I can't tell you how many times in recent months I've been driving along and seen a jogger get unexpectedly charged by a menacing, 100-pound dog. The fierce dog stops just short of the little white flag sticking out of the ground that denotes the boundary of the electronic pet fence. Meanwhile the jogger has had a momentary heart palpitation and has just about fallen off the sidewalk into oncoming traffic.

As a concept, the electronic fence seems like a really neat idea. It allows the family dog to have the freedom to roam around its yard without obstructing the natural landscape with unsightly posts and pickets. If it weren't for those tiny little peace flags dotting the boundary, you'd never know there might be a chance that a big snarling dog might come rushing at you from out of thin air as you innocently walk past his yard.

Personally, I think this sneak-attack capacity is just one of the many problems of underground fencing. I've been rushed a time or two myself while walking my dog through the local neighborhoods. Aside from the heart-stopping surprise of a dog suddenly appearing, I've seen dogs willingly take the shock caused by crossing the boundary just so they could greet us. I've noticed that for overzealous Labs in particular, getting the shock is DEFINITELY worth a chance to say "hi" to any passerby. I've also heard chilling stories of aggressive dogs breaking the boundary to chase a cat, and then being hit by a passing car.

When it works properly, the electronic fence is intended keep to the family dog safely confined to its own yard. Keeping the dog close to home is a lovely concept.

However, the electronic fence does not prevent other animals from crossing into the yard. This means that the neighbor's not so friendly pit bull can wander through and pick a fight if he feels so inclined. Or worse, any starving coyote can intrude and carry your small dog back to its den. electronic fences do not prevent people from taunting your dog, nor do they stop ill-mannered little kids from throwing rocks at your dog. I came upon such a scene once and could not believe my eyes. That day, after I muttered something about the child needing an electronic fence and control collar, I remind myself out loud not to bite when a simple growl will do.

As much as we might not want to install a fence that aesthetically displeases our view of the world, be assured that the classic chain link or stockade fence is a sensible and safe choice for the dog lover. Keeping your dog safe means not turning a blind eye to the problems of the electronic fence.

Wags,

Tracie

TRACIE LALIBERTE of Attleboro is a professional lecturer, educator and published writer on the subject of dogs. She is pursuing a doctoral degree on the human-canine bond. You can contact her with any dog-related questions at tracie@dogpawse.com.