When it comes to keeping your furry friend safe and secure in your yard, an underground dog fence is a popular and effective option. However, many pet owners wonder if they can use any type of wire for this type of fencing. The answer is no, not just any wire will do.
It may be tempting to use any wire you have lying around, it’s important to use wire that is specifically designed for underground dog fences. This wire is typically thicker and more durable than other types of wire, and is designed to withstand the wear and tear of being buried underground.
Using the wrong type of wire can result in a system that doesn’t work properly, or even worse, can be dangerous for your pet.
Types Of Wire for Underground Dog Fences
When it comes to underground dog fences, choosing the right type of wire is crucial for ensuring the effectiveness and longevity of the fence. There are several types of wire available, each with its own unique properties and advantages. In this section, we will discuss the three most common types of wire used for underground dog fences: solid core copper wire, stranded wire, and polyethylene-coated wire.
Solid Core Copper Wire
Solid core copper wire is a popular choice for underground dog fences due to its high conductivity and durability. This type of wire is made up of a single copper conductor, which provides excellent resistance to corrosion and environmental factors. Solid core copper wire is available in various gauges, including 20-gauge, 14-gauge, 16-gauge, and 18-gauge wire. The wire gauge you choose will depend on the size of your property and the distance between the transmitter and the boundary.
Stranded Wire
Stranded wire is another option for underground dog fences. This type of wire is made up of multiple copper conductors twisted together, which provides greater flexibility and resistance to breakage. Stranded wire is available in various gauges, and the number of strands can also vary. While stranded wire is generally less expensive than solid core copper wire, it may not be as durable in harsh environments.
Polyethylene-Coated Wire
Polyethylene-coated wire is a specialized wire designed specifically for dog fences. This type of wire is covered in a polyethylene coating, which provides protection against moisture and other environmental factors. Polyethylene-coated wire is available in various gauges, and it can be either solid or stranded. Professional-grade wire, which is the highest quality wire available, is typically polyethylene-coated and has a thicker coating than standard wire.
When choosing the type of wire for your underground dog fence, it’s important to consider factors such as wire gauge, polyethylene coating, and copper conductor. Professional-grade wire is often the best choice for ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your fence, but it may come at a higher cost. Ultimately, the type of wire you choose will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Choosing The Right Wire Gauge For An Underground Dog Fence
When it comes to choosing the right wire gauge for your underground dog fence, there are a few things to consider. The gauge of the wire refers to its thickness, and the thicker the wire, the lower its gauge number will be.
Most underground dog fences come with 20-gauge wire, which is suitable for most installations. However, if you have a larger property or a more powerful dog, you may want to consider upgrading to a thicker wire.
Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing the right wire gauge for your underground dog fence:
- A 14-gauge wire is the thickest wire available and is suitable for very large properties or very powerful dogs.
- A 16-gauge wire is a good middle ground and is suitable for most installations.
- An 18-gauge wire is thinner and more affordable, but may not be suitable for larger properties or more powerful dogs.
It’s important to note that the thicker the wire, the more expensive it will be. However, investing in a thicker wire can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for repairs and replacements.
Ultimately, the right wire gauge for your underground dog fence will depend on your specific needs and budget. Consider the size of your property, the strength of your dog, and your budget when making your decision.
Installation An Underground Dog Fence
Installing an underground dog fence requires some preparation and planning. Before starting, it is essential to have a layout of the yard to determine the boundary lines and where to place the transmitter. Here are some sub-sections to consider when installing an underground dog fence:
- Trenching – One of the first steps in installing an underground dog fence is digging a trench around the perimeter of the yard. The depth of the trench should be at least 2-3 inches to ensure that the wire is buried deep enough. It is important to avoid sharp turns or angles in the trench that could damage the wire.
- PVC Conduit – Using PVC conduit can help protect the wire from damage and make it easier to replace if necessary. The conduit should be buried at the same depth as the wire and secured in place with stakes or clamps.
- Boundary Flags – Boundary flags are used to mark the boundary line and help train the dog to stay within the designated area. Place the flags about 10 feet apart along the perimeter of the yard.
- Marker Flags – Marker flags can be used to identify the location of the wire and help prevent accidental damage during yard work or landscaping. Place the flags every 5-10 feet along the wire.
System Protection
Insulation
When installing an underground dog fence, it is important to ensure that the wire is properly insulated. The insulation protects the wire from moisture and prevents electrical shorts that could result in incorrect corrections or even system failure. High-quality insulation materials such as polyethylene or PVC are recommended for underground dog fences.
Wear Resistance
The wire used for an underground dog fence should be able to withstand wear and tear from environmental factors such as temperature changes, UV rays, and physical damage from lawn equipment. A wire with a higher gauge number, such as 14 or 16, is more durable and better suited for underground installations.
Protection from Digging
Dogs are natural diggers and may try to dig under the fence to escape. To prevent this, bury the wire at least 6 inches deep and install a barrier such as chicken wire or landscape fabric to deter digging.
Protection from Wear and Tear
Over time, the wire may become damaged due to wear and tear from lawn equipment or other factors. To protect the wire, it is recommended to bury it in a protective conduit or tubing. This will not only protect the wire but also make it easier to replace if necessary.
By ensuring proper insulation, wear resistance, protection from digging, and protection from wear and tear, the underground dog fence will be a reliable and effective system for keeping your pet safe and secure within the designated boundaries.
Collars And Correction
When it comes to underground dog fences, the collar that your dog wears is just as important as the wire that is buried in the ground. The collar is responsible for delivering a correction to your dog when they get too close to the boundary line. In this section, we will discuss the different types of collars available and the correction settings that come with them.
Types of Collars
There are different types of collars available for underground dog fences. Some collars are designed for smaller dogs, while others are designed for larger breeds. The following are some of the most common types of collars:
- Standard Collars – These collars are designed for dogs that are over 10 pounds.
- Stubborn Dog Collars – These collars are designed for dogs that are more difficult to train.
- Little Dog Collars – These collars are designed for dogs that are under 10 pounds.
- SportDOG Brand Collars – These collars are designed for dogs that are active and love to play.
Correction Settings
The correction settings on the collar are what deliver the correction to your dog when they get too close to the boundary line. It is important to choose the right correction setting for your dog to ensure that they are not over-corrected or under-corrected. The following are some of the most common correction settings:
| Correction Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| Beep Only | The collar will beep when your dog gets too close to the boundary line. |
| Low | The collar will deliver a low-level correction to your dog when they get too close to the boundary line. |
| Medium | The collar will deliver a medium-level correction to your dog when they get too close to the boundary line. |
| High | The collar will deliver a high-level correction to your dog when they get too close to the boundary line. |
It is important to note that the correction settings on the collar should only be used as a last resort. It is always best to train your dog to stay within the boundary line without the use of the correction settings.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to installing an underground dog fence, it is important to use the right type of wire for the job. While it may be tempting to use any type of wire that is available, doing so can lead to a variety of problems down the road.
After careful consideration of the various factors involved, including the type of electric dog fence being used (such as Pet Stop, DogWatch, or Perimeter), signal transmission and strength, the risk of escaping, shock, and aesthetics, it is clear that not all wires are created equal.
While some wires may be suitable for use in certain situations, such as a hot tub or concrete driveway with an expansion joint, it is important to choose a wire that is specifically designed for use with an underground dog fence. This will ensure that the signal is strong and reliable, and that your dog is safely contained within the designated area.
Ultimately, the type of wire you use for your underground dog fence will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and shape of your property, the type of terrain, and the needs of your dog. By taking the time to carefully consider these factors and choose the right wire for the job, you can ensure that your dog is safe, secure, and happy in their designated space.