How to Create and Edit Custom GPS Fences: Walk, Draw, and Modify
Ways to Create a Custom GPS Fence
SpotOn gives you three ways to create a GPS dog fence: walk a custom boundary, draw a custom boundary in the app, or create an instant circular fence. Walking is best when boundary precision matters most, drawing is faster for large or flexible spaces, and an instant circle is convenient when you need a quick boundary on the go. You can also edit saved custom fences in the app by adding, moving, or deleting fence posts.
Should You Walk Your GPS Fence Boundary?
Walk your boundary when you want the most precise custom fence placement, especially when creating a fence for the first time.
Walking the perimeter ensures the most accurate perimeter, so we recommend this creation method for your first fence. When you walk the perimeter, you’ll see your fence built as you walk, so you can navigate accordingly. Try using some landmarks (trees, plants, flower pots) to outline your boundary. While your dog will be trained to the tones instead of the visual cues, using landmarks will help you mark the boundaries.
If your boundary crosses water, thick brush, rocks, or other difficult terrain, you don’t need to walk straight through it. Simply use the 'Pause' feature to mark one point, go around the obstacle, then select Resume when you reach the other side. SpotOn will create a straight boundary line between the two points. This is also useful on large properties when you want to drive or use an ATV between sections of the fence. Once your fence is saved, you can fine-tune the boundary by moving, adding, or deleting fence posts in the app.
Or, if walking the boundary isn’t practical, you can draw your custom fence directly in the app.
Can You Draw a GPS Fence in the App?
Draw your fence in the SpotOn app when speed and convenience matter more than tracing the property boundary on foot.
For quicker custom fence creation, simply draw a fence boundary right on the app. No walking required. This is great for big properties where you have some wiggle room with your boundary, and is convenient for on the go and visiting loved ones. And you can always edit your fence after you test the boundaries.
When Should You Use an Instant Circular Fence?
Use an instant circular fence when you need a quick temporary boundary without walking or drawing a custom perimeter.
The third way to make a fence is to choose an instant circular fence to create an instant boundary anywhere you go. Circular fences can be set as small as 150 feet wide and up to 950 feet wide.
How Do You Edit a GPS Fence?
Saved custom fences can be adjusted in the app by adding, deleting, or moving fence posts.
Whether you walked or drew your custom fence, you can easily edit it on the app. This handy feature lets you modify the fence posts to adjust the boundary. For instance, maybe you forgot to keep your dog out of the garden. Or you made your fence in the summer to include a lake or pond, and now it’s too cold to let your dog swim. Simply add, delete or move fence posts to get it just right. Or even better, make multiple, seasonal versions of your fences.
Before You Use Your GPS Fence
However you create your custom fence, always include a buffer zone to account for GPS drift and test your fence before letting your dog roam freely. You'll also need to teach your dog to recognize SpotOn's tones, vibration, and optional static correction so they understand and respoect the boundary. Use our easy step-by-step SpotOn training program to help your dog learn the GPS fence you've created.
Ready to Create Your Own Custom GPS Fence?
With SpotOn, you can create custom GPS fences by walking or drawing your boundary, edit fences anytime in the app, and set up instant circular fences when you’re on the go. Give your dog more freedom while keeping boundaries simple and flexible.