How does my dog learn where the SmartFence boundary is?

Your pet is trained by a DogWatch Dealer. The training for the SmartFence is the same as the training for our other hidden fences.

Will the stimulation from the SmartCollar hurt my dog?

No. The “stimulation” from the collar is unpleasant, but it will not “burn” or injure your pet. It is a sensation similar to a strong static shock like you might receive after walking across a carpet in your socks. It is uncomfortable, but it does not harm you.

Can I use a SmartFence if I do not have Internet?

You can use the Hidden Fence (the containment part of the fence) without the Internet. The communication part of the system (notification alerts, system settings and activity tracking) will not work without an Internet connection.

What will happen to my SmartFence if my Internet isn’t working?

The Hidden Fence (the containment part of the fence) is not dependent on the Internet and will work as it should even if your Internet is turned ‘off’ or not working. If your Internet is turned ‘off’ or not working, the fence will work as it should, but you will not receive notification alerts, system settings and activity tracking until your Internet connection is restored.

Can I use a SmartFence if I do not have a smartphone?

Yes, you can still get email alerts and you can access your SmartFence App profile from any computer or other Internet enabled device.

Is the SmartFence App available on both iPhone and Android devices?

Yes, the DogWatch SmartFence App works on both iPhone and Android devices. You can download the App via the Apple App Store or Google Play Store

What happens when my dog’s SmartCollar travels out of range of the Communication Portal?

The DogWatch SmartCollar is designed with the understanding that your pet will probably spend time in parts of the yard that may be beyond the transmission range of your SmartFence Communication Portal. That’s OK! The SmartCollar will reconnect and send updates when your dog comes back into the communication range of the Portal.

What if I do not have an extra Ethernet port on my router?

The SmartFence requires the use of an Ethernet port. You may be able to add ports to your router by connecting it to an Ethernet switch. These devices should be available at stores such as Staples® or Best Buy®.

SmartFence® Hidden Dog Fences | DogWatch of Buffalo and Niagara

The Next Generation of Hidden Pet Fencing

Experience unparalleled peace of mind with the DogWatch SmartFence^®. This state-of-the-art underground dog fence not only incorporates the reliable safety features of our popular ProFence but also introduces advanced mobile connectivity. Monitor your pet's activity, assess system status, and adjust settings seamlessly via your smartphone. Your pet will remain safe, and you'll stay connected no matter where you are.

The SmartFence is designed to keep you informed with customized notifications that provide essential safety information. These notifications include alerts for SmartCollar battery status, boundary wire breaks, power loss, system connectivity issues, and boundary challenges. You can add multiple contacts—such as family members, pet sitters, or dog walkers—and select which notifications or email messages you would like them to receive.

Monitor your pet’s daily, weekly, and monthly activity levels. Find out if your dog has been Active, Moderately Active, Lightly Active, or Resting.

Review your system settings anytime, anywhere. The DogWatch SmartFence App displays your DogWatch SmartCollar^®’s training level and the Transmitter’s training mode, rate, frequency and range.

Request A Free Quote

Here’s What You Get

We’ll work with you to design the ideal solution, based on your goals, your dog’s personality, and any unique features of your property.

Our underground fence systems are installed by a team of experienced professionals, to maximize performance, safety and reliability.

Your dog will be taught the new system by an expert trainer, and you’ll get one-on-one instruction on how to operate your new hidden fence.

We’re known for our outstanding customer service, and our team is here to support you every step of the way. See what our customers say.

System Features

SafeLink^®

Our patented digital SafeLink FM technology protects against false activation caused by stray radio signals. FM technology is less prone to interference than other brands' AM systems, making DogWatch the most secure hidden fence available.

FastReact^®

DogWatch has the fastest reaction time in the industry. If your dog runs at the boundary, the receiver reacts with the warning signal before reaching the wire, not while traveling over it.

AutoMemory^®

Our patented AutoMemory feature automatically adjusts the correction after your pet challenges the boundary. This discourages additional boundary challenges. If your pet challenges the boundary with the receiver set to level 4, 5, or 6, AutoMemory will be initiated. For the next 24 hours, the correction will be equivalent to the next level if the dog attempts to re-enter the signal field. For example, if AutoMemory is triggered with the receiver set at level 4, the correction will be equivalent to level 5 for the next 24 hours. The correction returns to the original setting after 24 hours with no boundary challenges.

