A dead zone is an area where there is no signal in the invisible fence for canines. Actually, owners deliberately create this dead zone so that they can walk their pooches outside when there is a need.
However, your canine can take advantage of a dead zone to move outside. For example, you may need your dog to have a freedom walk in a specific part. There are various ways how to create a dead zone in an invisible fence that we will discuss in this blog.
How to Create a Dead Zone in a Wireless Invisible Fence?
You can specifically create a dead zone in a wireless invisible fence if you wish to have a separate area for your canine where he can walk without any disturbance. Here, you just need a signal transmitter. This signal transmitter supplies power to the wireless fences. You need to lengthen its range by inducing an extra transmitter.
Moreover, you also remove the dead zone by making sure that the signals emitting from 2 transmitters overlap. In the same way, you can make a dead zone by removing the signal overlaps.
How to Create a Dead Zone in an In-ground Invisible Fence?
An underground dog fence operates by utilizing low-frequency radio signals and a buried copper wire to create a harmless electrical shock when your pet approaches the boundary. For this system to function effectively, your dog must wear a specially-made electronic collar. As a result of repeated shocks, your dog will gradually learn to avoid the fence, creating a designated “dead zone” within the perimeter of the fence. This allows you the flexibility to take your dog for a walk outside of the boundary when necessary.
It’s important to understand that creating a dead zone within the underground fence involves several steps, including
Step 1: Making a Twisted Wire
The first step involves cutting two wires of equal length, using the same type of wire as your underground fence. The length of the wires should be double the intended width of the dead zone. Refer to the manual of your underground fence system to confirm the exact width.
Step 2: Wrapping the Wires
This step involves putting the ends of the two wires together and securing them with tape. Attach one end of the wires to a drill chuck and start the electric drill, stretching the wires before doing so. Continue twisting the wire until each inch has four wire revolutions, reducing the length of the cable by approximately 50%.
Step 3: Removing the Tape
Now, remove the tape from the ends of the cable and twist the two ends together.
Step 4: Establishing the Dead Zone
Finally, place the twisted cable on the section of the underground fence where you want to create a dead zone. The twists will create a gap in the signal, ensuring your pet stays away from that area. Secure the points where you connect the twisted cable to the underground wire with tape.
Can You Create Dead Zones In Wireless Fences That Use Transmitters?
Yes, creating a designated dead zone in a wireless fence is possible. This can be achieved by utilizing the transmitters that power the fence. To increase the range of the wireless fence, you can add an additional transmitter. This will typically eliminate any dead zones within the fence.
To specifically create a dead zone that benefits your pet, simply place two transmitters a certain distance apart. The distance should be sufficient to cover their individual areas, but not overlap with each other. The area where there is no overlap will be the designated dead zone for your pet.
Alternative Designs and Options
There are several alternative designs and options that allow you to customize a dead zone in your property. Some of these include
Hourglass Layout
By using a single, continuous loop for the front and back yard, you can create two separate loops. Place them 3 feet apart to ensure a strong signal. This allows you to control your dog’s movement between the back and front yards.
Preventing Fence Jumping
A double loop system in a vertical arrangement along the backyard fence, combined with the twisted boundary wire technique under each gate, can prevent your dog from jumping over the fence. Your pet will be able to move in and out of the gate when you open it.
Garden or Pool Exclusion
By using the twisted wire system, you can create exclusion loops around specific areas of your backyard, such as a garden or pool. Run the wires around the areas, and twist them as necessary. This allows your dog to roam freely in the backyard, while avoiding designated areas.
What interferes with an invisible fence?
Signal Interference
- Large Metal Appliances
- Trees and thick bushes
- Thick concrete walls
- Downward Slopes
Final words
A dead zone in an invisible fence provides more freedom for both the dog and the owner. We recommend using it near doors so the dog can go in and out.
However, we do not recommend using it for yard fences as it may also allow the dog to escape the yard when not desired. In such cases, it’s better to take off the dog’s collar and carry it outside the gate, rather than compromising the fence at that spot permanently.
I hope you enjoyed the article. I will be back soon with more informative and interesting pieces of writing. Till then, stay connected.
Frequently asked questions
To cancel the signal, simply twist the outgoing and incoming wires between the transmitter and the boundary, or between the boundary and any exclusion zones. This will neutralize the fence’s signal, allowing your pet to cross it.
No, a closed loop is not mandatory for an electric fence. However, there are benefits and drawbacks to having a complete loop. A continuous loop will enhance the voltage of the fence line, as power is circulated in both directions.
You can secure gaps in the fence with chicken wire, hardware cloth, or a piece of chain-link fence attached to the base of the fence. Some people bury it for aesthetics, but you can also lay it on top of the grass and secure it with rocks, gravel, mulch, or planters.
While invisible underground wireless electric fences may seem like the ideal solution to keep your dog in the yard, they are not as effective as one might think. Statistics show that these fences are only about 70% effective.
Unfortunately, the correction level on your pet’s collar can only be altered by a professional in the field or at the dealer’s counter. The collar is set based on your pet’s personality, as evaluated by certified trainers.
Best Types of Invisible Dog Fences
Some of the top-rated invisible dog fences include:
- Halo Collar
- Petsafe YardMax Invisible Dog Fence
- SportDOG In-Ground Invisible Fence System
- PetSafe Stay + Play Wireless Fence
- PetSafe Stubborn Dog In-Ground Pet Fence
- Pet Control Invisible Dog Fence
- Extreme Dog Fence
- SpotOn Virtual Smart Fence