SpotOn is WIRED's Top Choice for Virtual Dog Fencing in 2025
REVIEW: The Top Choice for Virtual Dog Fencing in 2025, according to editors at WIRED
As pet technology continues to evolve, dog owners have more tools than ever to keep their companions safe and happy. Wired Magazine’s recent article, “The Best Dog Accessories to Enrich Your Pup's Life,” highlights the best options on the market for pet owners, naming the SpotOn GPS Dog Fence as the best virtual fence of 2025. Editor Parker Hall’s in-depth review emphasizes SpotOn's innovative features, ease of use, and effectiveness, making it clear why this product stands out.
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Why SpotOn Stands Out Among Virtual Fencing Solutions
The SpotOn GPS Dog Fence replaces the hassle of traditional physical fences or in-ground electric wires with cutting-edge GPS technology. Parker Hall, a senior editor of product reviews at WIRED and a dedicated dog enthusiast, tested the system with their golden retriever, Frank. Hall was particularly impressed by SpotOn's performance and how it alerts his dog:
“It lets him know when he's getting too close to somewhere he doesn't need to be.”
- Parker Hall, Senior Editor of Product Reviews, WIRED
The ability to design custom boundaries directly from your smartphone is one of SpotOn's key features. Unlike conventional fences, it adapts seamlessly to your property layout, no matter how large or unique it may be. This flexibility is ideal for dog owners who want control without the limitations of physical barriers.
Courtesy photo: Parker Hall
A Humane Alternative to Traditional Electric Fences
"The best part is that you don't have to shock your dog. The SpotOn does come with attachable prongs to make it a shock collar, but you can also just have it rumble."
By pairing the device with positive reinforcement—like treats—owners can establish boundaries in a way that is both effective and stress-free for their pets. This makes SpotOn a preferred choice for conscientious dog owners who prioritize their pets’ well-being.
Subscription-Free Freedom
Unlike other GPS-enabled systems, SpotOn doesn’t lock users into recurring fees. The virtual fence operates without a subscription, keeping costs manageable. For those seeking added functionality, an optional $10 monthly subscription unlocks full-time tracking, ideal for pets prone to wandering. Hall notes the flexibility of this model:
"You can pay $10 per month for full-time GPS tracking of your dog if you're afraid they'll run off, but it’s not required for the collar to work as a virtual fence."
This flexibility ensures SpotOn can fit the needs and budgets of a wide range of pet owners.
Battery Life Management
While SpotOn excels in many areas, Hall notes a minor drawback: the need to recharge the collar every 24 hours. Though manageable, this limitation may require some adjustment for users accustomed to longer battery life. However, SpotOn’s Extended Battery Life Mode feature now gives users 35+ hours of runtime on one charge (even longer if you use SpotOn without a tracking subscription!). Plus, considering SpotOn’s extensive functionality and advanced features, the trade-off is one most dog owners are happy to make.
Designed for Adventurous Dogs and Rugged Properties
SpotOn’s GPS system works best on properties over half an acre, with at least 15 feet of space between boundaries to allow its two-tier warning system—beeps followed by brighter alerts—to function optimally. This makes it ideal for dog owners with larger yards or rural properties. Hall mentions the built-in dog "whistle" function, the Call-dog feature accessible through the app, which offers added convenience for recalling dogs from out of sight. This tool is especially valuable for adventurous or high-energy dogs, like Hall’s golden retriever, Frank.
SpotOn: The Future of Virtual Fencing
Wired Magazine’s recognition of SpotOn as the best virtual fence of 2025 cements its position as a leader in pet technology. Parker Hall’s glowing review underscores its innovative features, humane training options, and subscription-free flexibility. As Hall puts it:
"It works very well."
Whether you're a pet parent with a vast property or simply looking for a more adaptable and humane way to protect your pup, SpotOn delivers unmatched reliability and performance. While competitors may offer partial solutions, SpotOn combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design, making it a clear winner.
Why SpotOn is the Best Choice
The SpotOn GPS Dog Fence redefines what virtual fencing can achieve. It combines advanced GPS fence technology with a humane approach, giving dog owners the tools they need to keep their pets safe while maintaining peace of mind. With the endorsement of experts like Parker Hall at Wired, it’s clear that SpotOn isn’t just a tech gadget—it’s a solution that transforms the way we think about dog safety.