TattleTale™

If your pet challenges his boundary, the status light on the receiver double flashes, indicating that you may need to adjust the fence settings. The receiver resets after 24 hours without a boundary challenge. TattleTale is a patented safety feature available exclusively from DogWatch. With your DogWatch SmartFence App, you can view and track your pet’s daily, weekly, and monthly boundary challenges via the TattleTale graph.

Longest Battery Life

The DogWatch SmartCollar battery lasts up to one year, compared to 3-4 months for most other pet containment systems. Fewer batteries are good for your wallet and better for the environment. And, most importantly, safer for your pet!

Receiver Status Light

DogWatch receivers have a unique status light that provides valuable information to help keep your pet safe in your yard. The light also indicates whether the receiver battery is low and whether your pet has recently challenged the hidden fence.

Audible Warning Alert

The DogWatch SmartFence includes an audible warning signal to alert your dog that he is approaching the boundary. Your pet quickly learns to stop at the warning signal – before he reaches the hidden wire.

GentleFit™ Contact Posts

Optional GentleFit Contact Posts are easy on your dog’s skin. They are smooth like our standard stainless steel contact posts to minimize friction and low profile for a comfortable Pet-Friendly™ fit.

High Impact, Waterproof

The DogWatch SmartCollar is tested to withstand the harsh outdoor elements of rain, sleet and snow, as well as rigorous play!

Automatic Shutdown

The DogWatch system is designed to protect your pet from an over-correction in the unlikely event that your dog stands in the signal field and does not quickly exit. The receiver will automatically reset once the dog leaves the signal field.

Lightning Protection

DogWatch Hidden Fences include the very best lightning/surge protection available as a standard feature. External protection directs power surges and lightning away from your home; internal protection suppresses surges coming in through your house wiring.

PowerPak™

Our optional PowerPak keeps your fence working temporarily if you lose power. With a PowerPak, you have added protection to ensure your pet’s safety. Provides up to 8 hours of backup protection.

Loop Monitor

Our Loop Monitor alerts you if there is a break in the boundary wire. This is an invaluable safety feature for underground fences. With your DogWatch SmartFence App, you can check on the status of your boundary wire anytime, and be alerted to any breaks or disruptions.

Range Setting

You can adjust the signal range (the distance the signal travels from the hidden wire) to meet the needs of your pet(s): a larger signal distance if you have large animals or a smaller range for small pets.

Flexible Training Levels

The DogWatch transmitter and receiver offer up to twenty unique options (plus audible only), designed to ensure safe, appropriate containment for pets of all ages, sizes, breeds, and personalities. The settings are easy to understand and user adjustable (no service call required).

Proven Training Program

All DogWatch Dealers provide on-site training using our trusted and effective PetFriendly™ training program that includes visual recognition of boundary flags, learning to retreat from the audible warning signal and learning that there is an unpleasant sensation if they cross the boundary.

Flexible, Affordable Containment Areas

Over the river and through the woods? Backyard only . . . but not the pool and flower garden? Create a swimming area in the lake? We can do that! A hidden fence is more flexible and less expensive than a traditional fence. And your dog can’t jump over, dig under or chew through a hidden fence!

Works for Cats (and More!)

All DogWatch products are effective for cats, too! Create an invisible boundary that keeps your cat in your yard and out of the kids' sandbox. You can also create an indoor cat fence to keep kitty off the kitchen counter, away from your new sofa and out of the baby's room. And you can use the system for cat containment and dog containment at the same time! Also works for other pets including pigs, goats, sheep and more! Read more.

Lifetime Equipment Warranty

Our hidden fence products are built to last. We offer a no-nonsense Lifetime Limited Warranty on our DogWatch SmartFence containment system (DogWatch SmartFence^® Transmitter and DogWatch SmartCollar^®) - including dog chews!

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

We work hard to make sure DogWatch products are the best in the business. We back that up with a 30-day money-back guarantee. We want to make sure your pet is safe and you are happy with your purchase!

The First Connected Fence Know Before They Do At Your Fingertips Customized for Your Pet Customized for You

The SmartFence keeps you informed. Customized text and/or email messages help ensure your pet’s safety and give you even more peace of mind. The SmartFence lets you know if your boundary wire is disconnected, if your pet’s SmartCollar battery is low, if you lost power, and more! The SmartFence lets you monitor your pet’s activity, and analyze daily, weekly and monthly trends. The SmartFence is customized for your pet, including individualized profiles for families with multiple pets. Tailor your SmartFence App notifications so you’ll receive only the information you need, when you need it.

