PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence (PIG00-10777)
Pros
- Strongest correction strength available
- Compatible with other PetSafe collars
- Compatible with PetSafe indoor pods
Cons
- Non-rechargeable battery
- No battery backup for control box
Rating
Retail Price
$229.95
Our Price
$185.95
Availability: In Stock
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The Petsafe brand is owned by Radio Systems Corportation, owners of Invisible Fence (and also Innotek). The Large or Stubborn Dog Fence (PIG00-10777) is designed especially for hard to train dogs, but the system is also compatible with the other PetSafe inground collars so you can also use it with small dogs and more compliant dogs.
The principle appeal of the Stubborn Dog system is the higher correction level, three times higher than their regular collars. While a higher correction level may be necessary on some dogs, we worry that owners will use the higher correction level instead of properly training their dogs. We have noticed that many people think the correction level is not high enough, when the real problem is that they did not properly train their dogs in use of the fence. We would only use this system if you are positive your dog will not respond to a regular system (e.g. very large and very stubborn dogs), for 95% of dogs this is simply unnecessary.
You can use the PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence with all the PetSafe systems you can use it with their indoor pods (PIRF-100).
The PetSafe system (PIG00-10777) uses a regular 9 volt battery that you can get in a drugstore. It lasts about 3 months. While we would prefer a rechargable battery, at least it is not proprietary like most of the PetSafe batteries.
You get the PetSafe Limited Lifetime warranty, which is basically a real warranty for the first year then a discount on the repair bill in later years.
Summary: The PetSafe Large and Stubborn Dog Fence (PIG00-10777) is a useful tool where you have a dog that is not responsive to a regular correction. Just make sure you need it. For most of you it is not necessary.
Collar
The PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence has a large blocky collar, one of the larger system collars. The Stubborn Dog Collar would be too big for any dog under 20lbs, although there is no reason to purchase a collar with the power of the PetSafe Stubborn on a dog under 50lbs.
Five Correction LevelsThe Stubborn Dog has five correction levels. The correction level can be set for each collar individually, so each dog on the system can be on a different correction level. The correction level is set by removing the plastic protective cap on the collar with a coin, then pressing the button underneath. The unique feature of this collar is the strength of the correction. The highest level on the Stubborn Dog is three times higher than a regular system. That makes it took powerful for most dogs.
Status Light The PetSafe Stubborn has a light that tells you when the collar is functioning properly and when the batteries are low and require replacing.
Compatibility with Other PetSafe Collars The PetSafe stubborn dog collar is compatible with all current PetSafe InGround systems. So you could use a Stubborn Dog Collar on a PetSafe Little Dog system and vice versa.
Disposable Generic 9V Battery The collar is powered by a regular 9V battery that you can get from most drug stores and supermarkets. Not as good as a rechargeable battery, but much better than the proprietary batteries on the other PetSafe models. Expect about three months out of each battery. The collar is replaced by removig four screws on the back of the collar.
Regular Prongs The PetSafe Stubborn dog comes with only the regular collar prongs standard. In the past, interchangeable long prongs were included in the box, but as of November 2009 they are no longer included. You can however purchase the compatible Perimeter Technologies long probes ($9) if you need something for a long hair dog.
Control Box
The PetSafe Stubborn uses the same control box as the PetSafe PRF-3004W. The control box is wall mountable and includes the usual basic controls:
- Boundary Width Control – adjusts how wide the boundary radiates from the boundary wire
- Boundary Control Switch – used to set up the system for boundaries under 1,300 feet, 1,300-2,400, and over 2,400 feet. The unit is capable of doing a total of 3,000 feet (10 acres).
Loop Indicator Light – to let you know that the loop is unbroken and operational - Power Light – neato!
Boundary Kit
The system includes in the box:
500 feet of boundary wire (20 gauge), sufficient for 1/3 of an acre
50 boundary flags – used to mark the boundary line during the initial training phase
2 Waterproof splices – for joining segments of the boundary wire
Extra boundary kits for larger installations can purchase it in our online store ($30 per 500 feet). You can also upgrade to the slightly thicker 18 gauge boundary wire if you wish
Instruction Manual
The system comes with an instruction manual. Prior to November 2009 is came with a training DVD, but alas this is no longer.
Indoor Zones
The Stubborn Dog, along with all other PetSafe inground systems, is compatible with the PetSafe indoor zones (PIRF-100). This plug in unit, about the size of a dinner plate, plugs into a wall socket in your house and creates a circular barrier around itself, preventing the dog from coming near. (adjustable from 2-10 feet) You can use it to keep the dog out of a room or off a sofa.
Warranty
PetSafe systems come with a limited lifetime warranty – a gimmicky phrase, that means you get a real one year warranty, then a discounted repair in subsequent years.
Back in the day, Invisible Fence set their systems up to be STRONG. The idea was to knock the dog off it’s feet and stop them even thinking about getting near that boundary. It worked.
But, as the kids keep telling me we live in more enlightened times. We’ve won the won the war on poverty, the war on drugs, the war on war. Well, at least dog fences have changed for the better. Even old timers like me realize that you don’t need all that power. Instead of trying to overpower the dog, we are now just trying to refocus their energy. If a dog is in a highly aroused state because they are focused on that squirrel, all we need to do is correct them with enough energy to refocus their attention on their boundary rules. With the training dogs don’t need as much correction.
