Are you looking for an advanced, customizable remote training collar to reinforce obedience in your large or stubborn dog? The Dogtra 1900S could be the perfect solution.
I’ve owned and tested dozens of e-collars over the past decade of training hunting dogs and pets. In this comprehensive review, I’ll share my experiences with the Dogtra 1900S to help you decide if it’s the right training collar for you and your pooch.
Overview of the Dogtra 1900S Remote Trainer
The Dogtra 1900S is a high-powered, highly customizable e-collar for medium to large breed dogs. It has a 3/4 mile range and comes with both nick (momentary) and constant stimulation modes, as discussed more in this Garmin Delta SE review. This versatile remote trainer also has a non-stimulating vibration feature for getting your dog’s attention, similar to the Garmin Alpha 100.
Key Features:
- Low to high power stimulation (127 levels)
- 3/4 mile range
- Nick, constant, and vibration modes
- Fully waterproof receiver collar & transmitter
- Rechargeable batteries
- Slim, ergonomic collar receiver
- LCD screen shows exact stim level
Transmitter & Collar Design
The transmitter handheld has an LCD screen that displays the exact stimulation level, from 1-127. This helps ensure consistency in your training. The LCD is visible even in low light conditions. The rheostat dial allows you to gradually increase the stimulation intensity.
The transmitter is fully waterproof and has a non-slip, checkered grip so it won’t slide out of wet hands. Lithium polymer batteries provide 2 hours of rapid charging. Dogtra also made the batteries user-replaceable, so you don’t have to send the whole unit in when they stop holding a charge.
The collar receiver is slim, lightweight, and ergonomically contoured to your dog’s neck. This improves comfort during long training sessions. Enhanced contact points deliver consistent stimulation whether on land or in water. The unit is also fully waterproof.
The collar receiver uses the same rapid charging lithium polymer batteries as the transmitter.
Stimulation Modes & Intensity Range
With 127 levels, the Dogtra 1900S gives you unmatched control over the stimulation intensity. This allows extremely precise reinforcement as you train your dog, more than even the Garmin Alpha 200i or Garmin Astro 430.
You can choose between momentary “nick” stimulation or constant stimulation up to 12 seconds. There is also a non-stimulating high-performance vibration mode that gets your dog’s attention without startling them.
The large range of stimulation intensity lets you tailor the collar to your individual dog’s temperament and sensitivity. Start low and increase gradually while observing your dog’s reaction. As you find the right working level, mark and record it so you can remain consistent.
Always keep sessions positive, ending on a high note when your dog complies with a command. Reward with treats and praise as you shape behaviors.
Remote Training Collar Range
The 1900S offers an impressive 3/4 mile range, provided there are no major obstacles between the transmitter and collar receiver. Keep in mind that heavy brush, trees, hills, and metal structures can all impact the range. Range also depends on weather conditions.
For most training purposes, the 1900S provides ample range to reinforce commands at a distance. This allows off-leash obedience, even at the park or field.
If you need something with an even longer range, the Dogtra T&B 2260 provides up to 2 miles of range. However, it does cost nearly twice as much.
Additional Features
- The transmitter has a multi-colored LED battery life indicator so you know when charging is needed.
- A blue backlit LCD shows the exact stimulation level, even in the dark.
- It comes with a lanyard for your transmitter so you can wear it around your neck.
- The package includes a splitter cable so you can charge both collar and transmitter simultaneously, unlike with the Petpace Smart Collar.
- A test light tool lets you confirm the collar is delivering stimulation.
- The collar strap is adjustable from 15″-26″ to fit most dog breeds.
- Dogtra provides a 1-year warranty for peace of mind.
What’s Included in the Box
Your Dogtra 1900S training kit comes neatly packaged with everything you need:
- Transmitter handheld
- Receiver collar with 1” black strap
- Battery charger
- Splitter cable
- Test light tool
- Lanyard for transmitter
- Owner’s manual
- Basic obedience training DVD, which many competitors like the Garmin Delta Sport lack
- Long line leash
Companion Collars for Multi-Dog Homes
For families with two or more dogs, the Dogtra 1902S dual system allows you to control both dogs from the same transmitter. This saves you from needing to purchase two separate single dog systems or manually switch between collars.
