Contrary to what some pet parents believe, most of today’s vibrating dog collars don’t electrically shock and hurt your dog if you only use the vibrating option. Instead, dog training collars feature some stimulation – which can be a beeping noise, vibration, or even a static pulse – that’s specifically crafted to get your pup’s attention, even when they’re not close by.
Many of these positive dog training collars feature a long-range, allowing them to be very useful for off-leash training, adventure hikes, and dog sports. Because veterinarians play an important role in our dog’s lives, it’s always best to ask your vet about appropriate dog training methods if you’re a first-time pet parent.
The American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB) explains that if the trainer you work with recommends a prong choke or shock collar, you should change trainers.” If the trainer instructs you to manage your dog’s behaviors by pinching toes, kneeing the dog in the chest or abdomen, hitting the dog, forcibly holding the dog down against their will, constantly yelling at the dog, frequently yanking the collar constantly, or using prong, choke, pinch or shock collars or electronic stimulation.”
Dog parents and positive dog trainers use various dog training tools to help teach and train dogs, including different vibrating dog collars.
Vibration collars, which vary in how substantial a shock they produce, with some producing only a tiny amount of electricity to help get your dog’s attention or correct problematic behavior, are one of the most popular options. Still, they aren’t the best options for many dogs and their owners.
To safely choose the best vibrating dog collar for your pet, you should opt for one that features only vibration with no shock so that your dog does not get hurt or stressed during training.
Keep in mind that most of our collars feature vibration in settings, and you should opt to use this instead of shocking your dog. Some dogs are way too sensitive to use shock collars, and many of us will refrain from using them on principle. Instead, we’ll use the vibrate option for positive dog training.
In our best vibrating dog collar review for 2021, we’ll discuss our six top picks and why using these e-collars may allow for an effective way to communicate with your dog by reinforcing commands, preventing and stopping unwanted behavior, and more. That said, keep in mind that it’s best to always work together with a positive trainer before resorting to the use of an e-collar, even if you’re using it in the vibration setting.
This is because some dogs may become over-anxious and fearful even when only the vibration setting is used. All in all, the e-collar uses discomfort and fear to punish your dog, and these dog e-training collars may not be the right option for your pet.
We strongly suggest working with a positive trainer without using an e-collar and brushing up on your training cues throughout the year without the use of force or punishment. Let’s start reviewing the best dog vibration collar!
In a rush? Here are the top picks!
- Pros
- Shock-resistant large range dog training e-collar
- Features a tracking light
- Delivers a light tapping sensation similar to vibration but more intense, making it a practical addition to the stimulation.
- Innovative ergonomic design with collars that do not fray due to biothane material used.
- Safe and humane dog training with low-level stimulation training
- Dogs learn how to associate the tone with stimulation and soon respond to the style itself without being stressed out or hurt.
- A beeper can be switched on to help locate a lost transmitter
- Will float in water
- Features blue LCD and titanium contact points
- Cons
- None
The Educator E-Collar Remote collar is one of our top picks because it features over 5,200 positive ratings and is priced well. We like the Educator because it features the lowest “blunt” stimulus to allow for safe and humane training with less stress. The e-collar uses proprietary stimulation, which means that corrections are not “sharp.”
The Educator E-Collar Remote Dog Training technology utilizes low-level stimulation conditioning to achieve superior results and improve your dog’s behavior. Dogs trained correctly with Educator collars typically never vocalize discomfort, jerk their heads or experience the fear of the training collar commonly found with imported shock collars.
The manufacturer explains that all their training collars are built to the highest quality standards and are engineered to withstand extreme environmental dog training conditions. They specify that all products are fully assembled and tested in the USA. Overall, we think this is the best vibrating shock collar.
Specifications
- 3 Sizes Small, Medium, and Large
- Settings: Shock, vibration, Sound
- Life stage: Puppy/Adult
- Range: 1/2 mile
- Material: Plastic/nylon
Features
- Nylon quick snap collars or high-quality biothane collars feature stimulation levels from 1 to 100, and you can set a boost level from 1 to 60
- Customized low-level stimulation achieves superior training results
- Priced well
- Waterproof transmitter and receiver
- It comes with a lithium-polymer rechargeable battery with a dual charger, 2-hour full charge
- Comes with a Biothane collar with manual, dual battery charger, remote lanyard, storage box, and one waterproof miniature collar receiver.
- Pros
- Crafted with a lithium-ion, rechargeable battery featuring a 2-hour quick charge
- Remote Transmitter with antenna - 5.30-inch L X 1.70-inch W X 1.00 inch D
- Good for dogs 8 pounds or larger with neck sizes 5" - 22"
- Ideal for training in the yard or field or hunting with close-working dogs, the SD-425XS features up to 500 yards of range.
