How to Use the NEW Dogtra Pathfinder2 Fence Features

In previous articles, we have discussed the features of the new Dogtra Pathfinder2 remote training collar. We reviewed what differentiates it from the previous model and how to use the smartphone app. In this blog, we'll discuss the Pathfinder2 Fence features in more detail.

The Pathfinder series is one of the best Dogtra shock collars to hit the scene. The Pathfinder e-collar has a GPS feature, allowing dog owners and hunters to keep track of their dogs while still training them using static stimulation and tone. So, while great for training hunting dogs, the Pathfinder2 can also be used for basic and advanced obedience training, K-9, and service dogs.

The Dogtra Pathfinder2 Remote Training Collar – Cutting-Edge Technology at Your Fingertips

What is the Dogtra Pathfinder2 remote dog training collar? Like the original Pathfinder, the Pathfinder2 is an e-collar for dogs with GPS functionality. E collars, also called remote trainers, shock collars, or remote training collars, help correct your dog’s undesirable behavior. They may also be used for reinforcing already learned commands.

E-collars are valuable communication tools, especially for hunters out in the field. They are excellent for fostering better relationships between pets and their owners.

If you have just purchased a Pathfinder2 or want to know more about it, please check out our Pathfinder2 usage guide. If you need to learn more about how to use the Pathfinder2 App, you can do so in this blog.

In this article, we will be focusing more on the Pathfinder2 E-Fence Feature.

Getting Started with the Pathfinder2 Fence Features

The Dogtra Pathfinder2 offers three types of fences:

• Mobile-Fence
• Geo-Fence
• E-Fence

What is the Pathfinder2 Mobile-Fence Feature?

The Mobile-Fence feature moves based on your smartphone location and will send you a notification. It is created with a radius centered around your phone (which shows as a blue point on the map.) The radius is set to between 10 and 2,000 yards.

The app will show:

• Status – indicates if the receiver is in or out of the fence
• Count – indicates the number of times the receiver crossed the fence

The Mobile-Fence feature sends a notification but does not issue a correction.

How to Set Up the Dogtra Pathfinder2 Mobile-Fence Feature

To set up the Pathfinder2 Mobile-Fence feature:

1. Open the Pathfinder2 App on your smartphone.
2. Navigate to Menu > Setting > Mobile-Fence.

What is the Pathfinder2 Geo-Fence Feature? 

The Pathfinder2 Geo-Fence feature is a static fence setup. Like the Mobile-Fence, it will send a notification only.

The app will show:

• Status – indicates if the receiver is in or out of the fence
• Count – indicates the number of times the receiver crossed the fence

How to Set Up the Dogtra Pathfinder2 Geo-Fence Feature

To set up the Pathfinder2 Mobile-Fence feature:

1. Open the Pathfinder2 App on your smartphone.
2. Navigate to Menu > Setting > Geo-Fence.
3. Press the + button.
4. Move the map and place the crosshair on the desired area.
5. Click “Drop Point” to create a point for the fence boundary.
6. To delete the last point, you can press “Undo.”
7. Once set, click the “Save” button on the top right.

You can create up to 15 drop points and up to 15 Geo-Fences. To edit or delete file names and fence locations, navigate to the Fence List.

How to Set the Geo-Fence Alarm on the Dogtra Pathfinder2 Remote Training Collar

To set the Geo-Fence alarm notifications:

1. From the Level screen, press the top back arrow to custom set the Geo-Fence alarm.
2. Select “Geo-Fence Alarm.”
3. Toggle “Allow Alerts” on.
4. Choose the alarm criteria.
5. Enable “Pop Up Message” to ensure you are notified.

What is the Pathfinder2 E-Fence Feature?

The Pathfinder2 E-Fence is new to the Pathfinder2. It is a static fence setup. It will send your dog an auto-correction and you a notification.

• What is the E-Fence feature of the Pathfinder2 e-collar? How does it work?

E-Fence is a digital perimeter that is fully customizable through the Pathfinder2 app. Once set, it will notify and correct when your dog crosses the boundary.

• What types of alerts and corrections are available with the E-Fence feature of the Pathfinder2 remote training collar?

No correction is applied when the dog re-enters the perimeter. No additional correction is likewise given if the dog continues beyond the boundary.

How to Set Up the Dogtra Pathfinder2 E-Fence Feature

To set up the Pathfinder2 E-Fence feature:

1. Go to the Pathfinder2 app on your smartphone and select “Fence” from the Menu at the bottom of the screen.
2. Go to “E-Fence Settings.”
3. Set your boundary. You’ll need to drop a minimum of 4 points.
4. Save.
5. To assign a name to the set area, tap the “Area” and re-name.

Please note that the e-fence boundary must be a minimum of 1000 yards total and 2000 yards minimum with the inner fence.

