dogwatch of central ct

Outdoor Hidden Fence Troubleshooting Tips

  • If your dog is not staying within the designated boundary, consider this checklist:

    Receiver Collar:

    1. Is the battery in the receiver collar in need of replacement?
    2. Is the collar fitted snugly enough?
    3. Is the receiver collar functioning properly?

    Transmitter/Boundary Wire:

    1. Is the Transmitter switched on and functioning correctly?
    2. Is the boundary wire securely connected?
    3. Is the boundary wire damaged?
    4. Are the Transmitter settings accurate?
    5. Is the signal field adequately wide?
    6. Is the Rate level appropriately adjusted?
    7. Is the Training Mode switch in the correct position?

    Training:

    1. Did you and your dog complete the Dealer-recommended training program?
    2. Has something changed since your dog was trained? Does your dog need a refresher training?

    By addressing these points, you can ensure that your dog remains within the intended boundaries. Please contact your local Dealer if you have questions or need assistance.

  • Receiver Features

    Adjustable Collar


    All R7, R8, and R9 receivers come fitted with an adjustable nylon collar. The collar should be positioned above the dog’s regular collar. The collar should be adjusted to ensure that the contact posts touch the skin on the dog’s neck. Check the fit for the first few days of wear to ensure that the collar is not too tight or irritating your pet’s neck.


    Safelink® FM Radio Signal: Our patented FM design allows the DogWatch receiver to recognize and activate only our unique radio signal. This protects your pet from unintentional correction caused by stray radio signals that may be emitted by other electronic devices. 


    Automatic Shutdown


    The dog containment system is designed to protect your dog from an over-correction in the unlikely event that your dog gets caught in the signal field. If your dog does not exit the signal field, the receiver will automatically stop correcting after 15 seconds – protecting your dog from over-correction. The receiver will automatically reset once the dog leaves the signal field. 


    Collar Bone


    The DogWatch® “collar bone” (plus the metal lock washers and contact posts) is used to attach the receiver to the nylon collar. For single-ply collars, mount the recessed holes of the collarbone against the collar strap, and for double-ply collars, place the flat side of the collarbone against the collar strap.


    Note: The collarbone is only used with our stainless steel contact posts. It is not used with our GentleFit™ contact posts.


    Contact Posts


    The receiver comes with two sets of stainless steel contact posts (short and long). Your DogWatch Dealer will determine the correct set based on your dog’s neck shape, coat, and skin sensitivity. The posts must make contact with the skin for the dog to feel the correction. In certain cases, your dealer may recommend clipping some of the hair around the contact posts so that they can touch the skin more easily. Use care if you find it necessary to tighten the contact posts with the collar wrench, as over-tightening could cause damage to the receiver.


    We also offer our exclusive GentleFit™ contact posts. They work just like our stainless steel posts but attach to the receiver and collar as a single piece, and they have a sleek low profile for an exceptionally comfortable fit. GentleFit™ posts are especially good for cats, small pets, and pets with short hair. Ask your local Dealer if GentleFit™ contact posts are right for your pet.


    Antenna


    The receiver's omnidirectional antenna design ensures optimal reception from the signal field.


    Status Light


    The status light continuously monitors your receiver and provides the following features:


    Start-Up


    Upon inserting the battery into your receiver for the first time, the status light will flash red and green, indicating proper startup. Once started, the status light will continue to flash green approximately every 30 seconds, signifying normal operation. In case the light does not flash, please check the battery to ensure proper insertion.


    Training Level Indicator


    When programming the training level of your receiver, the status light will flash green along with audible beeps. The number of flashes will correspond to the chosen training level.


    Signal Field Indicator


    During receiver testing in the signal field, the status light will flash green when the receiver is in the audible zone and green and red when it is in the correction zone.


    Correction Alert


    The status light serves as an indicator if your pet tests the boundary. After the dog has entered the boundary area, the status light will double-flash green approximately every 30 seconds for 24 hours.


    Battery Indicator


    This feature monitors the battery voltage level. When the receiver detects that the battery has reached a low voltage level, the status light will change from normal blinking green to blinking red every 10 seconds. This indicates that the battery is nearing the end of its useful life, and you should replace it within the next 3-4 days. If the light flashes double red, it means that the battery is low, and your pet has challenged the dog containment system.


    FastReact®


    The DogWatch R7, R8, and R9 receivers boast the fastest standard reaction time available in a pet containment fence receiver. Whether your dog strolls, runs, or sprints into the Avoidance Zone, the DogWatch receiver will react and correct within 0.125 (1/8) seconds.


    User Programmable Feature


    By combining the transmitter "Rate" and the receiver training levels, you can customize the receiver to one of 20 training settings. For example, if the receiver is on Level 1 and the Transmitter Rate is on Level 1, your dog will receive the lowest level of correction and the least number of pulses per second.


