The 12 Best Underground Dog Fences of 2023

by Tom Ken

An underground dog fence is an electronic system that comprises a buried wire around a certain perimeter to keep pooches contained within that area. This wire communicates with a collar worn by the pet, which shocks him if he tries to cross over the wire.

Such systems are very effective for controlling your dog by keeping him safely inside your compound. If you are looking to invest in one, here are the best underground dog fences to buy. Take a look!

Editor's Recommendation: Top Underground Dog Fences

7 Best Underground Dog Fences: Review

IMAGE PRODUCT FEATURES
PetSafe PIG00-10777

1. PetSafe PIG00-10777 (Best Overall)

  • Widely compatible with different style collars
  • Long 1 to 3-month battery life
  • Ideal for hearing-impaired dogs
Earlyhights Dog Fence

2. Earlyhights Dog Fence (Best Budget)

  • Economical
  • IPX8 waterproof training collars
  • Short 2-hour charging time
Extreme Dog Fence 1D500FT

3. Extreme Dog Fence 1D500FT (Best Standard Grade)

  • 20-gauge high-tensile boundary wire
  • Heavy protective jacket; lasts 2-5 years
  • Digital transmitter
Extreme Dog Fence Ultimate

4. Extreme Dog Fence Ultimate (Best Professional Grade)

  • Thick, UV-resistant 14-gauge boundary wire
  • Lasts for over 20 years
  • Includes a 16-gauge twisted wire
SportDog Brand SDF-100C

5. SportDog Brand SDF-100C (Best Scalable)

  • Expandable to cover 100 acres
  • DryTek technology (submersible up to 25 ft.)
  • Wire break alarm & built-in lighting protector
Dogtra EF-3500

6. Dogtra EF-3500 (Best with a Filtering System)

  • Filtering system
  • Surge protector
  • Wire breakage alert
PetSafe PIG00-14582

7. PetSafe PIG00-14582 (Best for DIY Installation)

  • Ideal for DIY installation
  • Affordable
  • Can accommodate an unlimited number of pets

1. Best Overall: PetSafe PIG00-10777

PetSafe PIG00-10777
PetSafe PIG00-10777
  • Coverage Area: 1/3 Acre (Up to 25 Acres)
  • Wire Length: 500 ft.
  • Correction Levels: 4
  • Dog Size: 8 lbs. and up, 6 months and older (6 - 28 inch neck)

With its wide compatibility, scalable design, multiple modes, and long-lasting battery, the PIG00-10777 is our best product in this underground dog fence review.

Though it comes with a single waterproof collar, you can purchase more to contain an unlimited number of pets. Just make sure to avoid YardMax receiver collars as these are not compatible. That said, the included collar uses a 9V rechargeable battery that lasts for a long duration of 1 - 3 months.

As for coverage, this kit comes with a 500-ft 20-gauge wire that can contain 1/3 acre. This is scalable to cover up to 25 acres by buying additional wire. Therefore, you can keep your pets safe within a wide compound.

You also get multiple modes that include 4 levels of static correction, a tone, and a vibration mode. The vibration mode comes in handy if you have a hearing-impaired pooch. The only issue is that no handheld remote is included for remote training.

Pros:

  • Widely compatible with different style collars
  • Long 1 to 3-month battery life
  • Expandable to cover up to 25 acres
  • Ideal for hearing-impaired dogs

Cons:

  • No remote training option

2. Best Budget: Earlyhights Dog Fence

Earlyhights Dog Fence
Earlyhights Dog Fence
  • Coverage Area: 1/2 Acre (Up to 5 Acres)
  • Wire Length: 500 ft.
  • Correction Levels: 3
  • Dog Size: 5 to 180-lb. Dogs (6.3 - 24 inch neck)

This dog fence is very reasonably priced, yet it has enough hardware to cover up to 1/2 acre of your yard. It also includes two waterproof training collars, each with an IPX8 rating. They will survive swimming and rainy weather.

