The 10 Best Dog Training Collars—And How to Use Them Safely

The 10 Best Dog Training Collars—And How to Use Them Safely

Training your dog is one of the most important things you do as a pet parent. Teaching puppies not to jump, how to hold their bladder and where they can—and can’t— sit is crucial to developing happy, healthy adult dogs. Many dog owners use training collars as tools to curb bad habits. Some emit sounds or vibrations to divert your dog’s attention away from a naughty activity. Others are designed to create resistance if your dog moves in a certain way. Some use electric or static shocks to halt behavior. Training collars are not miracle solutions and they won’t work without your diligence and dedication to a consistent training regimen. But, they can definitely help if you’re stuck.

Positive Reinforcement Training Is Key

In the past few decades, researchers have established time and again that canines learn best through positive reinforcement. Hannah Gillihan, a Certified Dog Trainer at Zoom Room Dog Training, says positive reinforcement training is Zoom Room’s entire brand. “Using this method, your dog will become excited to train with you and pick up skills much faster…The best fix for pulling, barking or jumping is training—and your dog will work so much better if they are being rewarded for doing something right!”  

 Negative, dominance or “alpha male” training, like verbal anger or physical force in response to unwanted behavior, often sends dogs in the opposite direction we want them to go. Canines are emotionally intelligent (that’s what makes them pros at therapy work!). Fear-based training establishes unhealthy relationships and your dog is more likely to develop anxious or aggressive behaviors.

 Positive reinforcement training means rewarding good behaviors to signal your dog which actions they should continue. The key is administering rewards immediately—almost instantly —after the desired action. Praising (or scolding) your dog in a general sense won’t teach them anything. They need to know exactly which behavior you're responding to so they can associate it with a particular result. 

 Before turning to a training collar, try positive reinforcement training, working with a professional dog trainer (Zoom Room conducts virtual sessions) or clicker training.

 Are Training Collars Ethical?

Many dog owners interested in training collars are hesitant. Are these tools ethical? Yes and no. Some training collars are generally accepted as more ethical than others. For example, the ASPCA warns shock collars that use electricity or static charges to administer small shocks to dogs during obedience sessions “can create fear, anxiety and aggression in your dog toward you or other animals.”

 In fact, many training collars with shock capabilities advise against using them on dogs who already display aggression or reactivity, as it can exacerbate this trait. It’s also unwise to try out a shock collar on older dogs, puppies younger than six months and dogs with existing health conditions.

 Another big issue with shock collars is you may inadvertently administer a harsher shock than anticipated (most shock training collars come with levels of intensity). Once this happens, you’ve frightened and potentially harmed your dog, making future relationship building and training sessions infinitely more difficult. Some users have reported defective shock training collars burning their dogs’ skin.

 “We do not recommend the use of aversive collars like prong collars, choke collars, or shock collars, as these collars are ‘correct[ing]’ and ‘punishing’ your dog for an unwanted behavior,” Gillihan told us. “These collars may temporarily change your dog’s behavior, but they are not long-term fixes.”

 On the other hand, the ASPCA says collars that use vibrations only can be enormously beneficial to dogs—especially hearing-impaired or deaf canines. These collars, and those that emit high-pitched sounds, achieve the same goals as shocks. They stop dogs from doing what they’re doing and redirect their attention to you.

 Gillihan also recommends fully adjustable martingale collars. These collars provide a separate loop of fabric for the leash connection. “If your dog pulls hard or tries to shake their way out of their collar, that extra loop of fabric quickly tightens the collar so your dog cannot get out – and it does so without choking them,” Gillihan said. Martingale collars are ideal for dogs who are leash training or have narrower necks, like Greyhounds.

 How to Use Training Collars

Do not jump head-first into the world of training collars before your dog has a firm grasp of basic commands. Work with your puppy to establish the fundamentals—sit, stay, potty training, etc., before moving onto training collars.

