Is electric fencing for dogs popular in Minnesota? (Stillwater: how much, homes)

[Movin-on-up2011]

Since most homes in MN do not have a fenced in yard is that a popular option? If so what is pricing like? We are looking at homes in Minnesota but they do not have a fence. We have 2 dogs though. Thanks.

[golfgal]

Yes they are popular but I do not know how much they cost. Several of our neighbors have invisible fencing (which is what I assume you are talking about).

[Radical_Car]

I've always been curious about this but don't know anyone whos tried it.
DIY a Dog Fence Cheaper than Invisible Fence®

If it's invisible fence your talking about, then here is their website. Hopefully it will help you out.
Invisible Fence ® Brand

[audadvnc]

An invisible fence does a good job of keeping your dog in - but it won't keep other dogs out. I've got pit bulls in my neighborhood, and a big fence keeps them in the alley and away from my 10 year old puppy.

[Movin-on-up2011]

Yes, I mean invisible fencing. With the lack of fenced in yards I would think many have it. I like the open yard look and do not want a fence.

[Glenfield]

I don't think it's a popular option as it may keep your dog in but doesn't keep other animals (or people) out. I've also heard of dogs learning that if they hit the line at full tilt they might get a zap, but then they were free. Of course, then they're restrained from getting back in. It's not fool proof.

[cinnamon_toast]

We had it at our home in Stillwater. It was a lot less money than fencing a 1/3 acre lot. It worked like a charm on our 50 lb. GSD mix. Never had problems with stray animals walking through our yard.

[jmgg]

Unless you own 2 big powerful dogs that can defend themselves, I wouldn't dream of buying it. It only takes one incidence to have some stray mean dog to come in and kill your dogs, while they have no way to escape.

[audadvnc]

Originally Posted by jmgg

It only takes one incidence to have some stray mean dog to come in and kill your dogs, while they have no way to escape.

OTOH it's cheaper than a real fence, so who cares about your pets?

[uptown_urbanist]

I don't know anyone who has electric fencing for their dogs, but then again, almost everyone I know (at least those with dogs) has a fence. Not sure where you're looking, but I think fences are fairly common around here. Potentially that varies by specific location within Minnesota, though.

Also, I don't know how this works with the electric fences, but when/if shopping around I'd make sure to ask about how it works in the snow, or if you need to do anything special or different to make sure that the signal is working right. I know that with real fences you need to pay attention to potential snowbanks that can act as dog ramps when the snow gets deep, and assume that in the case of electric fences you need to also worry about snow depth or signal height.