The Dogtra HANDSFREE PLUS Series: 1900S vs ARC

Pets deserve the freedom to run free without shackles. However, off-leash dogs may not be as obedient to their owners once they get a taste of freedom. When voice commands fail and your dog is hundreds of yards away from you, remote training e collars are there to the rescue.

Remote training collars serve as an extension to the leash. During walks and your dog attempts to run, your prompt reaction is to tug on the leash to stop them. But unlike a jerk your dog may feel after putting pressure on the leash, using a remote training collar is like a tap on your dog’s neck or throat.

Remote trainers are more convenient, effective, and less likely to hurt your dog. Using an e-collar fosters better communication between you and your dog and strengthens the bond.

What is a Remote Training Collar?

A remote training collar (or remote trainer) is a remote-controlled e-collar. It's a dog training collar that is highly reliable for training your dog remotely or for off-leash dog activities. You can correct your dog’s undesirable behaviors, reinforce learned commands, and teach impulse control with a remote trainer.

E-collars and dog shock collars are used interchangeably because they utilize “shock” in sending feedback. Unlike archaic shock collars that use high-level shocks, the static shock emitted by modern e-collars does not harm your dog and may only trigger a slight discomfort.

The invention of remote training collars is a technological breakthrough in the dog training industry. Instead of shouting at them or throwing projectiles at your dog, a simple press of a button can get your dog’s attention and teach them commands.

Who is Dogtra?

Dogtra has been leading the industry in dog training tools that are not only effective but also safe that pass quality and pet safety standards. They are a member of the Electronic Collar Manufacturers Association (ECMA) and the Partnership for Electronic Training Technology (PETT).

With their broad product line, you can be sure to find the training device that’s best for your dog. They have top-tier tools such as remote training collars, no bark collars, e-fences, and GPS tracking collars like the Pathfinder2.

(For more information, check out the Dogtra Collar Buying Guide 2022.)

For this blog, let’s review Dogtra's latest HANDSFREE PLUS series - the 1900S HANDSFREE PLUS and the ARC HANDSFREE PLUS.

Here’s a quick comparison of the two models.

What is a HANDSFREE PLUS?

The Dogtra HANDSFREE PLUS series features its latest invention, combining off-leash training with hands-free control. The "Plus" is in the form of the now-expandable HANDSFREE SQUARES. The HANDSFREE SQUARE is a compact controller that allows you to control the transmitter at a certain distance.

With a HANDSFREE SQUARE, you don’t always have to carry your transmitter during training or outdoor walks. You can pair each SQUARE to different functions (Nick, Constant, or Pager) to set your preferred training mode for the occasion.

The Plus Sides of Expandable HANDSFREE SQUARES

• Training and demonstration

The HANDSFREE PLUS is perfect for professional dog trainers working with new clients because of its expandable HANDSFREE SQUARES.

• Convenience

By fastening the HANDSFREE SQUARE around your wrist, palm, or finger, enjoy discreet, hands-free operation while training. This hands-free system also permits multitasking, allowing you to carry out other tasks but never lose control of your dog.

• Multi-user control

The unique part of the HANDSFREE PLUS series is that you can pair up to 14 HANDSFREE SQUARES for diverse scenarios like training with the family. Users with a paired HANDSFREE SQUARE can quickly access any feature at any time within 33 feet of the transmitter.

Feature Highlight #1: Expandability

While the 1900S HANDSFREE PLUS and ARC HANDSFREE PLUS have expandable HANDSFREE SQUARES, they differ in the number of dogs allowed to train concurrently.

The 1900S model is limited to a 1-dog system, whereas the ARC model is an expandable training system. The ARC HANDSFREE PLUS can be set up for your two dogs by simply pairing an additional collar to the handheld transmitter and HANDSFREE SQUARE.

However, if you fancy the features of the 1900S HANDSFREE PLUS, you should buy the 1902S HANDSFREE PLUS instead for a 2-dog setup.

Both Dogtra training collars should work well if you only have a dog to train. If you are raising two dogs, the ARC HANDSFREE PLUS is the best option to save costs and for convenience.

Feature Highlight #2: Stimulation Control

Dogtra e-collars have the patented “Exact-Stim” feature. This stimulation control offers a precise correction level to match your dog’s temperament. Through a rheostat dial, the exact-stim gives you a wide range of stimulation without large jumps in between levels. This ensures accidental overstimulation is avoided and only the right stimulation level is sent to your dog.

