There’s a few different electric dog fences on the market.
Two of the more popular brands are SportDOG and eXtreme.
We’ve put together this SportDOG vs eXtreme Dog Fence Comparison Guide with the differences and similarities of each
You should be able to get a better idea of which dog fence might be better for you and your dog/s from it.
Let’s take a look!
(NOTE: this is a general information guide only, and is not professional advice, or a substitute for professional advice. A qualified vet or animal expert is the only person qualified to give you expert advice in regards to your pet/s)
(*Friendly Disclosure – links to retailers or brands on this page may include affiliate links, and we may receive a commission when you purchase through these links)
SportDOG vs eXtreme Dog Fence: Comparison, & Which To Get
We have listed the main models from each brand below if you’d prefer to go straight to viewing each:
eXtreme
- eXtreme Dog Fence Max Grade System (on Amazon) (Most features and the thickest/strongest wire of the eXtreme dog models – doesn’t have to be buried underground)
- eXtreme Dog Fence Professional Grade System (on Amazon) (As good or better value than the Standard Grade model. One of the best selling models. Thick 14 gauge wire (with poly wire jacket), and doesn’t have to be buried underground)
- eXtreme Dog Fence Standard Grade System (on Amazon) (Good value. Probably the most comparable eXtreme model to the SportDOG models)
- eXtreme Dog Fence Basics System (on Amazon) (Cheapest model with the least features)
SportDOG
- SportDOG In-Ground Fence System SDF-100A (on Amazon) (Has a replaceable battery, and 4 levels of static stimulation, plus tone/vibration)
- SportDOG In-Ground Fence System SDF-100C (on Amazon) (Has a rechargeable battery, and 7 levels of static stimulation, plus tone/vibration)
- SportDOG In-Ground Fence System SDF-100A, with thickest 14 Gauge Wire (on Amazon) – thicker and stronger wire than the standard SDF-100A model
What Models Does Each Brand Offer?
Overall, both SportDOG and eXtreme offer a few different dog fence models with different features.
SportDOG has two main models:
– the SDF-100A (plus an option with thicker gauge wire)
– and the SDF-100C (has a rechargeable battery)
eXtreme has four main models:
– the Basics System,
– the Standard Grade System,
– the Professional Grade System,
– and the Max Grade System
SportDOG vs eXtreme Dog Fence: Which To Get?
One way to look at it might be, to look at the:
– the size and number of dogs you want on the system,
– the area you want to contain your dog/s to,
– and the individual features you want and need with the fence system
We discuss some of these things below.
There’s three other potential ways to look at which to get:
– Look at the brands as a whole and what they offer
– Look at the individual models and what they offer
– Understand your own preferences and what you need or want from a dog fence
Brands
In terms of brands, eXtreme offers a wider range of models.
Models
In terms of models, the eXtreme Max Grade and Professional grade offer features such as optional above ground installation the SportDog models simply don’t.
They also come default with 14 gauge wire, and additional twister wire.
Also in terms of models – the Standard model from eXtreme is probably most comparable to the SportDOG models, but in terms of price, features, performance and overall value – the Standard model probably comes out at least as equal, or slightly ahead of the SportDog models.
Just as one example, it offers 5 levels of steady correction/stimulation, and two progressive levels (in comparison to the 4 levels of the SDF-100A, and the 7 levels of the SDF-100C).
The SDF-100C does offer a rechargeable battery though (whereas the eXtreme Basic is the only model with a rechargeable battery).
Personal Preferences
In terms of personal preferences – you have to weigh up what features you want personally, and for your dog/s, and yard.
It’s worth noting that at least the eXtreme Standard, Pro Grade and Max Grade models are manufactured in the US, and eXtreme is an American company.
If that aligns with part of what is important to you in terms of the products you support and buy (as long as the product meets your requirements in other areas).
