Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Wanted to Know About DogWatch
But May Not Have Thought to Ask
1. What is a DogWatch Hidden Fence System?
The DogWatch Hidden Fence is a pet containment system that uses radio signals to keep your dog within a designated boundary.
2. How does it work?
A buried wire carries harmless FM radio signals around the designated area. Your dog wears a small receiver on a collar that signals him by emitting a mild stimulation, or correction, when he gets too close to the boundary.
3. How does my dog learn where the boundary is?
Your dog learns the boundaries through voice commands and visual flags that are set inside the fence. The dog goes through a training session for a few minutes each day for 7 to 10 days. With training, the dog remembers the placement of the flags and is taught to stay within the border. During the training period, flags are slowly taken away. If the dog goes within 5 to 10 feet of the boundary, he will hear a warning sound that means he is getting closer to the boundary. If the dog reaches the boundary, he will receive a correction.
4. Why should I purchase a DogWatch® Hidden Fence System instead of the Invisible Fence® brand?
DogWatch is the only underground fence system that works on an FM radio signal frequency. This FM system, called SafeLink®, is an exclusive patented DogWatch technology that provides your pet with maximum protection from unintentional stimulation caused by stray radio signals. Other pet containment systems, such as the Invisible Fence brand, run on an AM radio frequency that often picks up stray signals and can cause your dog to receive a correction when not near the hidden boundary. This may cause your dog to become confused and afraid. Only DogWatch's SafeLink system safely ignores AM radio signals.
5. Are there other benefits to the DogWatch Hidden Fence?
The DogWatch Performance Series R8 Receiver runs on a battery that lasts two years - the longest in the industry. Maintenance costs are low compared to the Invisible Fence brand, enabling you to realize significant savings.
Our new Performance Series R7 and R8 Receivers have our exclusive AutoMemory feature. The receiver constantly monitors your dog if he "challenges" the boundary. Both receivers have the fastest response time, which means that your dog feels a correction immediately after challenging the boundary.
In addition, DogWatch includes:
- A unique, patented receiver that you can program to the training level that's right for your pet's personality and size, eliminating the need for a technician service and the related expense.
- Our pet-friendly™ "audible only" training level that allows you to train your dog using an audible "beep" before your dog feels a correction.
- Lifetime equipment warranty on your Hidden Fence System when installed by an authorized DogWatch dealer.
- Prompt and courteous services from your local DogWatch dealer.
6. Is the DogWatch fence similar to an electric fence?
No! The underground system runs on radio signals, and a transmitter (which is plugged into a conventional electrical socket) allows the fence to emit radio signals, which the receiver collar, worn by your dog, picks up when he approaches or reaches the boundary.
7. Will stimulation from the collar hurt my dog?
No. This type of timulation has been used in dog training for more than 40 years. A dog's skin resistance is about 20-25 times greater than that of humans. Furthermore, the amount of correction can be adjusted so your dog receives the appropriate level of stimulation for its size. DogWatch systems have been tested by a major veterinary college, and are used and recommended by veterinarians.
8. Will the system work for more than one dog?
Yes. There is no limit to the number of dogs a system can protect at one time.
9. Is the system safe during an electrical storm?
Yes. The DogWatch Hidden Fence System has lightning surge protection in the transmitter and uses an external surge protector. Of course, your dog should be safe in the house when there's lightning outside!
10. How does the system react if my dog gets past the fence?
The receiver shuts down automatically after 15 seconds to guard your pet against over-correction. In addition, our receiver offers the fastest reaction time if your dog challenges the boundary, thanks to our FastReact feature.
11. How large an area will the system cover?
DogWatch offers models that can over properties up to 200 acres. Contact Us for a free consultation and estimate.
12. How does my dog learn to use DogWatch?
Typically, we will conduct initial training with you and your dog. DogWatch has developed an in-depth training program that takes only 10-15 minutes per day for two weeks. Avoidance training is used to teach your dog to stay on your property.
13. Does DogWatch keep other dogs out?
The DogWatch Hidden Fence System is designed to keep your dog at home and out of trouble. It will only keep other dogs out if they are wearing DogWatch collars.
14. How old should my dog be before training begins?
As a general guideline, your dog should be at least 5 to 6 months old. Some dogs, however, may mature earlier than others because of breed, size or disposition. When we meet with you and your pet, we will evaluate your dog and recommend when training should begin.
15. What if my dog has a history of biting people?
The DogWatch Hidden Fence System is not intended for use with dogs that have a history of aggressive behavior.
16. Can my dog get out?
If the initial training was done properly, your dog will rarely get past your property line. If your dog successfully challenges the boundary, check to ensure that the collar is on securely. You may also increase the range of the FM radio signal to keep the dog farther from the boundary or to increase the correction level. DogWatch of Greater Pittsburgh can support you in adjusting your DogWatch Hidden Fence System.
17. Is the DogWatch System guaranteed?
Yes. Our new Performance Series system carries a lifetime manufacturer's warranty when installed by an authorized dealer, such as DogWatch of Greater Pittsburgh. Our I-50 Indoor System is warrantied for 2 years, and there's a limited 30-day, money-back guarantee if your are not satisfied.