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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a hidden fence?

A hidden fence (sometimes called invisible dog fencing) is an underground pet containment system that uses a buried wire to send a gentle radio signal to your dog’s receiver collar. This keeps your dog safely within a designated area of your yard — or away from off-limits spots such as gardens, pools, patios, or driveways.
Hidden fences can also be used indoors to create simple boundaries that prevent pets from entering certain rooms, climbing on furniture, or approaching kitchen counters.
Many people refer to all hidden fences as “invisible fences,” but Invisible Fence® is actually a registered brand name. DogWatch systems offer their own proven, reliable hidden fence technology that’s designed to be more user-friendly and more cost-effective over time.

Outdoor hidden pet fences work by burying a thin “boundary wire” several inches underground around the perimeter of your property. This wire carries a harmless, low-level radio signal from a transmitter installed in your home or garage. Your pet wears a lightweight, waterproof receiver collar that detects this signal.
When your dog approaches the boundary line, the collar first delivers an audible or vibration warning. If your dog continues past the warning zone, the collar provides a mild, safe correction. During training, your dog quickly learns to stop at the warning and respect the boundary. While individual brands vary in features, all hidden pet fences—including DogWatch®, Invisible Fence®, and others—operate using this same core principle.
Indoor hidden fences follow a similar concept. A boundary wire can be placed along bookshelves, under counters, or across specific doorways to block access to certain rooms or surfaces. For added flexibility, DogWatch also offers wireless indoor units that require no wire at all.
To determine the right setup for your home and your pet, please contact us.

Training is the most important part of the hidden fence process, and we guide you through every step. After your hidden fence installation, we work alongside you to teach your dog how the system works using a combination of voice commands, visible boundary flags, and the receiver collar’s warning signal.
During the first phase of training, your yard will be marked with small white flags that show your dog exactly where the boundary begins. As your dog becomes more confident and consistent, you will gradually remove the flags — typically every other flag, every other day — until all of them are gone.
If your dog ignores the audible or vibration warning and moves toward the boundary, the collar delivers a mild, safe correction. This correction is simply a backup; the real goal is for your dog to stop at the warning signal long before they ever reach the correction zone.
We provide clear instructions and full support throughout the process. After the installation, your dog will complete short daily training sessions with you for about two weeks. Our team customizes the training plan to match your dog’s personality, energy level, and learning style, ensuring the process is positive, consistent, and effective.

No — the correction from a hidden dog fence collar is safe and humane. It is designed to get your dog’s attention, not to harm them.
The sensation is similar to the light static feeling you might experience after walking across carpet and touching a doorknob. It’s unpleasant enough to interrupt the behavior, but it does not burn, injure, or cause any long-term discomfort.
Your dog also learns through the warning first — an audible or vibration alert that signals they are approaching the boundary. The correction is simply a backup if your dog ignores the warning.
DogWatch collars are tested, adjustable, and engineered with multiple safety features so you can train confidently, knowing your dog is protected throughout the process.
DogWatch® Hidden Fence systems are typically far more affordable than traditional physical fencing. Pricing can vary based on the system that best fits your needs, the number of pets, the size of your property, whether we need to cross driveways or sidewalks, and whether you’d like optional garden or interior loops. For a personalized quote, you’re welcome to contact us for a complimentary consultation and estimate.
In addition to being cost-effective, hidden fences offer flexibility that traditional fencing simply can’t. Instead of enclosing your entire yard, you can use the hidden fence to keep your dog away from specific areas such as pools, gardens, or driveways. Hidden fences also prevent common escape behaviors like jumping, digging, or chewing through a fence — and they never require painting or long-term maintenance.
Compared with other dealer-installed brands such as Invisible Fence®, DogWatch® systems are generally priced similarly but offer advanced features, longer battery life, and a lifetime limited warranty. Retail “DIY” systems may appear less expensive at first glance, but they usually do not include professional installation, hands-on training, ongoing support, or high-quality components — all of which are essential for safe, reliable containment.
People often use the term “invisible fence” to describe any hidden dog fence, but Invisible Fence® is actually a brand name. DogWatch® is a completely separate company — and our systems offer several safety and convenience advantages that set us apart from Invisible Fence® and other hidden fence brands.
Here are some key differences:
  • FM signal technology, not AM. DogWatch is the only hidden fence brand that uses an FM radio frequency. All other major brands use AM, which is more susceptible to interference from outside electrical or radio sources. Interference can lead to false corrections even when a dog is nowhere near the boundary wire. Note: Digital modulation (DM) is used by both FM and AM systems — it is not a separate type of signal.
  • Much longer battery life. DogWatch receiver collars have an industry-leading two-year battery life — about eight times longer than most other brands, including Invisible Fence®. This means fewer battery changes, lower long-term costs, and less waste.
  • Lower battery costs and no service appointments needed. DogWatch batteries are less expensive, and you can change them yourself. You can also adjust your dog’s training level at home without needing to schedule (or pay for) a service call.
  • Easy-to-read status light. Every DogWatch receiver collar includes a status light that shows you the current training level, battery level, and whether the collar is functioning properly. It can even indicate if your dog has challenged the boundary — all from one small, easy-to-read light.
  • Gentle “warning-only” training modes. All DogWatch collars offer an audible-only or vibration-only setting, allowing dogs to learn their boundaries gently during training without receiving correction.
  • Training levels for every dog — and you can change them yourself. Whether your dog is timid, highly energetic, or somewhere in between, DogWatch has a training level that fits their personality. Adjusting levels is simple and does not require a technician, giving you full control and saving time and money.
“Invisible Fence®” is a registered trademark of Radio Systems, Inc.