Imagine you attention was diverted by a physically alluring specimen of the opposite (or same) sex or if you are my age … a cheesecake. To regain your attention I wouldn’t need to crash tackle you to the ground and triumphantly stand aloft, thumping a tribal rhythm on my bared chest. A tap on the shoulder, although considerably less exciting, would suffice.
Which brings me to the PetSafe Stubborn Dog system. This is going to be a lot more powerful than most of you need. All you need to do is be consistent with the training and your dog will obey. More power is rarely the answer. Two exceptions:
High Pain Tolerance Breeds – some breeds were bred for high pain tolerance. e.g. Pit Bulls, Bull Dogs, German Shepherds (although the later tend to be easily trained)
Really Large Dogs – if you have to ask if your dog is real large, it isn’t. Think well north of 100 lbs. Mastiff, Great Dane.
Even in those categories, most of the time this is going to be more correction capacity than you need. So when using the Stubborn Dog, start low and only work your way up if the dog is unresponsive to the lower levels.
Stubborn Dog … I’ve been called of worse.
Stewart Aldous
| Model | PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence PIG00-10777 |
| Type | In Ground |
| Collar Battery | Disposable – 9V |
| Correction Levels | 5 Levels |
| Beep Only Training Mode | Yes |
| Collar Warning beep | Yes |
| Collar Vibration | Yes |
| Independent Correction Levels | Yes |
| Collar Dimensions | 2.5” (L) x 1.5” (W) x 1.5″ (D) |
| Collar Neck Size | ?” – ??” |
| Collar Water Resistance | Waterproof |
| Collar Fit Test | Yes |
| Maximum Number of Dogs | Unlimited |
| Minimum Dog Size | 20 lbs |
| Minimum Age | 6 months |
| Maximum Containment Area | 10 acres (5,000 feet) |
| Boundary Width | 0-10 feet (adjustable) |
| Control Box Dimensions | 4.8” (L) x 4.3” (W) x 2“ (D) |
| Control Box Power Source | Wall Outlet (110V) |
| Control Box Battery Backup | No |
| Indoor Pod Compatibility | Yes – PIRF-100 |
| Outdoor Pod Compatibility | No |
| Included Boundary Wire | 500 feet + 2 wire Splices |
| Included Boundary Flags | 50 |
| Training Materials | DVD + Manual |
| Other | Boundary tester |
| Package Dimensions | 12” (L) x 6” (W) x 2.5″ (D) |
| Package Weight | 6 lbs |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
For the Petsafe Stubborn Dog Fence Manual click here. (PDF)
{ 45 comments… read them below or add one }
My question is I have a big mastiff rhott that can be aggressive but is allright at knowing her boundaries and mostly lays around, but we have a church next door and a dumb neighbor with kids and they tie a dog up out there she dont like.. i wanna use minumum volts obviously but afraid she will run ouy of yard. I sthis system the better choice? I cannot afford a real fence so electric is the way to go for me. What would you advise?
We have a 3 yr old, energetic Weimaraner, neutered, loves people. We are moving to a home with no fence and are curious about the invisible fence option. We’ve gone through dog training twice and also private lessons and he is definitely stubborn about some things, like walking on a leash. Regardless of method (choke, pinch, gentle leader, harness, shock collar) he will not stop pulling. He has a very strong prey drive for squirrels, cats and birds. He does “sit”, usually “comes,” and will stay for short minutes. What would be your opinion on an invisible fence for him? We never leave him out when we are gone and we do exercise him a lot but it would be nice to turn him out on his own for potty breaks or laying in the sunshine.
ADMIN – Hi Donald,
As long as you are diligent about the training (15 min, 2-3 times a day for two weeks), containment is rarely an issue even for harder to train and strong prey drive dogs. The method of training, where the dog is first instructed what to do, immediately rewarded for obeying and immediately corrected for disobeying is really effective.
If there are special temptations like cats or neighborhood dogs, I would spend a little time using a neighbour’s cat (or dog) working on those distractions to be sure he learns that the rules apply even when he is in an excited state, but I think you will be fine.
Just remember this is one of those things where regular diligent training for those first two weeks really pays off. You will get many long afternoons together in the sunshine as a reward!
I have a small dog (10 pounds) and was wondering if this system would be too much for her?
ADMIN – Hi Angie,
This would be much too strong for her. The petsafe small dog would be a much better choice. The collar and correction strength are more appropriate to a small dog.
I am very interested in this system for my 6mo M pit. He is extremely social, and would only be free to roam while we were home (kennel time while at work). We also have a 2yr F yorkie/pom who rules the yard with an iron paw. Is there a system that works with two different collars. Could I get this stubborn collar for the pit and the small dog collar for the yorkie with the same transmitter and wire?
ADMIN – Hi Brian,
You can mix-and-match any of the current PetSafe in-ground dog fence system collars with this system. A good choice for the Yorkie would be the Petsafe little dog collar.
I am just getting a Great Dane puppy and am wondering if this is the right fence for that dog. Also when should I start training him, he’s currently only 8 weeks old and 20 lbs now but will be 150+lbs in a year or so.
ADMIN – Hi Bill,
This system is a good choice for a Great Dane given their size. I would however start on one of the lower correction levels, while they are big dogs they tend to be pretty compliant and most will not need the higher levels.
