Looking for the best underground dog fence system for your pup? Comparing Pet Stop and DogWatch, two popular brands, can help you decide.
This in-depth review covers key factors like reliability, safety, customization, and cost to determine the top choice for most dog owners.
Introduction
Underground dog fences use a wire buried around your yard connected to a collar receiver to keep dogs safely contained. When the dog approaches the boundary, the collar gives a warning beep followed by a safe static correction to deter crossing.
With proper training, these systems give dogs more freedom in the yard without unsightly fences. But if you’re choosing between Pet Stop vs DogWatch, how do you pick the right system?
We compared critical features like safety, reliability, training, and customization options to name the overall best underground dog fence for most owners.
Key Differences
Safety and Effectiveness
A top priority for any containment system is safely and effectively keeping your dog in the yard.
Both Pet Stop and DogWatch use digital signal technology to activate the correction collar when the dog reaches the boundary wire. This results in consistent, reliable operation.
DogWatch has a key advantage with its patented digital FM signal. FM eliminates interference so there’s no risk of false corrections due to stray signals.
DogWatch also offers more graduated correction levels, starting at extra-low for sensitive dogs. And the consistent distance-based correction reinforces training.
For high drive escape artists, DogWatch has more safety features like FastReact to prevent run-throughs. See how Dog Guard compares to Invisible Fence on containing determined dogs.
Customization and Expandability
Pet Stop offers 4 collar fit options while DogWatch has over 10 collar sizes to suit any dog comfortably.
DogWatch can support an unlimited number of dogs on one system. Pet Stop maxes out at 3 dogs.
For yards up to 200 acres, DogWatch has more flexible programming with over 8000 options to adjust range, correction levels, and modes for each dog individually. Pet Stop systems require a service call to adjust settings.
DogWatch also offers better expandability. You can add unlimited dogs, wire, and accessories whenever needed. Pet Stop has more limited expandability.
Training and Support
Both DogWatch and Pet Stop provide training guides to teach dogs the fence boundaries. DogWatch offers more personalized guidance with professional trainers available.
For DIY installation, DogWatch provides more helpful guidance like video tutorials. See SpotOn reviews for another option with professional installation included.
DogWatch also stands out with superior customer service from their US-based support team available 24/7 by phone or email. Pet Stop provides more limited customer service.
The largest nationwide network of DogWatch authorized dealers can also provide local professional installation and training. Pet Stop relies on big box retail distribution.
Cost and Warranty
Both systems carry premium price tags, but DogWatch systems start a little lower at $1000-1500 for the essential components. Pet Stop systems run $1500-2000+.
For the warranty, Pet Stop provides 2 years while DogWatch offers an industry-leading lifetime warranty on all components, including the wire.
Overall, DogWatch provides better value for the investment long-term. The lack of any recurring collars costs or need to replace the wire regularly saves you money.
Reviews and Reputation
DogWatch earns outstanding reviews from verified buyers:
- 4.8 out of 5 stars with over 330 reviews on Google
- 4.7 out of 5 stars with over 225 reviews on ConsumerAffairs
Top feedback praises the reliability, flexibility, and US-based customer support. Most describe the training as very effective for stubborn escape artists and the system as a “lifesaver.”
Pet Stop earns mixed reviews and ratings closer to 3 stars on average. The most common complaints involve bad customer service, faulty components, and poor reliability. There are also several injury reports.
DogWatch’s excellent reputation is further evidenced by their A+ BBB accreditation and Angie’s List Super Service awards. The brand has built trust through 25+ years specializing exclusively in pet fences.
Professional Installation Recommended
Due to the complexity, both Pet Stop and DogWatch recommend professional installation by authorized dealers. This ensures proper wiring and positioning for maximum containment.
Mistakes in DIY installation can leave coverage gaps where dogs escape, risking unsafe corrections. Compare Hallo vs Petsafe for pro install.
DogWatch dealers have the advantage of five levels of certification and being exclusively focused on pet fences. Pet Stop relies on big box employees who may lack specialized expertise.
Buying Considerations
- Look for flexible correction settings like DogWatch’s 8,000+ options to suit any temperament or environment.
- Consider GPS pet trackers without monthly fees like this Tabcat review for additional security.
- Make sure the collar receiver fits comfortably with full contact through the dog’s fur. DogWatch offers 10+ sizes.
- DogWatch provides professional installation and training for maximum effectiveness and safety.
- Pet Stop systems are only sold through PetSmart and PetCo locations. DogWatch provides local authorized dealers throughout the US and Canada.
- Unlike Pet Stop, DogWatch warranties the boundary wire for life. No need to incur costs replacing wire.
Our Recommendation
For most dog owners, DogWatch is the superior choice over Pet Stop. Key advantages like reliability, safety features, customization, expandability, and professional support make DogWatch hard to beat.
Pet Stop’s inconsistent performance and lack of key features for preventing escapes put your dog at greater risk. Severely limited tech support also frustrates many Pet Stop buyers.
While pricier upfront, DogWatch systems save money in the long run. The lifetime boundary wire and component warranties eliminate replacement costs down the road. The investment pays off with long-term, worry-free containment.
To find your local authorized DogWatch dealer and get a free quote, visit DogWatch.com. Their experts can match you with the right system and professional installation for fail-proof containment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best GPS trackers for cats?
For roaming cats, small GPS trackers from Tabcat, Tractive, and this Loc8tor review allow tracking without monthly fees.
How much does an underground dog fence cost installed?
A professionally installed underground dog fence system costs $1500 to $3000 on average depending on yard size and features. DIY installation brings the cost down to $1000 to $2000.
How effective are underground dog fences?
With proper training, underground dog fences are over 90% effective at containing dogs within the boundary. The collar gives a warning beep followed by a static correction if the dog continues toward the boundary wire. Most dogs quickly learn the new yard boundaries.