The collars are highly adjustable and you should not worry about your pooch outgrowing them. They can fit small, medium, large and extra-large dog breeds.

Each piece takes about 2 hours to charge fully, after which you get 500 hours of standby time (about 20 days). On the downside, this product has only 3 correction levels, which are very few. Additionally, there is no vibration mode for hearing-impaired dogs.

Note: Avoid leaving the collar on your dog for more than 12 hours.

Pros:

  • Economical
  • IPX8 waterproof training collars
  • Short 2-hour charging time
  • Covers 1/2 acre

Cons:

  • Few correction levels
  • No vibration mode

3. Best Standard Grade: Extreme Dog Fence 1D500FT

Extreme Dog Fence 1D500FT
Extreme Dog Fence 1D500FT
  • Coverage Area: 1/3 Acre (Up to 6 Acres)
  • Wire Length: 500 ft.
  • Correction Levels: 7
  • Dog Size: Small and Large Dogs

As a standard-grade underground dog fence, the 1D500FT utilizes a 20-gauge high-tensile boundary wire with a heavy protective jacket. It has a solid copper core and can last for 2 - 5 years.

In addition to this, you get a digital transmitter as the brain of the entire system. This component allows you to set the signal field width, program the collar's correction level, and change AM radio frequencies to avoid interference.

One waterproof collar (submersible up to 10-ft) is included, but you can expand this to an unlimited number. However, a surge protector is not included to protect the system from lighting spikes and there's no twisted wire to connect the transmitter to the boundary loop.

Pros:

  • 20-gauge high-tensile boundary wire
  • Heavy protective jacket; lasts 2 - 5 years
  • Digital transmitter
  • Accommodates an unlimited number of collars

Cons:

  • Lacks a surge protector
  • No twisted wire

4. Best Professional Grade: Extreme Dog Fence Ultimate

Extreme Dog Fence Ultimate
Extreme Dog Fence Ultimate
  • Coverage Area: 4 Acres (Up to 10 Acres)
  • Wire Length: 2000 ft.
  • Correction Levels: 7
  • Dog Size: Small and Large Dogs

If you thought the 1D500FT, Extreme Dog Fence's Ultimate takes it to the next level because it incorporates the use of a thick 14-gauge boundary wire with a UV-resistant polyethylene jacket.

You can install this inground, above ground or in water and whichever the case, the wire will last for over 20 years under extreme weather elements.

That said, this wire is 2000-ft long and can cover up to 4 acres, but is expandable to cover 10 acres. Two waterproof collars are inclusive.

Aside from that, you get a 16-gauge twisted wire to carry the signal from the transmitter to the boundary wire, to contain a smaller loop within the larger boundary loop, and to create an entry/exit point. All in all, this is one of the best inground dog fences.

However, it is expensive and there is no vibration mode for hearing-impaired dogs.

Pros:

  • Thick, UV-resistant 14-gauge boundary wire
  • Lasts for over 20 years
  • Includes a 16-gauge twisted wire
  • Two waterproof collars

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Lacks a vibration mode

5. Best Scalable: SportDog Brand SDF-100C

SportDog Brand SDF-100C
SportDog Brand SDF-100C
  • Coverage Area: 1-1/3 Acres (Up to 100 Acres)
  • Wire Length: 1000 ft.
  • Correction Levels: 7
  • Dog Size: 8 lbs. and up

Though it comes with 1000-ft of wire to cover up to 1-1/3 acres, SportDog Brand's SDF-100C can be scaled upwards to cover up to 100 acres, which is a very big space. You only need more wire and flags.

Additionally, the expanded system can contain an unlimited number of dogs. All you need are extra collars.

The included collar is waterproof and submersible up to 25 ft. due to its DryTek technology. It features 7 levels of static stimulation, as well as a tone and vibration warning.

As for the transmitter, it has a wire break alarm, a built-in lighting protector. On the downside, the system lacks a handheld remote for remote training.

