Labradors are known for their intelligence and loyalty. They are easily trained, but it is important to remember that they require time and patience. Invisible Fence Systems offers training programs designed specifically for Labradors to help you teach your pup how to stay in the yard without being physically confined or restrained by a leash or chain.
In fact, there are many free programs available that are useful for every dog, even lab. But we recommend using only those which are designed for labs.
The programs must include instructions on what you should do if your dog gets out of the yard so that he does not become lost or injured.
Here are steps to follow to train Labs:
- Step 1: Bring Your Lab to the Edge of the Zone
- Step 2: Turn and Walk Back to the House
- Step 3: Repeat Until the Training Becomes Established
- Step 4: Keep a Watchful Eye on Your Lab
- How Long Does It Take For A Lab To Learn An Invisible Fence?
- Does Invisible Fence Work For Labs?
- Can A Lab Run Through An Invisible Fence?
- Where Do Flags Go On Invisible Fence?
- At What Age Can A Lab Puppy Wear A Shock Collar?
- How Long Do You Leave Invisible Fence Flags Up?
- Do Shock Collars And Invisible Fences Make Labs Aggressive?
- How Do I Know If My Invisible Fence Is Working?
- Dogs that do well with invisible fence
- Invisible Fence Training Tips
Step 1: Bring Your Lab to the Edge of the Zone
Start by bringing your puppy to the edge of the yard within range or where you want him to stay. Keep him leashed at first, so he does not run through the boundary after a passing cat or dog.
It’s important to note that not all dogs are trainable with invisible fence systems. If training has not been successful, you may need to consider other options.
For example, leash and containment systems often provide easy and effective training for dogs who do not behave well with invisible fence boundaries.
Step 2: Turn and Walk Back to the House
Once your dog stays at the boundary line, turn around and head back towards the house without any praise or words of encouragement.
Gradually increase the distance between you and your dog until he stays near the boundary while you walk all the way back to the house or garage.
Step 3: Repeat Until Training Becomes Established
Reinforce this behavior by turning and walking away for progressively longer periods of time until he will stay at the invisible fence line while you go back to the house and do yard work, check the mail or grab a snack.
Step 4: Keep a Watchful Eye on Your Lab
Once your lab learns that staying near the boundary means good things will happen, you can either reward his behavior with short play sessions or allow him free time in the backyard.
You will always need to watch him when you are at home, so he does not escape.
How Long Does It Take For A Lab To Learn An Invisible Fence?
Labradors are known for their intelligence and loyalty. They are easily trained, but it is important to remember that they require time and patience.
The following are some of the most common questions you may have about training your Labrador with an invisible fence.
Does Invisible Fence Work For Labs?
Labradors can be trained to understand where they are allowed to go in your yard or environment.
Some dogs will become confused when they realize a boundary but cannot see the “fence.”
This is why it is important to realize that invisible fences are not effective for all dogs.
Can A Lab Run Through An Invisible Fence?
Just like any other type of fence, there is always the chance that your dog may escape or become confused about where they can and cannot go.
Although some labs will be trained to obey the boundary, there is always the chance that they may not control themselves.
Some dogs have gotten lost because they were determined to chase down a cat or another animal.
Where Do Flags Go On Invisible Fence?
Flags are important for keeping your dog safe within the invisible fence perimeter.
If your dog approaches the boundary, it will activate the system and receive a deterrent.
Typically, flags are placed on top of your fence line or outside your doorframe to keep them safe from damaging their noses or paws.
At What Age Can A Lab Puppy Wear A Shock Collar?
It is not recommended that you use an invisible fence or shock collar on a puppy until they reach 8-10 months of age.
Before this time, puppies are not yet fully developed and may be vulnerable to electrical currents.
If you introduce an invisible fence too early, your pup may become discouraged when they realize that their instincts tell them to escape and roam free.
Can I Train My Lab To Be Invisible Fence Trained?
It is possible to train your dog to participate in an invisible fence, but it will require time and patience.
