Pet training should be a positive and rewarding experience for everyone. It’s an investment of time and effort that pays off in big ways. Regardless of the technique you choose, take time to learn how to use the appropriate dog training equipment. If you are considering electronic training technology, get to know the training gear and e-collar essentials. Find out what static correction means and get answers to frequently asked questions.
No One Size Fits All
A wide variety of dog training equipment is available to help teach pets the behaviors we want from them. There is no one size fits all solution. Each pet is an individual with a unique personality type and drive. Whether we choose a clicker, a head collar or an electronic product, tools help us communicate with our pets and can speed up the training process. The key is selecting tools that suit a pet’s personality, then using the equipment correctly. If you are unsure how to choose dog training equipment, consult a veterinarian or dog training professional.
Types of electronic training products
If you are considering the benefits of electronic training technology, there are four types of equipment available:
Remote training collars are used for obedience and behavior training. They help pet owners manage common problems like leash pulling and chasing.
Bark control collars help stop excessive and nuisance barking.
Containment systems are hidden fences that keep pets safely confined to their own yards while allowing them freedom to explore their surroundings.
Barriers and deterrents help pets understand what areas are off limits and what is theirs to enjoy.
How electronic training technology works
Electronic dog training equipment gets your pet’s attention with mildly annoying sensations such as a burst of air, a high-pitched sound or a static stimulation. These sensations are like a tap on the shoulder and help your pet refocus, even when off-leash.
Like cell phones and garage door openers, electronic training devices depend on radio waves to communicate. Signals are transmitted wirelessly sending information from a transmitter to a receiver. All electronic training devices work essentially the same way:
A transmitter (such as a handheld remote control) sends a radio signal to a special receiver collar that can detect the signal. The pet wears the receiver collar.
If the pet approaches a certain boundary or continues an unwanted behavior like leash pulling, the transmitter sends a signal to the collar.
The first signal is typically a warning tone. If the pet goes beyond the warning tone, the receiver collar emits a sensation. This sensation, also called a correction, can be compared to a tap on the shoulder. It is designed to get a pet’s attention and help him focus, not to cause pain or harm.
The type of sensation that the receiver collar emits depends on the particular electronic device. Pet owners can choose from products that have:
A burst of scented or plain air
A vibration
An ultrasonic signal (a high-pitched sonic signal usually not heard by humans)
A mild static correction (similar to the sensation you get from walking across a carpet and then touching a metal doorknob. It may surprise you and you don’t want it to happen again, but it is not painful.)
Where to Get More Information
Every PETT member company offers a variety of educational materials developed by pet experts. Electronic dog training equipment is packaged with detailed instructions. Websites contain manuals, instructional videos, training tips and frequently asked questions. Customer support is available for additional assistance.