Pros:

  • Expandable to cover 100 acres
  • DryTek technology (submersible up to 25 ft.)
  • Wire break alarm and built-in lighting protector
  • 7 static levels, tone, and vibration modes

Cons:

  • No remote training option

6. Best with a Filtering System: Dogtra EF-3500

Dogtra EF-3500
Dogtra EF-3500
  • Coverage Area: Up to 40 Acres
  • Correction Levels: 8
  • Dog Size: 10 lbs. and up

Dogtra's EF-3500 is one of the best electric dog fences due to its filtering system, which prevents outside electrical sources from activating the fence accidentally. On top of this, you get a surge protector that protects the entire fence from damages associated with voltage spikes.

A wire breakage alert is built into the transmitter and it is in the form of a continuity light. It turns off immediately the wire is cut and alerts you via warning beeps.

You also get two types of collar modes. The pager-only mode vibrates the collar to alert your pooch that it is near the boundary, while the pager/correction mode combines vibration and static correction in 8 levels.

The only issue is that the system is only expandable to accommodate 2 dogs maximum.

Pros:

  • Filtering system
  • Surge protector
  • Wire breakage alert
  • Two types of collar modes

Cons:

  • Only accommodates two dogs maximum

7. Best for DIY Installation: PetSafe PIG00-14582

PetSafe PIG00-14582
PetSafe PIG00-14582
  • Coverage Area: 1/3 Acre (Up to 5 Acres)
  • Wire Length: 500 ft.
  • Correction Levels: 4
  • Dog Size: 8 lbs. and up (6 - 26 inch neck)

If you would like to do a DIY weekend dog fence installation project, PetSafe's PIG00-14582 is the ideal product to consider. The kit lets you set up a fence that fits your yard's shape, provided the area does not exceed 1/3 acres. You can expand this to 5 acres by buying additional wire.

The product is also very affordable and despite this, it has four levels of static correction plus a tone-only mode.

You get one collar in the kit but it is compatible with multiple receivers to accommodate an unlimited number of pets. However, avoid buying extra YardMax collars as they are not compatible.

A surge protector is included to protect the electronics from voltage spikes. On the downside, the collar lacks a vibration mode to cater to hearing-impaired dogs.

Pros:

  • Ideal for DIY installation
  • Affordable
  • Can accommodate an unlimited number of pets
  • Includes a surge protector

Cons:

  • Includes a surge protector
Other Recommended Underground Dog Fences
Other Recommended Underground Dog Fences

8. My Pet Command Dog Fence

My Pet Command Dog Fence
My Pet Command Dog Fence

This product is one of the best invisible dog fences because it features a remote training system that is very convenient. It allows you to trigger the collar remotely as your dog gets close to the boundary, and has a long 3/4-mile (3960-ft) range.

Other than that, the fence comes with a thick, high-quality 13-gauge solid copper core wire that is 492 ft. long. You can buy additional wire to increase the coverage to up to 10 acres.

Key Features

  • Convenient remote training system.
  • Long 3/4-mile (3960-ft) wireless range.
  • Thick, high-quality 13-gauge wire.
  • Expandable to cover 10 acres maximum.

9. Nicpup Electric Dog Fence

Nicpup Electric Dog Fence
Nicpup Electric Dog Fence

Nicpup's dog fence comes with two waterproof IPX7 collars that have long-lasting batteries. Each has a standby time of more than 6 months on a full charge, and you can add countless collars if you have many pets.

A digital transmitter runs the system and it has an intelligent wire cut notice that turns on the alarm whenever the connection is bad or the wire is broken.

Key Features

  • Includes two waterproof IPX7 collars.
  • Long standby time (over 6 months).
  • Can accommodate countless collars.
  • Digital transmitter with a wire cut alarm.

