Invisible dog fences are smart homes for dogs, and if you’re considering a smart collar, the technology has come a long way. In fact, I own both the SpotOn Gen 2 smart collar and the Halo 3, which I use with my Dobermans, Athena and Ares.
From personal experience, I have to say these two collars and the invisible dog fences you can create with each one are accurate and on the spot.
Wireless and invisible fences are nothing new, of course. We’re in the third generation with the Halo collar, and the SpotOn isn’t far behind. Not everybody has the freedom to construct a physical fence, and invisible fence technology is the next logical step.
However, an invisible fence is just a part of the package with some of these collars, which include tracking and location technology, as well as handy training features.
Invisible dog fences work by communicating location via satellite, cellular, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi coverage—sometimes combinations of all of the above. They keep your dogs safe by maintaining them within the environment you set out and tracking them if they are ever lost.
However, with an ever-expanding market, how do you know which one is right for you? Through personal experience, with some trial and error, I’ll walk you through each one so you can make the best decision.
Product
Details
Our Top Pick
Halo 3 Collar
- STYLE: WIRELESS DOG FENCE
- SPECIAL FEATURE: ALL-IN-ONE SAFETY SOLUTION
- COVERAGE AREA: 1,200 ACRES
Use Code “WAF” to Get $50 Off
SpotOn GPS Dog Fence
- STYLE: GPS TRACKER
- SPECIAL FEATURE: RELIABLE GPS FENCES
- COVERAGE AREA: 1,000 ACRES
Our Top Picks of the Best Invisible Dog Fence and Wireless Fence Systems
Invisible dog fences haven’t quite become a dime-a-dozen commodity yet, but they’re getting close. There are a lot of options on the market, with the Halo and SpotOn variations leading the way. The biggest thing that sets them back is the price.
But the best invisible and wireless dog fence options aren’t all expensive. There are some worthwhile options out there as well.
1. Halo 3 Collar
Halo, now on its third generation, is the go-to name with invisible fence and GPS collars. I’ve used the Halo third-generation collar for well over a couple of months now, and there’s no denying it’s a phenomenal device.
Since I own two Dobermans that have no issue jumping a six-foot privacy fence, Halo has given me some serious peace of mind.
Features
- Machine learning GPS
- Create 20 invisible dog fences
- Tracking and location in real-time
- Collar features a custom fit and cut
- Video training modules included with the smart app
- Multiple color aesthetic choices
- Universal cellular connectivity and coverage
- Indoor beacon included
- Simple charging
- 24 hour battery life
One of the first things I ran into when I unboxed the Halo Collar 3 for the first time was the size issue. As a Doberman dog owner, I’ve never had a collar sizing issue, and the Halo didn’t disappoint.
The dog’s collar was far too large out of the box. Fortunately, the kit includes a sizing and cutting tool that allowed me to quickly size it and cut it to a new length, along with a tool for placing a new end cap on the cut strap. You can also watch our video for a concise breakdown of all the features the Halo dog collar has to offer!
Invisible Dog Fences Galore
Halo advertises up to 20 invisible dog fences, and although I haven’t had the need for that many, I’ve created three with no issue. One invisible fence is at my in-laws’, one is at home, and a final invisible fence is at my parent’s house in Tennessee. I’ve since created and deleted numerous invisible dog fences.
Now, here’s the thing about even the best invisible dog fences. No matter what technology you use, there is always a degree of “shift.” This means the invisible fence moves a degree or two from time to time. There’s no such thing as perfect invisible fences.
The good news is the shift in the Halo invisible fence is minimal at best. That’s because it uses so many wireless technologies to keep things calibrated.
App, Creativity, and Training
Best invisible dog fences aside, there’s a lot more to the Halo than just that. The app is intuitive and streamlined, with a load of video training modules and feedback. Everything from setup to individual dog training methods is covered. Dog owners will love the versatility of the Halo app.
Drawing fences, placing fence posts, tracking your dog’s location, and creating home zones are the primary functions, with training, instructionals, customizable correction levels, and machine learning a sizeable part of the package.
Pros
- Adjustable collar with end cap replacement tool
- Highly accurate invisible dog fence
- Loaded with video training modules
- Waterproof collar
- Universal cell coverage
Cons
- Collar battery life is great, but 20 to 24 hours is still limiting
- Cost is a factor for most
- Doesn’t fit small dogs at all
- You have to have a subscription
Halo Wireless Dog Fence and GPS Dog Collar
The price of “Halo 3 Collar” varies, so check the latest price at
2. SpotOn GPS Dog Fence
As an experienced owner of the SpotOn Gen 2 smart collar, I can definitely say that the SpotOn offers the best invisible dog fences that are extremely accurate with very little shift.
You’ll have no need for a physical fence with this collar. It’s a large, bulky collar, however, which doesn’t bode well for very small dogs. However, SpotOn just released a smaller version for 10″ necks.
