THE GOOD
For obvious reasons the electric fence is the best invention for dogs since “sliced bread”. It is a great way to have our dogs exercised off leash. We can allow them to run on their own and we can play with them without the worry of them taking off. It allows for potty breaks in the harshest weather without the use of coat, umbrella, or boots.
THE BAD
We all tend to depend on it for our dogs exercise and forego many of the needed walks to socialize and stimulate our dogs’ minds. You have now made your yard into a giant kennel. So many dog owners believe that if their dogs are outside they have fulfilled their dogs exercise needs. One cannot argue the value but to rely on it is a huge mistake.
Dogs become bored and so often when left to their own devices will virtually “hang out”. On the flip side, destruction ensues as a result of boredom. Landscaping is destroyed; holes in the ground creating the look of land mines; grass destroyed, etc., etc. The yard now becomes the same as being in a crate. The sights, smells and even sounds remain the same all the time.
THE UGLY
Electric fences can make dogs aggressive or make aggressive dogs worse. It heightens their territorial behavior and their dislike for people and other dogs. When stimulated enough, many dogs break the fence. In order to get at someone in their excitement to say hello or in the worst case in order to bite them, they are able to ignore the shock.
There is also the possibility of running away and getting run over. Very often people and other dogs innocently cross the line of the electric fence. What a surprise for the child who just wants to pet the nice doggie. The dog who has territorial instincts, will protect his home with no warning and bite the person or dog who enters his territory.
With busy schedules and complicated lives, dog and owners are lucky for this technology. Chose it and use it wisely to give both you and your dog the best advantage. Never forget that your dog needs a lot more than this virtual large box day in and day out. Combine with walks and outings, and this can be a wonderful tool.
For obvious reasons the electric fence is the best invention for dogs since “sliced bread”. It is a great way to have our dogs exercised off leash. We can allow them to run on their own and we can play with them without the worry of them taking off. It allows for potty breaks in the harshest weather without the use of coat, umbrella, or boots.
THE BAD
We all tend to depend on it for our dogs exercise and forego many of the needed walks to socialize and stimulate our dogs’ minds. You have now made your yard into a giant kennel. So many dog owners believe that if their dogs are outside they have fulfilled their dogs exercise needs. One cannot argue the value but to rely on it is a huge mistake.
Dogs become bored and so often when left to their own devices will virtually “hang out”. On the flip side, destruction ensues as a result of boredom. Landscaping is destroyed; holes in the ground creating the look of land mines; grass destroyed, etc., etc. The yard now becomes the same as being in a crate. The sights, smells and even sounds remain the same all the time.
THE UGLY
Electric fences can make dogs aggressive or make aggressive dogs worse. It heightens their territorial behavior and their dislike for people and other dogs. When stimulated enough, many dogs break the fence. In order to get at someone in their excitement to say hello or in the worst case in order to bite them, they are able to ignore the shock.
There is also the possibility of running away and getting run over. Very often people and other dogs innocently cross the line of the electric fence. What a surprise for the child who just wants to pet the nice doggie. The dog who has territorial instincts, will protect his home with no warning and bite the person or dog who enters his territory.
With busy schedules and complicated lives, dog and owners are lucky for this technology. Chose it and use it wisely to give both you and your dog the best advantage. Never forget that your dog needs a lot more than this virtual large box day in and day out. Combine with walks and outings, and this can be a wonderful tool.
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