SportDOG vs eXtreme Dog Fence: Differences
Some of the core unique features or differences between the different models from both brands are:
eXtreme Dog Fence Max Grade System
One of the more expensive options in terms of starting price
Can be put above or below ground
Disposable/replaceable battery
Comes with 14 gauge wire (for perimeter), and 60ML poly coating (designed to last 25+years) [this 60ML coating is the main difference with the Pro Grade system]
Comes with 16 gauge twisted wire
Transmitter is designed to cover up to 10 acres (and when enough wire is purchased for the perimeter)
7 stimulation/correction levels (5 steady, and 2 progressive), and a beep only mode
Each collar can also be set individually
Comes with a surge protector
For dogs 8lbs and up
Different frequency settings available
Comes with other kit inclusions
eXtreme Dog Fence Professional Grade System
One of the more expensive options in terms of starting price
Can be put above or below ground
Disposable/replaceable battery
Comes with 14 gauge wire (for perimeter), and 45ML poly coating (designed to last 25+years)
Comes with 16 gauge twisted wire
Transmitter is designed to cover up to 10 acres (and when enough wire is purchased for the perimeter)
7 stimulation/correction levels (5 steady, and 2 progressive), and a beep only mode
Each collar can also be set individually
Comes with a surge protector
For dogs 8lbs and up
Different frequency settings available
Comes with other kit inclusions
eXtreme Dog Fence Standard Grade System
Comparable to the SDF-100A in price
One of the more expensive options in terms of starting price
Can be put below ground
Comes with 20 gauge wire (for perimeter)
Transmitter is designed to cover up to 10 acres (and when enough wire is purchased for the perimeter)
7 stimulation/correction levels (5 steady, and 2 progressive), and a beep only mode
Disposable/replaceable battery
For dogs 8lbs and up
Different frequency settings available
Comes with other kit inclusions
eXtreme Dog Fence Basics System
Cheapest option of all models – very much a budget option
Can be put below ground
Comes with 20 (or 16) gauge wire (for perimeter)
Rechargeable battery (with USB)
For dogs 15lbs and up
No frequency levels, or different correction levels
No surge protector
Less features and inclusions than the other dog fence models
SportDOG SDF-100A
An underground dog fence
Disposable/replaceable battery (lasts 6-12 months)
Transmitter is designed to cover up to 100 acres (and when enough wire wire is purchased for the perimeter)
Has 4 levels of static stimulation, and vibration/tone
Collar is waterproof
For dogs 10lbs and up
SportDOG SDF-100C
An underground dog fence
Rechargeable battery (charges in 2 hours, lasts 1-2 months per charge)
7 levels of static stimulation, and also vibration/tone only
Has a waterproof and submersible collar
Not compatible with the SDF-100A or SDF-CT Add-A-Dog® collars (SDF-R, SDF-CTR)
For dogs 10 pounds or larger
*Note:
The warranties and conditions also vary between the products – confirm before you buy.
The collar straps may also fit different sized necks – so check them too.
Each dog fence system also comes with a different amount of wire, and other inclusions
SportDOG vs eXtreme Dog Fence: Similarities
The eXtreme Standard Dog Fence System is probably most similar to the SportDOG SDF-100A
All these dog fences can be customized in terms of buying additional wire, collars, and other add ons
SportDOG vs eXtreme Dog Fence: Reviews
SportDOG In-Ground Fence System SDF-100A (& SDF-100C) Review
eXtreme Dog Fence Reviews – Basic, Standard, Professional Grade, & Max Grade
SportDOG vs eXtreme vs PetSafe Fence Comparison
In case you wanted to get a comparison to the PetSafe dog fence, you can read this comparison guide.
You can also read an individual SportDOG vs PetSafe comparison here:
SportDOG vs PetSafe Dog Fence Comparison Guide
Electric Dog Fence FAQ Questions For Buyers and Owners
You can read an FAQ Guide here about commonly asked questions by potential buyers and owners of electric dog fences. We outline things such as:
Types of electric dog fences
All factors to consider in choosing an electric dog fence
Most important factors to consider in choosing an electric dog fence
How much an electric dog fence costs
How to install and set up an electric dog fence
How an electric dog fence works
How to train a dog to use an electric dog fence, and how long it takes
Type of wire used for an electric dog fence
How much wire is required for an electric dog fence
Which electric dog fence wire is best
How to bury the wire for an electric dog fence system
How deep to bury the wire
Are dog fences safe, and are they effective
Best In Ground, Above Ground & Wireless Dog Fences On The Market
These guides outline some of the best dog fence models on the market at the moment:
Best Above Ground & In Ground Electric Dog Fences
Best Wireless Electric Dog Fences
Above Ground vs Underground vs Wireless Dog Fences: Comparison
Friendly Disclaimers
TheDailyShep.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates.
Additionally, TheDailyShep.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links.
TheDailyShep.com are not veterinarians, or animal professionals/experts. Information provided is for informational purposes only – it is not a substitute for professional or qualified advice.
The information is based on either our own thorough research, and/or own experiences, as a means of free speech.
By consuming this information, you accept that TheDailyShep.com do not have client or patient relationship with you, and TheDailyShep.com are not advising you to act on anything you read.
You should always consult your own veterinarian, animal expert, or health care professional and follow their advice before making decisions on all matters.
You can find our full set of disclaimers and T & C’s in the footer of this site.
Enjoy your reading, and thank you for being here
','' ); } ?>