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Training should be fun - advice on choosing a training collar
The new year is the ideal opportunity to start fresh – with a clear plan, calmness, and consistency. Whether you’re dealing with unreliable recall, chasing wildlife, pulling on the leash, or barking at home, properly chosen training tools can significantly speed up progress, help you achieve gentle training with more reliable recall, and allow you to enjoy calmer walks.
Our goal is not to “punish.” A well-set training collar serves as a fast, clear signal at the right moment - when the dog is not responding to your voice or regular recall. Thanks to this approach, training becomes safer (for both the dog and the surroundings) and calmer in the long run.
Who is a training collar suitable for?
Training collars and other training tools make the most sense when you need to:
- ✓ improve recall outdoors (forest, fields, open spaces),
- ✓ interrupt unwanted behavior at the right moment (bolting, ignoring a command),
- ✓ reinforce obedience in active breeds,
- ✓ address excessive barking,
- ✓ set movement boundaries (electronic fence, GPS),
- ✓ have better oversight in challenging terrain (GPS tracking for roaming or hunting),
- ✓ monitor health status and activity using smart activity collars.
A common experience among owners of active breeds is that the dog knows the command, but in real-life environments chooses strong temptations over the handler. In these situations, a remote signal can be exactly what helps interrupt the impulse and guide your dog back to you.
When we do not recommend a collar
Safety and correct timing are essential. Electronic training collars are suitable only for healthy dogs (usually from 6 months of age) who already know basic commands and understand what is expected of them. We generally do not recommend an electronic collar if:
- ✕ the dog has health limitations (e.g., heart conditions, breathing issues, epilepsy, etc. – always consult your veterinarian)
- ✕ you want to use the collar as a “quick fix” without proper training or a relationship built on trust,
- ✕ the dog is highly anxious, neurotic, or shows strong stress reactions,
- ✕ the dog is overtly aggressive (responses can be unpredictable).
If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to get in touch – that’s exactly what our advisory service is for.
your goal (recall / pulling / barking / fencing / GPS),,
your dog’s temperament and environment (city, forest, mountains, water),
your dog’s size and coat type
Often, a short consultation is all it takes to get clarity – without guesswork and without unnecessary overspending.
How to choose a training collar: what to consider
There is no single "best" collar for everyone. The right choice depends mainly on:
- ✓your training goal,
- ✓the environment where you will train,
- ✓your dog’s temperament and size,
- ✓water resistance or waterproofing,
- ✓the number of dogs.
- Below you’ll find a clear overview of everything worth considering.
1) Correction type: which signal makes sense for your dog
Training collars use different types of signals. This is not about punishment, but about a quick, clear alert at the right moment - when the dog is not responding to a voice command.
Most common modes:
- Sound – usually the first step; a gentle alert
- Vibration – suitable for more sensitive dogs and often sufficient as the main tool
- Impulse (electrostatic) – used only when the dog ignores sound or vibration; quality collars allow very fine intensity adjustment
- Spray – a cooling burst toward the muzzle, for some dogs, a very gentle alterative
- Ultrasound – can be unpleasant for dogs and is generally not suitable for very young dogs
For more sensitive dogs, sound and vibration are often enough. The impulse should be seen primarily as a safety backup for situations where the dog is out of reach of voice correction.
2) Range: the parameter that determines real-world functionality
Range is one of the most important criteria. Manufacturers measure range under ideal conditions, but in real life the signal can be affected by:
Trees and dense forest. Rugged terrain, hills and ravines. Weather and humidity. Electromagnetic interference.
With basic devices, the real range can be significantly shorter than the stated laboratory value. That’s why it’s always wise to choose with a margin
- Home / garden / park / training field: 100–300 m
- Regular walks + occasional terrain: 300–1000 m
- Forest, mountains, working training: 1000–3000 m or more
If you have an active dog and often train in terrain, we recommend a range of at least 1000 m.
3) Water resistance vs. waterproofing
The difference is crucial:
Waterproof collars are designed for full immersion – ideal for dogs who swim, run through mud, or play in a stream.
Submersible collars are the safest choice for water-loving dogs that spend a lot of time in water.
4) Dog size, coat, and wearing comfort
-
It is important that the receiver is not unnecessarily bulky, fits the dog well, and the electrodes maintain proper contact with the skin – which is especially important for dogs with thick or longer coats. While the dog’s size should always be considered, most modern training collars cover a wide weight range and are suitable for both small and large dogs. For example, the Reedog P30 model is designed for dogs weighing approximately 5 - 90 kg.
When choosing a receiver, focus on:
-
receiver size (mini or standard),
-
suitability for short or thick coat,
-
quality of electrode contact,
-
receiver weight and shape so it doesn’t restrict movement.
5) Number of dogs: one remote for multiple receivers
If you have more than one dog, you can choose from several training collar systems based on the number of dogs. We offer solutions for one dog as well as systems designed for two, three, or more dogs, always with an emphasis on simple and intuitive operation.
Training collars work on the principle of one transmitter (remote) paired with multiple receivers, with each dog wearing its own collar. You can easily switch between individual receivers directly on the remote, keeping all dogs under control without needing multiple transmitters. This setup is practical, clear, and ideal for multi-dog households.
How to use a training collar correctly: principles of gentle training
Correct use determines the results. These principles make the biggest difference:
- Tip for better range: hold the transmitter in a vertical position, avoid covering the antenna with your hand, and make sure the receiver is not hidden under the dog’s neck.
Most common concerns: Is it safe? Does it hurt?
The key factors are collar quality and correct settings. Modern electronic training collars use a mild electrostatic impulse with very fine adjustment. The goal is to find the lowest effective level that gently interrupts the dog’s focus – not to punish.
In many situations sound and vibration are completely suffcient. The impulse should be used only as last option when the dog stops responding.
A trial without risk
Not sure whether the collar will suit your dog?
A trial is the safest way to decide. We offer a trial option allowing you to test the collar with minimal risk.
You have the option to return the product within 30 days if you need a different type, range, or features.
Frequently asked questions
❓ Is an electronic collar suitable for beginners?
Yes. Modern electronic collars are designed so that even regular dog owners without prior experience can use them confidently. Intuitive controls, clear displays, and very fine adjustment options allow you to start safely and gradually. Training then remains calm, clear, and stress-free for both the dog and the owner.
❓ Can the collar harm my dog?
When used correctly, an electronic training collar is safe and gentle. It serves as a communication aid, not a punishment. Choosing a suitable model, starting at the lowest correction level, and using the collar consistently but sensitively are key. When the manufacturer’s guidelines are followed, then there is no health risk to the dog.
❓ How quickly can I expect results?
Many owners notice the first positive changes within just a few days. Dogs begin responding more reliably to commands and better understand what is expected from them. More lasting results typically appear within a few weeks of regular, consistent training. Short, frequent sessions are the key to success.
❓ What if I’m not sure how to train correctly?
No need to worry – you’re not on your own. We offer expert advice to help you choose the right collar, set it up correctly, and guide you through the training process. If you’re unsure which model to choose, you can also use the Reedog trial for 30 days and try everything in practice. This way you gain confidence and peace of mind that you’re training correctly.
Do you want a specific model recommendation?
Email us the following information at info@electric-collars.com:
1) breed / weight / age of your dog
2) what you want to work on (recall, pulling, barking, fencing, terrain, etc.)
3) where you train most often (city / park / forest / mountains / water)
4) whether you train one dog or multiple dogs
Based on this information, we will recommend the most sensible and gentlest option - so training is effective, comfortable, and stress-free for your dog.