Last Updated on September, 2024
Keeping our dogs contained can seem like the toughest job in the world sometimes. SpotOn promises to help you with that.
I’ve been using the Halo collar since the beginning and have never tried out any other fences. So when I heard that SpotOn had updated its system, I couldn’t help but give it a shot.
I purchased the SpotOn collar with my own money, replaced the Halo with it, and used it for about 3 months.
If you were thinking of getting the SpotOn virtual fence to keep your dog contained, continue reading. I’ll share all my experience with it here.
The outcome was something I did not expect to say the least.
Durability
Coverage
Price
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Table of Contents
- SpotOn Virtual Fence Review: What is it?
- How Does SpotOn Virtual Fence Work?
- What Comes in the Box?
- For Whom Will SpotOn Work Best?
- What are the Features of SpotOn GPS Fence?
- How Much Does SpotOn Virtual Fence Cost?
- My Experience With SpotOn Virtual Fence
- Pros and Cons of SpotOn Virtual Fence
- What Do Others Say About SpotOn?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
SpotOn Virtual Fence Review: What is it?
SpotOn virtual fence is an advanced invisible fence and GPS dog tracking system. It is entirely virtual and does not use any wires.
And did you know that SpotOn is the very first virtual dog fence in the world?
Yes! You heard it right!
SpotOn is the first-ever virtual fence to keep your pup inside the yard without the hassle of a physical barrier.
It is designed and developed in New Hampshire, USA.
The company aims to make dog containment more reliable and easier while allowing dogs to roam freely within safe boundaries.
SpotOn wireless dog fence creates a system by connecting its smartphone app with the ingenious collar. And it creates an invisible boundary around the yard using GPS technology.
As a result, it allows your pup to wander inside the yard without being tethered to a leash.
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Find more SpotOn GPS Dog Fence coupons, deals, and promo codes here!
How Does SpotOn Virtual Fence Work?
SpotOn virtual smart fence uses the app, dog collar, and GPS technology to create a virtual fence system.
Once your dog wears the collar and comes within 10 feet of the fence perimeter, both the collar and the app produce audible tones.
And the collar vibrates if your furry friend reaches the boundary or goes beyond the perimeter.
But first, dog owners should train their pets on the audio cues. Then, the pets will learn not to go beyond the boundary and return to the yard.
However, the dog collar has an optional static correction feature. It activates when the pet reaches the boundary.
And it is important to note that SpotOn only works if your pup wears the collar.
What Comes in the Box?
You will find the following items when purchasing the product.
- 1 SpotOn collar
- 2 sets of static contact points
- Static contact point tester/insertion tool
- Charging base and wall charger
- User guide
For Whom Will SpotOn Work Best?
Although the SpotOn virtual fence is an AWESOME way to keep your pup inside the yard, it is not for every pet parent. And with its significantly high cost, it is definitely not for all dog owners.
Anyhow, SpotOn GPS fence is best for:
- Small to large dogs weighing 15 to 100+ pounds
- Dogs with a neck circumference of 10 inches to 26 inches
However, SpotOn is not for extra small or toy dog breeds because even the smallest collar is too bulky.
Moreover, the SpotOn fence works best for pups with more land to run freely.
So, it is recommended to have at least ½ acre of land to use the SpotOn virtual fence more effectively.
Do you know why?
It is because you need enough space for the warning zone. And the effective boundary is 10 feet inside the fence perimeter.
So, your dog will be constantly corrected with tones and vibrations if the backyard is not spacious enough.
Well, that’ll be ANNOYING for your four-legged buddy, right?
What are the Features of SpotOn GPS Fence?
SpotOn virtual smart fence offers a range of AMAZING features that allows you to monitor your loving dog.
So, let’s check them out!
Design and Durability
The SpotOn dog collar has a durable design that fits outdoor use and extreme conditions.
The collar is WATERPROOF and has an IP67 waterproof rating.
Let your dog be adventurous in the water, and you do not have to worry about it!
Also, the SpotOn dog collar comes with a display that shows information about the dog and the owner. Plus, it has a battery status indicator.
So pet parents can stay alert to the battery levels.
Virtual Fence
One of the most important features of SpotOn is the virtual fence.
The SpotOn virtual fence allows you to create up to 20 fences at a time. And the coverage is basically unlimited.
You will be amazed how easily CUSTOMIZABLE it is too!
Dog owners can set up virtual fences of any shape and size per their preference. And the size of a virtual fence can be as big as you want it to be.
The fence setup is FREAKING SIMPLE!
Wanna know how?
Take the phone with the app installed and just walk along the perimeter of where you want your pet to stay inside.
Make sure that the SpotOn collar is turned on while doing this.
Once you do this, the designated area will be automatically stored and programmed in the collar.
And if your dog comes near the SpotOn virtual fence boundary, your dog’s collar will provide a beeping sound to deter your pup from going beyond the border.