Dogtra also makes 1902S models that can support up to 3 or 4 dogs if needed. The range does start to suffer though with more than two dogs.
Training Tips for Introducing the E-Collar
If this is your first time using an electronic training collar, I highly recommend watching the basic obedience DVD included with your system. Professional trainer Robin MacFarlane demonstrates proper introduction techniques to avoid overwhelming your dog.
Here are some additional tips for using the 1900S effectively:
Find Your Dog’s Working Level
- Start on the lowest stimulation level and work your way up slowly.
- Watch for minor reactions like ear twitching, head shaking, or looking to the side.
- These show you’ve hit your dog’s initial working level for that training session.
Use Proper Collar Positioning
- Place the collar high on your dog’s neck below the ears.
- Ensure good skin contact from the stainless steel points.
- Check fit regularly as hair and weight affect contact.
Reinforce Known Commands at First
- Use the e-collar for learned commands before teaching anything new.
- This helps your dog associate sensations with known cues.
- Mix stimulation with rewards to maintain drive and enthusiasm, similar to approaches with the Wagz Smart Collar.
Keep Sessions Short and Positive
- Limit first sessions to 10-15 minutes maximum.
- End on a high note by praising and rewarding your dog for compliance.
- Gradually increase session length as your dog progresses.
- Maintain a positive training atmosphere with enthusiasm and encouragement.
Pros & Cons of the Dogtra 1900S
Now that we’ve covered the features and usage in depth, let’s summarize the pros and cons of the Dogtra 1900S:
Pros
- 127 levels of stimulation for maximum control
- 3/4 mile range suits most training needs
- Fully waterproof and rugged
- Rechargeable batteries
- Vibration mode for non-stimulus guidance
- LCD screen shows exact stim level
- Comfortable, ergonomic collar design
- Includes helpful training DVD
Cons
- Premium pricing, but typical for the features
- Rechargeable batteries eventually need replacing
- Collar strap not interchangeable like with the SportDOG Field Trainer
Customer Reviews
The Dogtra 1900S scores an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon across over 1100 reviews. Owners praise the wide stimulation range, good battery life, and strong construction.
Positive reviews mention the unit holds up well for years of heavy training use. The nick and constant settings are favored over just a vibration mode.
Most critical reviews report issues with the collar losing charge quickly. A few mention the plastic charger port breaking after repeated use.
Based on feedback, the collar seems to work well for dogs over 35 pounds. Some owners of smaller dogs did note the collar was too bulky.
Price Comparison
The Dogtra 1900S has an MSRP of $299, but normally sells for $239. Here’s how it compares:
- Garmin Delta XC: Starts at $199 for 1 dog, 500 yard range, no vibration mode.
- SportDOG FieldTrainer: $140 for 500 yard range, 8 levels + vibration.
- Educator EZ-900: $280 for 1/2 mile range, 100+ levels, vibration.
The Dogtra 1900S is priced as a premium model thanks to the 3/4 mile range, waterproof ruggedness, and 127 levels. Only the Educator compares in features.
For tight budgets under $150, the SportDOG is a compelling alternative and top seller on Amazon. You do lose some configurability however.
Our Verdict
The Dogtra 1900S sticks out for its intensely customizable stimulation with 127 levels, putting fine-tuned obedience reinforcement at your fingertips.
The included vibration mode provides a non-stimulus option for getting attention, while the rechargeable batteries offer convenience.
The 3/4 mile range gives you good coverage for most training scenarios or exercising your dog off-leash.
While it sits at the higher end of the market in terms of price, the Dogtra 1900S is our top pick for advanced remote trainers who want maximum flexibility and output power.
It’s built to provide years of reliable service. In my experience the brand stands behind their products too.
If your budget allows, investing in the Dogtra 1900S will provide a superb training experience with your medium, large, or stubborn dog.