When to start the dog on the training is more a function of their cognitive abilities rather than their size. You want a dog that can focus on the training. I like to start them at six months. I am reluctant to start them earlier, but will do it if the dog can comfortably do a “sit”, “stay”, and “come.”
Hi Guys,
I have two dogs: German Shepard and Black Lab, both like to chase deer to my neighbors dislike now. They have run free for 3 years. I have 8 acres and there is 300 acres around me woods and open fields. Would the PetSafe for Large Stubborn dogs work? Fencing the back and side would require over a 1000 foot of fencing, not a small investment $$$.
Thank you,
Phil
ADMIN – Hi Phil,
The PetSafe Stubborn would be a good choice for the German Shepard. They can have very high pain thresholds and some German Shepards will need a strong correction for them to even notice. The Lab doesn’t need a Stubborn Dog Collar. You could use one of the regular PetSafe collars (e.g. PetSafe Deluxe) on him, or the Stubborn Collar (turned down to low).
I have a large boxer shephard mix (8 months) and a medium pittbull, lab, weiner mix. We bought this system inntially for the pittbull mix, and it works great for her. The boxer mix, however, we are having a harder time with. We’ve tried 3 different petsafe collars with him, and the correction “zap” doesn’t affect him. We bought the stubborn dog collar today, which uses the 9 volt battery, and he still doesn’t act like he feels it. We even used the longer prongs. I would appreciate any help you have to offer.
ADMIN – Hi Amy,
The boxer german shehard mix probably has a high pain tolerance so it could be that. But my leading hypothesis is that the prongs aren’t making contact with the skin. I would thin out the hair a little with scissors then put the collar on the dog, then use your finger to move hair out of the way till you see prong to skin contact.
I am considering getting the PetSafe Stubborn for my German Sheppard mix. With these systems, is the shock progressive as they get closer to the boundry line? Or does it start once they break that line and stop as soon as they have passed it? I’m just wondering if my dog will put up with the shock for a second and break free.
Thank you,
Connie
ADMIN – Hi Connie,
Hi Connie,
The stubborn is not progressive. The correction starts a few feet before the dog gets to the wire, and continues for a few feet after (you set how far). Properly trained, the dog will not run through because they will not realize they can run through, you will teach them that the only way to escape the correction is to retreat.
I have the stubborn dog in-ground fence system, and am wondering if the collar from my system will work with the petsafe wireless system?
Thanks for your help!
ADMIN – Hi Kim,
It will not work with the wireless. It will work with any current Petsafe in-ground fence.
I am thinking of putting in the petsafe stubborn fence. However I only need to fence my front boundary and don’t like the idea of having a double loop going across my front boundary and front drive way (concrete) as this then means digging two tracks in order to get back to my transmitter. 2 wires across the driveway isnt ideal. Am I right that to loop back I will have 2 runs of the wire a few feet apart as otherwise there will be interference. Any way around this and stopping possible interference?
ADMIN – Hi Nick,
Unfortunately, you are either going to need to double back on yourself (six feet apart), or run the wire around the entire perimeter. I am afraid there is no avoiding having a complete loop.
Hi,
I have a foxhound that I got as a rescue dog. We currently have the petsafe collar fence system that is not for stubborn dogs. She has been trained on the system and will follow it most of the time, but still gets out when she wants to roam the neighborhood (about 1/week). She can jump fences about 5 feet high and appears to just be running through the shock. Would this be a good choice for her?
Thanks,
Jackie
ADMIN – Hi Jackie,
Most of the time for an issue like that it is (a) training, (b) the collar is not on right so the dog is getting the correction. The next thing I turn to is the correction being insufficient. When the dog is going through the field
I have 2 pitbulls. They both lesson very well, but they have high pain tolerance. And they will chase a cat or people walking down the road if they think they are to close. What kinda of fence ( other than chain link) would you recomend? I really want them to be outside with out me. Is there a fence that will keep shocking them after they have crossed the line? And what kinda of cost would be normal for this type?
ADMIN – Hi Zack,
The PetSafe Stubborn dog is the best choice for a pitbull. I would not assume however that they need the high settings, and would start low. With the training, you should be able to get them contained, but as always you are going to want to test them and make sure they are compliant even when there are strong temptations.
All the in-ground fences only correct the dog for a set width on either side of the wire and will not correct the dog indefinitely, hence the importance of training.
A properly trained dog thinks the only way to escape the correction is to turn and retreat. Cost is $186 for the system and $70 for an extra collar.
i have the regular petsafe sytem for my two labs but now have a malmamute huskie and the reg collar doesnt seem to even phaze him, he actually lays down right where the wire is buried and i checked to make sure the collar works and it is working, any ideas?
ADMIN – Hi Larry,
Hi Larry,
I strongly suspect problem is the dog not getting the correction because the prongs are not making contact with the skin. Both the malamute and husky are very sensitive to the correction, even on low they will not like it and will let you know. However, with that thick coat and undercoat you need to be careful in fitting the collar to make sure you actually do get contact between the probes and the skin. If you don’t have the long probes, you should get them. Then, trim a little fur with scissors (just a little), put the collar on, and use your fingers to move the fur so you are getting contact. It will be tricky the first few times. The collar also needs to be tight enough that it stays in place, a good rule of thumb is that you should be able to slip in two fingers, but not three.
