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 correct 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 feel or hear, similar to a tap on the shoulder.

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.

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.