to indicate the warning zone. Gradually, your pet will associate the flags with the warning signal and understand their significance. As your pet progresses, the flags will be gradually removed.


    It's important to note that if your pet continues beyond the flags and the warning alert, a mild correction in the form of stimulation from the collar will be administered. After completing the training, most dogs develop a strong understanding of the hidden boundary and will instinctively avoid crossing it, stopping before the warning signal is activated.


    We will guide you through the training process, providing clear instructions and unwavering support to help you complete and reinforce the training. Following the initial training, you will engage in daily training sessions with your dog, lasting a few minutes each, for approximately two weeks. Rest assured, we will tailor the training program to meet the specific needs of your beloved pet(s).

  • How much do hidden fences cost?

    The cost of a DogWatch® Hidden Fence is typically much lower than that of traditional fencing. The specific cost depends on factors such as the suitable system for your needs, the number of pets, the property size, the number of sidewalk and driveway cuts, and the inclusion of internal "garden loops," among others. Reach out to us for a complimentary consultation and an estimate tailored to your property.


    In addition to being more cost-effective than traditional fences, hidden fences offer greater flexibility and more secure containment. For instance, you can confine your dog within your yard while keeping them away from pool areas, gardens, or driveway gates. 


    The cost of a DogWatch® fence typically doesn't differ significantly from other Dealer-installed brands, such as Invisible Fence®. While retail brands may appear less expensive, they usually exclude installation (which can be challenging), training (which is crucial), ongoing support, and a reliable warranty program. Dealer-installed products also tend to offer superior quality compared to retail brands.

  • How big an area will the hidden fence cover? What kinds of areas will it cover?

    DogWatch® offers hidden fence models that can cover properties up to 200 acres. Our outdoor systems are designed to be installed on various terrains, including across streams or to create containment areas in lakes. With our innovative technology, you have the flexibility to contain your dog anywhere, whether it's inside or outside your home, from couches and dining rooms to countertops. Experience the convenience and peace of mind with DogWatch®. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and estimate.

  • Can my dog get out of the hidden fence containment area?

    If the initial training was conducted properly, such incidents should rarely occur. If your dog does manage to escape, ensure that the collar is securely fastened and check the status light to confirm the receiver battery is functioning. It may be necessary to adjust the signal range on the transmitter or increase the correction level on the receiver collar to keep your dog safely within the boundary. Another possibility is that recent landscaping work has caused a break in the underground wire. Rest assured, we are here to assist you with any issues or concerns you may have. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.


  • Will a DogWatch® hidden fence system work with any dog?

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  • What if my house loses electrical power?

    If you find yourself frequently encountering power outages, consider adding a DogWatch® PowerPak®. This auxiliary power supply ensures that your electronic fence remains operational for hours, even when your household electrical service is disrupted. It provides a reliable solution until power is restored.

  • Is there a guarantee on the DogWatch system?

    Our outdoor systems, when installed by an authorized Dealer, come with a lifetime equipment warranty. Additionally, if you find the system unsatisfactory, we offer a limited 30-day money-back guarantee. Your satisfaction is our priority.

  • What else do I need to know about DogWatch?

    Since 1990, we have been dedicated to providing pets with an environment of freedom. As a privately owned company, we prioritize the needs of both people and pets, and we take immense pride in the exceptional quality of our products and customer service. Our team of engineers is constantly engaged in research and development, striving to create innovative solutions that ensure the safety of your pet and the convenience of our products in your home. Every product is meticulously designed, fully assembled, and rigorously tested at our office in Massachusetts. Our unwavering commitment is to deliver the finest pet containment products in the industry. Should you have any inquiries, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Contact us today!


  • Will DogWatch® work for my cat?

    Certainly! The Outdoor Hidden Fences and Indoor Boundaries are highly effective for cats. In fact, we've successfully trained a variety of animals, including pigs, goats, and many others, using the DogWatch system.

  • Are there other benefits to the DogWatch Hidden Fence?

    DogWatch® receiver collars offer a range of exclusive safety features, ensuring the well-being of your pet. With FastReact®, your furry friend will respond to the hidden dog fence even while inside the containment area. Our R7 and R9 receivers boast the innovative AutoMemory® feature, automatically adjusting the training level if your dog challenges his boundaries.


    For gentle training, our Pet Friendly™ audible-only setting allows you to introduce your dog to an audible "beep" tone before using the correction setting. (Vibration alert is also available.) After training, most dogs respond to the warning alert and respect the boundaries.


    Rest assured, your DogWatch transmitter includes a wire-break alert, promptly notifying you of any boundary wire compromises.