What Our Customers Say

      
 Excellent5.038 reviews
 5.0
 Excellent38 reviews
  Write a review 
 
 
 
    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jay Fairbrother 
 October 27, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very happy with our dogwatch fence, our dog learned the boundary quickly and loves his newfound outdoor freedom!
Mike was great to work with both during the install and with anything we’ve needed afterwards
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Marie Carruthers 
 July 26, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mike was wonderful! He made the process easy & we feel very confident with our dog, Perla. She adjusted quickly & is enjoying the freedom of our yard. Would recommend highly.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   freakwentflyer 
 May 28, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Owner, Mike D’Angelo, does a great job.  Mike is a really nice guy and really cares about the customer’s satisfaction with the job.  We’re very happy with his work.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Dan Baker 
 May 19, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mike, has done a great job, very patient and understanding with our puppy and us. Excellent , honest and prompt service.
Sincere thanks
Dan & Beverly Baker
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Charlene Majchrzak 
 April 20, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mike from Dogwatch is wonderful to work with! Responded right away with any questions we had and settling up our appointments. Extremely friendly and wonderful with our dog teaching him about the boundaries with the invisible fence. The cost was very reasonable!! Would recommend Mike from Dogwatch 100% Fantastic experience overall!!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Maryrose Lombardo 
 October 4, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great experience with Mike at Dog Watch. Explaining the whole process, installation was easy and non disruptive and the training was great. It’s also comforting to know Mike is available for any questions or issues going forward. So far so good and our pup Benny is doing great learning his new space.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Hamburg Swim Club 
 August 22, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Awesome experience with Mike! He is very punctual and accommodating. We had a tricky spot in our backyard and he was able to get the fence through with no issues. We needed an additional collar and he was able to bring it out to us the very next day. Highly recommend, great product and great service!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Caitlin Irish-Baker 
 July 16, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an excellent experience with DogWatch. Our puppy learned quickly and the service was exceptional.  We would highly recommend DogWatch to anyone with a new puppy!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Julie Rosinski 
 May 13, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We just had a great experience with Mike at DogWatch. He helped us upgrade our old underground fence system and helped train our dog on the new system. Mike was professional, friendly, on time to all of our scheduled appointments. Highly recommend!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   EJ Weeke 
 May 13, 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
I have a high drive bird dog that had escaped and struggled to get her to stay within our boundaries.  Once our dogwatch fence was installed we have a different dog.  She is calmer, happier, and our stress levels working about her running off are gone.

Install was quick, professional, and the pricing was great.  Highly recommend

You Asked, We Answered

The DogWatch SmartFence is a hidden underground pet fencing system (often mistakenly referred to generically as an “invisible fence”*) that uses a radio signal to keep your dog in a designated containment area, such as a yard; or out of an area, such as a swimming pool, patio, or garden. The SmartFence has a communication component that will notify you by pop-up notification and/or email if there is a break in the underground fence or if your pet’s collar battery is low, so you will know before your pet does if there is an issue with the fence working as it should. It will also let you know if your pet is testing his boundaries and will track your pet’s activity.

*Invisible Fence® is a registered trademark of Radio Systems, Inc.

As with all hidden dog fences, the “fence” part of the DogWatch SmartFence is created by burying a ‘boundary wire’ a few inches underground around your property. The buried wire carries a harmless, low level radio signal from a transmitter installed in your house or garage. Your pet wears a lightweight, waterproof receiver collar (SmartCollar) that recognizes the radio signal. As your pet approaches the buried wire, the receiver collar emits an audible warning signal. If your pet travels further, he will receive a mild but safe stimulation (also called a “correction”) from the receiver collar. Through a training program, your pet learns to recognize his fence boundaries and learns to stop at the warning signal.

In addition to the basic hidden fence, the SmartFence uses a special “communication portal” connected to your home Internet. The portal receives signals from both the transmitter installed in your house or garage and the receiver worn by your dog. These signals communicate information about the status of your hidden fence, your dog’s collar, and your dog’s activity. If the portal detects an issue, such as a break in the boundary wire or a low battery in the receiver collar, it triggers an alert which will be sent to you (and/or whoever else you designate) via pop-up notification and/or email.

Information from the SmartFence portal can be accessed using our SmartFence App on your mobile device or desktop computer. You can view the status of your SmartFence and any alerts, your pet’s activity, and if your pet has been challenging the boundary (i.e., if your pet has been triggering the audible alert.)

SmartFence

The Next Generation of Hidden Pet Fencing