Dog Fence Training

A Guide to Underground Dog Fence Training

Dog fence training is the process of teaching your dog to understand and respect the boundaries set by an underground fence installation, and it’s the most crucial step in the containment process. The goal is to help your pet feel safe and confident while staying within the designated area of your yard.

A Trained Dog Is A Happy Dog!
Proper training, using the GentleSteps™ method, ensures that your dog understands where the boundaries are and avoids crossing them — even when they’re tempted by distractions like passing cars, other animals, or people.

There are various types of dog fences available, including wireless fences, in-ground buried wire fences, and GPS collars. While each type has its own setup and function, all of them require consistent training to work effectively. Without proper training, your dog might ignore the fence’s boundaries or become confused by the correction signals.

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GentleSteps™ reduces stress and behavior problems,
helps pets learn faster and stay happier,
all while providing you with greater peace of mind.

Download GentleSteps Training Brochure

Gentle Steps program by PetStop

Gentle Steps™ is an incredible tool for helping dogs of all breeds and temperaments adapt to fence boundaries with minimal stress. It allows us to take the most compassionate approach to training, making the process as enjoyable as possible for both you and your pet. The goal is simple — we want your dog to feel that the yard is a safe, happy place to explore, not a source of anxiety.

Unfortunately, harsher training methods often lead to undesirable results, like dogs refusing to leave the porch out of fear. At Dawg Fence, we prioritize a positive, gentle approach that encourages confidence and curiosity, not fear.

Download Post-Installation Training Guide

Preparing for Dog Fence Training

Getting your dog ready for fence training takes more than just turning on the system. Proper preparation ensures that your dog feels comfortable, safe, and ready to learn. By setting up the right environment and using the right tools, you’ll create a positive training experience that sets your dog up for long-term success.

Setting Up the Training Environment

Start by creating a calm, distraction-free area for training. Choose a time of day when your dog is relaxed and focused, rather than overly excited or tired. It’s also generally best to train your dog before feeding them, as a slightly hungry dog will be more motivated to work for food rewards and stay attentive during sessions. Walk the boundary of your fence system first to ensure there are no obstacles or hazards that might confuse your dog during training.

Before starting, it’s crucial to visually mark the boundary line. We will utilize the training flags that come with your fence system to provide clear visual cues for your dog. For optimal results, we aim to engage multiple senses: flags for sight, an audible tone for hearing, and the lowest level of static correction for touch.

This method, combined with the consistent boundaries of a buried wire system, provides clarity and consistency, making it easy for your dog to learn where to stop.

Tips for a Positive Training Environment:

Keep sessions short — around 10-15 minutes at a time.
Ensure the area is free of distractions like toys, other pets, or loud noises.
Stay calm and patient throughout the process.

Tools for Dog Fence Training

Having the right tools makes the training process smoother and more effective. Here’s what you’ll need:

Training Flags – Blue and yellow flags that are easy to see and mark the boundary visually.
Leash and Collar – Use a regular leash to guide your dog during early sessions.
Fence Collar – The fence system’s collar should be properly fitted to ensure your dog receives correction signals when needed.
Treats or Toys – Positive reinforcement is key to successful training. Use treats or your dog’s favorite toy to reward good behavior.
Clicker (Optional) – A clicker can help reinforce commands and behaviors during training sessions.

With a well-prepared environment and the right equipment, your dog will be ready to start learning the boundaries of their new fence system.

Step-by-Step Dog Fence Training Techniques

Training your dog to understand and respect the fence boundary is a step-by-step process that ensures their safety and your peace of mind. By combining visual cues, correction signals, and positive reinforcement, your dog will learn the limits of their play area quickly and effectively.

Introducing Your Dog to the Fence Boundary

We begin by introducing your dog to the marked boundary using training flags. While keeping your dog on a leash, we will guide them along the fence perimeter. At this stage, the boundary is indicated solely by the audible tone and the flags.

Teaching Your Dog to Respond to Warning Signals

We will guide your dog toward the boundary while they are on a leash. When the collar emits a warning beep, we will stop and gently lead them back to the safe zone. At this stage, we will also introduce the lowest level of static correction. Using GentleSteps settings, this correction is designed to be a barely perceptible stimulus.

Reinforcing Boundary Awareness

Encourage your dog to explore near the boundary while staying attentive to the warning signal. If they approach the boundary and hear the beep, gently guide them back to the safe zone. Praise them for returning and use rewards tailored to their preferences, such as treats for food-motivated dogs or toys for those with a high prey drive. If necessary, you can gradually increase the correction level to ensure effective training.

Off-Leash Boundary Testing

Once your dog shows consistent awareness of the boundary on a leash, we can begin off-leash training. Start in a supervised setting where you can monitor your dog’s behavior closely.

By following these steps, your dog will learn to confidently stay within the fence boundaries, giving you peace of mind while allowing them the freedom to enjoy outdoor playtime.

Ongoing Support: You Can Count On Us

At Dawg Fence, our commitment to your satisfaction doesn’t end after the installation. If your system ever needs adjustments, repairs, or maintenance in the future, Mirek will be the one to help.

The most common requests after installation are for new batteries or wire repairs after landscaping work. We pride ourselves on building long-term relationships with our customers and their pets.

dawg fence ongoing support underground pet fence installation

Ready to Start Dog Fence Training?

Give your dog the freedom to explore while keeping them safe with effective dog fence training. Once your underground fence is installed, proper training is the key to success. Our step-by-step guidance will help your dog confidently stay within boundaries and avoid dangerous situations.

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