10. Electric Dog Fence 2-in-1

Electric Dog Fence 2-in-1
Electric Dog Fence 2-in-1

As the name suggests, this dog fence has two solutions in one, which include being a fence and a remote trainer. Two collars are included for this job, and they have 10 vibration & 10 static levels. A long 1000-ft 16-gauge underground wire forms the perimeter.

That said, the unit is one of the best underground fences for large dogs as it is designed for pooches weighing 40 - 180 lbs. (medium to large).

Key Features

  • Fence and remote trainer in one.
  • 10 vibration and 10 static levels.
  • 1000-ft 16-gauge wire.
  • Ideal for medium to large dogs.

11. Masbrill Electric Dog Fence

Masbrill Electric Dog Fence
Masbrill Electric Dog Fence

With a reliable pet anti-lost system, Masbrill's electric dog fence beeps once your pooch gets close to the set critical point. If he continues to get near the boundary, the collar will deliver a beep and mild shock simultaneously.

The kit contains two collars that are adjustable to fit 8 to 26-inch necks, and waterproof with an IPX7 rating. No special programming is required to set up the fence. Simply install, connect, set the signal width, and put the collar on your pooch.

Key Features

  • Reliable pet anti-lost system.
  • Includes two collars.
  • Requires no special programming.

12. TTPet Electric Dog Fence

TTPet Electric Dog Fence
TTPet Electric Dog Fence

TTPet's electric dog fence offers you a risk-free purchase because it is backed by a lifetime warranty and a 90-day money-back guarantee. If you encounter any issues, there is 24/7 customer support to help you out.

That said, the product has a professional and thoughtful design, whereby you can control the boundary by adjusting the signal strength. A wire break warning tells you if the perimeter wire is broken, while a low-battery indicator prompts you to charge the receiver before it runs out.

Key Features

  • Lifetime warranty and 90-day money-back guarantee.
  • Wire break warning.
  • Low battery indicator.

How to Buy the Best Underground Dog Fences

How To Buy The Best Underground Dog Fences
How To Buy The Best Underground Dog Fences

1. Coverage Area

Before buying an underground dog fence, the first thing to check is its coverage area. Ideally, you should pick a product that fits your compound's size and covers enough space for your dog to play. Usually, 1/3 acre is enough, but the larger, the better.

In addition to this, if you plan to expand the coverage area, ensure the system can contain as much space as possible. SportDog Brand's SDF-100C can be scaled upwards to cover 100 acres from 1-1/3 acres, and we highly recommend it.

2. Wire Length

Wire length goes hand-in-hand with the coverage area. The longer the wire length, the larger the coverage area. Another important factor to check about the wire is its thickness. Measured in gauges, the smaller, the number, the thicker the wire.

Thick wires with thick jackets are very durable. Using Extreme Dog Fence's Ultimate as an example, its thick, UV-resistant 14-gauge wire lasts more than 20 years. Though expensive, it is worth the money.

3. Correction Levels

Correction or static levels are meant to keep your pet from crossing the perimeter. Sensitive dogs can be easily controlled using low static, but stubborn and long-haired breeds need a powerful shock. Multiple levels give you more flexibility to pick the best setting for your pet.

Other modes that are worth having are tones and vibrations. Vibrations are especially important for hearing impaired dogs.

4. Batteries

Most collar receivers are powered using rechargeable batteries. Question is, how long do they last? Ultimately, the one that has the longest standby-time or runtime is better as it means fewer recharge interruptions.

For instance, the battery in PetSafe's PIG00-10777 lasts up to 3 months after being fully charged, which is very impressive.

5. Dog Size

The component to check here is the collar receiver. Even though they have adjustable straps, they can fit a certain dog neck size. Also, some are recommended for pooches within a certain weight range. These parameters are specified by the manufacturer and you should ensure they match your dog's size before buying one.

6. Water Resistance

The collar receiver needs to be waterproof because dogs like playing in the rain and diving in the water. Look for the IP rating, whereby the higher the last number, the better the collar is at resisting water.