FOLLOW UP QUESTION – will the stronger petsafe stubborn shock collar help?
ADMIN – Using a higher strength collar will not help if there is no contact. It will also be completely necessary for a husky. You really want to keep it on medium or low for them. They have a reputation for stubbornness, but they are very pain sensitive critters.
I have a the stubborn fence. Had it for a year now and my German Shepard is now going thru we trained him I though very well he had never gone thru until now. We cant keep him in now its on max. Any ideas for a dog that was trained and did well and now for some reason has stopped noticing the shock. Please any suggestions. I couldnt say enough good things about this fence I loved it until now but I dont blame the fence I just want to enjoy it again like I did before.
ADMIN – Hi JJ,
Two likely culprits. The first and most common reason is that we start to be less careful when we put on the collar so we are not getting contact with the dog’s skin, and thus the dog is no longer getting the correction. It takes a while for the dog to notice there is no correction but now that he has learned he basically ignores the beeping and vibrating. The second reason, is that the collar is not working any longer or the correction is not properly set. You can test this for yourself by using the tester that came with the system to make sure the correction is still working.
I’m considering this fence over the sportdog because of the ability to match different sized dogs. We plan on getting a golden retriever and a cockapoo (or other similar sized dog). We live on 5 acres and plan on above ground applications. Would this be the best system? Also there are areas were farm tractors might run over the cable, can we have some areas above ground and some areas underground? Or would it just be best to bury it all?
ADMIN – Hi Craig,
You can have some sections above ground and other sections below ground. It is not a big deal. The only thing to watch out for is that it makes the boundary a little thinner in the areas you bury it compared to the unburied section, so set your boundary width accordingly. The Stubborn is the better choice for your situation because of the ability to mix in the other PetSafe collars. The stubborn collar would work well on the retriever (but you should keep it on the low settings and get the long prongs); and you can use either a PetSafe Little Dog collar on the cockapoo. A SportDog SDF-100 collar would be too big for the cockapoo.
I have an Anatolian Shepherd who has decided that even when we are outside in the yard with him and have a neighbor dog over playing with him, the Newfoundland puppy across the street looks like more fun and zip, zip, bang! He’s gone over the fence to the neighbors. Is this the system for us? He’s a sweet dog, but not very mentally mature yet and I’m afraid he will get hit by a car.
ADMIN – Hi Mary,
The stubborn dog system is the best choice for an Anatolian, many of them need a strong correction to refocus their attention back to the boundary once they have something else (like the neighbour’s puppy) in their heads. They are definately harder to train than say a lab, but it is very doable. Just be consistent with your training, and you should get good results.
We have taken in a Boxer for a friend for the next 2 years. We have an acre of land that is fenced in but she constantly gets out of the yard. I have to assume she’s climbing or jumping the fence since there are no holes in at the fence. She’s 3 years old, weighs about 80 lbs, is very stubborn and does not respond to any commands or training. We have been cited by the city twice because of the leash laws. She is now on a 25′ dog run which doesn’t give her much room for exercise, and she’s always getting tangled in bushes, trees, etc. Invisible fencing may be our only option. Do you think the PetSafe Stubborn Fence is the right option? Will it work for a dog that climbs fences? How easy is it to install?
ADMIN – Hi Tamara,
The PetSafe stubborn is a good choice for a boxer. They can be less sensitive to the correction, but are otherwise easy to train. The climbing will not be an issue, because we are going to stop her from getting too close to the fence, and she certainly won’t have time to attempt an ascent of Mount Fencistan. Installation is easy if you already have a fence in place. Just attach the wire to the existing fence using staples, or zip ties, then get right into training.
We inherited a 8-10 mo. sheperd/great dane mix puppy in the fall. We put up chain link fence at the cost of $5,000 to keep him in the yard, not really knowing anything about his past. He has now discovered he can jump the fence and does it every time he is outside. We have had to put him back onto a long tether. There is an elementary school down the road from us and although he’s never been violent with us, he has inflicted some substantial scratches/bruises on us from his toenails while being playful. Is it feasible to place a wireless fence under or adjacent to a chain link? and would he be a good candidate for this type of fence?
Thanks
ADMIN – Hi Sandy,
I would run the containment fence wire along the chain link fence (you can either weave if through the chain links, or zip tie it in place). The PetSafe Stubborn is a good choice for a German Shepherd / Great Dane Mix, the size and low pain sensitivity of the German make it useful to have the higher correction levels of the Stubborn (although you may find you don’t need it). If you do the training regularly I think you will be pleased with your results.
We have two, 2 year old English Mastiff siblings that weigh approx. 180 lbs.
We want to contain them in the back yard from eating our shrubs and flowers.
Looking for advice on the best system. Wireless would be cool, but doesn’t appear as reliable as underground. Thanks
ADMIN – Hi Rick,
Definitely the PetSafe Stubborn. With that weight and breed, you are likely to need the higher strength correction levels of the Stubborn.
Avoid the wireless dog fence systems, they really aren’t very reliable. The wired systems are a bit more work for the installation but you will be glad you did it.