GPS dog fences are a very new technology, and while they offer helpful features like tracking, they have several important limitations when compared to a wired hidden fence. The main goal of any containment system is to keep your dog safely within the boundary — not to track them after they get out. If a dog routinely leaves the boundary to “use” the tracking feature, something isn’t working properly.
Here are the key differences to consider:
  • GPS signals can shift up to 16 feet.
    GPS fences depend on satellite communication, which can be affected by weather (rain fade), tree cover, buildings, terrain, and other obstructions. Because GPS coordinates can drift by as much as 16 feet, GPS systems are not recommended for small yards or heavily wooded properties.

    With a wired fence, the boundary is always exactly where the wire is — no guessing, no algorithms, no drifting. The DogWatch FM receiver simply detects whether it is in the signal field or not. If it’s in the field, it activates; if not, it sleeps to conserve battery. Simple, consistent, and reliable.
  • GPS fences rely on a 2-dimensional map of your property.
    Satellite maps (like Google Maps) can’t see hills, slopes, dips, or elevation changes. Because GPS fences create boundaries using flat 2D coordinates, sloped or uneven properties often require trial and error to get the “coordinates” right — and even then, accuracy can be inconsistent.
  • “Safe zones” exist to reduce false corrections — but can also cause missed corrections.
    Some GPS models allow you to create a small “safe zone” around your house to compensate for false corrections caused by AM-based technology and drifting GPS signals.

    The problem? If the receiver is confused, it may also skip needed corrections outside the safe zone. This is precisely why DogWatch developed (and patented) FM receiver technology — to eliminate false corrections and provide consistent, reliable containment.
  • GPS collars drain battery quickly.
    Because GPS collars must constantly search for satellites, process data, and track movement, they consume a lot of power. Most require daily recharging — sometimes more. Once the rechargeable battery reaches its maximum charge cycles, the collar can no longer hold a charge and must be replaced entirely.

    Compare that with our ProFence receiver: a two-year minimum battery life, a replaceable battery, and a lifetime limited warranty.
  • GPS collars are large and bulky.
    To house the technology required for GPS processing, these collars are often too big for dogs under 20 lbs. Our DogWatch R7mini weighs only 1.1 ounces — roughly the weight of a single AA battery — making it comfortable even for very small dogs.
  • Many GPS systems require ongoing subscription fees.
    Some models charge monthly or annual fees to access full features or extended warranties. DogWatch Hidden Fences include all features upfront — no subscriptions or hidden service charges.
  • Support for GPS systems is usually online-only.
    Troubleshooting is often limited to scripted responses from remote support agents who have never met you or your dog. Complex behavior issues or unique property challenges may be difficult to solve this way.

