Types Of Electronic Collars
Some believe that an electronic collar is not safe for their dogs and in fact, believe they are inhumane. Before you make that decision you should do your homework and you’ll quickly discover that they are not only effective, but they are safe and a perfectly humane tool for training your dog. One of the most important considerations is choosing the electronic collar that works best for you and for your dog. We are putting together some brief reviews that we hope will help you make a decision on which of these popular models is the best choice for you and for your dog.
Containment Systems (“Invisible Fence”)
You might have heard of these electric systems before, but did you know that there are two types? One type is wireless, while the other is electric. The electric system requires you to dig into the ground and bury an electric wire in desired boundaries of your yard. You can avoid this by going wireless. Which ever you choose, these perimeter sensor collars are great for teaching your dog to stay in your yard. PetSafe is a good option that is suitable for standard sized yards. If you have a larger yard, try the Innotek system instead.
The Innotek system has several advantages that might be right for you, including expandability up to 25 acres and the ability to use multiple collars with the same fence, so if you have more than one dog, you’re covered. Both the PetSafe and the Innotek are great system for hidden wire fencing.
If you’re interested in a wireless system, we encourage you to investigate the PetSafe model which offers an innovative technology with no wires. This unit works by placing a transmitter in the middle of the area that you’re dog will be allowed to be free in. This central transmitter allows you to set the total radius of freedom and offers not just an easy set up but has the added benefit of being portable (i.e. you can take it to others homes when you travel with your dog!).
BARK COLLARS
If you own a dog who barks frequently this might be the right tool for you to help with that urge. The Innotek collar is not only reasonably priced, but it’s probably one of the top brands in term of being popular and being respected in the marketplace. This unit has sensors that easily identify the barking location (i.e. is it your dog or someone else’s dog?) meaning no unnecessary correction for your dog. If your dog is a constant barker, the intensity of the charge gradually increases to prevent barking and when the dog stops, then it will reset to the original setting. These collars are suitable for most dogs and offer the added benefits of being both lightweight and waterproof.
BEEPER COLLARS
These are not so much training tools as they are safety devices. These allow the owner to “beep” the collar, letting of an easily-heard beep so that the dog can be located easily. Dogtra has a great design that can be set to beep continually or intermittently, so you can easily find your pet quickly and safely. They work up to a mile away and there are systems available for multiple dogs with a lot of features. There are even setups for hunting that allow you to track when your dog is stopped (pointing), moving quickly (flushing) and about how far away from you the dog is.
SHOCK COLLARS
If your dog goes with you out onto the field, goes hunting, or enjoys large areas, the electronic training collar can help you train your dog within the area. TriTronics offer the greatest system, with options for providing optimum training for dogs who spend time outdoors. There is about a one mile range in most models, and up to twenty settings within stimulation levels. They are versatile, offering waterproof protection and lightweight feel, as well as long-life batteries which maximizes each use. Accessories available include transmitter holsters, field chargers for collars, battery packs, and “dummy” collars so that your dog learns to respond without the actual collar. If you’re looking to save a little money, try the SportDog collar, which is comparable and still gets you long ranges of use.
There are many options and considerations when it comes to electronic training collars. Hopefully, this guide will help you purchase the right electronic training collar for your dog. Talk to your vet about these options and gain his suggestions since he knows your dog’s needs and behaviors.