The Best Training Collars For Dogs
While there are a number of factors that go into properly training your pup, a dog training collar is an important one. A proper dog training collar is basically another form of communication between you and your four-legged pal, and communication is everything during training. Eventually, a proper training collar will allow your pup to stay off-leash, which can increase the quality of life for your beloved companion. But there are some dog training collars that aren't the most effective or safe. With that in mind, we've created a list of some of the better options out there for you and your pup.
What We Look For
While looking for high-quality dog training collars, our primary focus was on reliability, durability, and available features. It’s important that your dog collar remains securely on your dog, that the modes are reliable, and that there are, in fact, multiple modes for optimal training. For example, Slopehill’s collar and remote is certainly reliable, but the shock portion may be a bit much for more sensitive dogs. However, there are other mode options available, so you don’t have to use the shock mode if that doesn’t sit well with you. If you’re looking for a gentler trainer, you might consider using a clicker-style dog trainer, such as the Educator E-Collar. Using clicks as communication, you can reinforce positive behavior overall. For a closer look at the rest of our picks, read on.
Slopehill Dog Training Collar with Remote
Ruff and rugged
Completely waterproof and with humane features, this dog collar offers five different training modes. While we don’t necessarily recommend the shock feature, we love that it comes with a beep, a vibration, and a light. These features, which are more gentle than those on other collars, will work wonders when it comes to safely and impactfully training your pup.
Pros:
- This collar will grow with your pup, as it’s fully adjustable from eight to 26 inches.
- The addition of the light helps when walking in dark locations or at night.
Cons:
- For dogs with anxiety, the shock and vibrations may be too much for them.
Fatear Dog Training Collar with Remote
At a distance
While the consensus among vets as to whether shock collars work remains mixed, they can in fact be useful in some situations. While you know your dog best, this shock collar may just be the helpful addition that you’re looking for when it comes to effective training. With a controlled range up to 2000 feet, this collar will help your dog learn better recall and have better manners overall.
Pros:
- Both the collar and the remote will recharge fully within a few hours.
- All components of this collar are completely waterproof and can be used when swimming, bathing, and on rainy days.
Cons:
- The shock option may require advice from your vet.
PetSpy Premium Dog Training Shock Collar
Large and in charge
While the shock is strong and thus not the best for anxious dogs, the other features of this collar are effective. Featuring a continuous shock mode, a one-second shock, and vibration and beeps with adjustable levels, this training collar will work well with a dog who needs a little extra control. But you may want to wait on this collar if you have a puppy, as this is ideal for larger breeds.
Pros:
- Every portion of this collar is fully waterproof.
- This is ideal for training in dog parks or other enclosed areas, as it has a range of up to 100 yards.
Cons:
- We don’t recommend using a continuous shock on your dog.
Educator E-Collar
Click for control
Including both vibration and sound, this clicker collar is an excellent option for a dog trainer. Using simple clicks, you can reinforce positive behavior and train your pup in a more humane, gentle way. This system is reliable, too, thanks to its half-mile range.
Pros:
- Both the remote and the collar are fully waterproof. In fact, the remote itself will float in the water when submerged.
- We love that this is a more humane option for training your pup.
Cons:
- The remote is not the most ergonomic.
Herm Sprenger Ultra-Plus Prong Dog Training Collar
Safe and strong
Designed for obedience training, specifically when on a leash, this prong collar helps your dog learn their manners without resorting to pain or fear. Although this does have built-in prongs, the prongs themselves are not sharp. When pulled, the spikes offer a gentle tug, reminding your pup to heel and heed your words.
Pros:
- This is an ideal collar for leash training larger dogs that pull.
- The collar is fully adjustable, with removable links that won’t rust, injure, or otherwise hurt your dog.
Cons:
- You’ll need to make sure that you’ve properly fitted your dog, as a pull collar can slip a bit easier than other types of dog collars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dog training collars safe?
As long as the training collar is humane, fits well, and your pup gets a break from wearing them, a dog training collar is perfectly safe.
Are dog training collars humane?
Any dog training collar that is based on fear or pain is not a humane option. While these methods can offer short-term results, eventually a dog that is trained through fear or pain will have behavior problems that can lead to aggression and stress.
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