How to Fit an Electronic Dog Collar
You're probably wondering how to correctly fit an e-collar onto a dog. Read on to find out!
Written by Sarah Connor - Pet Nutrition Expert. Updated on 27/07/2023.
Finding the Correct E-Collar Placement/ Fit
Everyone is turning to e-collar dog training today because they've changed the way we train. Today, e-collars have advanced, featuring a broad range of corrective measures like vibration, tone, and electric feedback. They're no longer barbaric; corrections can be gentle through beeps and low vibrations. Best of all, e-collar training can be combined with positive training for optimal results.
But for effective and safe dog training, the e-collar must fit correctly- not too tight or loose. Your e-collar will only be effective with a good fit and often may only work properly if fitted correctly. Following the proper techniques ensures that your pup receives the best possible results while maintaining optimal safety and well-being.
When fitting an e-collar on your dog, our approach prioritizes their comfort and happiness throughout training.
Written by Sarah Connor, an experienced canine trainer and nutritionist for over a decade. Her positive reinforcement methods and passion for pups make her a go-to for dog owners.
Best Bark E-collars
How Tight Should an E-Collar Be?
A comfortable fit is key for good results when training. As experts in e-collar dog training, Bark Beyond understands the importance of fitting an e-collar correctly for effective and humane training.
That's why the fully adjustable Bark Beyond E3 E-Collar makes a comfortable and safe fit easy. You can easily tighten the e-collar for the contact points to touch the skin. An e-collar should be tight enough not to move around on the neck, and the metal probes on the collar should directly and firmly touch the skin on your dog's neck.
A good-fitting e-collar like the Bark Beyond E3 allows for a good fit without the collar being too loose to result in inconsistent stimulation. It should be snug enough to allow two fingers between the collar and the dog's neck. Keep in mind that any type of collar should never be so tight as to choke a dog.
Read the Instructions Carefully
Bark Beyond advises reading the manual instructions carefully before using an e-collar and watching videos on how to use an e-collar. You should also study the recommended training techniques associated with e-collars. Understanding the proper methods of using the collar as a training tool will help you achieve the desired results while ensuring your dog's well-being.
By familiarizing yourself with various training techniques, such as positive reinforcement and gradual desensitization, you can effectively incorporate the e-collar into your training schedule. This knowledge will enable you to utilize the collar fairly and humanely, promoting a positive learning experience for your furry friend.
Additionally, consider seeking guidance from professional trainers in your area or behaviorists who specialize in e-collar training. They can provide personalized advice and assist you in implementing appropriate training strategies tailored to your dog's needs.
Best Adjustable E-Collar for All Dog Breeds
Choosing an e-collar specifically designed for your dog's size and breed is essential, and that's where Bark Beyond e-collars come in. Our e-collars are designed to be fully adjustable e-collars for small, medium, and large breeds.
Our new pulse design allows for a more compact, electrostatic column using imported customized silicone so as not to hurt your dog's fur. The Smart AI e-collar is fully adjustable and 100% waterproof, with a maximum adjustable length of 70 cm, suitable for all dog breeds from small to large.
It's safer, more comfortable, and will not burn your dog's skin. It also features a soft rubber cover for optimal safety.
This ensures a proper fit and avoids unnecessary discomfort. Remember, your goal should always be to build a strong bond with your dogs and train them in a way that promotes their mental and physical well-being via positive training.
Features
- Fully adjustable collar 70cm to fit all dog breeds, small and large
- Includes 3 signal channels
- Vibration and shock levels can be adjusted between 1 and 99
- Includes blue backlit screen
- Remote distance of 800 m for long-distance training
Pros
- Waterproof receiver and transmitter
- Can train up to 3 dogs at a time
- Lithium battery charging receiver and transmitter simultaneously
- Easy to use
How to Fit an Electronic Dog Collar?
Arm Test
Before fitting the e-collar on your dog, it is highly recommended to test it on your arm first to ensure safety and proper functionality. This simple step will help you gauge the intensity of the stimulation and prevent any harm to your dog. Follow these detailed instructions to fit the e-collar correctly and conduct the arm test:
Conducting the Arm Test
- Before placing the e-collar on your dog, turn it on and select the lowest stimulation level.
- Gently touch the contact points of the e-collar to the skin on your forearm.
- Observe the sensation and adjust the stimulation level until it is comfortably noticeable but not painful. (The lower the better.)
- This arm test allows you to understand the sensation your dog will experience and ensure that it is within safe limits.
Positioning the E-Collar
- Once you have tested the e-collar on your arm, position it high on your dog's neck, just below the ears.
- Ensure that the receiver is placed either on the right or left side of the throat, never in front, as this could restrict breathing and movement.
Adjusting the Strap
- Loosen the collar strap before placing it around your dog's neck.
- Gradually tighten the strap until it fits snugly, but be careful not to make it too tight. Your dog should be able to breathe comfortably and move freely.
