Pets learn best when they have feedback at the moment they are doing something, such as jumping up or chasing squirrels. Remote training collars are designed to help provide this kind of immediate communication when we’re training our pets. They enable us to give feedback instantly and consistently, even when dogs are off-leash and at a distance.

When to Use Remote Electronic Dog Trainers

Also called e-collars or electronic dog training collars, remote trainers help us get a dog’s attention so she can focus or refocus on the task at hand. They are intended for two basic purposes:

• To reinforce behaviors that your dog already knows, like sit, stay and come. E-collar corrections help your dog pay attention to you and your commands.

• To interrupt unwanted behaviors like jumping up and digging. Your dog learns to avoid the correction by avoiding the unwanted behavior.

How the Technology Works

An electronic dog training collar works by sending a radio signal from a handheld remote control to a receiver collar the dog wears. This signal activates a mild but annoying stimulation that a dog can hear or feel, similar to a tap on the shoulder. This sensation is used to gain the dog’s attention. It effectively interrupts the dog from distractions, allowing the handler to refocus and reward the dog for desired behavior.

Remote trainers should not be confused with “shock collars” of the past. Today’s collars have adjustable levels and different types of stimulation (or sensations). The stimulation may be one of these sensations, depending on the type of collar:

• A burst of air (sometimes scented with citronella) near the dog’s muzzle

• An ultrasonic tone usually not heard by humans

• A vibration

• A static sensation designed to get a dog’s attention without being harmful. Pets experience a tingling sensation that surprises them and interrupts their behavior.

These stimulations are designed to get a dog’s attention without being harmful. The intensity of static sensation in particular is highly adjustable, from nearly imperceptible to moderately strong. Static is highly versatile because it can be fine-tuned to suit the dog’s level of sensitivity. This versatility allows dog owners to tailor the sensation as needed to gain their dog’s attention, even when distracted.

Finding Your Dog’s Recognition Level

When using an electronic dog training collar, very low levels of stimulation can cause even inattentive or stubborn dogs to learn commands quickly. To find the best intensity level for your pet, always start at the lowest level and work your way up. A slight change in your dog’s behavior, such as looking around in curiosity or flicking her ears, indicates the recognition level that is best for her.