Q&A

1. Are Underground Dog Fences Safe for Dogs?

Yes, they are. The receiver collars of dog fences communicate either via a tone, a vibration, or static shock. Most people are worried about the static shock, but this is engineered to deliver a subtle level of discomfort. You can adjust this to level to minimize discomfort.

2. How to Train Your Dog with An Underground Dog Fence?

Train for 10 - 15 minutes at a time. Tie your dog using its collar, then walk near the perimeter. The goal is to let your pooch be aware of the boundary and therefore, when you hear an audio beep, call your dog to get away from the border.

3. How to Install an Underground Dog Fence?

Mount the transmitter in a secure place, away from the weather elements. The ideal place is in your garage. Next, lay the boundary wire along the perimeter and connect it to the transmitter. Power on the fence and test if everything works.

If okay, dig a trench, then bury the wire about 2 - 3 in. deep (follow the manufacturer's guidelines). That's it.

Buy on Etsy

PetSafe Basic In-Ground Dog and Cat Fence - from the Parent Company of INVISIBLE FENCE - Walmart Link

Extreme Dog Fence - Second Generation -2020- Professional Grade (Premium) Kit Packages - Walmart Link

Extreme Dog Fence Max Grade Electric Dog Fence - 5 Dog Kit - 2000 Feet of Heavy Duty - Walmart Link

SportDOG Brand Rechargeable In-Ground Fence Systems - from the Parent Company of - Walmart Link

Extreme Dog Fence - Second Generation -2020- Standard Grade (Essential) Kit Packages - Walmart Link

Extreme Dog Fence Boundary Wire for Any Underground Electric Dog Fence System - 4 Wire - Walmart Link

PetSafe Rechargeable In-Ground Fence for Dogs and Cats over 5lb - from the Parent Company - Walmart Link

Extreme Dog Fence's Ultimate - Walmart Link

Masbrill's electric dog fence - Walmart Link

TTPet's electric dog fence - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

PetSafe Basic In-Ground Dog and Cat Fence - from the Parent Company of INVISIBLE FENCE - eBay Link

Extreme Dog Fence - Second Generation -2020- Professional Grade (Premium) Kit Packages - eBay Link

Extreme Dog Fence Max Grade Electric Dog Fence - 5 Dog Kit - 2000 Feet of Heavy Duty - eBay Link

SportDOG Brand Rechargeable In-Ground Fence Systems - from the Parent Company of - eBay Link

Extreme Dog Fence - Second Generation -2020- Standard Grade (Essential) Kit Packages - eBay Link

Extreme Dog Fence Boundary Wire for Any Underground Electric Dog Fence System - 4 Wire - eBay Link

PetSafe Rechargeable In-Ground Fence for Dogs and Cats over 5lb - from the Parent Company - eBay Link

Extreme Dog Fence's Ultimate - eBay Link

Masbrill's electric dog fence - eBay Link

TTPet's electric dog fence - eBay Link

Conclusion

In summary, the PIG00-10777 is our best underground dog fence overall because it is very practical.

It has a waterproof collar with a long 1 to 3-month battery life and is widely compatible with other collars (except YardMax) to accommodate an unlimited number of dogs. The product is also expandable to cover a wide 25 acres.

However, SportDog Brand's SDF-100C is the most scalable piece as it can be expanded to cover up to 100 acres. You should also consider Extreme Dog Fence's Ultimate if you want a professional and highly durable system as it can last for over 20 years.

About Tom Ken

Tom has worked with many veterinary surgeons as a nurse at different veterinary clinics throughout his life.

There, he provides care for sick animals; such as: dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, and sometimes reptiles.

He has good work ethics and gentle hands; hence, the doctors as well the pet owners have come to love his presence alot.

With this site, he aims to help the readers ensure their pets' wellbeing, learn how to care, and proivide medical treatment as needed.

Joshua received Veterinary Technician Degree at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN.

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