Training Instructions for a Vibrating Dog Collar

Training a dog can be a challenging task for any pet owner, but the process can be especially difficult for those who attempt to train a deaf dog. One tool that has proved helpful for some pet owners is the vibrating dog collar. This collar works like a pager; a box on your dog's collar vibrates when you push a button on a handheld remote. The vibrating collar is not designed to actually help your dog learn any tasks. It is used during training to gain a deaf dog's attention and aid in communication.

Things You'll Need

  • Vibrating collar
  • Leash
  • Treats
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Instructions

  1. Training Instructions for a Vibrating Dog Collar

    • 1

      Introduce the vibrating collar to your dog gradually, using positive reinforcement. Start by putting the collar on and removing it several times on the first day, treating your dog each time. Leave the collar on for short intervals (about 15 to 30 minutes) on the second day, and continue to treat. Work your way up to leaving the collar on anytime you are with your dog.

    • 2

      Familiarize your dog with the vibration and train it to associate the vibration with you. Keeping your dog leashed and close to you, press the remote button and treat the dog immediately. Do not wait for the dog to respond; simply press the button and treat several times, then stop. Do this in two or three sessions of five to 10 minutes each on the first day. On the second, pause briefly between paging and treating, giving your dog extra treats when he looks at you upon feeling the vibration.

    • 3

      Taper off treats and give your dog some freedom. Once the dog begins consistently looking to you when you activate the vibrating collar, you can give treats only when it looks at you after the vibration. You also may begin to increase the distance between you and your dog, eventually letting it off the leash and slowly increasing the area. Start with one room, moving to the whole house and then progressing outdoors. Place your dog back on the leash when you venture outdoors, then gradually let it go off-leash inside a fenced area.

    • 4

      Phase in regular training commands. Now that you can easily get your dog's attention, begin teaching your dog basic commands, such as "sit" and "stay," using hand signals in place of voice commands.