FAQs
Below are the most frequently asked
questions about the DogWatch Hidden Fence products and
training. If the answer to your question is not here, please
Contact Us.
Q. What is a DogWatch Hidden Fence System?
A. The DogWatch Hidden Fence is a
pet containment system that uses radio signals to keep your pet
within a designated boundary.
Q. How does it work?
A. A buried wire carries harmless
radio signals around the designated area. Your pet 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.
Q. How does my pet learn
where the boundary is?
A. Your pet learns the boundaries
through voice commands and visual flags that are set inside the
fence. The pet goes through a training session for a few minutes
each day for 7 to 10 days. With training, the pet 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
pet goes to within 5-10 feet of the boundary, he will hear a
warning sound that means he is getting close to the boundary. If
the pet reaches the boundary, he will receive a correction.
Q. Why should I purchase
a DogWatch® Hidden Fence System over another brand?
A. 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 run on an AM radio
frequency that often picks up stray signals and can cause your pet
to receive a correction when not near the hidden boundary. This
may cause your pet to become confused and afraid. Only DogWatch's
SafeLink system safely ignores AM radio signals.
Q. Are there other
benefits to the DogWatch Hidden Fence?
A. Many.
1. The DogWatch Performance™
Series R8 receiver (which fits most dogs and larger pets) runs
on a battery that lasts two years, the longest in the industry.
Maintenance costs are low compared to the majority of other
brands. Your savings on battery purchases alone can be
significant. More importantly, a long battery life means that
the receiver will continue to work when others may go dead,
leaving the pet vulnerable to leaving the premises. Even our
smallest receiver, the R7, boasts a one year battery life.
2. Our new Performance™ Series
R7 and R8 Receivers have our exclusive AutoMemory feature. The
receiver constantly monitors your pets challenge to the fence
and if it occurs, the system automatically increases the
correction level, for a 24 hour period.
3. DogWatch receivers have the
fastest response time, meaning if your dog challenges the fence
he will feel a correction immediately - at the beginning of the
avoidance zone, not half way through. This is extraordinarily
important for fast running dogs.
4. The DogWatch Hidden Fence has
a unique, patented user-programmable receiver that can be
customized - by you - to the training level that's right for
your pet's personality and size. No need for a technician
service call and related charge.
5. The DogWatch receiver
includes our pet-friendly "audible only" training level that
allows you to train your dog using an audible "beep" tone before
your dog feels a correction.
6. When we install your DogWatch
system you will receive a lifetime equipment warranty on the
transmitter and receivers.
- We live in Central Florida. You
will receive prompt and courteous service.
Q. Is the DogWatch fence
similar to an electric fence?
A. No! The system runs on radio
signals through a wire we bury in your yard. A transmitter
(normally mounted in the garage or similar place)) is connected to
the wire, allowing the fence to emit radio signals. The receiver,
attached to a fitted collar on the pet, is activated by the radio
signal when the pet approaches or reaches the boundary. The pet
will hear an audio signal first, and then, if he continues toward
the boundary wire, will receive a static charge from the receiver.
Q. Will the stimulation
from the collar hurt my pet?
A. No. This type of stimulation
has been used in pet training for over 40 years. A dog's skin
resistance is about 20 to 25 times greater than that of humans.
Furthermore, the amount of correction can be adjusted so that a
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. Once the pet is
properly trained, no static charge stimulation will normally be
necessary as the pet will stop moving toward the boundary wire
once he hears the audio sound.
Q. Will the system work
for more than one pet?
A. Yes. There is no limit to the
number of pets a system can protect at one time. And each receiver
is calibrated for the size, behavior, and age of the pet.
Q. Is the system safe
during a lightning storm?
A. The DogWatch Hidden Fence
System has lightning surge protection in the transmitter and uses
an external surge protector as well, plus a grounding rod. Of
course, your dog should be safe in the house during a lightning
storm!
Q. What if my pet gets
past the fence - how does the system react?
A. 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.
Q. How much does it cost?
What if I move?
A. The DogWatch Hidden Fence
system starts at $595.00 plus installation, – much less than
traditional fencing. And once you buy the system, you can expand
it or take it with you when you move. Contact us for an estimate
on your individual yard.
Q. How big an area will
it cover?
A. Up to 200 acres.
Q. How does my pet learn
to use it?
A. When we install the system we
will conduct initial training with you and your pet. DogWatch has
developed an in-depth training program that takes about 10-15
minutes per day for two weeks. Avoidance training is used to teach
your pet to stay on your property. A booklet, a CD, and our staff
will ensure that your pets learn how to enjoy their freedom in
your yard.
Q. Does it keep other
pets out?
A. No. However, it will keep other
pets out if they are wearing DogWatch collars.
Q. How old does my pet
have to be before training begins?
A. As a general guideline, your
pet should be at least 5 to 6 months old. However, there are some
exceptions. When we meet with you and your pet, we will do an
evaluation and make a recommendation as to when training should
begin.
Q. What if my dog has a
history of biting people?
A. This product is not intended
for use with dogs that have a history of aggressive behavior.
Q. Can my pet get out?
A. If the initial training is done
properly, this will rarely happen. However, if the pet does get
out, check to make sure the collar is on securely and that the
system is working. You may increase the range of the signal to
keep the pet farther from the boundary, increase the correction
level, and change the frequency of corrections. There are many
ways to adjust the DogWatch System. Call us if you need help.
Q. Is there a guarantee
on the DogWatch System?
A. Yes. Our Transmitters and
Receivers carry a lifetime manufacturer's warranty when we install
your system. Our I-50 Indoor system is warranted for two years.
There is also a limited 30-day money-back guarantee if you are not
satisfied with the system.