The Best Underground Dog Fences

Keep your dog safe at home can be a struggle, especially if you live out where your house is alone. You want your dog to stay close to your house, but you don’t always have a fence that you can rely on. Fortunately, an underground dog fence can help. It will train your dog to stay close to your house where it is safe and you can keep an eye on your dog.

We research many underground dog fences to find the best ones available on the market. There are many factors to consider in finding the best ones, so we made the search much easier for you by comparing the different options. That way, you can get a solution for keeping your dog safe quickly.

Top Pick
PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence
Teach your dog to stay safe at home with the PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence.

The PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence combines the best features to give you the most reliable performance possible. It can keep your dog safe with both visual and auditory clues to reduce the need for shocks. Plus, the system is easy to install and manage.

The 5 Top-Rated Underground Dog Fences

Editor's PicksBrandRating
Best OverallPetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence4.2
Runner UpSportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Systems4.0
Best Budget BuyDr.Tiger 2 Receiver Electric Dog Fence4.6
Best Underground Fence for Large DogsPetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence for Dogs3.7
Best Underground Fence for Stubborn DogsPetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence without Wire4

*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change

Our Top Pick: PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence

PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence is our top choice for underground dog fences. When it comes to underground dog fences, the key to their success is training. For stubborn dogs, this can be a problem if you don’t have a system that can keep up with them. The PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence is designed to work with stubborn dogs to successfully training them to stay inside the boundary in less time.

One of the best features of the PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence is its training programs. It has four levels of correction that you can set based on your dog’s level of obedience. The minimal setting only gives auditory corrections using a beeper. You can turn it up more to include vibrations and shocks as needed. As your dog gets close to the fence, he or she will hear a tone and feel a distracting vibration or a corrective shock based on the program. This is effective for stubborn dogs since you can tailor the level of intensity to his or her needs.

The PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence also gives you some flexibility when it comes to range. The transmitter has a long range that exceeds the amount of wire that you get. So, you can extend the range of the system by adding more of the same wire. You can also have an unlimited number of dogs by buying more compatible collars. The system can adjust and make sure that any dog is not a problem.

PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence Key Features: 

  • Comes with a power adapter
  • The collar is adjustable
  • Works with any 14-20 gauge wire
  • Can handle any number of dogs

Our Runner Up Pick: SportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Systems

Runner Up
SportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Systems
Cover a huge area with the SportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Systems.

SportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Systems is our runner up pick. It gives you a similar level of performance as our top pick, but with different parameters. This system comes with enough wire to encase 1-1/3 acres. That should be enough for most houses including houses with larger backyards. However, one of the best features of the SportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Systems is that you can expand that area up to 100 acres. All you have to do is increase the amount of wire that you use.

Another feature that makes the SportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Systems a good option is that it can handle an unlimited number of dogs as long as they have a compatible collar. The collars that come with the SportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Systems are powered by a 9v battery rather than a rechargeable battery. This gives you long-lasting performance and is a more reliable and easy to replace option. However, it is more costly over time and not as good for the environment as a rechargeable collar.

SportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Systems Key Features: 

  • Range extends up to 100 acres
  • Can handle unlimited dogs
  • Collar powered by a 9v battery
  • Collar battery lasts 6-12 months depending on use

Best Budget Pick: Dr.Tiger 2 Receiver Electric Dog Fence

Best for Budget
Dr.Tiger 2 Receiver Electric Dog Fence
Make the transition to an underground dog fence on a budget with the Dr.Tiger 2 Receiver Electric Dog Fence.

Dr.Tiger 2 Receiver Electric Dog Fence is our best budget pick. Many of the options for underground dog fencing can seem expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. The Dr.Tiger 2 Receiver Electric Dog Fence is a much more affordable option. At just $90, it makes it easy for you to transition your dog to an underground dog fence easily and affordably.

The Dr.Tiger 2 Receiver Electric Dog Fence comes with everything that you would expect from a more expensive unit, and a few extras. The system has a broken wire monitor that can tell you if the wire is broken. That way, your dog won’t be able to slip out of the boundary due to a dead spot. The transmitter itself is also protected with an included surge protector. That way, it won’t be damaged and let your dog run away.

Dr.Tiger 2 Receiver Electric Dog Fence Key Features: 

  • The affordable price makes it easy for beginners
  • The collars are rainproof
  • Broken wire warning system
  • Surge protector included

Best Underground Fence for Large Dogs: PetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence for Dogs

Best Underground Fence for Large Dogs
PetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence for Dogs
Protect larger dogs with the PetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence for Dogs.

PetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence for Dogs is our vest underground fence for large dogs. It is designed to work for larger dogs with bigger collar needs. It comes with an adjustable nylon collar that is designed to be lightweight and durable. It is difficult to break or chew through, and it dries quickly when wet.

The best feature of the PetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence for Dogs is its multi-level training system. It lets you set the reaction to the boundary for each individual collar. There are five reaction levels from a tone-only level to multiple levels of shocks. If you have a dog that takes extra effort to train, these levels come in handy. You can gradually step down through the levels as your dog adjusts to the collar and learns the boundaries.

PetSafe Basic In-Ground Fence for Dogs Key Features: 

  • Multi-level training system
  • Adjustable nylon collar
  • Batteries last up to two months
  • The collar is designed to be lightweight and durable

Best Underground Fence for Stubborn Dogs: PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence without Wire

Best Underground Fence for Stubborn Dogs
PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence without Wire
Get a stubborn dog under control with the PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence without Wire.

PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence without Wire is our best underground fence for stubborn dogs pick. Working with stubborn dogs can be very hard without the right tools. Thankfully, the PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence without Wire is designed to work with dogs that need visual cues and extra effort to train.

The collars for the PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence without Wire are designed to give slightly stronger shocks to stubborn dogs. That way, your dog will be less likely to disobey the system. The collars also combine tones, vibrations, and shocks to train your dog. The system comes with flags to help your dog with visual cues as well.

PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence without Wire Key Features: 

  • Collars vibrate and shock
  • Low battery indicator on collars
  • Stronger shocks for larger dogs
  • Easy to install

Who Should Buy an Underground Dog Fence

Anyone who has a dog and does not have a fence, or has a dog that can get out of the fence easily. underground dog fences are designed to deter dogs from leaving the boundary area. Through training, your dog will learn the limits of where it can get and stay closer to home. If you have a stubborn or ill-behaved dog, then an underground fence is also a good idea. It can help correct your dog’s behavior and fix some behavioral issues that make it impossible to let your dog roam free. (Selecting a good training collar from our review of the best dog training collars can also help).

Top Pick
PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence
Teach your dog to stay safe at home with the PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence.

Important Features to Consider

Finding the right underground dog fence for your needs can depend on the individual features and designs of each fence. Here are a few things to look for in an underground dog fence:

  • Range. The range of the transmitter and the overall reach of the system. The range of the system is determined by the transmitter and the wire. Most systems can expand the range by adding more of the same wire to reach the maximum output of the transmitter.
  • Items included. What is included in the set. Most systems come with at least one collar, a transmitter, and a length of wire. They can also include marking flags, surge protections, more wire, and other accessories.
  • Collar functions. The methods that the collar uses to train the dog. Collars can normally use a tone and a shock system. Some collars can also use a vibration method.
  • Wire design. The design of the underground wire measured in its gauge. Most wires are 14-20 gauge and made out of copper. You can get wire that is coated for longer life and to protect it from corrosion.
  • Number of dogs. How many dogs the system can handle. Many systems can handle any number of dogs as long as their collars are compatible with the system.
  • Power method. How the system receives electricity. Nearly all transmitters are plug-in appliances. Collars often have rechargeable batteries or are powered by 9v batteries.
  • Collar size. The size of the collar in inches. The size of the collar determines which dogs can wear them. They are often adjustable up to 28 inches.
  • Weight limit. The listed weight limit of the system. Some systems give a suggested weight limit for the dog since the power of the shock is calibrated to certain dog sizes and weights.
  • Training method. The method that the system uses for training your dog. Many systems have adjustable reaction settings that range from a tone-only response to a series of powerful shock responses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an underground dog fence and how does it work?

An underground dog fence is an electromagnetic system that uses copper wire and a radio transmitter to create an invisible boundary line around your property. The collar that the dog wears responds to the magnetic field that the wire and transmitter create, responding by making a sound or shocking your dog gently to deter bad habits. The system is used to set boundaries so that your dog will stay in a safe area.

How much does an underground dog fence cost?

Underground dog fences can range in price from under $100 to over $600. The quality of the system is somewhat related to its price. However, nearly all systems can take accessories like more wire to expand their range, which will increase the price.

How deep should an underground dog fence be?

The depth that the underground wire should be buried depends on the system. Most systems say not to bury the wire deeper than four inches. There are systems that recommend a shorter depth of 2-3 inches. The closer the wire is to the surface, the stronger and more reliable the system will be. However, that also means that the wire is easier to dig up or be damaged.

Do underground fences work for big dogs?