- Charges in 2 hours or less & lasts 50-70 hours after charge
- Smallest & lightest vibrating dog collar
- Upgraded, matte collar strap for the receiver
- Can be used in all type of weather- rain, snow, dust, mud & wind
- Cons
- The collar may be stiff when you first use it
- Setup/configuration, instructions, and use are a bit complicated
- One could over/under correct easily due to charge level
Sport Dog’s new X-series is one of the most popular dog training vibrating collars for high-drive, stubborn dogs. This product features their smallest and lightest e-collar built for energetic dogs and is excellent for stubborn dogs because it features a higher static stimulation range than the SD-425X.
This is a good training collar for sporting dogs because it has consistency and perfect timing, critical when teaching your sporting dog. We like this product because it’s easy to use and you don’t have to look at it while using it constantly. This allows you to focus on your dog and not your dog training gear. This product has over 5,500 positive reviews and features 21 training levels. Fun fact, you can also use this vibration collar for a deaf dog!
Specifications
- 3 Sizes: 8 pounds or larger with neck sizes 5″ – 22″
- Settings: Shock, Vibe, Tone
- Life stage: Adult
- Range: 1/2 mile
- Material: Plastic/nylon
Features
- A higher static stimulation range than the sd-425x
- Crafted with a 500-yard range e-collar that can support training three dogs with the same remote. (must purchase additional collars)
- Features all three- Vibration (Buzz), Tone (beep), or 21 levels of static stimulation in either momentary (nick) or continuous.
- Priced well
- Waterproof or submergible up to 25 feet
- Pros
- Split charging cable
- Long battery life with auto shut off
- Short or long prongs
- Interchangeable faceplates
- Sleek modern design
- Features reflective & waterproof straps
- Cons
- Customers could not disable the powerful shock mode to use vibrate only
- Voltage fluctuates randomly
- Level #2 shock is too strong. The collar should only be used on vibrate with Shock turned off for safety.
- Customers added that the shock mode was too powerful for small dogs
The eXuby is one of the smallest vibrating dog collars on the market. With this collar, you can quickly turn to sound and vibration modes that will not hurt small dog breeds. There is a switch between nine levels of intensity, so it’s easy to find the setting right for your dog. This is a long-range collar with access up to 1000 feet. As usual, opt for the vibration setting only and not the shock setting. This is the best vibration collar for small dogs.
Features
- Features 4 colorways
- Plastic
- Affordable
- Water-resistant
- Smallest vibrating collar for small breeds
- Pros
- Built-in large capacity li-battery
- Fast charge
- Special Touch-distinguished design with three main buttons
- Features LCD backlit display with three working modes
- Crafted with a 660-yard large control range
- Features a multifunction wireless remote for easy use
- Crafted with a sturdy belt clip and hanging neck strap to allow for hands-free training
- Cons
- An oversized collar that may be hard for smaller breeds to wear
This is another 100% waterproof vibrating dog collar – IPX7 waterproof rated receiver with a durable ABS shell and TPU strap. Wolfwill constantly strives to develop high-quality pet products that enhance your pet’s life and allows for training to be easier.
This is a dog training collar that doesn’t shock. That’s why we like this very much. The way it works is by the vibration-the humane way! Not only is this product priced well, but it’s made with premium quality ABS materials for optimal durability.
The collar strap is easily adjustable and features a high-grade TPU. This collar is easy to charge with both collar and remote plugged into the wall for a fast charge. Here’s the take on this best vibration collar for dogs.
Specifications
- Size: Fits all dogs from 22 to 88lbs with neck size of 8.7-19.3 inches.
- Setting: Sound, Vibration Mode & Light Flash
- Range: 660-yards
Features
- Hanging neck strap with lanyard
- Premium quality ABD material
- 100% waterproof
- Adjustable collar strap to fit most neck sizes
- Fits dogs from 22 to 88lbs
- Easy to use
- No shock collar
- Pros
- Security keypad locks to prevent accidents
- The receiver has up to 15 days standby time
- Suitable for different sized dogs (15lbs ~ 100lbs)
- Can charge to your computer or phone
- Long battery life via a lithium-ion battery
- Pet psychologist created/approved product
- Rainproof receiver
- Cons
- The collar may be significant for some breeds.
The Dog Care best vibrating dog collar features over 82,500 positive ratings for a reason. Not only is this e-collar very affordable, but it offers three training modes, and the shock collar features low voltage, so the gentle static will not hurt your dog. There is also a security keypad lock electric to prevent any slight mishaps. Dog Care humanely believes in training pets with respect and kindness.
Specifications
- Setting: Static, vibrate & beep.
- Suitable for different sized dogs (15lbs ~ 100lbs)
Features
- One remote for nine receivers (can train up to 9 dogs at the same time with one remote)
- Affordable
- 1-99 adjustable shock level for different dog sizes
- Up to 45 days’ short standby time
- Three modes: static, vibrate & beep mode
- Up to 330 yards range
- Independent audio system that always gives a quick and precise command/frequency to dogs.
- Pros
- 650-yard control range
- Able to control two receivers simultaneously
- It can be used for dogs over six months of age & 22- 100 lbs weight.
- Concave groove design for the button can reduce the chance to be triggered by accident
- TPU strap and tightly-sealed rubber plug charging port for protection against rain
- Priced well
- Cons
- None
Paws Furlosophy is one of the safest and effective ways of training your pet without the use of pain or Shock. With these collars that only vibrate, there are generally three training modes with no electrical training shock.