Or else, the SpotOn GPS collar will emit a painless static correction shock or vibration that prevents your dog from crossing the boundary.
However, you do not have to worry about this static shock. It is an optional and additional feature. Instead, you can use the vibration to do the job.
Multiple Fences
SpotOn virtual fence also facilitates dog lovers to create multiple fences using one dog collar.
This feature is valuable if you have multiple homes, take your dog hiking, or have different areas of your land.
You can create many virtual fences wherever you visit with your pup. The collar will store all the invisible fences until you delete them.
Sounds INTERESTING, right?
Fence Boundaries
SpotOn system provides precise GPS fence boundaries using their patented True Location tech. This technology connects with your pup’s collar sensors to create reliable perimeters.
However, remember that the fence should be at least 80 feet wide. This will allow your dog to roam freely inside the perimeter without being corrected.
Also, keep the border at least 15 feet away from any road or dangerous thing. And keep at least 30 feet distance between your home and the fence border.
Moreover, don’t forget to include your home within the fence. Otherwise, your dog will be corrected every time he tries to enter the house.
The invisible fence works through water too!
So, if you have a pool or pond at home, you can pause the app and walk through the obstacle. Then, pause the app, and the fence will be created through the obstacle.
And there’s an overlapping fence option, which lets you create a fence over the entire property or just the yard. That’s pretty AMAZING, don’t you think?
Dog Training
It is ESSENTIAL to train your dog before introducing the SpotOn GPS fence.
After proper training, your pup will learn how the SpotOn collar’s sounds work and when to turn around.
SpotOn recommends dog owners train their dogs at least 15 minutes a day until they learn about the sounds.
Don’t forget to give them treats and guide them to stay away and turn back from the boundary.
By the way, SpotOn offers professional training videos and plans to make this job more manageable.
PHEW! What a relief!
And the SpotOn collar comes with three training modes: beep, vibration, and static correction.
Plus, it offers 30 static correction levels to simplify the training.
GPS Tracking
Did you know that the SpotOn virtual smart fence can track your pup inside the invisible fence and in other areas too?
Of course, you can monitor your beloved dog in other places like mountains and rivers with SpotOn’s GPS tracking feature.
SpotOn system has a powerful GPS technology that pulls GPS location data from up to 128 satellites across four satellite navigation systems.
So, this facilitates accurate GPS location tracking anytime, anywhere.
Besides GPS technology, SpotOn also uses GLONASS, Galileo, and Beidou technologies to enable tracking.
Moreover, SpotOn comes with a dedicated GPS noise-resistant antenna. This filters out GPS signals affected by trees and buildings.
WOW! So, that means SpotOn GPS fence can pinpoint your dog’s location even more accurately.
But, you must have strong cell coverage to enjoy the GPS tracking facility.
In addition, you can receive instant insights about your dog’s whereabouts.
So, if your dog leaves the fence, you will get instant notifications. Then, SpotOn will start tracking and updating your dog’s location every six seconds (with a cell subscription).
Moreover, SpotOn allows you to track dogs within 10 feet. So, you will know the exact location of your pup at all times.
You can track your dog’s location in the app. And it updates every 6 seconds.
True Portability
SpotOn wireless dog fence offers the true portability feature. It enables any dog owner to enjoy the features wherever they go, anytime they like.
So, you can use SpotOn at home, when you are on the move, or even in the water.
This makes traveling with your dog a lot easier and more interesting. Don’t you think?
Smartphone App
SpotOn GPS fence system offers an app for both Android 7.0 or later and iOS 13.0 or later devices.
The app facilitates you to set up fence boundaries, monitor your dog’s location, and receive quick updates if they escape the fence.
This app works for Verizon and AT&T users.
Battery Life
Another vital feature SpotOn offers is battery life.
The SpotOn collar has a rechargeable, high-capacity lithium-ion battery.
The battery life can last up to 22 hours for containment purposes. And if you use the tracking features, it may last up to 12 hours.
Longer battery life means giving your dog lots of time to play outside without worrying about charging the battery.
So, you do not have to be stressed about annoying collar function failure or losing track of your furry friend.
However, if the battery dies, you will lose the GPS connection. And you can monitor the battery level through the app.
Once the battery dies, it will take 60 minutes to charge fully.
Moreover, if you wish to use the SpotOn collar daily, you will have to charge the battery every night.
By the way, it is up to you to keep your dog contained if you are not comfortable with letting him roam outside while the collar charges.
How Much Does SpotOn Virtual Fence Cost?
The SpotOn GPS is EXPENSIVE. It costs $999.00.
But you should think about how advanced the SpotOn GPS fence is. Just imagine what it would cost and how difficult it is to build a physical fence if you have a large yard.
SpotOn offers three cellular plans to get the most out of the SpotOn GPS fence. However, the subscription is OPTIONAL.
You can enjoy the following benefits with a cellular subscription:
- Track your dog’s real-time location.
