While the outward purpose of an invisible fence is to keep your dog contained, it’s really about giving your furry friend some freedom. If you tend to keep your dog leashed during trips outside for fear of an escape attempt, an invisible fence provides the security you need to let them run and play to their heart’s content, even if you don’t have a physical barrier.
It’s certainly possible to set up your own invisible fence, but if you’re not fully confident in your DIY abilities, you may want to explore having one professionally installed, so we’ve rounded up our picks for the best companies dedicated to doing just that. Keep reading to learn about the best invisible dog fence installation companies.
- Best Overall: DogWatch
- Best Remote Monitoring: Invisible Fence
- Best Money-Back Guarantee: Dog Guard
- Best for Those With Cats: Canine Company
Best Overall: DogWatch
Why We Chose It: DogWatch is a national invisible dog fence company that has been in business since 1990. Its reputation and attention to customer service make it a great choice.
Works with local dealers so you can talk to someone who knows your area
Offers indoor and outdoor solutions
Prices are competitive
Not recommended for use with aggressive dogs
DogWatch is a national hidden fence company that works with local dealers across the United States to install invisible fences for your pet. All of the company's invisible fences are easily adjustable, so you can change the settings to suit your pet. The cost of all invisible fences, including DogWatch's, will depend on your pet’s needs and the size of your property. The correction response of this pet containment system is not recommended for aggressive dogs, according to DogWatch.
DogWatch’s website also explains that it uses traditional batteries you can purchase at any store, so you don’t have to spring for expensive custom batteries when it’s time to replace them. The outdoor invisible fence system can handle up to 200 acres of land, so it’s a great choice for properties large and small. When you contact a local dealer for installation, they will work with you on the right training plan to ensure your pet has a smooth transition to the invisible fence. Every purchase comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured your investment is protected.
Best Remote Monitoring: Invisible Fence
Why We Chose It: Invisible Fence not only offers a hidden system to keep your pet safe, but there's also an option for remote monitoring so you can always know your dog is safe at home.
Remote monitoring system
Boundary starts at the wire; great for smaller yards
Not available in every state
Invisible Fence is a company with a reputation that dates back to 1973. It has over 200 authorized dealers across the United States, meaning you will work with someone local to your area when getting your invisible fence installed. Invisible Fence provides two levels of protection: Digital Technology and its Boundary Plus Technology. Both fence options will secure your dog inside your yard, but the upgraded Boundary Plus option will provide real-time updates and tracking of your dog so you can ensure it is safe, even when you are away. The system uses a static correction through your dog’s collar any time your pet reaches right up to the boundary (and not six feet away like other companies). This trains your pet to stay away and give your dog up to 6 feet more space the entire way around the boundary perimeter; a good option for smaller yards.
Invisible Fence works for cats or dogs, and every purchase comes with certified training to ensure your pet knows how to use the system and stays safe while outside. Training is catered specifically to your pet and its needs.
Best Money-Back Guarantee: Dog Guard
Why We Chose It: Dog Guard is a longtime leader in invisible fencing, having been in the business since 1988. The company also provides a 30-day guarantee of its products, offering 100 percent of your money back if you’re not satisfied with the product.
“Dual zone” transmitter
All products are guaranteed
Wide range of accessories
Company's own batteries are recommended for use
Limited training material on site
Dog Guard is one of the go-to providers of invisible fences, with dealers located all over the country. Its flagship product is the T-4 transmitter, which can be used on yards of up to 50 acres, and the company also supplies transmitters for use inside the home (if you want to keep your dog out of the kitchen, for example). We like that the T-4 allows users to set “dual zones”—one to warn your dog it’s time to turn around, and one to issue a static correction when it hits the second signal area.
Beyond the products themselves, we like that Dog Guard has a 100 percent money-back guarantee within 30 days of installation—which gives customers the confidence that the company will make things right if the fence isn’t working out. Just bear in mind that the guarantee doesn’t include the cost of installation.
Best With Cat Solutions: Canine Company
Why We Chose It: Canine Company has been in business for over 35 years and offers flexible solutions for every home and pet—including cats.
Well-regarded training with every install
Consultations available over video chat and in-person
Options for cats as well as dogs
Expensive proprietary batteries
Only 1-year guarantee on equipment
Canine Company has been in business for over 35 years and works to secure your dog or cat inside or outside. The product comes with a training session that uses positive reinforcement to help train your pet on how to use the barrier system. When your pet approaches the invisible fence, the system delivers a gentle correction and a tone to signal the barrier.
Canine Company also works with cats and helps to keep your kitty away from off-limits areas. This allows you to restrict your cat from areas such as the nursery or dining table without physical barriers. Canine Company sells its proprietary batteries for $85 for four.
Though there are some DIY-friendly invisible fence solutions, sometimes it’s best to bring in a professional to install exactly what you need. DogWatch tops our list because of its longtime reputation, multiple options for any yard, and training plan for your pooch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does an Invisible Fence Cost?
Though the actual cost of an invisible fence will vary greatly depending on how many pets you have and the size of your lawn, expect to pay between $900 and $2,000, on average, for an invisible fence. Most companies will not provide pricing without a consultation, but the first consultation and quote should be free.
On the other hand, you can find DIY options that start at around $200, but you will not get the same training and reputation that comes with larger companies.
Can a Dog Run Through an Invisible Fence?
Since a dog obviously cannot see an invisible fence, this means you must train it to learn where the barrier is and how to avoid it. A static correction and unpleasant tone typically warn your pet to stay away from the barrier. That said, without training, your dog could physically run through an invisible fence, which is why it is incredibly important to spend time training your pooch before using the invisible fence system.
Is an Invisible Fence Safe for Dogs and Cats?
Though there are many different views on the best type of training for dogs, invisible fences are safe for pets. They do send a small shock or correction to your dog’s collar when it approaches the barrier, but it is not strong enough to hurt. With adequate training, an invisible fence can be a healthy option to keep either your dog or cat safe.
How We Chose the Best Invisible Dog Fence Installation Companies
We determined our picks for the best dog fence installation companies by assessing factors like the quality of their products, the extent of their presence around the country, and whether or not they offer premium features like remote monitoring.
Our choices scored high marks in multiple categories, and we also considered small (but important) details like whether or not you’re stuck using proprietary batteries that only the installation company provides. Ultimately, though, it still pays to do some additional research to ensure you’re comfortable with the method of correction used to make your invisible fence effective.