Dogs are the most popular pets in the world. They provide us with companionship and unconditional love. However, dogs also require training to be well-behaved members of the family. They can be challenging to train, but with the best dog training collars and techniques, your puppy will be responding to commands like a military canine.
Various dog training collars exist in the market, from basic models to more advanced ones with GPS and GLONASS tracking. The type of collar you choose depends on your needs, your dog’s personality, and your training goals. This article shares some of the best dog-training collars on the market and provides tips on how to use them effectively.
Top-Rated Dog Training Collars Reviewed
The E-Collar Humane Dog Training Collar is a safe and effective training device. It makes it easy to dog train remotely, which is usually more stressful than having a dog trainer do it for you. This model produces a low-level static stimulation using contact points. The collar can produce a tone or a vibration that feels like a TENS massage device.
The mini is ideal for dogs from 5 pounds. It’s a nice introduction for puppies and small dogs. The collar strap weighs only 1.4 ounces and is made of Biothane. It uses a buckle-style closure, and you can trim it for an exact fit. You get two contact points; ¾ and 5/8 inches.
Set up is fast and easy since you get a transmitter with a dial for selecting simulations and buttons to show you the stimulation. It also has a LED that is helpful to see the type and level of stimulation you’re about to execute. Besides the 100 stimulation levels, boost levels are handy when the dog is excessively excited or distracted.
The E-Collar Humane Dog Training Collar locks a setting to prevent accidentally shocking your dog. You can choose combination methods to make it easy to make fast progress. Ultimately, it is a great way to train your dog and keep them safe over long distances.
The Halo Collar is a smart dog collar with advanced features like an invisible virtual fence. You can keep your dog within a specified boundary and prevent him from running after squirrels. Hence, it’s helpful if you live near a busy highway or the beach where dogs can easily get lost.
Some of the features on the Halo Collar include GPS dog tracking, monitoring of the dog’s health and activity, and a smart fence to monitor your pup. Thanks to the static stimulation, your dog will always stay within a confined distance.
The Halo 2+ comes with a durable Pro-Case to endure chewing. It also boasts improved GPS accuracy and better battery performance. As for connectivity, it supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular connections, and its wireless technology is usable for up to 10 miles. Moreover, the collar has an IP67 water-resistant rating. However, you will need a subscription plan for fencing data storage.
2nd Runner Up
The Bousnic Dog Shock Collar is among the most popular dog training collars. It is ideal for various training purposes, such as preventing the dog from chewing, digging, growling, barking, or eating its shi*t. There are training modes, including beeping, vibration, and shock. The remote control has two channels to train two dogs simultaneously.
This collar boasts an IPX7 waterproof rating. Thus, it is ideal for dogs that love water. You can use the remote control for training up to 330 yards away. The remote control also has an LCD that displays the stimulation levels, ensuring the correct levels for the dog.
The Bousnic Dog Shock Collar is an excellent choice for small and medium-sized dogs from 8 to 120 pounds. It features a silicone cover that delivers stimulation without irritating the dog’s skin. You can adjust the collar from 6 – 27 inches for the proper length. If your dog is stubborn and bordering on the rough, you can tame its behavior with a few warnings thanks to the Bousnic Dog Shock Collar.
The SportDOG Brand 425X Remote Trainers is another top pick. It’s small and light, enabling field training or hunting. The collar is for dogs from 8 pounds and neck sizes of 8 to 22 inches. The remote and collar use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that hold a charge for 50 to 70 hours and require only two hours of charging.
Use this training collar for dogs of all temperaments, as it has tone, vibration, and 21 levels of static stimulation. If you have a hard-headed breed, it will obey commands in no time when it’s off-leash. Various combinations, once set up, can be redone. The remote range is 500 yards, enhancing training even from far away. The remote also has a backlit LCD screen which is easy to read, even in low light.
This dog training collar is waterproof and submersible up to 25 feet for a swimming dog. The SportDOG Brand 425X Remote Trainers come with a training DVD, a manual, a carrying case, and a limited lifetime warranty. The only thing we don’t like is that the buttons on the remote need to be labeled. You’ll have to read the manual to know the function of each button.
For any dog that’s under 15 pounds, it can easily get overwhelmed by a heavy collar. That’s where the eXuby Shock collar for small dogs comes in. It’s designed to be lightweight, delivering static shocks, vibrations, or beeps for communicating with your pet effectively.
The eXuby Shock Collar is easy to use. Many features can help you train good behavior by preventing habits such as scratching, biting, barking, etc. It has nine intensity levels to help you find the right setting according to your pup’s temperament.
The remote has a range of 330 yards, making it great for training your dog in the backyard or park. One of the best features of this collar is the built-in safety that automatically shuts off after 30 seconds if the dog does not respond to the stimulation. You’ll like that it’s available in two colors, and there’s a 30-day guarantee to return it if it doesn’t fit your pet.
If you don’t have a fenced yard and find it hard to keep track of your pup, the SpotOn GPS Dog Collar fence is a fantastic pick. This model allows you to create a virtual GPS fence with the help of GPS satellite technology around your property. Download the accompanying app and link the collar via Bluetooth to keep the dog in the designated area.