Features
- Over a thousand virtual fence posts
- 128 satellites in four groups
- 20+ hour battery life
- Forest Zones
- Walk or draw fence placement
- Multiple, overlapping wireless fence creation
- One-year warranty
- Updates every few seconds
- Keep out zones within the wireless dog fence
- Home zones
Invisible Dog Fence System
While SpotOn lacks the number of connectivity options of the Halo and the universal cell coverage, it makes up for it with an extremely precise GPS wireless dog fence. Using 128 satellites, it grabs coverage through standard GPS signals, Beidou, GLONASS, and Galileo.
I rarely notice shifting with my wireless dog fence. You have over a thousand fence post options and can create up to 20 wireless fences to keep your dog safely inside boundaries.
SpotOn also allows you to create “keep out” zones inside your wireless fence. For those who have a lot of trees, the Forest Zone streamlines and improves GPS sensitivity to penetrate your tree canopy.
It also allows you to create a home zone (usually your house) where the dog can leave the wireless dog fence-specific areas and enter the home without setting off the collar.
App, Creativity, and Training
SpotOn features one of the best invisible dog fences, but it also features a lot more. The app is streamlined, simple to use, and resembles the Halo. It does have training features, but they are more for you and not the dog.
Dog owners have a host of options on their hands, including immense portability, precise location and tracking features, plenty of customization, and enough coverage area for 1,000 acres of real estate. You can check out our review video for an in-depth look at the SpotOn dog collar’s capabilities!
You also don’t have to have a subscription for all of the wireless dog fence features. You only need a subscription if you need to track and locate your dog. As one of the best invisible dog fences on the market, hopefully, it will never come to that.
Pros
- The most precise wireless dog fence on the market
- Options for more than a thousand fence posts
- No need for a cell coverage area to create dog fences
- Multiple fences and inner fence creation
- Forest zones for heavy tree canopies
- Easy to set up
Cons
- The single most expensive collar on the market
- Battery needs daily charging
- Subscription needed for tracking features
SpotOn GPS Dog Fence
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The Halo Collar is priced at $699, while the SpotOn Collar comes at $999, each serving the unique needs of dog owners. If you’re undecided, watch our honest comparison video on Halo vs. SpotOn to help you choose the one that fits your needs best.
3. PetSafe YardMax
The PetSafe version of the pet containment system is the in-ground option, which essentially makes it an invisible fence system once you bury it. Underground dog fences are often just as effective without the satellite shifting that comes with a GPS wireless dog fence.
Features
- Waterproof transmitter
- Long-lasting, in-ground design
- Just as capable as the best wireless dog fence
- High level of placement customization
- Unlimited dogs
- Useable even with traditional fences
Invisible Wired System
Like a wireless fence, an underground dog fence line is invisible unless you use the flags that come with it. Also, like a wireless fence, an in-ground wired system will effectively keep your dog within your property boundaries.
Wireless fences are typically limited by coverage area. However, the YardMax is only limited by how much additional wiring you want to add to the system.
Another advantage of the YardMax is the wireless transmitter, which makes it similar to the best wireless dog fences in feel and control. The wired fence also allows you to customize, so you’re burying wires around areas you want to keep your dog out of.
Additional Features
There are no apps or training involved here. What you see is what you get. The collars that come with the YardMax are designed for static or vibration intensity, depending on your preference. Personally, I stick with vibration or sound only and train my dogs to respond to either.
The biggest advantage the YardMax collars have over the smart collars is the fact that they will last months between charges. Also, you can add as many additional collars for multiple pets as you want to. Five collars for five dogs are just as effective as one collar for one dog.
Pros
- Compatible with multiple collars for multiple dogs
- Easy to adjust and set boundaries
- Rechargeable batteries last for months
- Waterproof wireless transmitter
- Adjustable correction levels
- Electric fence features a warning zone
Cons
- It does require digging for installation
- It’s a little pricier than similar options on the market
- You have to start training on your own
4. PetSafe Wireless Containment System
The PetSafe Wireless Containment System is one of the original wireless dog fences on the market. As such, they’ve had time to perfect the model and make improvements with every succeeding variation that comes along.
Features
- Highly portable
- 30-day free return policy
- Waterproof collars
- 1-year warranty
- High quality at a low price point
- Collars fit all dog sizes
Why Did It Make the Cut
The PetSafe Wireless Containment System sets up quickly, using flags to label your invisible boundary, a large unit that acts as the central unit for a circular coverage zone, and traditional corrective collars that will accommodate as many dogs as you have the collars for.
The batteries on these collars are exceptional as well, lasting up to two months on a single, full charge. As an affordable wireless fence system, PetSafe is an excellent choice for containment control on a budget. It’s easily one of the best invisible dog fences out there in the affordability department.
Pros
- 2-month battery between charges
- Waterproof collars
- Accommodates multiple collars and dogs
- Very easy to install
- No digging or burying is necessary
- The system is very portable
Cons
- Limited to only 3/4 acre
- Boundary is a circular perimeter
5. PetSafe Stay and Play Compact Wireless Fence
Last but not least, yet another PetSafe makes the list. The Stay and Play is another example of PetSafe’s domination of the best invisible fences in the affordable market.
Thanks to multiple dog collars, ease of use, and simple installation, the Stay and Play Wireless Pet Fence is an excellent choice, especially for portability.