I am getting ready to install my stubborn dog fence. I would like to know if i need to make any additional steps or parts for having the system protected from lighting thanks
ADMIN – Hi Chris,
You need to add in the lightning protection module, to protect the system if lightning strikes the boundary wire. The module acts like a fuse and protects the system in case a surge of electricity comes back through the wire.
This video shows you how to hook up the lightning protection: http://www.dogfencediy.com/installation/mounting-box/
This is where you can get the module: http://dogfencediy.com/store/accessories/lightning-protection.html
Hello, we plan on installing the stubborn dog system soon. My questions is about the wire used. We have 10ac and would like to fence as much as we can. We will be installing above ground with stakes. Q: Can I use any type of wire, and if so is stranded better than solid, also, is copper mandatory or can aluminum/stainless steel work with the fences?
Hi Mike,
You can use pretty much any copper wire that is insulated. I would not use steel or aluminum they are not great conductors compared to copper. Stranded and solid core wire both work. Solid is slightly better than stranded because it will not corrode as fast if the insulation gets compromised .. but the difference is not enough to justify getting the solid core if you already have stranded.
The PetSafe Stubborn is good to 10 acres, but when you are close to the limit, I like to go up to a higher capacity system. Consider the SportDog SDF-100, it is good to 100 acres and is effectively the same price when you factor in the extra wire it contains. It is also compatible with the PetSafe Stubborn collars if you need them for some of your dogs.
I live on a rural unfenced acreage and have a 3 year old Siberian Husky. He is friendly and can be sociable but does not come when called when he is outdoors(he knows the fun would end) and if allowed would run loose and play unsafely all hours of the night. We have tried a hand me down “shock collar” in the past and he has not even responded (though was not formally trained). I have hopes he would respond to training and the stubborn pet fence though am concerned that even with training he may impulsively run “through” the fence line in order to chase a rabbit or go socialize with a visiting dog. How likely is it for a fence-trained, but stubborn dog to run “through” the fence impulsively? Thanks, Kelly
ADMIN – Hi Kelly,
Huskies tend to be very sensitve to the correction. If the collar worked, the likely culprit was the prongs not being in proper contact with the dog’s skin. Without contact with the skin, the dog does not feel anything. This is particularly trick on a husky with their thick undercoat. You may want to trim some fur with scissors. Then attach the collar so that you can only slip in two fingers. Then use your fingers to move the fur out of the way so you can actually feel the prongs contacting the skin. Then the next time you need to use the training collar for correction, I think you will get a very different reaction.
The Innotek IUC-4100 and IUC-5100 have a nice little feature that lets you know if the collar is fitted correctly that is very useful with “big fur” dogs.
You will not need the power of the Stubborn with a Husky. While they are stubborn dogs, they also tend to be big babies and tend to be very sensitive to the correction. If you do use the Stubborn, it is very important that you keep it turned down. Many times, the dog is not getting the correction because the prongs aren’t contacting, so people crank up the power to full. Then randomly the collar prongs are touching the dog and it gets a really big correction that is completely inappropriate for a sensitive dog like husky.
A properly trained do will not realize they can run through the fence. When you do the two weeks of training, it is rare that a dog is not properly contained even under extreme temptation (like a cat for a husky).
We have a Husky and will be installing a fence soon. Huskies can be stubborn and need to be contained for there own safety. I’ve seen the Petsmart Stubborn fence in stores. Petsmart uses a Husky on the box. See that and knowing our dog we thought the stubborn fence was needed. After reading these comments and your answers.I think is my not be the best breed to show on there box. Thanks
ADMIN – Hi Mark,
Completely agree. I think changing the picture on the box would be a good idea. Also, I would rename it the “PetSafe Low Sensitivity Fence” (catchy isn’t it). Stubborn is misleading, because a high powered color is really for dogs that have a high pain threshold. It is not that these dogs are stubborn, just that their genetics are such that they do not feel the correction when it is on low settings.
I have 2 english mastiffs, about 160 and 175lbs. I have seen the recomendation of this fence for them but they are so skiddish I am concerned too strong. The female turns the the other direction when i walk her way, and often will do the same even if I am holding a milk bone. The male is not much better. They are large but not at all aggressive. Thanks for your input.
ADMIN – Hi Kevin,
My concern with some of these bigger guardian breed is not that they are aggressive, so much as that they are often breed to be very pain tolerant or to have a very low sensitivity to the pain. These dogs often will not feel anything. They aren’t being aggressive they just aren’t feeling anything significant enough to refocus their attention. You will sometimes find the meekest and shyest dogs that have low sensitivity just not reacting to the correction.
The closest test is their response to other painful situations. If you have ever observed them accidentally running into something, or have accidentally trod on a tail or paw.
As the owner, you will have much better instincts about your dogs than us. So if you think they are going to sensitive, start the correction down low and work your way up if you need to. I would still suggest the Stubborn system. You don’t need to use all that power, but it will be useful if you need it. You could also go with another system, and if it is not powerful enough we would be happy to exchange it within the first 30 days. It should be very clear once you start the second week of training whether the correction level is.
And of course with a skittish dog, always be extra careful during the training to exercise confident leadership. And make sure they don’t get overwhelmed during the training. Don’t let them get more than one correction a day, and make it fun using more positive reinforcement than negative.
Does the Stubborn system have a vibration setting? Also, does it beep when the dog gets close to the boundary?
