A remote dog training collar gives your dog a signal from a distance: a beep or sound, vibration or an adjustable shock level. Choosing one comes down to range, how fine the levels are, how waterproof the receiver is, your dog's weight and how many dogs you train. This guide goes through each point using the five ROJECO remote collars and the handheld U20 ultrasonic dog repeller.
Quick picks
- Longest range and finest levels: the PD529 reaches 1000m and has 1 to 100 levels of vibration and shock.
- Longest range, simpler levels: the PD521 also reaches 1000m, with shock levels 1 to 16.
- Training on the leash: the PD800 adds a tension sensor that reacts when your dog pulls.
- An extra mode: the TC028 adds a static boost mode and lists dogs from 8 lbs.
- A colour screen: the RXGQ-04 shows the level, battery, mode and dog channel on a colour display.
- No shock at all: the U20 is a handheld ultrasonic device with two modes.
Compare the collars
| Collar | Remote range | Modes and levels | Receiver waterproof | Dog weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PD521 | 1000m (3300ft) | Beep 1, vibration 1, shock 1 to 16 | IPX7 | 4 to 120 lbs (about 1.8 to 54kg) |
| PD529 | 1000m (3300ft) | Beep 1, vibration 1 to 100, shock 1 to 100 | IPX7 | 4 to 120 lbs (about 1.8 to 54kg) |
| PD800 | 500m (1600ft) | Sound 1, vibration 1 to 9, shock 1 to 9, leash tension sensor | IPX7 | 15 to 100 lbs (about 6.8 to 45kg) |
| TC028 | 500m (1600ft) | Beep, vibration (3 levels), static 1 to 99, static boost | IP67 | 8 to 120 lbs (about 3.6 to 54kg) |
| RXGQ-04 | 300m (984ft) | Beep 1, vibration 1 to 15, shock 1 to 99, colour screen with knob | IPX7 | 15 to 100 lbs (about 6.8 to 45kg) |
1. Range
The PD521 and PD529 list 1000m, the PD800 and TC028 list 500m and the RXGQ-04 lists 300m. These are the manufacturer's remote range figures. Buildings, trees, hills and other obstacles shorten the range in real use, so choose a longer range if you train in open country or where your dog can wander out of sight.
2. Modes and levels
All five collars have a beep or sound option, vibration and an adjustable shock level. What differs is how many steps each one gives you. The PD529 offers 1 to 100 levels of vibration and shock for the smallest steps, the RXGQ-04 has vibration 1 to 15 and shock 1 to 99, and the TC028 has static levels 1 to 99 with a boost mode. Start at the lowest level, increase gradually and follow the user manual.
3. Waterproofing
Every receiver collar is rated waterproof: IPX7 on the PD521, PD529, PD800 and RXGQ-04, and IP67 on the TC028. On these collars it is the receiver that is waterproof, so keep the handheld remote away from water.
4. Your dog's weight
Check your dog's weight against the range listed for each collar. The PD521 and PD529 list 4 to 120 lbs, the TC028 lists 8 to 120 lbs, and the PD800 and RXGQ-04 list 15 to 100 lbs. Follow the user manual for fitting and wear time.
5. More than one dog
The PD521 and PD529 have three channels for up to three dogs, which suits a multi-dog home.
6. If you would rather not use shock
Each remote collar also has a beep or sound mode and vibration, so you can train with those alone. The U20 ultrasonic dog repeller is a handheld alternative with two modes, dual speakers and a range of up to 10 metres. Read How Ultrasonic Repellers Work for Dogs before you decide.
Before you buy
- Rules on remote training collars differ by country and region, and some places restrict or ban them. Check the rules where you live before you order.
- A collar is a training aid and works best alongside patience, consistency and plenty of rewards for good behaviour.
- Add a lead for walks from our pet leash collection, and browse every training product in the dog training collection.
Related reading
- Dog Training Collars: Beep, Vibrate or Static?
- Training Aids for Dogs: An Honest Guide
- How Ultrasonic Repellers Work for Dogs
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the PD521 and the PD529?
Both list a 1000m remote range, an IPX7 receiver and three channels. The PD521 has shock levels 1 to 16 and one vibration level, while the PD529 has 1 to 100 levels of both vibration and shock.
Is the remote control waterproof too?
No. On these collars it is the receiver that is waterproof, so keep the handheld remote dry.
Will the remote really reach 1000m?
1000m is the manufacturer's listed range. Buildings, trees and hills reduce it, so expect less in built-up or wooded places.
Which collar suits a small dog?
Check the weight range on each product page. The PD521 and PD529 list 4 to 120 lbs and the TC028 lists 8 to 120 lbs, while the PD800 and RXGQ-04 list 15 to 100 lbs.
Can I train without shock?
Yes. Each collar has a beep or sound mode and vibration. You can also look at the handheld U20 ultrasonic dog repeller.