Electric Fence? Yes or No? Opinions?

[pomtzu]

I've never used one, but I have heard of dogs getting past the barrier anyway. They learn the shock or whatever is temporary. So, IMO, it is not a fool-proof way to contain a dog. But as I said, it's just my opinion.

I've heard the same thing. It works for some, but not for others.

Good grief Rachel - I can't believe some people can be so ignorant. Of course everyone here knows you and that you are hardly a newbie when it comes to having a dog. I would really have been pi$$ed if they came at me like that.

[Karen]

It really depends on the dog in question. Some dogs, like huskies or any sight hound will tend to go right through it, being more focussed on the chase or the run than any minor pain. Beagles, too, will be so focussed on following the squirrel trail that they might not even notice it!

Other dogs will do just fine with it. I'd never leave a dog unattended with one - it does not stop humans from crossing the line and stealing or harming the dog, for example. But I know some dogs who do very well with it, and it is helpful for their family, as some of the yard is hilly, and some swampy, and trying to put an actual fence in would be nightmarish!

[snakemama]

My friend lives in a very hilly wooded area where putting in a "real" fence would be a pain. The electric fence he installed keeps two of his three dogs contained just fine. The third once has such a hardwired "chase" instinct that he will charge out of the fence after squirrels, so he's no longer allowed out without a lead.