Thank you!
ADMIN – Hi Jasmine,
The PetSafe Stubborn both beeps and vibrates to warn the dog as they approach the boundary.
I am thinking of one of these systems for my new house. We will be on 5 acres unfenced in a rural horse area…. I want to ‘dog fence’ area of about 3 1/2 acres… my question is are these systems a continuous wire underground? this seems cumbersome for such a large setting?
ADMIN – Hi Christine,
The system does indeed require a continuous loop of wire starting and ending at the base station. The wire does not however need to be underground. You only really need to bury it in mowed areas to protect the wire from the lawnmower. Many people will staple the wire to the ground in say wooded areas or attach the wire to a fence where there is one available.
I was thinking about buying a PSDF-HD+ Petsafe Stubborn Dog Fence since I have a dog that eats holes through our fence and has climbed out our windows by punching out the screen (when we left the window open by mistake). If I run the ground wire in the front of my house adjacent to a window (where I have a problem with my dog trying to get out of it), what is the distance that it transmits off of the wire. I’m wondering if this would prevent my door from getting near the window inside the house or will the dog not get a shock until he reaches the wire line outside the window. If this is the case, then I need to get an indoor reciever, right?
Same thing applies to me placing the wire on the exterior (outside- near street) part of the fence. Would the dog not even want to approach the fence or should I place the wire inside the interior fence to make it more effective? Please advise. Thanks
ADMIN – You can set the distance the signal transmits from the wire by adjusting a dial at the control box. Usually you will set it so that the dog gets the correction 3-5 feet from the boundary wire. By running the wire close to the front of your house you could set up the system so that it stops getting near the front walls or windows.
Generally, I would put the wire on the fence itself. This is generally a lot easier than running it inside the interior, since you can just zip-tie it in place instead of burying it.
I was wondering if this system would be appropriate for getting rid of my wife’s cat. Weighing in at approximately seven pounds, I am hoping that by placing the collar firmly around the cat’s neck and setting it to a maximum correction level that it will induce cardiac arrest upon being triggered. Is this system powerful enough to accomplish this task?
ADMIN – Hi Stephen,
I regret we have little experience in the ancient art of feline assassination. I would urge caution, both cat and wife are species known to be vengeful.
Hi! Thanks for all of the great info so far! We are thinking of installing this fence, but have one concern. Is this system able to have 3 dogs within it’s boundaries and so till work properly? We have 2 Great Dane/Doberman super mutts and a little chocolate lab. I understand we will have to train each dog to get the proper results. Just wondered if 3 is okay. Thanks!
ADMIN – Hi JW,
You can get as many dogs as you want on all the wired systems including the PetSafe Stubborn without performance being affected.
I have an eight month old Newfoundland. She is always chasing birds out of the yard. I want the wireless fence but didn’t know if this would be to much or if I should use the PIF 300. She can also be stubborn, but it could just be that she is a puppy. Thank you
ADMIN – Hi Cortney,
With a newfie, you rarely need a lot of correction strength, while your pup may be stubborn it is likely they will be sensitive to the correction. You can certainly use this unit, just start with the correction level on the medium-low setting, I doubt you will need to go much higher than that. If possible I would avoid the wireless systems like the PIF-300. You will be much happier with the results from wired systems and it should also be a little more economical.
I have a 1 yr old pit mix that jumps 6 foot fences like they are nothing. Ive been tethering her but she gets herself tangled and somehow manages to break every type of tether ive found. We are going to be moving in a few weeks and i would like to install an electric fence. She is going to have a Dog Run at the new house so i would like to put the electric fence around that, but also i would like to put it around the whole front a backyard so she can come outside with me when i am home, would that be possible on one system, like go around the whole property in one loop then do a smaller second loop within it? I know she then would have to stay out of the dog run when she out with me but thats not a problem.
ADMIN – Hi Chelsea,
You can have two concentric loops, one within the other, just be sure the parallel sections of each loop are more than six feet apart and join the two loops using the twisted wire.
We installed the stubborn dog system about 5 years ago. I’m having problems with one of the dogs running through it, though I don’t know where. Could the system be compromised somewhere, somehow–or this this dog just getting smarter. Does the transformer ever need replacing? The collar batteries are new.
What is the life limit of the system? We have lost phones, modems and other electrical appliances due to lightning surges–could this be a problem?
ADMIN – Hi Carol,
The first step will be for us to figure out if the system is still working. Take the collar near the boundary and see if it still beeps. Then check if it still gives a correction. If you still have the tester use that. Otherwise turn the collar down to low and find a sucker that will test it for you!
We have a rot. and bichon mix (17lbs). Can we put a weaker collar on the bichon then the one that comes with the system? What would you suggest?
ADMIN – Agreed, the PetSafe Stubborn is a good choice for a Rotweiller but not so much for a Bichon Frise. You can add a weaker and smaller PetSafe collar to the Stubborn system and it will work fine. The Bichon breed stradles the border between two systems, if they are under 12 lbs I would use a PetSafe Little Dog Collar. If they are over 12 lbs I would use a PetSafe Deluxe collar. Since your Bichon is 17lbs, I would would go with the PetSafe Deluxe collar. The collar is a little bigger than the PetSafe Little Dog but the batteries on that collar are $4 (vs. $10) and last about 50% longer.
