2024 PetSafe E Collar and E Fence Buying Guide
Choosing the right e-collar for your dog can feel overwhelming. With so many options claiming different features and effectiveness, exploring what's best for your needs can be confusing. This guide aims to simplify your decision-making by providing insights into e-collar types, functionalities, and key factors to consider before buying.
We've already reviewed three top brands in the remote training e-collar industry: E-Collar Technologies, Dogtra, and SportDog. Now, let's delve into another highly regarded name in pet training – PetSafe.
Who Is PetSafe?
For 25 years, PetSafe has been a leader in innovative pet training solutions, trusted by pet owners around the world. Based in the USA, PetSafe is a subsidiary of Radio Systems Corporation, which also owns the SportDog brand.
PetSafe has international offices in Canada, Europe, and Australia, with products available in over 50 countries. Initially focused on e-fences, PetSafe now offers a variety of products, including bark collars, remote trainers, pet doors, and more.
In this guide, we'll delve into two of their popular product lines: remote training collars and e fences.
What Is the Difference Between an E-Collar and an E-Fence?
An e collar is a nifty dog training device with a remote transmitter and a receiver collar. By simply pressing a button on the transmitter, your dog receives a correction through the collar. This could be a gentle static pulse, vibration, tone, or even a spray. Due to the static option, the e-collar is sometimes referred to as a dog shock collar or electric dog collar. It's important to note, though, this sensation is mild and designed to get a dog's attention without causing harm. E-collars prove effective in reinforcing learned commands and addressing unwanted behaviors in dogs.
On a different note, an e-fence is essentially an electric dog fence. Similar to the e-collar, it includes a dog collar, but instead of a handheld remote, there's a wall-mounted transmitter. You typically install the transmitter inside the property to keep your dog in check. It operates by automatically giving a correction when your dog gets close to or crosses the set boundary. So, unlike the e-collar, the e-fence is more about containing your pet than training them.
Confused about which one to choose? Well, it all boils down to what you're after. Let's break it down with a helpful illustration to help you decide:
Now, if you think an e collar is what you need, then let's dive into PetSafe e collars.
What to Expect from PetSafe E Collars
PetSafe remote training collars are designed for ease of use, allowing for convenient one-handed operation.
Now, let's explore their unique features below:
1. Ergonomic Remote
Petsafe e collars usually come with compact remote transmitters that fit snugly in your hand. They're super user-friendly with easy-to-reach buttons for easy recall, eliminating the need to constantly glance at the remote. This way, you can keep your eyes on your dog where they should be.
Also, the PetSafe remote has a big, easy-to-read screen, making it clear and visible day or night without any hassle.
2. Multiple Stimulation Options
What sets PetSafe collars apart is their variety of stimulation options. Unlike many dog training collars that have only static and/or vibration, PetSafe e-collars usually provide three:
- Static
- Vibration
- Tone
Certain models only feature a gentle spray option, ideal for shy or sensitive dogs.
3. Safety Lock
PetSafe shock collars often have a safety lock, ensuring you won't accidentally access the highest levels during training.
4. Expandable System
PetSafe e-collars are expandable, allowing you to train multiple dogs simultaneously. Simply buy an extra collar and sync it to your existing transmitter for a multi-dog training arrangement.
5. Waterproof
No need to stress over rain or wet conditions. PetSafe e collars are waterproof, ensuring easy training and giving you peace of mind.
Moreover, PetSafe remote trainers feature adjustable nylon straps, ensuring a snug and tailored fit for your dog.
What PetSafe E Collar Should You Get?
Are you wondering which PetSafe remote training e-collar is the ideal fit for your furry friend? To help you decide, here are a few key considerations:
1. How big is your dog?
First and foremost, consider the size of your dog. Some PetSafe models are tailored for larger and more stubborn dogs. Simultaneously, PetSafe also provides remote trainers with smaller collars and gentler stimulation levels, ideal for shy and sensitive dogs.
2. Where do you plan to take your dog?
Think about the locations where you plan to train your dog. PetSafe collars typically come in different ranges: 100, 300, 600, and 900 yards. If you're focusing on training within your yard, 100-300 yards should meet your needs. However, if you're exploring open fields or expansive outdoor spaces, choosing a more extended range might be the ideal option.