Yes, underground dog fences work for big dogs. Underground dog fences work for any size dog as long as you get a system that is designed for that dog. Bigger dogs often need a more robust system since they wander through larger spaces and require a more intense shock to change their behavior. In some cases, the leads on the collar may need to be switched with longer ones so that they can reach through a large dog’s fur to touch their skin.

Other Best Underground Dog Fences We Reviewed

Top Pick
PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence
Teach your dog to stay safe at home with the PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence.

We looked at 20 other underground dog fences. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best underground dog fences list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your dog. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.

1 Dog System Underground Fences

CEVENE Electric Dog Fence, Aboveground/Underground Dog Containment System

CEVENE Electric Dog Fence, Aboveground/Underground Dog Containment System

The CEVENE Electric Dog Fence, Aboveground/Underground Dog Containment System can make it easy to keep your dog in your yard. It is equipped to contain one dog. You can set the range of the fence up to 650 feet, which should cover most of one acre. The collar has a changing deterrent system where it begins by beeping. That is useful for training your dog to stay in the area. If your dog continues, it begins to shock at low intensities and increases when your dog gets closer to the fence. that way, your dog can learn to stay in the boundary and never get shocked.

Key Features:

  • Can be expanded to cover two dogs
  • Extends 3/4 of an acre
  • Beep warning system
  • Waterproof receiver

Cost: $100

COVONO Underground Dog Containment System, Electric Dog Fence

COVONO Underground Dog Containment System, Electric Dog Fence

The COVONO Underground Dog Containment System, Electric Dog Fence is designed to help you train your dog to stay in one area. It comes with enough wire to surround 3/4 of an acre, which will cover most houses. The receiver is specially designed to withstand weather conditions and daily use. It is waterproof up to an IP66 rating and stays charged up to 20 days. One of the best things about it is that it can support any number of dogs so you can keep the same system if you get more dogs. All you have to do is get additional collars for each dog.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable collar
  • Newly redesigned system
  • 650 feet of fencing wire
  • Waterproof receiver

Cost: $90

JUSTSTART Wireless Dog Fence Electric Pet Containment System

JUSTSTART Wireless Dog Fence Electric Pet Containment System

The JUSTSTART Wireless Dog Fence Electric Pet Containment System is another good option, especially if you are new to wireless dog fences. It can support one or two dogs at a range of up to 1,000 feet. The collars are waterproof and powered by rechargeable batteries. This system is designed to protect your dog from over-shocking by being highly accurate. Plus, the system disables the shock system if the connection is lost or the sensor fails. If your dog manages to get away or the signal is lost, an alarm rings on the system to let everyone know right away. 

Key Features:

  • Range extends 1,000 feet
  • IPX7 waterproof collar
  • Missing pet alarm
  • Shock canceling safety system

Cost: $170

Extreme Dog Fence – Second Generation -2019- Standard Grade (Essential) Kit Packages

Extreme Dog Fence - Second Generation -2019- Standard Grade (Essential) Kit Packages

For one of the most modern options, check out the Extreme Dog Fence – Second Generation -2019- Standard Grade (Essential) Kit Packages. It was redesigned for 2019 to have the best features available. It is highly expandable with options to handle up to five dogs and six acres at the same time. It comes with a high-tensile boundary wire that will stay intact for a long time and can be submerged up to 10 feet.  The collar is designed to be extremely waterproof. Your dog can swim with the collar and not experience problems.

Key Features:

  • Expandable up to five dogs
  • Expandable up to a 2,500 foot fence
  • Redesigned for 2019
  • 20-gauge high-tensile boundary wire

Cost: $270

Extreme Dog Fence Max Grade Ultimate Performance Electric Dog Fence System

Extreme Dog Fence Max Grade Ultimate Performance Electric Dog Fence System

For advanced performance, check out the Extreme Dog Fence Max Grade Ultimate Performance Electric Dog Fence System. It has upgraded components for better performance. The wire has been upgraded to a 14 gauge wire with up to 60 mm of polyethylene coating to protect it from the elements. That way, it won’t corrode and break underground for years. The dog collar has been improved to be completely waterproof. Plus, it is submersible up to 10 feet so your dog can go swimming anywhere with the collar on. This kit can cover up to 25 acres of land so that your dog has more than enough space to run around.

Key Features:

  • Upgraded wire for better protection and longer-lasting life
  • Covers up to 25 acres
  • Manages five dogs simultaneously
  • Submersible dog collar

Cost: $528

2 Dog System/Unlimited Dogs Underground Fences

COVONO Electric Dog Fence, Upgraded In Ground Pet Containment System

COVONO Electric Dog Fence, Upgraded In Ground Pet Containment System

This COVONO Electric Dog Fence, Upgraded In Ground Pet Containment System gives you the flexibility that you need to keep your dog safe. It comes with a 500-foot 21 gauge coated copper wire, but you can expand it by purchasing more wire. It also comes with transmitters to cover two dogs. However, you can have as many dogs as you like as long as you get more compatible receivers. The collars are waterproof and adjustable to fit dogs up to 130lbs with a neck size up to 22 inches. The system uses a dual-frequency system to verify the collars. That way, your dog won’t be shocked unless he/she is breaking the rules.