    With DogWatch, you get hands-on support from a local dealer who knows your dog, has seen your property, and can provide personalized guidance based on real-world experience.
Yes — DogWatch® Hidden Fences offer several unique safety and convenience features that help set us apart from other brands. These features are designed to keep your pet safer, make training easier, and give you confidence in the system’s long-term reliability.
  • FastReact® technology:
    DogWatch receivers respond before your dog reaches the boundary wire, activating while your pet is still safely inside the containment area.
  • AutoMemory® feature:
    Our R7 and R9 receivers automatically adjust and store a temporary higher correction level if your dog challenges the boundary. This helps reinforce training while keeping your pet safe.
  • PetFriendly™ audible-only (or vibration-only) training mode:
    This allows your dog to learn the system using just the audible “beep” or vibration alert before introducing correction. Most dogs fully respect the warning alert after proper training, making correction rarely — if ever — needed.
  • Wire-break alert:
    Your DogWatch transmitter continuously monitors the buried wire. If the boundary wire is ever damaged or compromised, the system alerts you immediately.
  • Strong warranty protection:
    When installed by a certified DogWatch Dealer, your equipment includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and a lifetime limited equipment warranty.
  • Local expert support:
    Every authorized DogWatch Dealer offers personalized service, professional installation, and ongoing support. As a locally owned independent business, we are invested in your satisfaction and your pet’s safety.
DogWatch® Hidden Fence systems are typically far more affordable than traditional physical fencing. Pricing can vary based on the system that best fits your needs, the number of pets, the size of your property, whether we need to cross driveways or sidewalks, and whether you’d like optional garden or interior loops. For a personalized quote, you’re welcome to contact us for a complimentary consultation and estimate.
In addition to being cost-effective, hidden fences offer flexibility that traditional fencing simply can’t. Instead of enclosing your entire yard, you can use the hidden fence to keep your dog away from specific areas such as pools, gardens, or driveways. Hidden fences also prevent common escape behaviors like jumping, digging, or chewing through a fence — and they never require painting or long-term maintenance.
Compared with other dealer-installed brands such as Invisible Fence®, DogWatch® systems are generally priced similarly but offer advanced features, longer battery life, and a lifetime limited warranty. Retail “DIY” systems may appear less expensive at first glance, but they usually do not include professional installation, hands-on training, ongoing support, or high-quality components — all of which are essential for safe, reliable containment.
DogWatch® Hidden Fence systems are extremely flexible and can be customized to fit a wide range of property sizes and shapes. Whether you have a small yard, multiple acres, or an unusually shaped property, the system can be tailored to your specific needs.
DogWatch® can typically cover:
  • Small residential yards
  • Large open properties up to 200+ acres
  • Irregular or curved layouts
  • Multiple containment zones
  • Keep-out areas such as gardens, driveways, or pools
If you’re unsure what layout would work best for your property, we can map it out and design the perfect solution.
The boundary wire is installed just a few inches underground — typically 2–4 inches deep. This depth is shallow enough for the transmitter signal to travel reliably but deep enough to stay protected from lawn equipment and weather.
We install wire:
  • Around the perimeter of your yard
  • Across driveways and walkways (we make clean, professional cuts)
  • Around garden beds, pool areas, or other “off-limits” zones
The wire is designed to be long-lasting and durable, and once the grass grows back over the small slit, it becomes virtually invisible.
Absolutely. One hidden fence system can safely contain multiple pets at the same time. Each pet simply needs their own DogWatch® receiver collar, and each collar can be set to the appropriate training level based on that pet’s individual temperament.
Whether you have one dog or several, the system adapts easily to meet your household’s needs.
Yes — DogWatch® works wonderfully for cats as well as dogs. Many cat owners use our outdoor hidden fences to keep their cats safely in the yard, and our indoor pet boundaries to prevent them from accessing certain rooms, furniture, or kitchen areas.
Our lightweight receiver collars, including the R7mini (only 1.1 oz), are ideal for cats and small pets. With gentle training and consistent reinforcement, most cats learn their boundaries quickly and comfortably.
