A Well-Behaved and Happy Puppy: How to Choose a Remote Dog Training Collar

In the world of dog training and behavioural correction, electronic or remote collars are a game-changer. It’s a device consisting of a collar with a receiver that fits around your dog's neck and a remote control. The remote control sends signals to the receiver to trigger different levels of electrical stimulation to the dog's neck. The stimulation is intended to get your dog's attention or provide feedback during training.

Before you spend hours researching all the options available, here are a few considerations to help you narrow the choices and choose the obedience equipment best suited to your dog’s needs as well as your own.

Features

Nowadays remote dog collars are packed with a range of features that add to the collar’s effectiveness. One of the main features to consider is the waterproofness. So, raise a well-behaved and happy puppy with a rechargeable, waterproof dog training collar. This is especially helpful if you’re training a dog near a water without a leash so the device can’t pose a risk if the dog plays in puddles or ponds.

Keep in mind though that there are two types of waterproof dog training collars. One is rainproof, while the others can be placed in water. Generally, the waterproof level is divided into 8 levels, from 0 to 8, 0 is not waterproof, and 8 is the highest waterproof level.

A rechargeable and waterproof training collar with an IPX8 rating is protected against continuous water submersion in underwater conditions. IPX7 is protected against water immersion for 30 minutes at a depth of up to 1 meter. IPX6 rating, on the other hand, is protected against high-pressure water streams from any angle.

The IPX5 is protected against low-pressure water streams from any angle. The IPX4 is protected against splashing water from any angle. IPX3 rating is protected against splashing water tilted up to 60 degrees vertically. The IPX2 is protected against splashing water tilted up to 15 degrees vertically whereas the IPX1 rating is protected against condensation or dripping water falling vertically. And, if you come across an IPX0 rating, then the collar is not waterproof.

Waterproof training collars for dogs come with a transmitter (remote control) that is designed by the IPX5 standard. The main reason is that the battery type of a waterproof dog training collar requires AAA batteries. The battery cover is made of ABS and cannot be sealed and waterproof. If the dog needs to swim, it is recommended to use a rechargeable model. The rechargeable model has a soft cover to cover the charging port to make it completely waterproof.

Another important feature to look for in remote designs is the stimulation mode. You have collars with beep or tone stimulation mode that emits an audible sound as a warning or command cue. The vibrating stimulation mode provides a gentle vibration to get the dog's attention. The static stimulation comes with adjustable levels of mild electric stimulation for correction. Some models release citronella or unscented mist as a deterrent. Remote models also allow customisation of static, vibration, or beep levels to match your dog’s sensitivity and training needs.

Dog’s Size and Breed

Choosing an e-collar that is appropriate for your dog's size and breed involves careful consideration of numerous aspects. First, establish your dog's size and weight to ensure that you get the one that is suitable for their build. Next, evaluate the type of stimulation provided. Some collars employ static shock, while others use vibration or sound. It's critical to choose a collar with a stimulation level suitable for your dog's temperament and sensitivity.

Look for an electronic with customisable features, such as collar size, contact points, and stimulation levels, to ensure a comfortable and tailored fit for your dog's breed and body type. Additionally, always look for collars from a respected brand and manufacturer that provides detailed instructions and information on how to use them safely and effectively.

Dog’s Sensitivity to Physical Stimulation

The next stage is to determine the dog's sensitivity to physical stimulation. This must be done unemotionally, which might be difficult if you are attempting to solve a behavioural problem. Too frequently, irritation leads humans to characterise a dog as "stubborn," as if the dog's behaviour is the result of a deliberate act of wilfulness. The vast majority of the time, this is not the case, and the dog's perceived intransigence is simply a lack of proper training. Instead of thinking you have a stubborn dog and that you need a high-powered remote collar, consider the physical sensitivity of your dog.

Sensitivity to physical stimuli will help you decide whether you need a low-to-medium or low-to-high powered collar. Consider whether or not your dog is affected by physical sensations when he is in a high state of excitement.