You may think that by having a fence around your yard that there is no chance your dog will escape. Well, think again. Our pups are nothing if not cunning and creative. If your dog wants to escape, they will find a way. Some dogs even go as far as digging under fences to crawl underneath them or even try to squeeze through the slats of the fence. Using a bumper collar can give you some peace of mind that they won’t be able to crawl under or through your fence.
This post will look at what a bumper collar is, how it works to keep your pup from escaping, and what to look for when buying one for your pup.
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Related: Best Collapsible Dog Playpens For Your Pup, The Best Travel Dog Pen For Large Dogs
The Importance of Keeping Your Dog In A Fenced-In Yard
Ensuring your dog stays within a fenced-in yard is important for their safety, behavior management, and legal and ethical responsibilities.
Safety Concerns
Keeping your dog in your yard helps protect them from many dangers. An open yard can expose your dog to traffic, wild animals, and other hazards.
Without boundaries, dogs can easily run into the street, risking injury or worse. They may also encounter wildlife in your area, which could potentially cause them harm. Predators such as coyotes may also pose a threat in some areas.
Fencing in your yard ensures your pup’s safety and well-being by creating a secure environment.
Behavior And Training
A contained environment is also important for successful training. Dogs need consistent boundaries to develop good habits and behaviors.
By keeping your dog within a fenced yard, you can better control their actions. This helps reinforce commands and reduces distractions, making training sessions more effective.
Legal And Ethical Implications
Some areas have leash laws or regulations requiring dogs to be confined to your property.
Failing to contain your dog could result in fines or other legal consequences.
Dogs that roam freely can damage property, frighten residents, or create safety hazards.
What Is A Bumper Collar?
Bumper collars are special devices that help prevent your dog from escaping by blocking their ability to squeeze through gaps in your fence.
It allows your pup to enjoy their outdoor freedom while you relax knowing they are safe and secure in your yard.
How Does A Bumper Collar Work?
A bumper collar works by creating a physical barrier. The collar sits comfortably around your dog’s neck, but its larger diameter prevents their entire body from squeezing through gaps.
These collars are designed with escape-prone dogs in mind. By blocking narrow areas, they ensure your dog stays within the safety of your yard.
What Are The Types of Bumper Collars?
There are several types of bumper collars available. Most are made from soft, durable materials like cotton or nylon. Some styles have adjustable straps for a custom fit. Common types include:
- Basic Puffy Collars: Made from soft fabrics filled with polyester for padding.
- Adjustable Bumper Collars: Feature adjustable bands for a more secure fit.
- Specialty Designs: Some collars come with additional features like reflective strips for visibility at night.
Choose a style that suits your dog’s comfort and safety needs.
How Do I Find The Proper Fit For My Dog’s Bumper Collar?
Proper fitting is important for a bumper collar to be effective.
Measure your dog’s neck to ensure you pick the right size. Once your get the collar, make sure it is fit properly on your dog. The collar should be snug but not too tight—it should allow for comfortable movement while preventing escape.
To Fit The Collar:
Measure Your Dog’s Neck
Use a flexible tape measure. Choose the best size for your dog based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Adjust The Collar
If it’s adjustable, secure it snugly around the neck, leaving enough space for two fingers to fit comfortably.
Test The Fit
Ensure your dog can move their head freely but cannot remove the collar or squeeze through gaps.
Regularly check the fit as dogs can grow or lose weight, which may require readjustment. Proper fitting ensures the collar is comfortable and effective.
What Should I Look For When Purchasing A Bumper Collar For My Dog?
Some features you may want to look for when getting a bumper collar include:
Size
Choose one that is a good size for your dog. You want it to be large enough that it will prevent them from getting through your fence, but not so large that it will be too heavy and cumbersome for them to walk, run, or play with it on.
Material
The material should be strong and durable, yet comfortable enough that your dog will want to wear it. Collars made of nylon will be stronger and can hold up to any roughhousing your dog may get up to.
If your dog likes to be out in the rain and snow, look for a bumper collar that is water resistant and can stand up to the elements.
Attachment
Some bumper collars attach with snaps, others use Velcro. Choose which type will be easiest to get the collar on and off your dog. Some dogs are afraid of the sound Velcro makes, so keep that in mind when choosing a collar for your pup.
Reflective Strips
If your pup is usually out in low light conditions, reflective stitching can help keep them more visible in your yard.
Care
Look for a bumper collar that is easy to clean, especially if your dog likes to get messy while outdoors.
Are There Any Alternatives To Using A Bumper Collar?
You can use many methods to keep your dog from escaping your yard. These include making changes to your yard and working on your dog’s behavior. Both ways can help keep your dog safer and happier.
Physical Yard Modifications
Adding barriers to the base of your fence can stop digging. Metal sheets and wood planks are good options. This method blocks your dog from getting a grip to dig under the fence.
Removing items that help your dog climb over the fence is also key. Check for things like sheds, trees, or other tall objects near the fence. Move these so your dog can’t use them to escape.
Training And Behavior Modification Solutions
Train your dog to feel comfortable and entertained in the yard. Give them lots of toys, fresh water, and shady spots. Changing their toys often will keep them interested.
Teaching commands like “stay” and “come” can help manage your dog’s behavior. Practice these commands daily until your dog obeys them reliably.
Positive reinforcement works well in training. When your dog stays in the yard, reward them with treats or praise.
Avoid leaving them alone in the yard for long periods. Regularly spend time with your dog outside to make the environment more engaging.
Bumper Collars For Dogs
Here are a few bumper collars for dogs available. Product information is according to the manufacturer. Two of these options are classic bumper collars and the last is an alternative option for dogs who cannot wear or wont’ wear anything around their necks.
Puppy Bumpers
- Keeps your dog on your side of the fence.
- Original:
- Made of cotton material.
- Polyester poly fill interior.
- Ribbon loops to attach a collar.
- Machine washable.
- Tumble dry low.
- Ultra:
- Double stitched.
- Nylon belting for collar loops.
- Heavy duty snaps.
- Glow Pups:
- Made of brightly colored safety fabric.
- Reflective stitching around the edges.
- Rainy Day:
- Water resistant material with polyester coating.
- These need to be wiped clean.
- All products are Made in the USA.
Dog Foam Fence Bumper by Shih Tzu Boutique
- Available in different sizes and patterns.
- For small dogs and puppies.
- Made with cotton fabric and your choice of Velcro or snap buttons.
- Inside is made of foam.
Picket Protector
- Includes harness and protector.
- Various sizes and colors available.
- Two sizes of protectors:
- Standard =10 inches long.
- X-Large: 13.3 inches long.
- Protector can be removed if you want to walk your dog.
We all want to keep our dogs safe. Sometimes we foolishly believe just having a fence is enough to keep them in our yards. If your dog is an escape artist, it may be worth giving a bumper collar a try.
A bumper collar can provide a physical barrier preventing your dog from sliding through or under your fence, keeping them safe in your yard. Always supervise your dog when outside and wearing the collar.
The Humane Society and the American Kennel Club offer tips you can use to keep your pup safe in your yard if you don’t want to try a bumper collar or if it doesn’t work for your dog.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.