Hi there, I have a male pitbull who turned 1 yr back in January. He is 100% spirit, energy, happiness and muscle! I originally was looking at the Innotek 4100 until I noticed that the PetSafe Stubborn was more along the lines for a pit. My question is, that although he is extremely strong and quite pain intolerant, he is a HUGE baby and is very afraid of any kind of loud noise ie. lawn mower, vaccuum, diesel trucks etc. I think that the Innotek 4100 would work simply for the reason that he would quickly turn the other way and run from the fence until the buzzing stopped but I am still worried that he could and would run right through…. What do you think my best choice would be? (I like Innotek the best)
ADMIN – Hi Katie,
With a Pitbull, I nearly always go with a PetSafe Stubborn. Keep the level down at about medium to start. From your description, I think he should be trainable at the lower correction levels, but if for some reason he is not feeling it and needs a bit more correction, then you will be glad we have that extra strength in reserve.
The Innotek is a good system, but the correction level is sometimes just too low for dogs like Pitbulls that have been bred to be very sturdy and insensitive to pain. The PetSafe is a little cheaper too, which is always good!
Hi! I have been reading the reviews and am on the “fence” haha about what fence to get. I have a 2 month old husky and am glad to know they are generally very sensitive to these systems! I cant make out from the comments whether the regular system is enough or the stubborn system on low (for the option of higher settings) is correct. I live on a mountain with lots of other small critters about. I also have 3 gardens that i’m sure he would love to dig in. I’m pretty sure these systems have ways to keep them out? At least the inground ones? The wireless ones I dont think have that option? Thanks!
ADMIN – Hi Laura,
With all the wired systems you can run additional boundary wire in small islands to protect the garden beds. The Innotek Ultrasmart IUC-4100/5100 also lets you add wireless pods that you can position in the garden beds to keep the dogs out. You are right that the wireless systems can’t be used to keep the dogs out of small subsections within the main containment area, they are also not a great choice for mountainous terrain.
I have a five year old St. Bernard. We live in the country and our yard is about 5 acres, surrounded by woods. When the dog sees an animal or deer he darts through the woods and does not stop. He also will run to the neighbor’s house through the woods every time he is not changed. We really want to keep him safely in the yard. I am torn between the stubborn dog fence and the innotek 4100, and the ultrasmart contain and train, because teh like the idea of having a remote with is system but I really don’t know if the collar will suit my 160lb dog. I like teh idea of the stubborn dog because it seems as though the collar is stronger. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated before I make the purchase.. Thank You, Stephanie
ADMIN – Hi Stephanie,
With a St Bernard, I think the stronger stubborn collar would be the better choice. The dogs are just so big, you often find that you need the stronger collar – because they just aren’t feeling the regular strength collars. I would start the collar at about medium, and then adjust up or down as needed after you observe the reaction after the first correction.
I have a 3 year old English Setter that loves to run his heart out. He has recently learned how to get to the road and I was wondering if this would be the best way to keep him from doing that? Is it too late to train him since he isn’t a puppy? Also, will he obey it (not cross it) because he want stop to anyones commands once he starts after something? Thanks
ADMIN – Hi Emily,
Training an adult dog is no problem, the dogs are highly motivated to learn the boundary rules so they can avoid the correct. Training hunting breeds like an English Setter tend to be straight forward. You can train a dog not to cross even when extremely excited or even when there is a very strong temptation on the other side of the fence, because the desire to avoid the correction tends to be much stronger than the lure of whatever is on the other side.
The problem owners have when trying to restrain a running dog is that they have no leverage – the fence helps you give the dog a consequence for disobeying.
PS – If there is something that is a particularly strong lure for the dog – then use that as part of the final part of training to make sure that the fence holds even when the dog is really tempted. It is pretty easy to train the dog out of crossing the fence when say chasing a squirrel early in the process, it gets harder if they get in the habit of doing it.
I have a 4-year old German Shepherd that until now has been very passive. We have a standard privacy fence. Recently our dog has dug under the fence, chewed through the fence and busted through the 2×4 ’s. I feel that an electric fence is our next step to protect our dog. My question is related to using the gate to remove the dog or use the back yard. If we electronically surround the back yard, how do we get the dog to go through the gate for a walk? Does this not confuse the animal. Our dog loves to go for walks, but we would have to go through that one gate. Please HELP!
ADMIN – Hi Emily,
Once you have got the dog trained on the fence, and you are confident that he is safely contained (2-4 weeks) – we will train him so that he understands it is ok to go through the fence when you give permission. For details see “Dog Fence Training –> Walking Your Dog”
In the first few weeks when you are training the dog, if possible don’t let the dog go through the fence at all – we want to make it a really simple clear cut rule that is easy for him to learn. If you want to walk him for those first few week – I suggest you just take off the collar and drive him over the boundary.
Hi. We have a 3 yr. old male cocker spaniel, and will be getting a large male lab pup in July. The cocker weighs about 27 lbs right now. We cannot decide between the Stubborn dog (for the price) and the deluxe system. Which would you recommend?
Thank you!
ADMIN – Hi Pamela,
The stubborn is going to be a bit too big and a bit too strong for a cocker spaniel. I would use a deluxe collar with the Spaniel.