    Important


    When removing the receiver collar from your dog at night, avoid storing it near or on a television. Please refer to the battery handling instructions marked on the battery.


  • Use the Correct Battery for Your Receiver

    R7 Battery


    The R7 receiver (both the full-size R7 and the R7mini) requires a 3-volt 1/3 N lithium battery. It is designed to last for 6 months. Ensure that the negative (-) end of the battery is inserted downwards.


    R8 & R9 Battery


    The R8 & R9 receivers are powered by a 3.6-volt lithium battery. They have a long battery life of up to two years. Make sure to insert the positive (+) end of the battery downwards.


  • Receiver Battery Instructions

    The receiver, worn on a collar around the dog's neck, is programmed to detect a specific coded FM radio signal from the boundary wire. It emits an audible warning followed by a "correction" if the dog gets too close to the boundary wire. The receiver operates on a replaceable battery and is waterproof when the battery cap is securely fastened.


    Resetting the Battery Status Light


    To reset the Battery Status Light, follow these steps:

    1. Remove the old battery.
    2. Wait for 5 minutes before inserting the new battery.

    Waiting for 5 minutes after removing the old battery will reset the Battery Status Light. If you forget to wait before inserting the new battery, the Battery Status Light will continue blinking red for 24 hours. After 24 hours, it will automatically reset.


    Inserting a New Battery


    When inserting a new battery, follow these guidelines:

    1. For R7/R7mini batteries, insert the negative (-) end of the battery downwards.
    2. For R8 & R9 batteries, insert the positive (+) end of the battery downwards.

    R7 Battery


    The R7 receiver (both the full-size R7 and the R7mini) requires a 3-volt 1/3 N lithium battery. It is designed to last for 6 months. Ensure that the negative (-) end of the battery is inserted downwards.


    R8 & R9 Battery


    The R8 & R9 receiver is powered by a 3.6-volt lithium battery. It has a long battery life of up to two years. Make sure to insert the positive (+) end of the battery downwards.


    Important


    When removing the receiver collar from your dog at night, avoid storing it near or on a television. Please refer to the battery handling instructions marked on the battery.


  • Status Light Indicators

    The status light in the R7/R7mini, R8, and R9 receivers offers the following functionalities:


    Start-Up


    Upon inserting the battery into your receiver for the first time, the status light will flash green, indicating that the receiver has successfully powered on. If the lights fail to flash, please double-check the battery insertion.


    Correction Level Indicator


    While programming the correction level of your receiver, the status light will flash green (alongside audible beeps), with the number of flashes corresponding to the chosen correction level.


    Signal Field Indicator


    During receiver testing in the signal field, the status light will flash green when the receiver is within the audible zone. It will flash green and red when the receiver enters the correction zone.


    Battery Replacement Reminder


    Approximately every 10 seconds before the battery life ends, the status light will flash red, serving as a reminder to replace the battery. Remember to change your battery every 6 months (R7 models) or two years (R8 and R9 models).


    Important


    After removing the old battery and before inserting the new one, please wait for 5 minutes. This will reset the status light. Failure to wait will result in the battery status light continuing to blink red for 24 hours after the new battery is inserted.


  • Changing the Training Level Setting

    Your Dogwatch Dealer will begin the training at a suitable level based on your dog's unique personality and traits. If you need to adjust the training level on the receiver, simply place the test light magnet on the designated location on the side of the receiver. Keep the magnet steady and you will hear a series of beeps that indicate the current training level. This ensures a seamless and effective training experience for you and your furry companion.

  • Adjusting the Receiver Collar

    Your DogWatch Dealer has completed the installation of your dog containment system, adjusting the transmitter and receiver to suit your dog's unique personality and traits. They have also placed boundary flags around your yard and initiated the first day of containment training. Now, it's your turn to continue the training.


    Before you begin, ensure that you securely place the DogWatch receiver collar around your dog's neck before going outside. It is crucial that the collar fits snugly and properly on your dog's neck. Remember, there should be no more than one thumb width between the contact post and the dog's neck. When checking the snugness of the collar, make sure the dog's neck is facing down in the sniffing position, as this is when the neck is smallest.


    Pay attention to the collar's fit and periodically check for any irritation around the dog's neck. To avoid any discomfort, it is recommended to remove the collar daily and when the dog is indoors. Adjust the collar as necessary, ensuring that the posts maintain good contact with the dog's skin. When checking the snugness, allow no more than one finger width between the contact posts and the dog's neck.


    During colder months, be mindful that your dog's fur may be thicker. If needed, trim the fur under the collar to ensure proper correction. For dogs with naturally thick coats, trimming the fur year-round may be necessary. Longer contact posts are available for dogs with especially heavy coats.


    If your dog was trained with the DogWatch pet containment fence as a puppy, it's likely that they have grown and may require a larger collar.