Choosing the Right PetSafe Collar
There are currently four (4) PetSafe remote training collar product lines being sold by PetsTEK:
- Smart Dog Trainer
- Yard Remote Trainer
- Yard Lite Remote Trainer
- Remote Spray Trainer
What makes each e-collar lineup unique? Let's explore below:
SMART DOG Trainer
The SMART DOG Trainer (PDT00-15748) is distinct from other PetSafe trainers as it uses a smartphone for control instead of a remote transmitter. Perfect for those who like to keep things simple, this PetSafe e-collar connects to your phone via Bluetooth, while ensuring minimal battery consumption. It's both waterproof and rechargeable, eliminating the hassle of buying additional batteries.
Yard Remote Trainer
The PetSafe Yard Remote Trainer lineup caters to medium and large-sized breeds or dogs with more stubborn dispositions. It offers 4 variants distinguished by range:
This e-collar lineup comes with three training options: audible tone, vibration, and 15 levels of static. Both the remote and collars are rechargeable, taking only 2 hours to charge and lasting up to 40 hours.
Yard Lite Remote Trainer
If you have a smaller dog, the Yard Lite Remote Trainer line is the perfect choice. This family includes three variants:
The Yard Lite version features a smaller collar and slightly lower levels of stimulation compared to the Yard Remote Trainer lineup. These collars offer three correction options and are suitable for dogs with neck sizes ranging from 6 to 23 inches.
Remote Spray Trainer
If you're on the fence about using static stimulation, the PetSafe PDT00-16395 Remote Spray Trainer might be perfect for you. Instead of static, this PetSafe e-collar comes with a spray function as well as vibration and tone. It's the best choice for training medium or large dogs who might be a little too shy or sensitive for static training.
Now, if you find that an e-fence better suits your needs than an e-collar, we've got a guide for you, too.
What PetSafe E-Fence Should You Get?
An e-fence system ensures your dog stays within your property boundaries while providing them off-leash freedom. Unlike traditional fences, an e fence eliminates the need for a physical barrier, hence also the term "invisible dog fences."
When deciding which one to choose, consider the following factors:
1. What is your dog’s size?
Similar to remote dog training collars, e fence systems come with a collar for your dog. When choosing an e fence, think about your dog's size. Regardless of the fence type, in-ground or wireless, it's crucial to select the right collar size for your dog. Not all e-collars can be adjusted to any neck size, and some may be too heavy for your pet. If you have a small dog, look for a lightweight receiver collar to avoid straining your pet's neck.
2. Is your dog stubborn or sensitive?
Certain systems cater to stubborn dogs, while others are designed for those who are more sensitive or timid. If you have a small or sensitive dog, opt for an e-collar that provides alternative correction modes beyond static. Many electric dog fences use a beep or vibration warning before resorting to static correction. This allows your dog to respond to the warning and avoid the need for static correction if they retreat from the boundary.
3. How big is your property and what shape?
Do you have a large property and want to ensure your dog stays within its boundaries? Is your property boundary irregular or follows a more traditional shape?
When it comes to e fence systems, the coverage can vary based on the type of dog fence. While some e-fence systems cover only a few hundred feet, others can extend over 20 acres of land. Furthermore, some are designed for circular areas, while others allow you to customize the shape of the boundary.
Choosing the Right PetSafe E Fence
Petsafe electric dog fences are mainly categorized as follows:
- In-ground e fence
- Wireless e fence
In-Ground Fence
PetSafe in-ground fences include a wire meant to be shallowly buried underground for marking your desired boundary. Ideal for irregularly shaped properties, these fences offer customizable perimeter boundaries. Typically, they cover expansive areas ranging from 5 to over 25 acres.
Wireless Fence
Unlike in-ground fences that rely on electric dog fence boundary wires, PetSafe wireless fences operate without them. Setting up a wireless fence is straightforward and quick – just plug in the transmitter and turn it on. While it suits circular properties, its coverage area is more limited than in-ground dog fences. Nevertheless, its portability makes it an excellent choice for picnics or adventures with your dog.
It's important to note that both types of fences are expandable. For in-ground fences, additional wire can increase the coverage area, while for wireless fences, you can buy an extra transmitter.
For a quick comparison, refer to the chart detailing the features of popular PetSafe In-Ground and Wireless E Fence Systems.
Final Thoughts
Dogs love running, playing, and chasing, and investing in an e-fence system allows your dogs to enjoy these activities safely. However, your dog still needs training to understand how the e-fence works to ensure a secure off-leash experience. Only when they understand the set boundaries can you safely leave them with a peace of mind.
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E-Collar Info & Guides, Remote Training Collar
