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Explains how the SportDOG FieldTrainer 400 & 400S system operates, including range and stimulation.
Details the components and functions of the Remote Transmitter, including buttons and indicator lights.
Explains the Collar Receiver, its indicator light, contact points, and the three types of correction delivered.
Provides step-by-step instructions for charging the Remote Transmitter, including initial charge duration.
Details the different light colors and functions indicating operational mode and battery status for the transmitter.
Provides instructions for charging the Collar Receiver, including initial charge duration and salt water use.
Step-by-step guide on how to power on the Collar Receiver, including indicator light and beep signals.
Step-by-step instructions for powering off the Collar Receiver, including indicator light and beep signals.
Details about NiMH batteries, safety warnings, charging recommendations, and battery life.
Instructions on how to properly fit the collar on the dog, ensuring comfort and contact point effectiveness.
Advises on trimming dog's neck hair for contact and warns against making the collar too tight.
Provides a step-by-step process to identify the dog's recognition level for effective training.
Explains how to use the test light to verify the Collar Receiver is delivering stimulation.
Offers essential tips and recommendations before starting training with the remote trainer.
Details how to program the Remote Transmitter, including changing modes and understanding stimulation timing.
Explains the different operational modes of the transmitter and their corresponding button functions and dog limits.
Provides instructions to reset and match the Collar Receiver with a new or existing Remote Transmitter.
Guides on programming the system for training multiple dogs using Add-A-Dog receivers.
Lists available accessories for the Field Trainer 400 & 400S, along with their corresponding part numbers.
Answers common questions regarding stimulation safety, dog age, waterproof features, and aggressive dogs.
Provides solutions for common problems like the dog not responding or the collar receiver not turning on.
The SportDOG™ FieldTrainer® 400 & 400S are electronic training systems designed to help dog owners reinforce commands and correct misbehavior. These systems are suitable for dogs over 8 pounds and offer a range of up to 400 yards. The core components of the system include a Remote Transmitter and a Collar Receiver, both of which are waterproof and can be submerged in water to a depth of 25 feet.
The system operates by the Remote Transmitter sending a signal to the Collar Receiver, which then delivers a harmless stimulation or a tone. With consistent and correct use, dogs learn to associate this signal with a command or a correction for misbehavior. The adjustable stimulation levels allow owners to tailor the correction to their dog's temperament, minimizing the risk of over-correction.
The Remote Transmitter is the handheld unit used by the owner. It features an Intensity Dial that provides multiple levels of stimulation, allowing for precise control over the correction strength. The transmitter has three buttons: an Upper Button, a Lower Button, and a Side Button. These buttons are factory-set to deliver different types of correction. The Upper Button typically delivers continuous stimulation, while the Lower Button delivers momentary stimulation (a "Nick"). The Side Button is factory-set to deliver a tone without stimulation. The transmitter also has a Transmitter Indicator Light which shows when a button is pressed and serves as a low-battery indicator. A Charging Jack is present for recharging the unit. The transmitter's antenna helps in sending the radio signal to the Collar Receiver.
The Collar Receiver is worn by the dog and receives the radio signal from the Remote Transmitter. It delivers the stimulation and/or tone through Contact Points that touch the dog's skin. The receiver has an On/Off Button to power the unit on and off, and a Receiver Indicator Light that shows the unit's status (on/off, low battery, receiving signal). Like the transmitter, it also has a Charging Jack for recharging.
The Collar Receiver is capable of delivering three types of correction:
Charging: Both the Remote Transmitter and Collar Receiver are rechargeable. For the initial charge, both units require 24 hours of charging. Subsequent recharges take approximately 12 hours. The charging jacks are protected by rubber covers, which should be kept in place when not charging to prevent debris from entering. Approximate battery life between charges is 40 to 60 hours for the transmitter and 40 hours for the receiver, depending on frequency of use.
Turning On/Off: To turn the Collar Receiver on, the On/Off Button is pressed and held until the Receiver Indicator Light comes on and the collar beeps 5 times. To turn it off, the button is pressed and held until the light comes on solid and the collar beeps 2 times. Turning the receiver off when not in use helps extend battery life.
