Electronic or Invisible Fences

Question
Hi!  Recently, I added a Boston Terrier puppy to my household and I have a problem about outside play for her.  I have a large yard but strict deed restrictions keep me from having a traditional fence.  I really would like to let the dog out to run around and play, but obviously cannot do so without a fence.  I know of several families who have electronic or invisible fences for their dogs.  However, I have heard that these fences may injure some dogs plus they leave the dog vulnerable to other animals who are able to come into the yard.  What is your opinion about having an invisible fences for a small dog such as a Boston Terrier?  I saw the PETA site that says such fences are cruel.  Thanks!  

Answer
They work for some dogs and others they do not if they are very high strung and love to run wildly and chase things.  I do have many clients who have invisible fences and they love them but I would say it is mostly large dogs such as labs.  They do emit a shock, but I do not think that shock is very strong and you can adjust the strength of it.  I do not think the shock will injure the dog and most dogs learn the boundaries very quickly and avoid the shock.

It is true that they will not stop other animals from coming into your yard and if your dog does happen to jolt out of the yard, she will get shocked when trying to come back in.  Your best bet is to talk to the company but I would recommend going with the name brand Invisible Fence as I heard some of the generics aren't that good.