Electric dog fences are a great way to give your dog the freedom and safety to roam your yard while saving you the expense of building a physical fence, or constantly filling in the holes dogs dig. Installing one is easier than you think — all it takes is a couple hours, some planning, and some basic tools and supplies. Here’s what you’ll need to take on this project:
TOOLS & MATERIALS
- Shovel
- Scrap Wood or Paint Stripper
- Cordless Drill/Driver
- Flags or Markers
- Mounting Hardware
- In-Ground Fence System
- Tape Measure (if needed)
- 1/8” Drill Bit (if needed)
When taking on this DIY task be sure to equip yourself with the proper safety gear.
SAFETY GEAR
- Eye Protection
- Gloves
STEP ONE
Install fence transmitter. Start by figuring out a good location for your fence transmitter. It should be out of the elements, in a dry, well-ventilated area. Garages, basements, sheds and closets are all great options. Once you’ve decided where your transmitter will go, fasten it to a stationary surface with mounting hardware. Once it’s secure, decide on the best path for your boundary wire to exit into your yard. Windows work well. You can also drill a 1/8” hole in the wall. Whatever path you decide on, make sure it’s clear of any utilities, and doesn’t pinch or cut off the wire.
STEP TWO
Lay out boundary wire. Now it’s time to lay out your boundary wire. Keeping in mind that the wire needs to start and end at the transmitter, lay out your path with markers, using gradual turns around corners to avoid interrupting the connection. Once it’s in place, test the system before burying it, and check to make sure the wire isn’t pinched anywhere.
STEP THREE
Connect wires. Run the boundary wire to your fence transmitter, and, if they’re not already striped, strip the ends about a half-inch. Insert the wires into the terminals, then plug the power adapter into the power jack and electrical outlet. You know you’ve done it right when you see the power light and loop indicator lights on.
STEP FOUR
Prepare collar. Assemble the collar receiver according to manufacturer’s instructions, then set the boundary width, adjust the transmitter range and test the collar receiver.
STEP FIVE
Install boundary wire. Dig a trench 1” to 3” deep along your boundary. Place the wire in the trench, leaving a little slack for changes in temperature. Being careful not to damage it, push the wire into the trench. Backfill the trench, then place your flags along the boundary line, removing markers as you go.
You’re all done. Now that your electric dog fence is installed, place the collar receiver on your four-legged friend and start training according to manufacturer’s instructions.
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