 Most training collars that emit sound, vibration or static shocks aren’t meant for dogs under six months old. Even then, it’s recommended you try other training tactics first, like positive reinforcement and clicker training, before turning to a collar. Once you begin collar training, follow manufacturer directions to ensure it fits your dog properly—not too loose or tight—before using it. Start with sounds or tones and vibrations before graduating to any type of static shock.

 If and when your vet or dog trainer gives you the OK to use a shock collar, always begin with the lowest possible setting. Take careful note of your dog’s reactions and check the skin beneath the collar frequently to ensure there is no irritation. Finally, it’s wise to rotate the collar every hour or so to prevent one area from becoming sore. In fact, training collars shouldn’t be worn more than a few hours at a time or during training sessions.

 The goal with any training technique is to establish healthy solutions for naughty behaviors. If your dog doesn’t respond well to your chosen collar or becomes fearful of you or the collar itself, it’s time to move on to another tool. Excessive panting, aggression or cowering are signs things aren’t working and the collar should be removed.

The Best Dog Training Collars at a Glance

  1. Best Overall: Educator E-Collar
  2. Best for Boundary Training: Dog Shock Collar
  3. Best for Multi-Dog Households: Bousnic Dog Shock Collar
  4. Best for Sporting Dogs: SportDOG 425X Remote E-Collar
  5. Best for Small Dog Breeds: eXuby Tiny Shock Collar
  6. Best with GPS: Link GPS Dog Tracker + Activity Monitor
  7. Best for Dogs Who Pull: PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar
  8. Best for Barking: Bark Collar for Small Medium Large Dogs
  9. Best Martingale: PetSafe Adjustable Martingale Collar
  10. Best for Large Dog Breeds: PetSafe Big Dog Remote TrainingCollar

1. Educator E-Collar Humane Dog Training Collar with Remote

Educator E-Collar Humane Dog Training Collar with Remote
  • The Mini ET-300 one dog system with 1/2 mile range, small receiver for dogs 5 pounds and larger
  • Includes 1 Biothane dog collar (3/4" wide x 30" long), 1 RX-090 mini receiver (2" long x 1.5" wide x 1" high, 2.4 oz.) and 1 Mini ergonomic "stopwatch" transmitter (2.6" diameter x 1.1" thick x 4.5" high) well-suited for small hands or in situations where discretion is important
  • Delivers a tapping sensation similar to vibration, but more intense, making it an effective addition to the stimulation
  • A Pavlovian tone feature provides an effective addition to the stimulation
  • User-selected stimulation levels range from 1 to 100 with additional boost stimulus selectable from 1 to 60
  • Includes 2 sets of contact points (5/8" short hair and 3/4" long hair). Points for shorter hair are sold separately, as well as hypoallergenic titanium points for dogs with nickel sensitivities and comfort pads for use more than 8 hours a day.
  • Your complete satisfaction is our only concern. We offer a two-year warranty on registered products against manufacturer defects with free live US phone support.
  • For US Market Only - NOT for Export

