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Collar Style Comparison - Dog Supplies LIVE VERSION 6-27-2023Before you do anything else -- measure your dog's neck!
Just watch the video. Measure your dog’s neck. It’ll save you the hassle of returning a collar that doesn’t fit!
What's the difference between "Neck Sized" and "Collar Sized?"
- Most of the collars we sell are "Neck Sized" or "NS" collars. NS collar sizes are determined by measuring from the center of the buckle to one of the adjustment holes. When you measure your dog's neck for an NS collar, that measurement IS the collar size you need.
- A few of our collars are "Collar Sized" or "CS" collars. Their sizes are measured from the buckle to the tip or end of the collar. To properly fit a CS collar, you should add 4-5 inches to your dog's measured neck size to determine which collar size you need.
Your lost dog can't call you.
All of our collars include a FREE stamped brass ID name plate. You can include your name, address, phone numbers, or anything else you feel is pertinent to your dog being returned if they go missing. We stamp your name plates in-house and attach them with rivets to your dog’s collar by hand. That way they won’t jingle or make noise, and are much less likely to come off. Need to fit more info? Add an additional name plate or a medical alert tag. We have countless customer success stories of a lost dog being returned as a direct result of having a name plate.
What collar material is best?
Does your dog get wet? A lot? Get a waterproof collar!
- Biothane Collars: By far our favorite collar material is Biothane. Biothane feels a lot like leather, but without the issues associated with natural materials. It's a vinyl-coated webbing that is durable, flexible, stink-proof, doesn't tangle in longer coats, is easy to clean, and doesn't mold or mildew like leather can.
- "DAWG" Series Collars: Our "DAWG" series Biothane collars are made right here at Gun Dog Supply. BIG DAWG collars come in multiple colors, sizes, and styles (see our style comparison below). For puppies and small dogs we offer the Little DAWG, and for those who prefer brass hardware, we have the BRASS DAWG series. For added visibility in low light, check out the Big Dawg VISIBILITY reflective collars.
- TufFlex Collars: Another Biothane option is TufFlex collars, which are also made of vinyl-coated webbing and are available in assorted colors and styles. Choose from Standard TufFlex and Reflective TufFlex collars.
- Day Glow Collars: Day Glow material is plastic-coated nylon. It is more rigid than Biothane with all of the same benefits -- durable, odor-resistant, and easy to clean. Day Glow collars come in multiple styles and colors, as well as reflective and beaded models.
- Wigwag Collars: A third waterproof option is Wigwag collars, which are made from durable injection-molded thermoplastic polyurethane, making them softer and more resistant to cracking. They feature brass hardware and come in a variety of colors and sizes.
If your dog stays mostly high and dry, a leather or nylon collar might be right for you.
- Leather: Natural, classic, and stylish -- we offer a variety of leather collars at several different price points. Leather is one of the world's strongest materials and lasts a long time when taken care of properly. On the downside, you have to care for leather collars a little more, especially if you're working your dogs in water. Some dog trainers prefer leather collars because they don't pull on your dog's neck like nylon or other synthetic materials.
- "Signature" Leather Collars: Our "Signature" leather collars are our favorite, and include our BEST-SELLING dog collar. They have a center-ring design and feature solid brass hardware.
- "Premium Deluxe" Leather Collars: The top-of-the-line "Premium Deluxe" collars offer double-layered lined leather, which prevents dogs with long hair from getting tangled, as well as allowing the collar to move more easily on their neck.
- "Deluxe" Leather Collars: Our "Deluxe" leather collars are another popular option, featuring an English Bridle Leather finish which keeps them more pliable and gives them more consistent color, as well as a nice, non-oily feel.
- Nylon: Nylon is very durable, especially our 2-ply nylon collars. Choose from standard, center-ring, and quick-release options, which have the added versatility of being easily adjustable -- great for growing puppies!
What style of collar should I get?
There are four main styles of collars that we offer: Standard, Center-Ring / O-Ring, D-End, and Adjustable Quick-Release.