Key Features:

  • 500-foot coated copper wire
  • Covers two dogs
  • Expandable by adding more wire
  • Can handle any number of pets

Cost: $130

COVONO Underground Dog Containment System

COVONO Underground Dog Containment System

The COVONO Underground Dog Containment System is designed to be easy to use and easy to install. It comes with 650 feet of underground wire. The system can detect broken wires so that you can fix the break and prevent holes in the security fence. The system is also designed to reduce or block interference entirely so that the collars always work properly. By getting additional wire or collars, you can expand the system to handle as much land or dogs as you need.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable boundary line
  • Broken wire warning system
  • Reduced size buzzer
  • 650-foot wire

Cost: $200

Extreme Dog Fence – Second Generation -2019- Professional Grade (Premium) Kit Packages

Extreme Dog Fence - Second Generation -2019- Professional Grade (Premium) Kit Packages

The Extreme Dog Fence – Second Generation -2019- Professional Grade (Premium) Kit Packages are designed to work in any condition. The collar has the buzzer system completely encased so that it is completely waterproof. Your dog can swim with it in water that is up to 10-feet deep without breaking it. Plus, it can still work in the water so your dog cannot swim out of bounds. The kit has enough wire to cover 25 acres. The transmitter has three antennas so that it provides wide and even coverage across the entire boundary line.

Key Features:

  • Covers up to 25 acres
  • Three antennas for wide coverage
  • Waterproof collars
  • Collar works underwater

Cost: $440

PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence Kit and Collar

PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence Kit and Collar

The PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Fence Kit and Collar can help you train your dog to stay in the boundary without getting shocked. It has five training levels that adjust the power of the shock and the distance to the fence. Plus, there is a beep-only program that won’t shock at all. It is great if your dog is new to collars and fences. The system is also designed to be portable as well, so you can take it camping and on other trips with you.

Key Features:

  • Doesn’t require digging to work
  • Integrated training system
  • Ergonomic collar design
  • Adjustable collars up to 28-inches

Cost: $290

PetSafe Wireless Fence Pet Containment Systems

PetSafe Wireless Fence Pet Containment Systems

PetSafe Wireless Fence Pet Containment Systems are designed to help you train your dog to use a dog fence. It includes an adjustable nylon collar with a waterproof battery enclosure. There are short and long contacts for the shock collar included in case you have a very hairy dog. It has six control levels. The first is a tone-only program for well-behaved dogs. The other levels increase the power of the shock. The help you gradually decrease the shock over time once your dog is fully trained to use the system.

Key Features:

  • Standard and long length contacts included
  • Adjustable nylon collar
  • Battery included
  • Waterproof battery enclosure

Cost: $270

TTPet Electric Dog Fence, In-ground/Aboveground Pet Containment System

TTPet Electric Dog Fence, In-ground/Aboveground Pet Containment System

The TTPet Electric Dog Fence, In-ground/Aboveground Pet Containment System comes with everything that you need. The collar is IP66 waterproof with a rechargeable battery. The collar is adjustable and you can reposition the buzzer as needed. It comes with several shock and tone correction settings. Plus, it is easy to install. The wire works from a depth of four inches, but can also be used aboveground if needed.

Key Features:

  • Covers three acres
  • Wire can be buried up to four inches
  • Wire works above ground as well
  • Adjustable collar and buzzer

Cost: $40

Underground Fences for Large Dogs

AngelaKerry Wireless Dog Fence System with GPS

AngelaKerry Wireless Dog Fence System with GPS

The uses a different type of system to keep your dog safe. It uses a GPS system to track your dog. Using GPS positioning, it can track your dog anywhere. If your dog gets out of the boundary, the system will activate for 20 seconds. It will shut off for a minute and continue to repeat the pattern until your dog returns. That way, your dog won’t be hurt by the collar. The collar is rainproof and powered by a rechargeable battery.

Key Features:

  • No fence needed
  • GPS managed
  • Anti-interference system
  • Auto-shutoff if your dog gets out of the boundary

Cost: $100

Earlyhights Underground Electric Outdoor Dog Containment System

Earlyhights Underground Electric Outdoor Dog Containment System

The Earlyhights Underground Electric Outdoor Dog Containment System can make it easier to train your dog. The collar is designed to fit any size of dog breed. It adjusts for a more comfortable fit. Plus, the battery lasts up to 500 hours.