Dog Shock Collar - Electric Dog Training Collar with Remote
  • [3 Safe Modes Training Collar] Featuring 3 safe modes: Beep, Vibrate and Shock, shock collar enables you to set the right stimulation levels for your pet, which is helpful in deterring dogs from undesirable habits.
  • [Security Lock & 1600ft Remote] The security keypad lock can significantly prevents accidental pushes while carrying the remote. The remote has a range of up to 1600ft, making it easy to train your dog indoors or outdoors.
  • [Waterproof Receiver & Comfortable Collar] The IPX7 waterproof collar is convenient for dogs playing around a pool or in the rain freely. The e collar strap length can be adjusted, fitting dogs weighing over 10 pounds with neck measurements ranging from 8 to 24.4 inches!
  • [Easy to Use & 4 Channel] The large buttons and clear digital screen make it easy to operate the shock collar for large dogs during day or night. Besides, it has memory function for settings and can train up to 4 dogs without resetting it.
  • [Quick Charging & Long Lasting Battery] After fully recharged within 2 hours by phone adapter and USB outlet of the PC/power bank/car, the dog collar can last up to 35 days of standby time and the remote 45 days. Note: Don't charge with the adapter whose power is greater than 5V1A.
Bousnic Dog Shock Collar
  • Perfect for Training, Simple and Effective: This Bousnic electric shock collar is designed with 3 extremely effective harmless modes: beep(standard), vibration(standard), safe shock(adjustable 1-16 levels), which can help you train your dog to behave well.
  • Dual-Channel with Up to Almost 1000FT Range: The Bousnic remote features a dual-channel to support training 2 dogs simultaneously. The remote training range of this e collar is almost 1000FT, which makes sure you can enjoy the training time with your dog in the backyard, the park, at the beach, or anywhere else.
  • Sleeker, Smaller and More Lightweight, Comfortable for All Sizes of Dogs: This Bousnic e collar Receiver is mini. Meas.2.3(L)*1.4(W)*1(H)inch. Weigh only 0.12Lbs. Thin and lightweight. The Bousnic adjustable nylon collar fits 6-27 inches.The training collar is very comfortable for small medium large dogs (8lbs -120lbs). The remote is ergonomic designed. Silicone covered, it is easy to hold and operate.
  • Rechargeable and IPX7 Waterproof: The Bousnic electronic collar is rechargeable with a built-in lithium battery. You can charge the shock collar with your phone adapter, which is very convenient. The collar receiver is IPX7 waterproof, offering you maximum flexibility during the outdoor activities.
  • Long-lasting Battery Life: The Bousnic e collar uses the latest lithium battery technology providing battery life that lasts for a longer time. Besides, it takes only 2-3 hours to be fully charged. For the initial charge, be sure to charged it for 4 hours. Typically used, the receiver will last for 11-15 days, while the remote battery will last for over 1 month.