How to Sync the Receivers with the Dogtra Pathfinder2 E-Fence Feature

Once you have set the perimeter, the next step is syncing the area with your collar.

1. After saving your set boundary, go back to the E-Fence Boundary Setup screen. Click on “Sync E-Fence Boundary with GPS Receivers.”
2. A notification will pop up saying, “The E-Fence boundary is syncing with the GPS Receiver via Bluetooth. You must turn on the GPS Connector and GPS Receivers in order to sync.” Select “Update.”
3. An audible beep will be heard from the collar.
4. Once the sync is finished, the screen will update to show the Sync Status as “Updated” in green.
5. Wait until the beeping from the collar stops.

How to Set the E-Fence Level on the Dogtra Pathfinder2 Remote Training Collar

After syncing the Fence with the collar, it’s time to set the E-Fence level.

1. Press the top back button to navigate to the E-Fence Level screen.
2. Toggle to Activate.
3. Tap on the collar to pull up the “Level.” Select your desired E-Fence level on the app interface.
4. Press “Update.”

How to Set the E-Fence Alarm on the Dogtra Pathfinder2 Remote Training Collar

To set the alarm notifications:

1. From the Level screen, press the top back arrow to custom set the E-Fence alarm.
2. Select “E-Fence Alarm.”
3. Toggle “Use Alarm” on.
4. Enable “Push Alarm Notification” to ensure you are notified.

How to Turn the Dogtra Pathfinder2 E-Fence On

After setting the level and alarm:

1. Return to the main E-Fence screen.
2. Toggle on to activate the E-Fence.

Things to Remember When Using the Dogtra Pathfinder2 E-Fence Feature:

• The Pathfinder2 is GPS-operated. It cannot be used indoors.
• Your dog can still cross the outer fence, so do not use this as a permanent fence solution.
• Stimulation will not be triggered when the dog crosses back into the perimeter area.
• Bluetooth must be on to sync the receiver to the E-Fence boundary.
• Always ensure your boundary is updated and the receiver synced.
• A smartphone and GPS connection are needed to track the information and to receive the application notification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an e collar?

• An e collar is a dog training tool that’s also called a remote trainer, remote training collar, or shock collar. It allows you to communicate remotely with your dog. Used correctly, it can help reinforce commands and correct undesirable behaviors in your pet. It provides you the means to train your dog with more precise timing and consistency. This makes an e-collar a very effective training tool.

Will an e collar hurt my dog?

• A remote trainer works by sending a signal from the transmitter to the collar on the dog’s neck. The signal then triggers the stimulation, which can be a static shock. The stimulation distracts the dog from doing something they’re not supposed to or marks the desired behavior. The stimulation may be unpleasant but generally harmless.

The Dogtra Pathfinder2 also has a non-stimulating, high-performance pager (vibration) and tone options if you do not want to use static or if your dog is more sensitive.

Are e-collars effective?

• E-collars can be invaluable training tools, but only when used correctly. If you are unsure about using one or do not know how to start, please consult with a professional trainer.

When can I use an e collar for dogs?

• PetsTEK does not recommend using an e collar for dogs younger than 6 months old. We recommend supplementing training with a remote trainer only when your dog has already learned the basic commands.

Are Dogtra collars worth it?

• Dogtra is a very reputable dog e-collar brand. Their dog training collars are reliable, durable, and effective.

How does the Dogtra Pathfinder2 work?

• The Pathfinder2 can work as any regular remote dog trainer. The remote transmitter (also called the connector) sends a signal to the receiver collar on the dog’s neck. The collar has two contact points, also called prongs, that deliver static. You can also set the remote to provide vibration or tone to mark the message you’re sending your pet.

Unlike regular e-collars, however, the Pathfinder2 system has GPS functionality. This means you can keep track of your dog's whereabouts at any given time as long as they are wearing the collar and within the remote connector range.

The Pathfinder2 also connects to your mobile phone via the app, so you can control the stimulation without using the remote.

Does the Dogtra Pathfinder2 have any safety features?

• The Dogtra Pathfinder2 stimulations can be set and locked using the mobile app.

What is the difference between the Dogtra Pathfinder and Pathfinder2?

• The old Pathfinder has an entirely black remote and GPS module. The Pathfinder2 system has a high-visibility yellow remote and GPS module that makes it easier to see. But more than the physical differences, the Pathfinder2 also has upgraded features, including a function button, improved GPS circuit board, speakers, vibration, E-Fence, Sleep Mode, and an overall better, better, and more user-friendly app user interface.

What is the difference between the Dogtra Pathfinder2 and Pathfinder2 Mini?

• The Dogtra Pathfinder2 Mini is 22% smaller than the Pathfinder2. It also only has a 4-mile range versus the 9-mile range of the bigger Pathfinder2.

