Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your PetSafe In-Ground Fence System and its Expansion Kit. This system is designed to create a safe and secure boundary for your dog within your property. Please read all instructions carefully before beginning installation and training.
Important Safety Information
- Do not use this system on aggressive dogs.
- Ensure the collar fits properly and is not worn for more than 12 consecutive hours.
- Regularly check your dog's neck for irritation from the contact points.
- The system is intended for outdoor use. The transmitter should be installed in a dry, protected area.
- Always supervise your dog during initial training.
Package Contents
Your PetSafe In-Ground Fence System and Expansion Kit typically include the following components:
- Boundary Transmitter
- Receiver Collar with adjustable strap
- Boundary Wire (e.g., 150m/500ft, 20-gauge)
- Boundary Flags (e.g., 50 flags)
- Wire Connectors and Splice Kits
- Test Light Tool
- Operating Guide
Image Description: This image displays the main components of the PetSafe In-Ground Fence System, including the boundary transmitter, a red receiver collar, a spool of yellow boundary wire, and a stack of white boundary flags.
Image Description: This image shows the components of the PetSafe In-Ground Fence Expansion Kit, which includes a spool of yellow boundary wire, several white boundary flags, and orange wire connectors.
Image Description: This graphic highlights the contents of the expansion kit: 500 feet of wire, 50 boundary flags, 2 wire connectors, and 2 splice kits.
Setup
1. Plan Your Layout
Before installing, carefully plan the boundary layout for your yard. Consider areas you want your dog to access and areas to restrict. Avoid sharp corners in your wire layout to ensure optimal signal transmission.
For detailed planning guidance, refer to the official PetSafe planning tool: PetSafe Layout Planner.
2. Install the Transmitter
The transmitter should be installed in a dry, protected area, such as a garage or utility room. Ensure it is near a standard electrical outlet and away from large metal objects that could interfere with the signal.
- Mount the transmitter securely to a wall.
- Connect the boundary wire to the transmitter terminals.
- Plug the power adapter into the transmitter and then into an electrical outlet.
3. Bury the Boundary Wire
The boundary wire can be buried 1-3 inches deep or secured to the ground with staples. Ensure the wire forms a continuous loop back to the transmitter. Use wire connectors for any splices, ensuring they are waterproof.
- Dig a shallow trench along your planned boundary.
- Lay the wire carefully, avoiding kinks or damage.
- Cover the wire with soil.
- For expansion, connect additional wire using the provided splice kits.
The included wire is 20-gauge insulated wire, rated for direct burial, ensuring durability and longevity.
4. Place Boundary Flags
Place the boundary flags along the wire at intervals of approximately 3 meters (10 feet). These flags serve as visual cues for your dog during the training phase.
5. Fit the Receiver Collar
Proper collar fit is essential for the system to function correctly and for your dog's comfort.
- Place the collar on your dog's neck with the receiver positioned under the chin.
- Ensure the contact points touch your dog's skin. You may need to trim long-haired dogs.
- The collar should be snug enough that you can only fit one finger between the strap and your dog's neck.
Image Description: A husky dog wearing a PetSafe receiver collar, sitting next to a child in a grassy yard, demonstrating proper collar placement.
Operating the System
Receiver Collar Functions
The receiver collar is designed with multiple levels of correction to suit your dog's temperament and training needs:
- Tone Only Mode: Provides an audible warning tone as your dog approaches the boundary.
- Vibration Mode: Offers a gentle vibration as a warning.
- Static Stimulation Levels: 4 adjustable levels of safe static stimulation, increasing in intensity. These levels are used after the warning tone/vibration if the dog continues towards the boundary.
Adjust the stimulation level according to your dog's response during training. Start with the lowest level and increase only if necessary.
Dog Training
Effective training is crucial for the success of the in-ground fence system. Follow a structured training program, typically over 1-2 weeks, to teach your dog the boundaries.
- Begin with leash training, walking your dog along the boundary flags.
- Introduce the warning tone and praise your dog for retreating.
- Gradually introduce the static stimulation if the dog ignores the warning.
- Always end training sessions on a positive note.
Maintenance
Receiver Collar
- Battery Replacement: Replace the collar battery as indicated by the low battery indicator. Refer to the collar's specific instructions for battery type and replacement procedure.
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the collar and contact points with a damp cloth. Ensure the contact points are free of dirt or debris.
- Contact Point Check: Regularly inspect your dog's neck for any signs of skin irritation from the contact points. If irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a veterinarian.
Boundary Wire
- Wire Inspection: Periodically check the boundary wire for any breaks or damage, especially after heavy rain or ground disturbance.
- Repairing Breaks: If a wire break is detected, use the provided splice kits to repair it, ensuring a waterproof connection.
Troubleshooting
If your PetSafe In-Ground Fence System is not functioning as expected, consider the following common issues:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Collar not activating at boundary. | Low collar battery, wire break, transmitter off, collar not fitted correctly. | Replace battery, check wire for breaks, ensure transmitter is powered, adjust collar fit. |
| Dog crosses boundary. | Insufficient training, stimulation level too low, collar not working. | Reinforce training, increase stimulation level (if appropriate), check collar function. |
| False activations. | Wire too close to metal objects, signal interference. | Relocate wire away from metal, adjust boundary width on transmitter. |
If you continue to experience issues, please contact PetSafe Customer Support.
Specifications
- Wire Length: 150m (500ft) included, expandable with additional wire.
- Wire Gauge: 20-gauge insulated copper wire, rated for direct burial.
- Boundary Flags: 50 included.
- Collar Stimulation Levels: Tone only, Vibration, 4 Static Stimulation levels.
- Compatibility: Compatible with all PetSafe In-Ground Fence Systems for Medium to Large Dogs (e.g., PIG19-16412, PIG19-16413, PFR-3004XW-20, PCF-100-20).
Warranty
PetSafe products are covered by a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official PetSafe website for detailed warranty information and terms and conditions.
Support
For further assistance, troubleshooting, or to purchase replacement parts, please contact PetSafe Customer Support:
- Website: Visit the official PetSafe website (e.g., www.petsafe.net) for FAQs, support articles, and contact information.
- Phone: Refer to your product packaging or the PetSafe website for regional customer service phone numbers.