Some e-collars only come with 100 stimulation levels. However, the 1900S HANDSFREE PLUS and ARC HANDSFREE PLUS provide more than sufficient levels of stimulation from 0 to 127.

Always start at the lowest level and dial-up when the need arises. When your dog’s behavior changes, especially during increased excitement, there’s no panic since you can easily adjust the intensity with their 127 stimulation levels.

Feature Highlight #3: Stimulation Output

Stimulation output indicates how much power can be generated by the training device. The Dogtra ARC HANDSFREE PLUS system has a low to medium output, while the 1900S unit offers low to high power stimulation.

With this, the ARC system is recommended for small dogs and those with sensitive and mild dispositions. On the other hand, the 1900S HANDSFREE PLUS is ideal for large, stubborn dogs and more demanding training scenarios with extreme distractions.

The secret to dog training success is choosing the right shock collar for your dogs and proper usage. Stubborn temperament dogs may require higher power stimulation than what is needed for small dogs, so consider this in your buying deliberation.

Feature Highlight #4: Training Modes

Training mode refers to how you want the stimulation to be delivered. Dogtra shock collars feature static corrections of either Nick or Constant. Pressing the Nick button will emit a single pulse of static correction while Constant mode sends continuous stimulation for up to 12 seconds.

The alternative stimulation type is vibration. It’s a good option for timid dogs and dogs with hearing problems.

In this case, both Dogtra HANDSFREE PLUS have all three training modes.

Feature Highlight #5: Range

The best remote training collars are those that have a broader coverage area. Your dog can go as far as a mile away when off-leash. If this happens, a remote trainer that can cover only a few hundred yards may not serve its purpose.

Fortunately, the Dogtra HANDSFREE PLUS series has a ¾-mile range. Whether in the yard or field, both models are excellent choices for domestic pets and hunting dogs.

Please note, however, that the handsfree square needs to be within 33 feet of the transmitter to work.

Feature Highlight #6: LCD Screen Display

The LCD screen shows the level of stimulation on the screen ranging from 0 to 127. This tells you the exact stimulation level while sending the correction to your dog. Also, the screen displays the transmitter’s battery life, indicating when it needs charging.

This feature is available in both models.

Other Features

• IPX9K waterproof certified

The HANDSFREE PLUS models can withstand close-range, high liquid pressure from various points. With both transmitter and receivers fully waterproof, enjoy unhampered training near bodies of water or even when it rains. However, the HANDSFREE SQUARE is not waterproof.

• Battery Type

Dogtra remote training collars are equipped with Lithium-polymer batteries that charge quickly in 2 hours. The HANDSFREE PLUS models are no exception, saving you from additional costs from buying replaceable batteries.

Dogtra 1900S HANDSFREE PLUS

Key Features:

• ¾-Mile Range
• 0-127 Stimulation Levels
• Low to High Power Output
• Expandable HANDSFREE SQUARES
• Nick/Constant Stimulation
• High-Performance Pager (HPP) Vibration
• LCD Screen Display
• Fully Waterproof Transmitter and Receiver
• Rechargeable Lithium-Polymer Batteries
• Best for Dogs with Hearing Impairments
• For Dogs with Stubborn Dispositions
• For Dogs as Small as 35 Pounds

Pros:

• High Power Output
• HPP Vibration

Cons:

• Costs slightly more than the ARC HANDSFREE PLUS
• Not expandable to a 2-dog system

Dogtra ARC HANDSFREE PLUS

Key Features:

• ¾-Mile Range
• 0-127 Stimulation Levels
• Low to Medium Power Output
• Expandable HANDSFREE SQUARES
• Nick/Constant Stimulation
• Non-Stimulating Pager Vibration
• LCD Screen Display
• Fully Waterproof Transmitter and Receiver
• Rechargeable Lithium-Polymer Batteries
• Expandable into a 2-Dog System
• For Dogs with Sensitive and Mild Dispositions
• For Dogs as Small as 15 Pounds

Pros:

• Expandable training system
• Bit cheaper than the 1900S HANDSFREE PLUS

Con:

• Not recommended for stubborn dogs

Final Thoughts

Remote training collars are effective tools for remote training. These ecollars are very convenient since you don’t necessarily need a dog trainer to use them properly. They come with detailed and easy user manuals to guide you in the process. Once your dog learns to behave off-leash, they enjoy more freedom and play time than ever.

The HANDSFREE PLUS series is the latest upgrade in Dogtra’s line of remote trainers. Your dog training should start with choosing the right e-collar that’s best for your dog’s temperament and needs.