- Standard collars are designed like a man’s belt. They usually have a metal "D" ring where you can attach a leash. It’s your classic and most common dog collar design.
- Center-Ring / O-Ring collars have a metal ring in the middle which allows the collar to flex more than the material alone would naturally. If your dog gets hung on something, this extra flexibility enables them to potentially free themselves. This is why they are sometimes called "safety collars." The center ring can also be used to attach a leash. A "double-ring collar" is a center-ring collar that also has a separate "D" ring for leash attachment.
- D-End collars are designed where the "D" comes before the buckle. It's our most secure design for use with a leash since your dog actually pulls against two layers of collar material. If they somehow manage to pull the D ring loose, they still won't get free. It’s the best design for hard-pulling dogs.
- Adjustable quick-release collars are typically nylon. They're a good choice for puppies and growing dogs, or for situations where you need to quickly or frequently put on and remove your dog's collar.
Dog Collar Buyer's Guide
Measure Your Dog’s Neck
Just watch the video. Measure your dog’s neck. It’ll save you the hassle of returning a collar that doesn’t fit.
Your Lost Dog Can’t Call Home!
All of our collars have the option to include a stamped brass name plate. You can choose to include your name, address, phone numbers, and anything else you feel pertinent to your dog being returned if they go missing.We stamp them in house and the nameplate is then attached to your dog’s collar by hand. The benefit of having a nameplate on the collar is that it won’t jingle or make noise. Name plates also prevent dogs’ tags from easily pulling off. You can even add an additional nameplate to put more phone numbers or medical alerts on your dog’s collar.
We have countless customer success stories of a lost dog being returned as a direct result of having a name plate.
Choosing a Material
The first question to ask yourself when considering collar material is: “Does my dog encounter water or get rained on?”
For dogs that do encounter water, we stock 3 materials that are waterproof and will last:
- By far our favorite collar material is Biothane. We make Biothane collars at Gun Dog Supply - our Big Dawg and Little Dawg collars are made on-site. The benefit of Biothane is that it is durable, flexible, does not stink, does not tangle in longer coats, is easy to clean, and does not mold or mildew as leather can. Biothane feels a lot like synthetic leather, without all of the issues associated with natural materials.
- Our favorite collar is the Big Dawg Standard Collar. It comes in multiple colors and a wide range of sizes. Then you have the Big Dawg O-Ring Collar. It’s the same material, just a different style.
- We also offer other Biothane options that aren’t made at Gun Dog Supply - Tuflex and Wigwam.
- Mendota Duraflex is the closest thing to leather - it feels and looks like leather with the added benefit of being odor and fade resistant.
- Day Glow material is plastic-coated nylon. It is more rigid than Biothane with all of the same benefits - durable, odor-resistant, and easy to clean.
- Standard collars are basically like a men’s belt for a dog’s neck. It has a metal ring where you can attach a leash to if you need to. It’s your classic collar design with a metal buckle.
- O-Ring collars have a metal ring in the middle of the material and allow for the collar to be a bit more flexible than the standard or D-Ring/D-End collar. The center ring can be used to attach a leash if needed. If a dog gets hung, the O-Ring allows the collar to flex enough for them to free themselves.
- D-Ring/D-End collars are a variation of a standard collar - it is our most secure design if you are using a leash. If they somehow manage to pull the D ring loose, they still can’t get free. It’s great for dogs who pull hard on a leash or check cord.
- Adjustable collars are typically nylon. They're designed for puppies or growing dogs.
- Safety: A collar that's too loose can allow your dog to slip out, especially in situations where they might try to back out of it.
- Comfort: A collar that’s too tight can be uncomfortable and cause irritation, while one that’s too loose might not provide the necessary control.
- Adjustability: Choosing a collar with some flexibility allows you to adjust the fit based on different activities, like walking or being on a stakeout chain.
Tools You Need
To measure your dog’s neck, you’ll need: - A seamstress tape: This flexible, easy-to-use tape is ideal for getting an accurate measurement.
