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SportDOG In-Ground Fence Product Review
Overall Rating: 
Folks often overlook SportDOG fences when they're shopping for a pet containment solution — maybe because the manufacturer markets them primarily to sporting (i.e. hunting) dogs. Whatever the reason, it's a shame, because this is one of the better products available in the DIY dog fence market.
If you have a medium to large-sized dog, you'll like the receiver that comes with the SportDOG system because it runs on a common 9-Volt battery. That means you don't have to make a special trip to the pet store to find an expensive proprietary battery. The downside of the SportDOG receiver is that it is on the large side and the corrections start at a slightly higher level than other products; so, if your dog is small or has a sensitive temperament, one of the PetSafe models will likely be a better fit for you.
The SportDOG line is one of the few DIY dog fence products that includes solid-core copper wire as a standard part of the hardware package. This is an important feature, because, unlike other dog fence products, you won't need to spend money on upgraded wire.
Product Features
The SportDOG in-ground fence comes with a waterproof, multi-level receiver that includes five different fence correction levels (that includes the tone-only training feature). While I prefer a receiver with even more levels, five can get the job done without unnecessarily stressing your dog. Do note, however, that the correction levels of the SportDOG receiver are higher than other that of other brands, which is important if your dog is small or has a sensitive personality.
The transmitter that comes with the SportDOG system powers up to 100 acres, and it includes built-in lightning protection, so you don't have to buy a separate lightning protection device (like this Panamax)
. Also, the system includes 1000 ft. of 20-gauge solid-core copper wire — much higher quality than the wire included with most other containment systems.
Support
The SportDOG fence includes an operating and training guide. Also, Radio Systems Corp. has a toll-free support line that you can call with questions.