Key Features:

  • Adjusting collar
  • Collar charges in two hours
  • Transmitter covers five acres
  • Collar battery lasts up to 500 hours

Cost: $115

Free Spirit In-Ground Fence – Underground Wire Containment System

Free Spirit In-Ground Fence - Underground Wire Containment System

This Free Spirit In-Ground Fence – Underground Wire Containment System is designed for medium and large dogs. The price is more affordable than many other options so that it makes a great beginner choice. The components are waterproof and rechargeable. Plus, you can cover up to one acre, which is right for one house.

Key Features:

  • Expands up to one acre
  • More affordable price for beginners
  • Waterproof and rechargeable components
  • Designed for dogs over five pounds

Cost: $100

KoolKani Remote Dog Training Shock Collar & Underground/in-Ground Electric Containment Fence

KoolKani Remote Dog Training Shock Collar & Underground/in-Ground Electric Containment Fence

The KoolKani Remote Dog Training Shock Collar & Underground/in-Ground Electric Containment Fence responds to your dog’s movements in real time. Your dog gets a warning with a tone and a vibration when approaching the fence. The system pauses and waits for a response, and reacts if your dog continues to move toward the wire.

Key Features:

  • 1,200-meter range
  • Handles up to three dogs simultaneously
  • Vibration function
  • Reactive training system

Cost: $200

Sit Boo-Boo Advanced Electric Fence

Sit Boo-Boo Advanced Electric Fence

The Sit Boo-Boo Advanced Electric Fence is designed for the most extreme temperatures. An internal surge protector keeps your dog safe from malfunctions and any other problems. That way, you don’t have to worry about your dog having problems wherever you live. The system also uses an industrial-grade solid coated copper wire for a reliable performance every time.

Key Features:

  • Built-in surge protection
  • Works in freezing temperatures
  • Industrial-grade copper wire
  • Unlimited number of dogs

Cost: $128

Sit Boo-Boo Hidden Dog Fence – Safe & Unseen Pet Containment System

Sit Boo-Boo Hidden Dog Fence - Safe & Unseen Pet Containment System

The Sit Boo-Boo Hidden Dog Fence – Safe & Unseen Pet Containment System has been updated for better performance. It has an upgraded solid copper wire, which produces a more reliable signal all the time. It also has an extended range thanks to a more powerful transmitter. The rechargeable battery has an extended lifespan as well.

Key Features:

  • 955-foot copper cable
  • Covers 1.2 acres
  • The transmitter can handle 5 acres
  • Five levels of correction training

Cost: $100

Underground Fences for Stubborn Dogs

Dogtra E-Fence EF-3500 – Black

Dogtra E-Fence EF-3500 - Black

The Dogtra E-Fence EF-3500 – Black has a smaller receiver than other models so that it won’t interfere with your dog’s daily activities. It is completely waterproof and safe for your dog. The transmitter can reach up to 40 acres giving more than enough range and reliable signal coverage for most houses.

Key Features:

  • Two-hour charging batteries
  • 40-acre range
  • Fully waterproof receiver
  • Compact receiver

Cost: $191

Monell Pets Petsafe Stubborn Large Dog in-Ground Electric Fence

Monell Pets Petsafe Stubborn Large Dog in-Ground Electric Fence

If you need to train your dog, then try the Monell Pets Petsafe Stubborn Large Dog in-Ground Electric Fence. It comes with 1,000 feet of solid copper cable that will give you a reliable signal. You can also run the system for up to four dogs at the same time. The receivers are powered by 9v batteries for long-lasting and reliable performance without taking breaks for recharging.

Key Features:

  • Supports up to four dogs
  • 1,000-foot wire
  • Powered by a 9v battery
  • Fits dogs up to 30 lbs

Cost: $230

Petsafe Stubborn Dog Fence, 2-dog system PIG00-10777

Petsafe Stubborn Dog Fence, 2-dog system PIG00-10777

The Petsafe Stubborn Dog Fence, 2-dog system PIG00-10777 makes installation easy. It comes with an instructional DVD to show you exactly how to install the system. That way, you won’t have to be nervous that you made a mistake. It also comes with two receivers and 50 flags to make the boundary with so you never lose the wire.

Key Features:

  • Instructional DVD
  • Comes with two waterproof receivers
  • 50 boundary flags
  • 500 feet of wire

Cost: $295

If you’re looking for more information on the best fence to buy or set up for your dog, we have a series of in-depth guides on the topic. Check out any of the posts below for more information: