PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence – Which Is Better for You?

This review has to do with the comparison between the PetSafe Stubborn Dog vs SportDog In-Ground Fence.

However, we understand that some might be in a hurry and just want to get to the fact. If that’s you, head on over to the comparison overview and comparison table for quick info.

Nonetheless, we do recommend that you read through the entire thing.

Comparison Overview — PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

Overall Review Of The PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

We are largely impressed with the fact that both invisible fence systems have quality features.

To start with, the PetSafe Stubborn Dog and the SportDog In-Ground Fence have similar components and features. They also have the same mode of operation.

The two containment systems have the capacity to contain an unlimited number of dogs at the same time effectively.

Furthermore, it is impressive that the two containment systems have four levels of static correction. That helps to effectively train the big dogs.

Worthy of mention is the fact that the PetSafe Stubborn Dog and the SportDog In-Ground Fence both have a beep and vibration warning system. The vibrate only option is a plus to the dog owners especially for dogs that are deaf. They get to receive a warning sign before they enter into the static correction zone.

That said, we consider the SportDog In-Ground Fence the better of the two containment systems in certain aspects. One is the fact that the SportDog in ground fence can be used on a larger expanse of land.

Price/Value Ratio – PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

Which Is More Affordable: PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence or SportDog In-Ground Fence?

Both the PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence and the SportDog In-Ground Fence are pretty affordable. We are of the opinion that and tools present in the two containment systems justify the prices for which the two items are listed.

About The Brands

Petsafe

PetSafe is one of the subsidiaries of Radio Systems Corporation. This brand has been around for the past 25 years. They are a leading producer of electric dog fences and have a reputation of setting high standards in the pet product industry. PetSafe also has a reputation for producing safe pet containment systems and superior customer service.

SportDog

The SportDog brand is a subsidiary of Radio Systems Corporation and was created in 2003.

The reason for which the brand was created was to develop products that would be able to withstand the harsh conditions that hunters and their canine companions are subjected to. And it is safe to say that it does just that.

PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence – Comparison Table

	PetSafe Stubborn Dog	SportDog In-Ground Fence
Brand	Petsafe	SportDog
Battery Number	1	1
Area of Coverage (maximum)	25 acres	100 acres
Safety Time Out	30 seconds	30 seconds
Battery Type	9 volts	9 volts
Battery Duration	6 – 12 months	6 – 12 months
Dog Size	8 pounds	10 pounds
Training Flags	50	100
Collar	PRF-275 stubborn dog receiver fitted with ½ “ metal contact points.	SDF-R collar fitted with ½ “ prongs
Length of Wire	500ft	1000 ft
Surge Protector	Yes	No
Lightening Protector	No	Yes
Adjustable Collar	Yes	No

Which Is Better Under What Circumstance? — PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

PetSafe Stubborn Dog	SportDog In-Ground Fence
Some PetSafe Stubborn Dog fences come with a surge protector. So, consider this if your home is prone to electrical surges.	On the other hand, the SportDog In-Ground Fence has an inbuilt lightening protector. So, consider getting this one if you plan on mounting the transmitter somewhere outside.

Common Features — PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

The following are common features between the PetSafe Stubborn Dog and the SportDog In-Ground Fence:

• Transmitter
• Receiver Collar
• 4 correction levels
• Anti-Linger Protection
• Safety Time-out
• Capacity
• Wire-Break Alarm
• Low Battery Warning Indicator
• Rechargeable and replaceable batteries
• Adjustable collar

1. Transmitter

The transmitter serves the purpose of transmitting signals  from the wires to the receiver collars. Transmitters generally are used to generate radio waves. These waves are then used in sending signals to other devices.

Both transmitters have similar features. They both have an indicator light which comes on once the transmitter is connected to a power source.

There is actually another light indicator that comes on when there is a break in the boundary wire.

We recommend that the transmitter be installed on a wall inside a building or in a shed. The reason  for this is that the transmitter is not waterproof and in a bid to keep the “engine room” of the invisible fence, dog owners must handle the transmitter with much care.

It is also an added advantage that the transmitters are pretty lightweight.

We must quickly add, that both transmitters come with their own power adapter. And this suggests that the transmitter has to be plug in for the duration of use.

2. Receiver Collar

The receiver collar of an in-ground system is activated every time it receives a signal from the buried boundary wires.

As is usually the case, the receiver collars of both systems are only recommended for dogs that weigh at least 8 pounds for PetSafe and 10 pounds for SportDog. Any smaller and the corrective shocks could prove to be too much.

It is interesting to also know that the electronic collars are both waterproof. This makes it easy to use the system in any weather without fear of the collars getting damaged.

It is said that the collar of the SportDog In-Ground Fence is more durable than that of the PetSafe Stubborn Dog. Nevertheless, we are of the opinion that the two systems have good receiver collars.

3. Static Correction Levels

Both fences have 4 correction levels and there is a button on the receiver collar that is dedicated to setting the correction level that the dog owner so pleases.

As a result of the fact that dogs are of different natures and temperament, the manufacturers of the PetSafe Stubborn Dog and the SportDog In-Ground Fence have done a good job in making sure there is flexibility in the choice of correction levels used for each dogs.

The correction levels will determine the intensity of shocks that will be delivered to the dog(s). The shocks vary from gentle to very mild. These correction levels are just there to stop the dog from trespassing out of the invisible fences.

4. Anti-Linger Prevention

Anti linger prevention helps to trigger the static correction to a dog if they stay in the warnng zone of the system for more than 2 seconds.

This helps to pass across a message to the dog that they are not supposed to be in that region.

5.  Safety Time-Out

The PetSafe Stubborn Dog and the SportDog In-Ground Fence both have a safety time-out duration of 30 seconds. This means that the static correction delivered to the dog is automatically stopped after 30 seconds (maximum). This is done to protect the dog from getting hurt.

6. Capacity

The  PetSafe Stubborn Dog and the SportDog In-Ground Fence are both good in this aspect. The two containment systems can handle or house an unlimited number of dogs. The only catch is that the containment systems require that each dog has its own receiver collar for it to be effective.

7. Wire Break Alarm

This wire break alarm is included to notify the dog owner when the underground wire gets cut at some point. As a result, it is easy to fix the issue on time (since the cause of the fault can be easily determined as a result of this).

However, to find the exact point where the break is, one will have to invest in a wire break detector.

8. Low Battery Warning Indicator

The role of this feature is obviously to alert the dog owner when the battery is at a low level. This helps the owner to know when to charge the battery so that the battery does not completely run out of charge.

9. Battery Life

As far as battery goes, it is important to note that both systems use a mixture of rechargeable and replaceable batteries.

What this means is that some of the PetSafe and SportDog fence models make use of rechargeable batteries while others make use of the rechargeable kind. Both kinds last a decent amount of time though.

10. Adjustable Collar

Of course, we cannot talk about a training system without mentioning the adjustable collar as it is what holds the receiver to your dog’s neck.

For both systems, the collar is adjustable and features a plastic tri glide for that purpose. Both collars are made of durable nylon and feature a buckle for a clasp.

A PetSafe Stubborn Dog Demonstration Video — PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39fvHKJSLsc

Unique Features Of The PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

The following are areas where the PetSafe Stubborn Dog and the SportDog In-Ground Fence differ:

• Area of coverage
• Number of training flags
• Length of wires
• Presence/absence of surge protection and lightening protection

1.  Area of Coverage

The PetSafe Stubborn Dog has a maximum coverage area of 25 acres while the SportDog In-Ground Fence has a maximum coverage area of 100 acres.

2. Training Flags

Training flags are flags that are used to help dogs get familiar with the boundaries of an invisible fence. And while the PetSafe Stubborn Dog has 50 training flags, the SportDog In-Ground Fence has 100 training flags.

This superiority in numbers of training flags is more felt when the dog owner has to train more dogs on a large expanse of land. This brings about effective training of the dogs.

3. Length of Wires

The PetSafe Stubborn Dog in-ground fence comes with a 20 gauge boundary wire  that is 500 feet in length while the SportDog In-Ground Fence comes with a 20 gauge boundary wire that is 1000 feet in length.

4. Surge Protection & Lighteining Protection

With some PetSafe fence models, you get a surge protector which basically protects the system against any accidental electric surges.