The SpotOn GPS Dog Collar Fence is a favorite as it features remote-controlled static correction. It is also comfortable and adjustable to fit dogs of all sizes. The collar is waterproof and submersible, eliminating worries about damage if the dog dives.
Some of the features to like include being able to track the dog in real-time using a subscription service. It also alerts you if the dog is within 10ft of the boundary. It is suitable for dogs from 15 to 100+ pounds with neck sizes from 10 to 26 inches.
If you live on a farm or a large home, this model offers one of the best methods of boundary training. However, it’s a pricey model that will cost even more if you have more pups.
The Garmin Alpha 100 Remote Training Device is ideal if you train or use multiple dogs for hunting. The collar uses Tri-Tonics Training Technology developed by Garmin for unparalleled tracking ability.
Garmin Alpha 100 comes paired with the TT15 dog collar allowing you to track dogs within 4 miles. It can ping you the location updates at a 2.5-second rate. You’ll like that it uses GPS and incorporates GLONASS tracking to enhance tracking in canyons and complex terrain. Hence, you’ll always retain a pack member in the outdoors.
This training device is versatile and customizable for dogs of all sizes and temperaments. The collar has 18 levels of stimulation that you can customize for one dog or multiple dogs. The system is easy to set up and use, and the device is intuitive and user-friendly. It is an excellent choice for sporting dogs, trainers, and hunters.
This dog training collar from PATPET is a great choice when you need a reliable product to get the job done without breaking the bank. It includes a pet-safe collar that delivers beep, vibration, and shock functions. You can send unmistakable messages, from mild electric shocks to irritating beeps and vibrations at various intensity levels.
The PATPET P320 warns you when the stimulation is too intense to prevent harming your puppy. We like that the collar is reflective, waterproof, and durable to withstand the rigors of training. The remote device has a range of up to 1000 feet, which is great for outdoor training.
Since the PATPET P320 is made of plastic materials, it can irritate the skin at contact points. Hence, your pup should only wear it continuously for up to six hours. Tailor it to your dog’s needs, and soon enough, your dog will respond to commands without the collar.
The Petdiary Vibration Dog Bark Collar is an excellent choice if you prefer something other than shock training. This collar uses a vibration sensor to detect barking and then emits a harmless vibration to deter the behavior. The vibration sensor is sensitive enough to pick up even the softest barks.
This collar’s dual-recognition system prevents activation when the dog is not barking. It has a fixed and looped option on the six levels of vibration. If your dog is super excited, you can use the ideal vibration to calm it down. It is user-friendly, with only two buttons for simple on-and-off and mode selection.
The silicone coating on the Petdiary Vibration Dog Bark Collar does not irritate the dog. You can use it on medium and large breeds with average temperaments. Thus, it is a superb choice if you’re looking for an effective barking deterrent.
The DeluPet Dog Shock Collar is a versatile and valuable collar for different training purposes. You can use it to train obedience, behavioral modification, and containment. It has three stimulation methods: a beep mode, a shock mode with 99 intensity levels, and three levels in the vibration mode.
This collar comes with a remote control with a 1600 ft. range. Therefore, it is perfect for yard, park, or beach training. The collar is also waterproof for long-lasting use, even in wet environments. The Dog Shock collar remote uses large buttons; you’ll always see the mode and level of intensity before use. It also locks to prevent accidental pushes.
Thanks to the memory functions, you can remember the ideal settings after recharging. The collar holds a charge for 35 days, one of the most extended battery lives on a dog training collar. Ultimately, the Dog Shock Collar is a safe and effective way to train your dog consistently for fast results.
What Are the Benefits of Using A Dog Training Collar?
Reducing Leash
One of the main benefits of using dog training collars is to help reduce leash pulling. It is helpful for owners who have dogs that are strong pullers. Using a collar that applies gentle pressure when the dog pulls, you can train the dog not to pull on the leash. Walking and hikes can be much more enjoyable for you and your pet.
Stop Excessive Barking
Dogs bark for various reasons: boredom, fear, anxiety, and excitement. While some barking is normal, too much can be disruptive and annoying. Dogs that bark excessively can be a nuisance to both owners and neighbors. Training collars can help by emitting a sound or vibration when the dog starts to bark, which will startle the dog and interrupt the barking behavior. With consistent training, most dogs will learn to stop barking excessively.
Training Obedience Commands
Dogs trained with a collar are more likely to obey commands than those without. The collar provides a consistent way to deliver rewards and punishments. With consistent training, dogs will learn desired behaviors and undesired ones.
A Tool to Keep Dogs Safe
A dog training collar can be a valuable tool to keep dogs safe. Dogs that run off or get lost risk being hit by a car, getting into fights with other animals, or becoming lost and confused. A collar with a GPS tracker can help you find a lost dog quickly and safely.
How to Use A Dog Training Collar
Step 1: Place the Collar on The Dog
The first step in using a dog training collar is to place the collar on the dog. It is crucial to ensure that the collar is fitted snugly, but not too tight, around the dog’s neck. If it is too loose, it may slip off during training. If it is too tight, it may be uncomfortable for the dog and cause them to resist training.