What is the difference between the Dogtra Pathfinder2 and Pathfinder2 TRX?

• The Dogtra Pathfinder2 TRX is a tracking-only system. It does not come with any contact points as it does not have stimulation, vibration, or tone features.

Does the Dogtra Pathfinder2 e-collar have a tone?

• Yes, the Dogtra Pathfinder2 has static stimulation, vibration, and tone.

More FAQs

Are there boundary restrictions to the Pathfinder2 Fences?

• The boundary designs require:
  • Minimum 1000 square yard area
  • Minimum 2000 square yard area if adding an inner fence
  • Fence boundary design cannot cross over
  • Fence boundary design cannot have sharply pointed areas with small angles. 

Is the original Pathfinder app going to disappear?

• No, not yet. Dogtra will still keep the old app and provide updates. Dogtra’s customer service team is also well equipped to answer any questions related to the old Pathfinder system and app. 

Will Dogtra still honor the warranty on the old Pathfinder?

• If you’re still within the warranty period, Dogtra will assist you with repairs and troubleshooting.

Is the Pathfinder2 app free?

• Yes, the new Pathfinder2 app is free. There is no need to pay extra.

Can I use the old Pathfinder app with the new Pathfinder2?

• The old Pathfinder app and system are not compatible with the new Pathfinder2. Please download the Pathfinder2 app from the App Store or Google Play store. The new Pathfinder2 app icon is yellow with a PF2 logo on it. For comparison, the old Pathfinder icon is black with the word Pathfinder written on it.

I already have the original Pathfinder. Can I just get a new collar and pair it?

• The Pathfinder2 is upgraded, and the technology differs significantly from the original unit. Because of this, you cannot pair an original Pathfinder remote with a Pathfinder2 collar or vice versa. They just won't be able to communicate.

Troubleshooting the Dogtra Pathfinder2 Remote Training Collar

1. Why is my dog not reacting to the e-collar?

There may be several reasons your dog is not responding to the e-collar stimulation.

• • The system is not on. Check that both transmitter and collar are charged and paired correctly.
  • The contact points are not touching your dog’s skin. Check the collar’s fit. The collar strap must be tight enough for the contact points to deliver consistent stimulation. If the strap is tight and the contact points are still not touching skin, consider getting longer ones. You can also try trimming the dog’s hair near where the contact points touch.
  • The stimulation level is too low. Try increasing the stimulation level until you get a reaction.

Check our blog for more reasons your dog is not reacting to the e-collar.

2. The test light turns on, but I do not feel anything.

• • You may simply have a high tolerance. Try turning the level up.
  • The battery could be low. Check the LED indicator lights or the app for battery life. 

3. The range is less when the dog is farther away.

• • Check the antenna. The range may significantly decrease if the antenna is damaged or touching other things.
  • Scan the terrain. Heavy brush or tree cover can affect the range of the device. Similarly, any electrical conductors in the area will affect the range of the e-collar. Best results are usually had in line-of-sight flat terrains and away from metal structures and radio towers.

4. My Pathfinder2 is not holding a charge.

• • Check the charging pin. This is a metal pin inside the charging port. The pin should be standing straight up in the center. If it is broken, missing, or even wobbly, you won’t be able to charge the unit correctly.
  • Check the charging port. If the charging port is dirty, try cleaning the dirt out with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. If the collar was in salt water, rinse the receiver with clean water.

For any damages, please contact Dogtra for repair.

5. My dog has skin irritation from the collar.

If your dog exhibits signs of irritation, stop using the collar and consult a veterinarian. Use the collar only after the skin returns to normal or as the vet advises.

• • Check the collar’s fit. It may irritate if it's too tight and the contact points are pressing on your dog's neck too sharply.
  • Check how long your dog has had the collar on. Never leave the collar on for more than 8-10 hours daily. You also need to rotate the collar every 2 hours.
  • Check if your dog is allergic to the materials in the collar. Contact points may contain nickel which is an allergen for some dogs. You may consider getting titanium contact points instead, as they are hypoallergenic.

Additional Basic Maintenance Tips

• Always place the rubber caps securely when the receiver collar is not used.
• Carefully inspect your unit for any missing or broken parts. A damaged casing may affect the waterproof guarantee.
• Make sure your antenna is securely in place for maximum range.
• Charge the unit for 3.5 hours before storing it for extended periods.
• Charge the unit once a month while in storage.
• Charge the unit fully before use.
• Do not keep your Pathfinder2 exposed to extreme climates.
• Always check the App Store or Google Play store to ensure your app is always up to date.

Please check the user manual for more information on how to use your Dogtra Pathfinder2 remote training collar.

Looking for a different Dogtra collar? Find what you need with the help of our Dogtra E-Collar Buying Guide.