- Remember to leave enough space to fit two fingers between the collar strap and your dog's skin for a secure yet comfortable fit.
Checking Contact Points
- Inspect the contact points of the metal probes that touch your dog's skin to deliver stimulation.
- Ensure the contact points make direct and uninterrupted contact with your dog's skin.
- If any hair or debris obstructs the contact, gently remove it to ensure proper functionality.
Utilize the Correct Contact Point Size
More needs to be said about the correct contact point size for dogs. Always consider your dog's breed, coat length, and skin sensitivity before purchasing an e-collar.
One of the key factors in achieving a proper fit is selecting the appropriate contact point size for your dog. This ensures optimal contact with their skin and efficient stimulation delivery.
For dogs with longer coats, opt for longer contact points to penetrate through the fur and make direct contact with the skin.
Conversely, shorter contact points are suitable for dogs with shorter coats.
Always ensure that the contact points are not too long to cause discomfort or too short to lose effectiveness. That’s why it’s best to work with a trainer at first when using an e-collar to get it right from the start!
Why Is Proper E-Collar Fit Essential?
Achieving a comfortable e-collar fit is important for many reasons:
- A well-fitting electronic dog collar ensures your pup's comfort throughout training, preventing unnecessary stress or discomfort.
- It maximizes the collar's functionality, allowing for precise stimulation and effective positive training outcomes.
- A secure fit guarantees the e-collar stays in place, eliminating potential safety hazards like collar sores or pressure necrosis.
Pressure Necrosis From Tight E-Collars
Pressure necrosis, also known as pressure sores or pressure ulcers, can occur when dogs wear e-collars for extended periods without proper fitting or monitoring. PetMD says skin erosions can be painful but tend to heal quickly if the skin is protected and the underlying cause is eliminated.
"With ulcers, the surface layers of the skin are compromised completely, since the defects go deeper into the skin. Ulcers require careful wound care to prevent infection, and tend to heal slowly," explains PetMD.
When an e-collar is too tight or worn for an extended duration, it can create excessive pressure or friction on specific areas of the skin.
This pressure restricts blood flow and oxygen to the affected area, leading to tissue damage and necrosis (cell death). Pressure necrosis manifests as redness, swelling, hair loss, and open sores.
To prevent pressure necrosis from e-collars, ensuring a proper fit and regularly monitoring your dog's skin condition is key. The collar should be snug but not overly tight, allowing your dog to move comfortably without excessive rubbing against the skin.
You should be able to insert two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck.
If you notice any signs of pressure necrosis, such as redness, swelling, or open sores, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian immediately.
Achieve a Snug Collar Fit
A snug collar fit is essential to prevent the remote dog training collar from sliding or shifting during training sessions. Start loosening the collar strap before placing it around your dog's neck. Position the collar high on their neck, just below the ears.
Gradually tighten the strap until it fits snugly, allowing you to comfortably slide two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck. Avoid making it too tight, which could restrict breathing or cause discomfort. A properly fitted collar ensures that the remote receiver stays in the correct position for optimal functionality.
Prioritize Regular Grooming
Regular grooming plays a significant role in maintaining the effectiveness of your dog's remote training collar. Keep your dog's neck area clean and free of excess fur to ensure proper contact between the contact points and their skin.
Regularly brush and trim their coat, especially around the neck, to prevent matting or tangling that could interfere with the collar's contact. Also, maintain proper hygiene by regularly cleaning the contact points to remove any dirt or debris hindering effective stimulation delivery.
By conducting the arm test and following these instructions, you can fit the e-collar correctly on your dog, promoting safe and effective training sessions while prioritizing their well-being.
FAQs: How to Fit an Electronic Dog Collar
Q: How should an e-collar fit on a dog?
A: The e-collar should never be too tight that it chokes a dog. You should be able to put two fingers between the collar and your dog's skin. It should also not slide around but should fit close to the skin for the metal probe tips to contact the skin effectively.
By using the fully adjustable Bark Beyond E3 e-collar with an 800-meter training range, you can easily adjust your dog's collar for a comfortable and safe fit.
Q: Where is the correct placement of the e-collar on a dog?
A: The e-collar features static stimulation through a tone or beep and static modes. The sensation is safe for all dogs and can be used for corrections when training from a distance. The receiver should be a manageable size for your dog, even if the straps are adjustable. The best e-collar placement is placing the receiver toward the side of the dog's neck and not over the trachea.
Q: Is an e-collar supposed to be tight?
A: No, an e-collar should be close to the skin but not tight. You should place the e-collar toward the upper 1/3 of the neck rather than farther down toward the chest. This is because the neck is narrower in diameter at the top, and if you place the collar near the chest, it will slide forward when your dog puts his head down. This causes the receiver to dangle, and the contact points will not touch the skin, so the shock collar won't be effective.