On the other hand, the SportDog models have an inbuilt lighteining protector. This one protects both the wire and the transmitter against lighteining strikes.

PHILIPS 3-Outlet Surge Protector Wall Tap with 2 USB Ports, 2 Pack, Compact Adapter, 900 Joules, Space Saving, White, SPP6236WB/37

A SportDog In-Ground Fence Demonstration Video — PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4fs5hW7iHg

Unique Pros Of The PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

Pros of the PetSafe Stubborn Dog — PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

1. First off, the PetSafe Stubborn Dog is the more affordable of the two in-ground fences.
2. Also, the PetSafe Stubborn Dog has a very good mounting bracket which is used to hang its transmitter safely on the wall.

Pros of the SportDog In-Ground Fence — PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

1. To start with, the SportDog In-Ground Fence has more training flags than the PetSafe Stubborn Dog.
2. The SportDog In-Ground Fence has a longer wire. This reduces the chance of the dog owner having to buy additional length of wire.
3. The SportDog In-Ground Fence containment also has the more durable and rugged receiver collar.
4. Finally, the SportDog In-Ground Fence can be used over a large area (up to 100 acres).

Unique Cons Of The PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

Cons of the PetSafe Stubborn Dog — PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

1. To start with, the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment has a receiver collar that is not very tough. There have been complains about the receiver getting spoilt before its stipulated life of 6 months.
2. The PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment has 50 less training flags than the SportDog In-Ground Fence.

Cons of the SportDog In-Ground Fence — PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

1. The SportDog In-Ground Fence system cannot be used on certain small breeds seeing as the minimum weight requirement is 10 pounds.

Check out these other articles:

• PetSafe In-Ground Dog Fence — Detailed Review
• PetSafe Stubborn Dog Fence Without Wire — Detailed Review
• PetSafe Wireless Dog Fence pif 300 — Detailed Review
• SportDOG In-Ground Rechargeable Fence System — Detailed Review
• SportDOG Underground Dog Fence sdf 100 — Detailed Review
• SportDOG Containment And Remote Training System — Detailed Review

Common Pros Of The PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence.

	PetSafe Stubborn Dog Containment system	SportDog In-Ground Fence
Anti Linger Prevention	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment has an anti linger prevention. This kick starts the application of the satic correction to the dog once it lingers in the warning zone.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment systsem.
Shape	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment can take any form or shape as long as the wires are long enough.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system.
Transmitter	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment has a transmitter which serves as the center of control  for this containment system.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system.
Low Battery Warning	The Petsafe stubborn has an indicator which warns the dog owner of reduced charge in the battery.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system.
Surge/Lightening Protector	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog has a surge protector that helps to protect the sytem against power surges.	That of the SportDog In-Ground System is an inbuilt lighteining protector.
Training Flags	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment has training flags which is used to help familiarize the dogs with the boundary zones.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system. The only difference is that the SportDog In-Ground Fence system. The only difference is that this system 100 training flags.
Capacity	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment can accommodate an unlimited number of dogs at a time.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system.
Wire Break Alarm	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment has an alarm which goes off when there is a break in the wire at any point.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system.
Static Correction Levels	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment has 4 levels of static correction.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system.
Safety Time-Out	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment has a safety time out option that stops the shock applied to the dog.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system.
Training Manual	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment has a training manual which helps the dog owner in effectively setting up the system	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system.
Waterproof Collar	The PetSafe Stubborn Dog is waterproof. This makes it possible for the collar to be used in any weather.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system.

Common Cons Of The PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

	PetSafe Stubborn Dog	SportDog In-Ground Fence
Installation Process	Dog owners have complained that the installation of the Petafe stubborn dog could be a bit rigorous as it involves doing some manual work to put it in place.	Same as the PetSafe Stubborn Dog containment system.