SportDOG Brand FieldTrainer 425X Remote Trainer
  • 500 YARD RANGE: e-collar that can support training up to 3 dogs with the same remote with purchase of additional collars (SDR-AXS). For dogs 8 pounds or larger with neck sizes 5" - 22"..Product Dimensions : Receiver without strap - 2.60"L X 1.30"W 1.23"D., Remote Transmitter with antenna - 5.30"L X 1.70"W X 1.00" D
  • NO LOOK OPERATION: Designed for ease-of-use and no look operation while offering more levels of stimulation which allows for more customized training.
  • TONE, VIBRATE, AND STIM: This electric e collar offers 21 levels of static stimulation with medium/high ranges. Option to train with vibration (buzz) and tone (beep), too.
  • WATERPROOF: Submersible to 25 feet using DryTek technology.
  • RECHARGEABLE BATTERY: Lithium-ion batteries charge in 2 hours and last 50-70 hours per charge. System has low battery indicators.
  • INCLUDES: Remote Transmitter, Receiver on 3/4" Collar Strap, Charging Adaptor, Standard Contact Points, Large Contact Points, Lanyard, Test Light Tool, Operating Guide & Basic Training Manual.
  • Product Dimensions : Receiver without strap - 2.60"L X 1.30"W 1.23"D., Remote Transmitter with antenna - 5.30"L X 1.70"W X 1.00" D
eXuby - Tiny Shock Collar for Small Dogs
  • Smallest Dog Shock Collar in the World - Put an end to unwanted behaviors with the eXuby shock collar, our smallest and most effective model available. Use it to correct behavior with your toy breed or puppy without dragging them down.
  • Correct Your Small Dog's Bad Behaviors Instantly - Just because they're tiny, doesn't mean they can't have bad habits. With this tiny shock collar, stop your small dog's biting, barking, scratching, and other habits at just the tap of a button.
  • Not Just Functional, but Cute - Most tiny shock collars are ugly, but this attractive collar comes with blue and pink interchangeable plates for personalization. Even the remote is bright and cheery so it won't be a blemish in your home.
  • Switch Between Shock, Vibration, or Sound - Shocking can be too intense for some dogs, which is why this collar also comes with sound and vibration modes. Switch between nine levels of intensity to find the setting right for your pup.
  • Although some customers do use this product for Cats and at times is effective, this product is NOT intended to be used on Cats. Also, this is NOT an Automatic Bark Collar. It will NOT correct your dog automatically and will require a command from the remote.
Link GPS Dog Tracker + Activity Monitor
  • Link GPS Tracker for Dogs is a smart dog collar attachment that allows you to track in real-time when your pet is away from you via GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi- and Cellular Technology.
  • The Link Dog GPS Tracker is not only a GPS tracking device, but it also a dog activity tracker that allows you to track moderate and intense daily activity against your pet's customized goals based upon your pet's age, size, breed and behavior, the dog fitness tracker of the future!
  • With built-in tones and vibrations, Link My Pet's dog training collar encourages good behavior through positive reinforcement, a necessity when it comes to dog accessories and pet tech
  • Link Health - With the Link Health symptom analysis tool & built-in televet service, you know if something's wrong with your pup and what you need to do in real time. Built by vets and with over 99% accuracy in assessing urgency of seeking care at an animal hospital or with a veterinarian, Link is truly an all-around activity, health, & wellness tracker
PetSafe Gentle Leader No-Pull Dog Headcollar
  • VET RECOMMENDED AND TRAINER DESIGNED: This headcollar instinctively redirects your dog’s tendency to pull by placing gentle pressure on pain-free points and eliminating pressure on his throat.Collar sits high on dog’s neck without putting pressure on the throat, Comfortable neoprene padded nose loop, Headcollar gently redirects dog’s head and bodyComes with detailed instructions and a training DVD
  • TEACHES BETTER LEASH MANNERS: Gently and safely helps you control unwanted leash behaviors like pulling, lunging and jumping for even the most determined pullers
  • NO MORE COUGHING AND CHOKING: A padded neoprene nose loop puts pressure on the back of the neck instead of your dog’s throat, which prevents choking and gagging
  • ALLOWS FULL RANGE OF MOTION: Take greater control during your neighborhood strolls while still allowing your dog to bark, eat, drink and play fetch
Bark Collar for Small Medium Large Dogs
  • Bark collar humane with vibration beep function,shock mode is optional,you can customized this bark collar as a dog shock bark collar or no shock bark collar
  • Bark collar for all size dogs,it is a light weight bark collar for small dogs 5-15lbs,but with strong adjustable vibration and shock function,also a bark collar for medium large dogs
  • Bark collar recharge with high capacity battery,charged in only 30 minutes and works about 15 days,IP7 level waterproof dog collar can be used outdoors in any weather
  • Dog bark cark no more false triggering,this bark collar equiped smart sensor and chip,will detect the dog barking on the particular frequency and decibel,no more false triggering by other sounds or other dogs,activates faster and more effective with no dela
PetSafe Martingale Collar
  • A comfortable alternative to a choke collar
  • Martingale loop prevents dogs from backing out of collar and escaping
  • Recommended by vets and trainers as the best design for daily wear
  • Made from high-quality, durable nylon
PetSafe Big Dog Remote Training Collar
  • 100 YARD RANGE - great for indoors and smaller outdoor spaces
  • 16 ADJUSTABLE LEVELS - static stimulation and 1 tone (beep) level to teach commands and correct behavior
  • BOOST BUTTON - for situations where you need your pet to "stop now"
  • WATERPROOF COLLAR - for all of your dog's outdoor activities
  • BATTERIES INCLUDED - system requires four PetSafe's RFA-35-11 batteries
  • FOR MEDIUM AND LARGE DOGS - designed for dogs over 40 pounds; Fits neck sizes up to 28"

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