  • Outdoor Dog Containment System Signal Range

    The adjustment dial for the signal range is located on the right side of the transmitter. The range may vary depending on the size of your property and your dog's needs. Your dealer has set the most suitable range for your dog and yard.


    It's important to note that the signal range on your dog containment system is highly sensitive. Changing the signal field can greatly impact the effectiveness of the boundary loop, so it's best not to adjust this setting unless recommended by your dealer.


    If you need to increase the signal field, make small clockwise adjustments to the dial. Keep in mind that expanding the signal range will decrease the safety zone for your dog within the underground dog fencing.


    Conversely, if you want to decrease the signal range, make small counterclockwise adjustments to the dial.

  • Locating the Buried Wire

    Before beginning any landscaping work, it is advisable to use training flags to mark your yard. To locate the underground dog fencing wire, simply use the receiver collar. As you approach the boundary wire, make sure to avoid the contact posts and hold the receiver at the dog's neck height. When you hear the audible tone for the first time, place a flag to mark the location. Repeat this process from the opposite side of the buried wire. The wire should be positioned approximately halfway between the two flags.

  • Is Your Transmitter Beeping?

    If the boundary loop wire is damaged or the signal is interrupted, you will hear an audible warning. Take a moment to inspect your property for any visible wire breaks. If you need assistance, reach out to your local DogWatch Dealer for troubleshooting tips or to schedule a service call. For additional advice on locating, repairing, and preventing wire breaks, be sure to check out our informative blog.

  • Remove the Collar Periodically

    Please ensure to remove the collar from your dog during the night. If your furry friend spends time outdoors, it is advisable to periodically take off the collar and inspect for any signs of irritation.

  • Safety and DogWatch Hidden Fences

    Important Safeguards

    1. Before activating the dog containment system or commencing training, we kindly request that you carefully review all the literature provided.
    2. We strongly advise against taking any shortcuts in the comprehensive training of your beloved canine companion.
    3. Please note that the dog containment system is specifically designed for the containment of domestic dogs. Any usage for alternate purposes is at the owner's own risk.
    4. Should your system require servicing, we highly recommend reaching out to your local Authorized DogWatch Dealer. Attempting to service the system yourself may void the warranty.
    5. The dog containment system is ideally suited for dogs aged four to six months or older. For puppies under six months, your Dealer will determine if they are ready for the system.
    6. It is important to keep the collar and transmitter out of the reach of children.
    7. When your dog is wearing the collar, please refrain from adjusting the transmitter or receiver.
    8. DogWatch strongly suggests unplugging the transmitter from the wall outlet and disconnecting the loop wire during lightning storms or when the system is not in use for extended periods. This precautionary measure will safeguard against potential damage from lightning and power line surges.
    9. This product is exclusively intended for use with trained domestic dogs. If your dog displays aggressive or violent behavior that may pose harm to itself or others beyond the fenced premises, alternative measures should be taken to restrain your dog.


  • To Troubleshoot an Older AM Transmitter

    To troubleshoot a non-functional system, first, check the contact posts and the battery cap on the receiver. Tighten them if necessary. Additionally, inspect the lights on the transmitter.


    The red light on the transmitter indicates AC power to the dog containment system, while the green light signifies an intact wire with no breaks. The green loop light will blink rapidly when the Rate is set to "1". With the Rate set to "2", the green loop light will blink slowly, and for a Rate of "3", it will remain a steady green light without blinking.


    In the event of a wire break, the green light will turn off, and you will hear an audible chirping sound. If both the power light and the loop light go out on your AM transmitter, it may indicate a lightning surge. If your transmitter is connected to a GFI outlet, try resetting it to restore operation.


    If you continue to experience issues with any of DogWatch's underground or wireless fences, please reach out to your Dealer for assistance.


  • SMARTFENCE Communication Troubleshooting

    I am not receiving alerts on my phone or email. Here are some troubleshooting steps to help resolve the issue:

    1. Ensure that your alert preferences are turned 'on'. You can do this by going to SETTINGS & CONFIG > MANAGE ALERTS. A green indication means the alert is ON, while red indicates it is OFF.
    2. Double-check that the UIDs are entered correctly in the WebApp.
    3. Verify that your email address and cell phone number are correct. You can do this by going to SETTINGS & CONFIG > ACCOUNT INFO.
    4. Confirm that your Communication Portal is connected to the internet.
    5. Try restarting your Portal.

    These steps should help you address the issue and start receiving alerts again.


    I am not seeing my pet’s activity on my SmartFence WebApp.

    1. Have you integrated the UID of the SmartFence collar into your WebApp?
    2. Is the battery of your collar fully charged?
    3. Is the collar functioning properly? Does it emit a 'beep' when approaching the boundary (or when placed near the Transmitter)?
    4. Is your Communication Portal successfully connected to the Internet?

    Consider restarting your Portal for troubleshooting purposes.



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