If the initial training is done correctly, it is very uncommon for a dog to cross the hidden fence boundary. Most dogs quickly learn to respect the warning signal long before they reach the correction zone.
If your dog does escape, here are the most common causes and what to check:
  • Collar fit: Make sure the receiver collar is snug enough to maintain consistent contact.
  • Battery status: Check the collar’s status light to confirm the battery is functioning properly.
  • Signal range: You may need to increase the signal field width on the transmitter to keep your dog farther from the buried wire.
  • Correction level: Some dogs occasionally need a higher training level, especially young or high-energy dogs.
  • Wire damage: Recent landscaping, digging, or construction may have broken the boundary wire.
We are always available to help troubleshoot or reinforce training. If you have any concerns, please click here to get in touch with us.
No — hidden fences are designed to keep your pets safely contained, but they do not prevent stray or untrained animals from entering your yard.
If you are concerned about outside animals entering your property, we can discuss additional solutions to help increase safety and awareness outdoors.
DogWatch® systems are designed for dogs of all ages, breeds, sizes, and temperaments. From tiny, timid dogs to large, energetic breeds — the adjustable training levels make the system highly customizable.
Only in rare cases (medical restrictions, extremely young puppies, or dogs with certain disabilities) would we delay training or adjust the program.
Most puppies are ready to begin training at around 4–6 months old. They should be able to:
  • Wear a collar comfortably
  • Understand basic commands like “come”
  • Focus for short training sessions
If your puppy is younger or unusually timid, we can evaluate them and provide guidance on the best time to begin.
Great news — DogWatch® systems have an available battery backup to keep your hidden fence operating even during a power outage. If your home loses electricity, the battery backup automatically activates and keeps your fence running until power is restored.
This ensures that:
  • Your pet remains safely contained.
  • The boundary signal stays active and consistent.
  • You don’t have to worry about interruptions during storms or blackouts.
If you’d like the battery backup added to your DogWatch® system, just let us know — it’s a highly recommended safety feature.
Yes — DogWatch® systems include built-in lightning and surge protection, and we also offer an enhanced external surge protector for even greater security. While no system is 100% immune to extreme direct lightning strikes, DogWatch® is designed to be among the safest and most reliable on the market.
To minimize the risk of storm-related damage:
  • The surge protector absorbs power surges before they reach your transmitter.
  • Proper grounding techniques help safeguard the system.
  • DogWatch® components are engineered to resist voltage spikes and disruptions.
With the surge protection in place, storms rarely disrupt the system — and if they ever do, we’ll be there to help promptly.
Absolutely. DogWatch® products are backed by one of the strongest warranties in the industry. Most DogWatch® receivers, transmitters, and system components come with a lifetime limited warranty when installed by an authorized dealer.
This warranty covers:
  • Manufacturing defects
  • Receiver electronics
  • Transmitter electronics
  • Normal-use component failures
Your local dealer — that’s us! — will help you with any warranty needs. Our team stands behind every system we install.

No need to worry — DogWatch® systems move with you. Your receiver collars will work at your new home, and your installed equipment can be relocated or reinstalled.
When you move:
  • We can help design a new boundary layout.
  • Your existing receiver collars will still work perfectly.
  • You may only need a new wire installation at the new property.
Just contact us when you’re ready, and we’ll walk you through the whole process.
Since 1990, DogWatch Inc. has been committed to giving pets safe freedom and giving pet owners peace of mind. As a privately owned company, we take pride in putting our customers — and their pets — first.
Our engineering team continues to research, develop, and refine the most reliable and user-friendly pet containment products in the industry. Every DogWatch system is designed, assembled, and thoroughly tested at our Massachusetts facility to ensure the highest standards of safety, quality, and performance.
We stand behind our products and our customers. If you ever have questions or need support, please let us know — we’re here to help.
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