Features
- Accommodates all dog sizes
- Multiple collars and dogs
- Highly portable
- No return correction
- Easy installation
- Waterproof collars
Stand out Qualities
PetSafe makes a lot of different variations of the same wireless system, all of which are excellent choices depending on your overall needs and the level of portability. The Stay and Play Wireless Pet Fence includes static correction levels and vibration to dissuade your dog from crossing the fence line.
However, one of the stand-out features of this system is that it won’t correct your dog when it returns. One of the biggest issues with these systems for most dogs is that they get corrected again when returning. Of course, this builds up a fear of returning for that precise reason. It’s counterproductive.
Pros
- One-year warranty
- 30-day free returns
- No digging or burying necessary
- Affordable alternative to SpotOn or Halo
- In-depth instructions
Cons
- It may be expensive for some
- Limited coverage area
Buying Guide For Best Wireless & Invisible Dog Fence
Just because physical fences are a thing of the past doesn’t mean you should go into this with blinders on. There are several things you need to look for before you make the ultimate decision.
Correction Method
Look, some people are down with the whole static correction thing. To be honest, every collar on this list features static correction.
However, the Halo and SpotOn variants have static, vibration, and sound. I stick with the latter two and train my dogs according to the proper training modules. If a shock collar is not your thing, you have other options with these collars.
Wired or Wireless
This is all a matter of affordability and preference. Wired options are probably a tick more reliable in terms of the crossing zone always remaining precise. However, they do require more work and have no degree of portability. You have to pay more for a wireless dog fence, but you get that added degree of “pick up and go.”
Safety Features
There’s no trumping the SpotOn and the Halo where this is concerned. If you need the ultimate in location and tracking, with the concern of your dog escaping, both of those smart collars are the best options.
However, the PetSafe Stay and Play Compact Wireless Fence does allow for returning dogs without correction, which helps accommodate the dog without risking it running away for good.
Training
Again, the Halo 3 and SpotOn lead the way, with comprehensive training features as a part of the whole package. Out of the two, the Halo is far and away the winner.
You get full video instructional training from Cesar Milan, while the SpotOn only features basic training. For the rest of the collars on this list, the training is entirely up to you.
Setup and Installation
Really, the only difference here is whether or not you have to do any digging. All of the smart collars and fencing alternatives on this list require a degree of setup and installation. The only in-ground option is the PetSafe YardMax.
However, if you’re not computer savvy and don’t like dealing with apps, the Halo and SpotOn won’t be your top shot either.
Our Method For Selecting The Top Invisible Dog Fences & Best Wireless Dog Fences
Our method is relatively simple, with a combination of hands-on experience and overall features. Honestly, the best invisible dog fences are the ones that feature the most working and dependable technology. I’ve done the buried wire thing, and the wire inevitably ends up surfacing.
It’s also not portable. If you want something portable and affordable, one of the PetSafe invisible fence options is the best. However, for the complete package, I can’t help but recommend either the SpotOn or the Halo.
When you combine the features I listed above, it’s simply an avalanche compared to a rainy drizzle on a cold day.
Why Trust Our Choice
I’ve been a Doberman Pinscher owner for most of my 43 years. They are high-energy, immensely intelligent, curious dogs. I have a lifetime of experience working with them and with training, along with effective containment measures. I have owned wired and wireless systems along with the newer SpotOn and Halo smart collars.
I love this stuff, and I love digging deeply into the mechanisms behind these smart collars and devices. We work hard to bring you the best information (and the most up-to-date) based on our own personal experiences so you can make the best decision for your own dogs.
FAQs
How Reliable Are Invisible Dog Fences?
Invisible dog fences are highly reliable, even when you look at the use of GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Cellular versus a wireless transmitter. At worst, expect small shifts in the fencing with the GPS alternatives.
Are Invisible Dog Fences Worth the Money?
Whether or not invisible dog fences are worth the money is entirely situational and up to you, the customer. I prefer them because my chainlink fence isn’t an effective barrier to two Dobermans that are capable of leaping a 6′ privacy fence.
Are Underground Dog Fences Better Than Wireless Dog Fences?
They can be, depending on the scenario. One thing is for certain: they are not as affected by detrimental weather as underground wired fences are.
Can a Dog Escape Through an Invisible Fence?
A dog can escape through an invisible fence, depending on its will to do so against the corrective mechanism imposed against it. That’s what makes the combination of effective training and patience so effective. It teaches your pooch that crossing the boundary is bad, regardless of the corrective measure.
Can you install an invisible fence yourself?
You can certainly install an invisible fence yourself. Every one of the collars and fences on this list is designed for at-home DIY installation.
Final Thoughts
These five systems encompass the best wireless and invisible dog fences the industry has to offer. Through personal experience and a long time working with Dobermans (and the occasional ragdoll cat), I’ve experienced a lot of variations out there.
If you’re looking for exceptional equipment that’s durable, long-lasting, smart, and effective, these are your best options. Of course, the Halo 3 and SpotOn truly stand out, but the three additional systems are affordable and highly effective as well.
