SportDog Feature: 425X vs 425XS vs 425X Camo

SportDog Brand is one of the more popular e-collar brands available today. If you’re looking to train a hunting dog, you can’t go wrong with SportDog collars. Made by hunters for hunters, these dog shock collars have everything you need on the field.

Besides being a hunting dog e-collar, however, SportDog remote training collars also make for great dog training tools for basic obedience. One of the best in this category is the SportDog FieldTrainer 425X remote training collar.

If you’ve been checking this model out, you might have noticed that the 425 line has several variants – 425X, 425XS, and the 425X Camo. In this blog, we’ll discuss the differences between the three, so you can decide which better suits your dog’s needs.

What’s New

To start, the 425 line of e-collars by SportDog is not new. However, the X series is the updated version of many product lines. So, the 425X is the new and improved version of the original 425. Similarly, the 425XS is the more recent and updated 425S.

How is the X series different? The main difference is the levels of static stimulation. Old SportDog e-collars only have 7 levels, while the new X series comes with 21 levels of static stimulation.

If other SportDog e-collars are more to your specifications, you can check out all the available SportDog models here or read our SportDog collar buying guide.

(Incidentally, if you want to see how the 425X compares to another popular model, the Dogtra 1900S remote trainer, see this review.)

SportDog FieldTrainer 425X Remote Training Collar

The FieldTrainer 425X is SportDog’s smallest and lightest e-collar. This is ideal for field training, as the model name suggests. It’s also suitable for hunting dog training for close-working dogs.

Features:

• 500-Yard Range
• Three (3) Training Modes – tone, vibration, and static stimulation
• 21 Levels of Static Stimulation
• Waterproof and Submersible up to 25 Feet
• Rechargeable Batteries
• Low Battery Indicator
• Expandable to a 3-Dog System

The SportDog 425X remote training collar comes with standard and long contact points. The collar can fit dogs as small as 8 pounds, with neck sizes from 5 to 22 inches.

While this e-collar is the smallest available among SportDog products, it must be noted that it is not a good fit for a dog smaller than 8 pounds. The length of the collar strap also has its limitations. For example, the receiver may look just right on a squat dog like a Bulldog, but the strap may not fit as their necks can be as wide as 24”.

SportDog FieldTrainer 425XS Remote Training Collar

The FieldTrainer 425XS looks and feels very similar to the 425X. It’s as light and as small as the latter. What sets it apart is the “S” in the model name. In this case, it stands for “stubborn.”

The 425XS is made for stubborn dogs with high prey drives. Because of this, it offers a higher range of static stimulation compared to the SD-425X.

Features:

• 500-Yard Range
• Three (3) Training Modes – tone, vibration, and static stimulation
• 21 Levels of Static Stimulation
• Waterproof and Submersible up to 25 Feet
• Rechargeable Batteries
• Low Battery Indicator
• Expandable to a 3-Dog System

The SD-425XS is still great for dogs 8 pounds or larger with neck sizes between 5 and 22 inches.

SportDog WetlandHunter 425XCamo Remote Training Collar

The 425X Camo e-collar nixes the FieldTrainer name and is tagged the “WetlandHunter.” The remote transmitter and receiver collar come in a camouflage finish that makes them blend better in the wetlands.

Features:

• 500-Yard Range
• 21 Levels of Static Stimulation
• Medium to High Power Output
• Vibration
• Tone
• Realtree Max-5 Camo Finish
• Waterproof up to 25 Feet
• Low Battery Indicator
• Rechargeable Batteries

Like the other 425 models, the SD-425XCamo is best for dogs 8 pounds and up, with neck sizes 5-22 inches.

FAQs

• What is the difference between all the 425 models?

The SportDog 425 and 425S are older models. The new and updated models are the FieldTrainer 425X and 425XS. These models come with 21 levels of static stimulation versus just 7 levels in the old models.

The S in 425XS stands for stubborn. The SD-425XS is therefore recommended for more stubborn dogs or those with high prey drives as it has higher power output.

The 425X Camo, meanwhile, is highly similar to the 425X except for the finish. The SD-425X Camo has a camouflage finish that is great for wetland hunting grounds.

• What is an e-collar for dogs?

An e-collar is more commonly called a shock collar. It is also known as a remote trainer, remote training collar, or remote dog training collar. The “e” stands for electric, as these collars typically send an electric pulse to mark or correct behavior.

Modern e-collars also have vibration and tone options as an alternative to using static.

• Is an e-collar effective for dog training?

An e-collar is just a tool. It must be used correctly and paired with proper dog training methods to be effective.

• Is an e-collar safe for dogs?

Like any dog training tool, an e-collar is safe only when used as intended.

Remote training collars use static (or vibration and tone) only to get the dog’s attention. It is never meant to cause pain or harm.

• How do I know what size collar I should get for my dog?

When purchasing an e-collar for dogs, keep an eye out for the weight range and neck size. Your dog’s weight and neck size should fit within the e-collar model specifications to be a good fit.

• How do I choose the stimulation level for my dog?

Always start at the lowest setting. Work slowly up to a level that gets your dog’s attention. This could be a slight twitch or cocking of the neck. This is the level you need to start training. If your dog becomes more distracted and refuses to listen, you can increase the level. However, be careful and watch for visible signs of pain like yelping. If that happens, you’re operating at a level that is too much for your dog.

E-Collar Safety Tips

• Get your vet’s advice before using an e-collar for your dog.
• Use an e-collar only if your dog already knows basic commands.
• Always follow the operating guidelines.
• If you are unsure how to use the e-collar, get professional help or learn by watching videos and reading instructional guides before starting your dog training.
• Buy from a reputable company like PetsTEK. This ensures you are getting legitimate products and have access to after-sale support.

Most importantly, always watch for your dog’s response to the e-collar. If you notice any adverse reaction, take the collar off immediately.