Collar Fit: Proper fit and placement of the Collar Receiver are crucial for effective training and the dog's comfort. The Contact Points must have direct contact with the dog's skin. The collar should fit snugly but allow one finger to fit between the strap and the dog's neck. For dogs with long or thick coats, trimming the hair around the Contact Points or switching to longer Contact Points (included with the system) may be necessary to ensure consistent contact. The collar should not be worn for more than 12 hours per day, and its position should be repositioned every 1 to 2 hours to prevent skin irritation.
Finding the Recognition Level: Before training, it's important to find the dog's "Recognition Level," which is the lowest stimulation level at which the dog shows a slight reaction, such as looking around or flicking its ears, indicating it feels the stimulation. Owners should always start at Level 1 and gradually increase the intensity. The dog should not vocalize or panic when receiving stimulation; if this happens, the level is too high and should be reduced.
Remote Transmitter Modes: The Remote Transmitter is factory-set to Mode 1 but can be programmed to different modes to suit various training styles or multi-dog operations. Modes vary in how the Upper, Lower, and Side Buttons deliver stimulation (continuous, momentary, or tone) and the number of stimulation levels available. For example, some modes offer 8 levels corresponding to the Intensity Dial, while others provide up to 16 levels.
Multi-Dog Operation: The system can be expanded to train up to three dogs with the purchase of additional SportDOG™ Add-A-Dog® Collar Receivers. For multi-dog operation, the Remote Transmitter needs to be programmed to Mode 4, and each Collar Receiver is matched to a specific button (Upper, Lower, or Side) on the transmitter.
Matching Collar Receiver and Remote Transmitter: If a new Remote Transmitter is acquired or a Collar Receiver needs to be reprogrammed, the units can be matched. This involves turning off the Collar Receiver, then pressing and holding its On/Off Button until the indicator light turns off. After releasing the button, the Upper Button on the Remote Transmitter is pressed and held until the Receiver Indicator Light flashes 5 times, indicating a successful match.
Battery Care: The system uses rechargeable Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries. These batteries are not memory sensitive and do not require depletion before charging. While they come partially charged, a full 24-hour charge is required before first use. For long-term storage, batteries should be given a full 12-hour charge every 4 to 6 weeks. To maximize battery life, it's not recommended to leave the battery plugged in for more than 12 hours after the initial charge. If operating time significantly decreases, new battery packs can be purchased from the Customer Care Center.
Cleaning: The dog's neck area and the Contact Points of the collar should be washed weekly with a damp cloth. This helps prevent skin irritation and maintains hygiene.
Saltwater Use: If the Collar Receiver is used in or around salt water, it should be rinsed with fresh water after each use. Before rinsing, the rubber charging jack cover should be removed and left out until the receiver air dries.
Skin Monitoring: Owners should examine the dog's contact area daily for any signs of rash or sores. If irritation is found, discontinue use of the collar until the skin heals. If the condition persists beyond 48 hours, a veterinarian should be consulted.
Troubleshooting: The manual provides a troubleshooting section for common issues such as the dog not responding to stimulation, the Collar Receiver not turning on, or the Collar Receiver not responding to the Remote Transmitter. Solutions often involve checking battery levels, collar fit, stimulation intensity, or re-matching the units. If issues persist, the Customer Care Center can be contacted for assistance.
The Intensity Dial is designed to be somewhat stiff to rotate, which is normal. This prevents accidental changes in intensity and ensures an optimal waterproof seal. The knob will become slightly easier to turn with use.
The FieldTrainer® 400 & 400S are not designed for attaching a leash. A separate non-metallic collar should be used for leash attachment to avoid interfering with the Contact Points. The system is also compatible with other SportDOG Brand® systems like the SportHunter® 800 and WetlandHunter® 400, requiring matching of the units.
General| Brand | SportDOG |
|---|---|
| Model | FieldTrainer 400 |
| Category | Pet Care Product |
| Type | Remote Training Collar |
| Range | 400 yards |
| Stimulation Levels | 7 |
| Stimulation Type | Static, Vibration, Tone |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Battery Type | Rechargeable Lithium-ion |
| Battery Life | 40-60 hours |
| Charge Time | 2 hours |
| Expandable | Yes |
| Compatibility | Dogs 8 lbs and up |
| Transmitter | Handheld |
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