    When you choose DogWatch Hidden Fence System equipment, you receive a 30-day money-back guarantee and a lifetime equipment warranty when installed by an authorized DogWatch Dealer.


    Our commitment to your pet's safety is unwavering. All authorized DogWatch Dealers provide superior technology and products to keep your beloved pet secure. As a locally owned independent business, we take pride in ensuring our customers' satisfaction.


  • Will the stimulation from a hidden dog fence collar hurt my dog?

    No. The stimulation provided by the collar may be unpleasant for your pet, but rest assured, it will not cause any burns or injuries. Think of it as a sensation similar to a strong static shock, like when you walk across a carpet in your socks. While it may be uncomfortable, it does not cause harm.


    It's important to note that 'pressure sores' can be caused by a collar that is too tight or not regularly removed. To prevent irritation of your dog's skin, it's recommended to remove the collar when it's not in use.


    Many veterinarians trust and recommend DogWatch® products. This type of stimulation has been safely and effectively used for over 40 years. Moreover, today's electronic collars are easily adjustable, ensuring that your dog receives the appropriate level of stimulation based on its sensitivity, size, and personality.


  • How is DogWatch® different from Invisible Fence® and other brands?

    The DogWatch® Hidden Fence brand is often mistakenly associated with the Invisible Fence® brand and may be inaccurately referred to as an "invisible fence" in a general sense. It is important to note that DogWatch is not affiliated with the Invisible Fence® company.


    At DogWatch, we pride ourselves on utilizing exclusive safety and convenience features that set us apart as the leaders in the pet containment industry. Here are some key differences that make DogWatch the superior choice:

    • DogWatch is the only hidden dog fence system that utilizes an FM radio frequency. Unlike other pet containment systems, such as Invisible Fence®, which use an AM radio frequency that is more susceptible to unsecure radio signals, our FM frequency ensures reliable performance and eliminates false corrections, even when your pet is not near the underground fence.

    (Note: ALL hidden fences use digital modulation (DM). Digital Modulation applies to both FM and AM signals; it is not a separate type of signal.)

    • DogWatch offers the only hidden fence receiver collar with an impressive two-year battery life. This is an average of eight times longer than other brands, including the Invisible Fence® brand. Our long-lasting battery not only keeps your pet safe but also saves you money compared to other pet containment systems. Additionally, the extended battery life is environmentally friendly.
    • In addition to cost savings on battery replacements compared to Invisible Fence® and other brands, DogWatch eliminates the need for a service call from a Dealer to replace the receiver batteries or adjust the settings. This further reduces your maintenance expenses.
    • All DogWatch receiver collars are equipped with a status light that provides clear visibility. This light not only indicates if the receiver is operating properly but also shows the training level being used and alerts you when the battery power is low. It can even indicate if your pet has been testing the boundary!
    • DogWatch receiver collars allow for the option of audible-only or vibration-only settings during training, making it a gentle and effective way to introduce your dog to the system.
    • Whether your pet is timid or highly energetic, DogWatch receiver collars offer customizable training levels that are suitable for all pets. The settings are easy to understand and adjust, eliminating the need for a service call for any necessary changes.

    Please note that Invisible Fence® is a registered trademark of Radio Systems, Inc.


    At DogWatch, we are committed to providing you with the best pet containment system that combines safety, convenience, and value. Choose DogWatch for peace of mind and the utmost care for your beloved pet.


  • Will the DogWatch® hidden fence work for more than one dog?

    Absolutely! Our hidden pet fencing has the remarkable ability to protect an unlimited number of dogs (or cats) simultaneously. No boundaries, just peace of mind for all your furry friends.

  • Do hidden dog fences keep other dogs out?

    Hidden fence systems are specifically engineered to ensure the safety of your dog and prevent any misadventures outside your property. It's important to note that these systems are primarily designed to contain your dog within the designated area and do not serve as a means to keep other dogs or animals out. However, in the exceptional case that another animal is equipped with a compatible receiver collar, the system may effectively deter their entry as well.

  • How old does my dog have to be before training begins?

    Every dog is unique, and even among dogs of the same breed, there can be variations in maturity. When we have the opportunity to meet you and your furry friend, we will assess your dog's individual needs and provide a tailored recommendation on the ideal time to begin training.

  • Are hidden fence systems safe during a lightning storm?

    Every DogWatch hidden fence system comes equipped with an internal lightning surge protector in the transmitter, in addition to an external surge protector. This standard feature ensures the utmost protection for all DogWatch Hidden Fences.

  • What if I move?

    You can bring your DogWatch system with you! If needed, we can install new wire at your new house while utilizing your existing equipment to create a new hidden fence.

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