In addition, some dogs may not understand the concept of a boundary if they cannot see a physical fence.
When training a lab, it is best to use a leash or other training device until they are completely comfortable with the system.
How Do I Keep My Dog From Running Through An Invisible Fence?
You can teach your labrador not to run through the invisible fence by praising them when they stop at the boundary line.
If you have an underground containment system, you can use the beep sounds as a warning to stay back.
By using consistent training methods and keeping your lab on a leash at all times, you can train them to understand boundaries.
Once they are properly trained, the invisible fence will become an effective way for them to spend time in your yard without any risk of escape.
How Long Do You Leave Invisible Fence Flags Up?
It is important to keep your flags in place until you know that your lab has completely acclimated to the system.
Typically, this will be about 30-90 days.
You can slowly start removing them if they do not seem threatened by the array of flags or warning signs.
Once you are sure that your dog no longer needs to escape or roam, you can slowly start removing them.
Do Labs Have A Tendency To Run Through An Invisible Fence?
Labradors are known for their intelligence and loyalty.
They are easily trained, but it is important to remember that they require time and patience.
- The following are some guidelines for training your lab:
- Never leave your dog unattended near an invisible fence.
- Do not use the invisible fence as a negative reinforcement or punishment device.
- Instead, ensure that you keep them on a leash until they become comfortable with the system.
- Create safe play and exercise areas where they can roam free if they do not have the ability to stay within boundaries.
- If your lab becomes overly irritated by an invisible fence, other issues may need to be addressed.
- Consult with your vet if you are concerned about any behavior changes before attempting to train them on an invisible fence.
Do Shock Collars And Invisible Fences Make Labs Aggressive?
A shocked lab will typically yelp and show signs of distress.
Labradors are typically friendly dogs who are not aggressive, even if trained to be so with the invisible fence system. Do Not Use An Invisible Fence For A Puppy
It is best to wait until your dog is older before introducing them to the system.
As a puppy, they will not understand how it works and may feel threatened. An invisible fence is a great way for dogs to stay in their yard without putting themselves or others in danger.
Labradors are brilliant dogs who only require mild training when introduced to an invisible fence.
How Do I Know If My Invisible Fence Is Working?
You can test your invisible fence in several ways.
Ensure that all flags and warning signs are present and provide your lab with access to the fence.
Once they have entered the space, you can encourage them to run towards the boundary line. If they stop before hitting the edge of the property, then you can be confident that they will not runoff.
If you begin to notice any changes in your lab’s behavior, consult with your vet to rule out other issues. Other behaviors that are not typical of your dog could indicate an illness or injury that needs attention.
Dogs that do well with invisible fence
Many breeds do well with the invisible dog fence, while many need more time in training. Those breeds which do well with invisible dog fences are:
- Labradors,
- Irish setters,
- Great Danes,
- Collies and Boxers.
Labrador Retriever is a breed that does very well with the invisible dog fence. Labs are intelligent and loyal dogs that made for great pets. They have an easy-going temperament which makes them perfect for families with kids or seniors. In addition, they love spending time outside, which means that they can enjoy their free time in your yard while remaining safe.
Irish setters are also energetic and intelligent dogs. They adapt well to different environments and do not require constant attention like other breeds. Therefore, they are the perfect choice if you love spending time outdoors but cannot always be there with them.
Invisible Fence Training Tips
To train your lab for the invisible fence, you need to follow a few simple steps:
- 1. Connect the collar and let them wear it around the house to get used to it.
- 2. Once they are comfortable wearing the collar, start shocking them every time they come close to the boundary line. Shock them enough for them to feel it but do not make them yelp or cry. They should start turning back when they get shocked, which means that the collar is working properly.
- 3. Do not leave your lab unattended until they are fully trained on the system. Instead, stay with them during training sessions and keep an eye on them.
- 4. Do not tie the collar too tightly on your dog, but make sure it is not falling off either.
- 5. When you are walking with them outside of their boundary line, do not take them too close to it or even let them get close enough that they can touch the wires on accident.