What People Think About PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence

PetSafe Stubborn Dog	SportDog In-Ground Fence
The PetSafe Stubborn Dog has received pretty good reviews from users.   To start with, people like the fact that the PetSafe Stubborn Dog is affordable. They love that they can get to buy a quality fence system at that price. Secondly, many users are happy with the fact that the PetSafe Stubborn Dog is compatible with other Petsafe collars. This, they say,  helps them to save some extra bucks. Thirdly, users of this containment device love that the system has a clear and well defined containment perimeter. This helps them to effectively train their dogs. Lastly, the users love that this containment system has a visual and audible wire break alarm. This they say makes it easy to detect faults. It also makes it easy to carry out proper maintenance of the system.	The SportDog In-Ground Fence has also received good reviews from users. To begin with, dog owners like the fact that the containment system can be used in a large area. Its coverage of 100 acres is really amazing as it ensures that dog owners can use it in lands of varying sizes. Secondly, dog owners also love the fact that the system has a really good receiver collar. They are of the opinion that the receiver collar is durable. Thirdly, dog owners love that the SportDog In-Ground Fence sytem has a good number of training flags. This, they say, helps them to train their dogs effectively even on wide expanse of land. Lastly, dog owners love that the sportdog in-ground fence has a 2 year warranty option.
The major complaint that dog owners have concerning the PetSafe Stubborn Dog is the fact that the receiver collars get damaged quickly (say within 6 months). Another complaint is that the system is too strong for dogs that weigh below 20 lbs.	The major complaint that dog owners have concerning the SportDog In-Ground Fence is the fact that this containment system has a very big collar which is sometimes unsightly.

PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence – Our Take

PetSafe Stubborn Dog	SportDog In-Ground Fence
We are of the opinion that this containmet device is a really good one.   We love the fact that PetSafe Stubborn Dog is waterproof. This gives the user freedom to use this system at any time they so wish.   The containment like the SportDog In-Ground Fence has a well defined shape. This helps to have clearly defined boundaries for the fence (even in rough terrains).   Finally, putting the price into perspective, the PetSafe Stubborn Dog is the affordable of the two in ground fences	The SportDog In-Ground Fence is also a really good containment system. In fact, it is one of the best containment systems out there.   A good number of features in this containment system amazed us.   One of such features is the fact that the system has adequate training flags. These training flags are important tools in helping the dogs get used to the boundaries of the fence.   We also like that the SportDog In-Ground Fence can be used over a large expanse of land. This helps to train dogs in large numbers.   The SportDog In-Ground Fence is our preferred choice of the two containment systems.
The shortcomings of the PetSafe Stubborn Dog in-ground fence have been treated in the weakness section. However, if you still decide to go with this containment, get the PetSafe Stubborn Dog now!	The shortcomings of the SportDog In-Ground Fence have also been treated in the weakness section. However, if you still choose to purchase the SportDog In-Ground Fence, get the Sportdog in ground fence now!

PetSafe Stubborn Dog Vs SportDog In-Ground Fence — FAQs

Do You Have To Bury Invisible Fence Wire?

You do not have to bury your invisible fence wire. You could just lay it right there on the floor and pin the length of the wire down so that it doesn’t shift.

This is a good idea if your yard is paved, making it difficult to bury things. However, if you can, do consider burying the wire as it makes it safer for everybody that will be passing that path.

Can I Install My Own Invisible Fence?

You can install your own invisible fence if you get the right tools. This is especially easier if you won’t be buring the wire.

However, we must warn that installing an invisible fence is very time consuming. So, you could either employ professional help or prepare to take your time.

How Much Does It Cost To Install Invisible Fence?

Having your invisible fence professionally installed would cost you anywhere between 1,500 and 2,500 dollars, as at the time of writing this article.

Now, because most invisble fence companies also offer installation services, the range we quoted should cover both the cost of the fence and the installation.

This price range should also cover for the cost of training your dog to be used to the fence.

Is The Invisible Fence Cruel To Dogs?

The question about whether or not the invisible fence system is cruel to dogs is a tricky one.

On the one hand, the invisble fence system would only administer corrections if your dog tries to cross it. And with proper training, your dog will get used to the basic idea and hopefully stop trying to cross over.

But on the other hand, an invisible fence shows your dog all the things he can’t have unless he is willing to cross the border. It also doesn’t protect the dog from other animals or humans.

So, you decide.

Do Underground Dog Fences Really Work?

Underground dog fences work if you consider a 70% success rate a success. You’ll just have to be really committed to your dog’s training.

What Collars Work With SportDOG Fence?

Another collar that works with the SportDog Fence is the PetSafe In-Ground collar.