- Use SpotOn’s LTE-M connection in places where cellular service is unavailable.
- Receive automatic breach alerts if your pup leaves a virtual fence.
And you can also receive a 90-day free trial on the 1-year and 2-year plans.
So, here are the cellular plans SpotOn offers:
- Monthly plan: $9.96/month (billed every month)
- 1-year plan: $7.95/month ($95.40 billed every year)
- 2-year plan: $5.95/month ($142.80 every two years)
Moreover, SpotOn virtual fence comes with a 90-day money-back guarantee with no restocking fee. Plus, it offers a one-year warranty as well.
And you can return like-new products for free within 45 days from the date of shipment. But you will have to pay a $50 restocking fee if the components are missing.
Get 50$ off using coupon code: IPET (Exclusive for Dogs Academy readers)
My Experience With SpotOn Virtual Fence
Are you EXCITED to know about my experience with SpotOn virtual smart fence?
So, keep reading to find out!
Overall, it was a FANTASTIC experience to use the SpotOn GPS fence.
We live on a ¾ acre of land, and my pup Oscar is a 60-pound Golden Retriever. He always loves to run freely through the property.
So, I wanted to keep him safe inside our yard without letting him escape.
Then, I thought of trying out the SpotOn system after reading so many positive reviews about it on the internet.
Trust me!
The SpotOn fence could easily cover the whole area of the property. And setting up the virtual fence and the collar was a no-brainer.
After setting up the fence, I tested the collar in hand.
It was working properly, and the collar produced a LOUD sound when I got close to the boundary.
The training videos provided by SpotOn were really beneficial for me in introducing the fence to Oscar. He got used to the whole system within 3 weeks.
GPS location tracking was accurate and fast. The app was super easy to follow and user-friendly. I could receive notifications on my phone real quick.
Finally, I found a RELIABLE way to keep my dog safe and away from the dangers outside the property.
Moreover, the SpotOn collar’s battery was OUTSTANDING.
And the design and size of the collar were perfect for my pup. He could wear it for hours comfortably.
I would say the SpotOn system is a LIFE-CHANGER! I can rely on it to keep my dog contained in the yard.
But there is one thing that I don’t like about SpotOn. The HIGH price tag.
The cost is pretty high compared to other invisible fences on the market. However, considering the effectiveness and the advanced options of SpotOn, I think the money’s worth here.
Pros and Cons of SpotOn Virtual Fence
Now let’s check out the pros and cons of the SpotOn virtual fence.
Pros
- Easy to install
You can easily set up and install the SpotOn GPS fence using the app and the collar. Simply walk the boundary or draw it on the app.
- GPS accuracy
SpotOn provides accurate GPS tracking using True Location, GLONASS, Galileo, Beiduo technologies, and four satellite systems.
- No wires
SpotOn is entirely virtual and does not need underground wires.
- Customizable perimeters
SpotOn allows you to customize the perimeters to any shape and size.
- Has vibration
In addition to sounds and static correction, SpotOn offers a vibration option to train and guide dogs.
- Durable design
The SpotOn GPS fence collar is comfortable, waterproof, and suited for extreme conditions.
- Long battery life
The SpotOn has a long battery lasting up to 22 hours for containment purposes.
- Multiple fences
You can create multiple fences in the same location or wherever you go.
Cons
- Pretty expensive
SpotOn virtual fence is pricey compared to other invisible fences.
What Do Others Say About SpotOn?
Just like me, many SpotOn customers love their experience with the product.
According to many individuals, SpotOn virtual fence has delivered the expected results.
Many customers claim that it is effective, reliable, and accurate. Also, most customers love the user-friendly app.
They also appreciate how simple it is to set up and install.
And most people have found the training videos beneficial while introducing the fence to their pets.
Moreover, customers are satisfied with the strong battery and the comfy, durable SpotOn GPS fence collar.
Other Dog trackers, we’ve compared SpotOn with:
Conclusion
The SpotOn virtual smart fence is a brilliant product for keeping track of our loving dogs. And it works best for dog owners who have a large yard.
SpotOn offers a range of advanced options, such as the virtual fence, GPS tracking, and true portability. These features facilitate pet parents to monitor their pets at home and outdoors as well.
Although SpotOn is pricey, it effectively stops our furry friends from roaming beyond the boundaries.
However, don’t forget to keep the battery charged to prevent collar malfunctions.
FAQs
Get 50$ off using coupon code: IPET (Exclusive for Dogs Academy readers)
Was this article helpful?
I have a question. what if he gets out and someone picks him up and takes him in their house? Will it work indoors to track him?
Hi Richard, good question, Yes, as long as the device is ON and your connection is stable, you can track your dog, no matter whether it’s outdoors or indoors.
Hello.
Does SpotOn working in area of Europa ?
Best regards, Borut
Hi Borut,
Sadly, SpotOn does not work outside of the U.S. and Canada