Step 2: Connect the Leash to The Collar
The next step is to connect the leash to the collar. It will allow you to control the dog during training.
Step 3: Start with Basic Obedience Commands Such As “Sit” Or “Stay.”
Begin the training by teaching the dog basic obedience commands such as “sit” or “stay.” It is crucial to reward the dog with treats or praise when they follow instructions as it helps to reinforce the desired behavior.
Step 4: Repeat the Process Until the Dog Consistently Obeys the Command.
Continue to repeat the process until the dog consistently obeys the command. Once the dog has mastered the basic commands, you can move on to more advanced training.
What Are the Safety Precautions When Using A Dog Training Collar?
Read the Instruction Manual Before Using the Collar
Reading the instruction manual before using a dog training collar is crucial to ensure correct and safe usage. The manual will provide information on how to put the collar on the dog, how to use it properly, and what precautions to take.
Put the Collar on The Dog Correctly
Ensure it is put on the dog correctly to work properly and not cause discomfort or distress. Ensure it is tight enough and the position is right on the dog’s neck.
Do Not Leave the Collar on The Dog for More Than 12 Hours
Leaving the collar on for more than 12 hours could cause discomfort or distress.
As mentioned above, it is valuable to check the fit regularly to ensure that it is not too tight and that the dog is not in any discomfort. The collar should be snug but not tight and positioned correctly on the dog’s neck.
Do Not Use the Collar on A Puppy Under Six Months Old
A dog training collar should not be used on a puppy under six months old, as their necks are still very fragile.
A dog training collar should not be used on a puppy under six months old, as their necks are still very fragile.
When a dog exhibits signs of pain or distress, avoid the collar. It could irritate the animal and worsen a bad situation.
Do Not Use the Collar to Discipline the Dog for Bad Behavior
The collar could cause the dog to associate it with consequences, making it fearful of the collar. Using the collar for positive reinforcement is crucial, such as rewarding the dog for good behavior.
Best Dog Training Collar Buyers Guide
When choosing a dog training collar, it is essential to consider the following factors:
Size and Temperament of Your Dog
The size and temperament of your dog are valid factors to consider when choosing a dog training collar. A collar made for little dogs is the best option for a poodle or other toy breed. There are also collars available designed for large dogs. Having a high-energy dog can require a collar with more intense stimulation. On the other hand, a calm dog needs a less stimulating collar.
Type of Stimulus
Static stimulation, beeps, and vibration are used in dog training collars. The majority of dog training collars use static stimulation. It delivers a short, blunt shock to the dog when the button on the remote is touched. The vibration stimulus provides a mild vibration to the dog. On the other hand, some collars produce a beeping sound. Some dog training collars offer three types of stimulation, while others employ one or two.
Goals for Using the Collar
Before selecting a collar, determine your training objectives. Is it to silence your dog’s barking or to educate your dog to respond to its name? Is it to prevent your dog from chasing? Once objectives are determined, select a collar designed to help achieve them.
The E-Collar Humane Dog Training communicates with your dog and guides them toward the desired behavior. It’s less intrusive than the competition, allowing for calm training. The E-Collar Humane Dog Training Collar is comfortable, safe, and effective. It’s the ideal choice for enhancing obedience and deterring unwanted behavior. So, are you ready to get your dog’s attention?
Special Mentions
INVIROX Dog Shock Collar: This is an excellent choice for those looking for a waterproof design for all weather conditions. However, this collar is not rechargeable and requires a 9-volt battery. It also only has a range of 100 yards, which may need to be longer for some users.
Link GPS Dog Tracker + Activity Monitor: This GPS dog tracker is a great way to keep track of your dog’s activity and whereabouts. It is lightweight and can be attached to your dog’s collar. Nonetheless, the tracker is less accurate than other GPS trackers on the market.
PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar, No-Pull Dog Collar: The PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar is a no-pull dog collar that is gentle and effective. The only potential downside is that some dogs may not respond well to the nose loop, and it may take some time and patience to get them used to it.
PetSafe Spray Bark Dog Collar: This product is a special mention because it uses a citronella spray to stop the dog from barking. But it’s priced higher than other options on this list.
WOLFWILL Waterproof Rechargeable Humane Remote Dog Training Collar: This remote dog training collar is a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable way to train your pooch. While the collar is cheap, replacement batteries are hard to find. The collar is also heavy, so it’s great only for larger dogs.
PetSafe Big Dog Remote Training Collar: This remote-training collar is lightweight and has a long range. However, it is not adjustable and thus may only fit some dogs.
Bark Collar for Large Dog Rechargeable Bark Shock Collar: The bark collar for large dogs has a shock function to stop them from barking. However, it only sometimes works if your dog is particularly stubborn.
Herm Sprenger Pet Supply Imports Chrome Plated Training Collar: This high-quality training collar is made from durable materials. Nonetheless, it can be challenging to see when the collar is off due to the shock level indicator’s location on the receiver. Additionally, the receiver is not rechargeable.
