Types of Fences for Dogs

"Invisible fence" is a term that gets used commonly to refer to any electronic dog fence. (Not to be confused with the Invisible Fence Brand®, which is a specific brand offering electronic dog fence installation and training services.) There are many types of "invisible" dog fence available, including in-ground, wireless, and wireless GPS. What they all have in common is that they involve a non-physical boundary, set up by the pet parent, that signals training corrections in a dog's collar to teach the dog where it's safe to go and where they should turn around. Dog fences are great options because they generally cost thousands less than physical fences, are much easier to set up, and don't block your view. Best of all, they save lives and make outdoor, off-leash play a reality for millions of dogs every year.

Sometimes these terms are used interchangeably, sometimes not. The important thing to know is that all GPS fences are wireless, but not all wireless fences use GPS. For instance, our Stay & Play® Wireless Fences are wireless, but instead of using GPS satellites to create a boundary, they use radio technology transmitted locally from a central base unit installed inside your home. When you're deciding between a GPS fence and other wireless fence types, make sure you understand what shape fence will work for your yard, as some GPS fences are customizable, but many other wireless fences, like Stay & Play®, will only create a circular boundary.

Our wireless fences create a circular boundary that can’t be reshaped, but you can easily adjust the range to fit your property. Our GPS fences allow you to create a fully customizable boundary to fit your specific property.

Sometimes dense tree cover can impact performance for certain types of electronic dog fences. The most precise and consistent fence type available is still In-Ground® fences, which transmit signals to your dog's collar via buried wire in your yard, and are thus generally not affected by tree cover. When it comes to wireless GPS fences, all are not created equal. Some GPS fence brands lose signal readily when under heavy tree cover. This can be a big concern for your dog's safety. Thanks to our patented AccuGuard™ technology, PetSafe® Guardian® GPS fences offer the best protection in tree cover when tested against the Halo collar. If you're wondering whether a GPS fence will work for your property, our friendly customer care team is always happy to talk you through your options to find the best fit for your yard!

While an In-Ground® Fence requires more time and planning than a wireless or GPS fence, it does offer benefits and features that appeal to many pet parents. In-Ground® Fences are the most customizable option, allowing precise planning of size and shape as well as even accommodating "exclusion zones", meaning if you have something like a swimming pool or flower bed inside your dog's planned boundary, you can use buried wire to keep your dog out of these areas, while giving them access to the rest of the yard. If you want to make the very most of your yard with a precisely tailored boundary that will remain consistent for years to come, consider an In-Ground® Fence.

Unlike Bluetooth-based solutions that rely on nearby smartphones, GPS operates independently to provide precise and reliable coverage, even in remote areas. With unlimited range, GPS ensures a connection to your pet, no matter where they are.

Guardian GPS + Tracking Dog Fence Collar is only compatible in properties larger than 3/4 acres. If your property is smaller, you can still protect and contain your pup without any wires by shopping our Stay & Play wireless fence options.

Bury your In-Ground Fence wire 1-3 inches deep to help protect it from weather, foot traffic and everyday wear.

Both Guardian® GPS fences protect your dog with our patented AccuGuard™: the most accurate GPS fence technology in the world. AccuGuard™ predicts your dog's movements and warns them before crossing the boundary, providing superior protection even in wooded areas or when the GPS signal is weak.