We like this no shock training collar because it’s an effective training device that does not use pain or Shock. There is also a waterproof receiver with a robust ABS shell.
Each button on the remote has a unique structure and touch design that allows you to operate it efficiently and always send the correct training command with no mishaps.
Specifications
- Setting: Tone, vibration, light flash
- Suitable for dogs from 6 months up to and 22- 100 lbs. weight.
Features
- IPX7 waterproof grade receiver/remote
- Thermoplastic polyurethane
- Three modes
- 1-16 levels of adjustable vibration and light
- LED backlights display
- No electrical shock
- Both receiver and transmitter utilize a rechargeable lithium battery
- Portable finger ring & sturdy belt clip
What to Look for in a Dog Training Collar?
When choosing the best dog training collar, there is one feature that you need to look for in the various settings offered. Numerous e-collars feature a combination of noise, vibration, and stimulation/shock settings.
It’s advisable to look for a dog training collar that you’re comfortable using. It also has to be effective for your dog. It’s key to see how many levels are featured within each setting because some dog training collars will only have a few intensity levels and vibrations and others will feature up to 100.
What are e-Collars?
These collars work by emitting stimulation or shock to ward off unwanted behavior. Vibrating dog collars feature different levels of motivation that are adjustable and can help your dog with unwanted behaviors.
A vibrating dog collar can be helpful for all dog breeds and feature adjustable levels of stimulation, so your dog can learn the required cue in a short amount of time.
Shock collars should never be used to substitute dog training, especially in adolescent pups.
Features to Look For
- Three or more modes -vibration tone and shock.
- Adjustable collars that easily fit all dog breeds starting at 10 lbs. to 120 lbs. Collars need to be used correctly at all times.
- Look for an automatic power save on the receiver.
- There should be different levels of vibration to choose from.
- There should also be different levels of shock- try not to use this option at all.
- The collar should be lightweight & non-obtrusive.
- Opt for a range that works for you and your home environment.
How Does a Vibrating Dog Collar Work?
Vibrating dog collars work by way of the remote and the receiver on your pet’s collar. If you’re trying to choose a dog training collar for your pet, it may take time. You may even find this a frustrating thing to do because of all the options out there.
If you have a high-energy adult dog, you should first make sure that he’s getting enough daily exercise and positive dog training classes. This is key for any dog breed. The most important thing to understand is that shock collars should never hurt your dog.
Dog training should not affect your dog in a negative way. You should choose your training collar after looking at several features like range, beep option, level of correction, and rechargeable option.
These collars feature a remote with a button you can activate. When pressed, your dog will get a mild electronic/ or vibrating stimulation from the collar.
The frequency is best set on the lowest frequency possible so as not to hurt your dog. The stimulation, in turn, encourages your dog to focus on the training task at hand. It also allows you to communicate with your dog. Here’s what it does.
- Teaches your dog to respond to basic training cues.
- It may be beneficial in preventing dangerous or annoying behavior like chewing and digging.
- Dogs can be trained from a distance.
- Two dogs or more can be trained at the same time.
- These collars should not be used to stop barking.
This form of dog training is also called aversive avoidance training. Vibrating dog training collars are best used with the vibrating option.
Most dogs will respond the right way to the vibrating dog training collar for both remote training and positive reinforcement. You should always use the lowest levels of stimulation. All vibrating training collars can be helpful if used in the right way.
How to First Use a Collar?
When first using a dog collar that vibrates, you should read the instructions and then activate the collar to see how it operates before putting it on your pup. By looking at the various shock collar functions, like sending a click or using the vibration setting, you’ll get an idea of how to set it on the lowest level. In this way, you won’t hurt your dog.
Good Fit
The training collar should have a good fit. A collar should never be on your dog for an extended period and should not be too tight around the neck area. The take here with using these collars is to read the product manual all the way through.
- Don’t leave the collar on your dog for longer than specified within the manual.
- Move the collar around often to avoid sensitivity.
- Look for tight spots with excessive pressure. If any, loosen the collar or take it off right away if the fit is not good.
- Look for signs of skin irritation or abrasion.
Price & Design
When we looked at vibrating dog collars, we were curious about ease-of-use and how complicated each instruction manual was. We also checked out price points and looked at the extended range possibilities together with product durability. Feature options were just as important, so things like vibration options and tone settings must match your needs.
Conclusion for Best Dog Vibration Collars
Purchasing a vibrating dog collar is a big decision, and you should first know how to use it before trying it out on your dog. Dog collars that vibrate are relatively easy to use but should not be used in pups less than six months old. Clickers, dog training treats, and colorful dog toys work well for puppies in training.
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Garrett loves animals and is a huge advocate for all Doodle dog breeds. He owns his own Goldendoodle named Kona. In addition, he volunteers at the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, where he fosters dogs and helps animals. Garrett enjoys writing about Doodles and believes that dogs can teach humans more about how to live than humans can teach a dog.
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