While there are several pet owners who have opted for the use of underground fences, there are several others who prefer the use of traditional means of containment. Some people consider underground fences to be a somewhat cruel means of containing a pet, especially since they cannot really see what it is that is holding them back. They can only feel the effects.

Underground fences have been around more than two decades now. Over time they have developed a sense of reliability around them. How it works is that a narrow trench is dug around the perimeter of your home and a wire is installed there. This is connected to a transmitter, which is also attached to a collar around your pet’s neck. If your pet crosses or is approaching the perimeter, the collar gives out a mild noise and this is enough to scare him off. If he does continue ahead, he receives a mild shock. Some amount of training is required in order for your pet to actually understand his limits.

In terms of advantages, underground fences are not as ugly as wooden or steel containment cages can be. They allow your pet to roam around freely but within a certain perimeter. Your dogs too, will not be able to dig holes around an electrical underground fence and escape its clutches. There is no way it can jump over the fencing as well, because he runs the chances of receiving a shock here as well.

The flip side of the fence is that it cannot distinguish between animal or man crossing the perimeter. If your child happens to stray onto the perimeter line, then there is every chance they will receive a mild shock. This has been the underground fences’ biggest drawback. The other drawback is that bigger dogs tend to get immune to the shocks administered over time and soon will be able to jump over effortlessly.