The stubborn would be fine on the lab – just keep it on the lower levels. It is not only cheaper, but also uses a non-proprietary battery, so will be cheaper in the long run.
So perhaps get a Stubborn system, and add a deluxe collar for the cocker spaniel.
My dog is an 8yr old lab mix, about 50 pounds. We put in the stubborn dog fence around our existing fence. I worked with him, doing the suggested training. He know where the boundary is and what those white flags mean, he even know that when the collar is on him then the shock is on. Even with it on level 5 and the boundary up to 7 he is till climbing over the chain link gate and getting out. Any suggestions, cause at this point I don’t know what else to do. I know that shock hurts him I have seen it!!
ADMIN – Hi Lindsey,
My suspicion is that your lab mix dog is not receiving the full correction, meaning that the collar probably isn’t getting solid contact with your dog’s skin. I suggest thinning the fur with scissors and using the long probes if you don’t already have them on. As for getting the right fit, you should only be able to place one finger width between the collar strap and your dog’s neck, but no more than that.
Hi,
I have two dogs: A German Shepard-Lab-Husky mix that is about 80 lbs and has a high pain threshold. He loves to run and chase every critter he can find. The other is a pure German Shepard that is about 90 lbs, has a low pain tolerance, and is very obedient. I’m mainly looking for a system that will help contain the mix, as he is the only one that wanders off the property. I have a couple questions:
1. How does the ‘Stubborn’ correction level compare to the ‘IUC 4100′? For ex. is the highest level on the ‘4100′ similar to the mid-level for ‘Stubborn’. I’m fairly sure I should get the ‘Stubborn’ to be safe, but I’m not sure.
2. My plan is to have only one dog (the mix) with a collar, while the other dog is free to roam beyond the boundary. While he rarely if ever would wander, I’m wondering if this is advisable as it could confuse the other dog.
3. If I do go with the ‘4100′ system, and I find the correction level too low, can I purchase a ‘Stubborn’ collar to use with the ‘4100′ transmitter?
Thanks so much for your help! This site is fantastic!
Thanks
ADMIN – Hi Erik,
1. The Stubborn Dog has 5 levels. Level 1 is warning beep only and levels 2 through 5 are warning beep plus correction. Level 5 on the Stubborn Dog is 3 times higher in correction than the high level on the Innotek 4100 system.
2. As long as your dog is trained well, he should not get confused. You may need to have training sessions where you walk the other dog through the boundary and tell your other dog “no”. In other words, train your dog from getting distracted with your other dog leaving the boundary.
3. Unfortunately, no. The Innotek and PetSafe systems are mutually exclusive. I suggest going with the Stubborn Dog starting on level 2 and moving up to higher levels if necessary.
4. Thanks for the feedback and you’re welcome!
I have a chow mix who was trained and at first stayed within the fence, but now just runs through and yelps. I’ve switched to the stubborn dog collar but he still runs through. Is there a recommended ‘retraining’ procedure?
ADMIN – Hi Will,
Well, you’ll want to go back to training your chow mix on distractions. Considering he’s not respecting the boundary at all, in a way, you need to think of this as starting over. This means that your chow should not be allowed to be in the yard off a leash or unsupervised until he shows he’s going to obey the boundary rules. You’re on the right path. This is not a correction issue, but a training issue. Another thing you can do, if you have the space, is increase the boundary width as much as your yard will allow. Of course, you’ll want to give your chow plenty of room to play. An larger boundary increases the time in the correction area, which gives your chow more incentive to return to the safe area.
Also you want to check if the collar is still properly fitted. A very common issue with dogs that stop respecting the boundary is that the owner is no longer fitting the collar properly so the dog is no longer getting the correction. The collar prongs must contact the dog’s skin. In the months after the dog is trained, we naturally start putting the collar on looser and looser until it is no longer effective – and eventually the dog figures this out.
i have a 1yr old old english sheepdog. he’s currently shaved down but his hair is growing fast. is this the correct system for him?
ADMIN – Hi Kelly,
With an old english sheepdog, I’d recommend the Innotek IUC 4100. Even your dog is a larger breed dog, their temperament makes them a great fit for the 4100 system.
I have large Springer Spaniel and a Miniature Dachshund. Can I use PetSafe Stubborn Dog system with a different correction collar for the smaller dog?
ADMIN – Hi Perry,
You can use both a PetSafe Deluxe or a PetSafe Little Dog collar with the PetSafe Stubborn Dog system. If the min-dachshund is over 12 lbs go with the PetSafe Deluxe collar – under 12 lbs, go with the PetSafe Little Dog collar.
Hi i have a 3 English bulldogs I’m going to put on this system 2 i trust this will work on they don’t have a high pain tolerance. However my male, is very stubborn and I’m nervous that it won’t even register with him? He doesn’t seem to care The collar on the stubborn dog fencing does it have a higher correction? I may be worrying about nothing as the beep and proper training will work for him.
ADMIN – Hi Donna,
The PetSafe Stubborn at full power has a very strong correction. It is very rare that it will not be strong enough to recapture a dog’s attention. Although, there are of course exceptions – so the only way to know for sure is to give it a shot. When clients are nervous, I usually encourage them to just pin the wire to the ground and get right into training. If it is not going to work, it will be obvious in the second week of training when you introduce the correction. That way you have not invested too much time and can return it easily.