- Alternative: If you don’t have a seamstress tape, use a piece of string or rope. Wrap it around your dog’s neck, mark the length, and then measure it with a standard tape measure.
Steps to Measure Your Dog’s Neck
Positioning: Dogs’ necks are narrowest at the base of the skull and wider as you move towards the shoulders. Decide where you want the collar to sit—typically around the middle of the neck.
Taking the Measurement: Wrap the seamstress tape around your dog’s neck at the desired position. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. For Flint, this tight measurement is 16 inches.Choosing the Right Collar Size:
- If your measurement is in between sizes, opt for the larger size.
- For example, Flint’s neck size is 16 inches. However, the right collar size might vary depending on the collar’s adjustability.
- A 15-inch NECK SIZE collar might fit, but it would be on the last hole, offering no room for further adjustment.
- A 17-inch collar NECK SIZE allows Flint to be on the middle hole, giving the option to tighten or loosen as needed.
Final Fit and Comfort
After selecting the 17-inch collar for Flint, we found it provided a comfortable fit. It sat snugly in the middle hole, with enough flexibility to tighten if needed. The collar rotated well around her neck, staying in place without being too loose or tight. In conclusion, measuring your dog’s neck correctly and choosing the right collar size ensures your dog’s safety and comfort. Whether for daily walks or securing them on a stakeout, a well-fitted collar is key to a happy and secure dog. https://www.gundogsupply.com/dog-tracking-collars-and-radio-telemetry-systems-buyers-guide.htmlBuyer’s Guide: GPS Tracking Collars
Why Use a Tracking Collar?
Dog tracking collars are used by all types of folks: upland bird hunters, houndsmen, beaglers, coon hunters, field trialers, and for coon, bear, lion, pig/hog hunting. When you can’t see your dogs due to terrain, cover, or distance, dog tracking collars provide an effective means of keeping “track” of multiple dogs. Tracking collars are useful where you can’t use beeper collars or dog bells. Dog tracking collars let you quickly determine the location of your dog. Certain dog tracking systems also let you know what your dog is doing by using certain behavior systems that are part of the collar. You can tell if the dog is moving or has stopped, if a dog is barking, or if he has treed an animal. Dog Tracking Systems are also effective in locating dogs that are lost.
How They Work: Telemetry vs. GPS
Radio telemetry collars send a directional radio signal that allows you to pinpoint the direction of your dog and it gives limited information on distance. GPS tracking collars send a radio signal to your Handheld GPS unit with the exact location of your dog. The Handheld GPS unit plots that information on your MAP SCREEN so you can see your location, your dog’s location, direction, and whether or not your dog is moving.
Maximum Effective Range
The biggest advantage that radio telemetry tracking collars have over GPS tracking systems is range. Radio tracking collars have about 30% more range in perfect conditions (12 miles line of sight). The Garmin Astro and Garmin Alpha have a listed range of 9 miles (line of sight). NOTE: I have never been in a situation where I could get the maximum distance with a tracking collar. How many places do we hunt that actually have 12 miles line of sight with nothing between you and the unit? In heavy wooded areas and places with rolling terrain, your maximum effective range is going to be drastically different from the line of sight range.
Direction and Distance
One problem with a radio telemetry tracking collar is that it never tells you exact distance, so you have to do some guesswork and test your system. Telemetry collars give very limited information on distance – it’s more about direction. You can estimate the distance based on the amount of gain (signal strength) that is required to get the signal from the tracking collar, but this can change based on the terrain that is between you and the dog.
For example, if your dog is in the bottom of a ravine and there is dirt between you and him, you would need a lot of power to pick up a signal. Once the dog comes out of the ravine, you would get a much better signal without the same power. So, depending on what’s between you and the dog, you will have a hard time telling the exact distance.
GPS dog tracking systems show you exactly where your dog is. These systems have hte same range limitations as tracking collars because radio signals will only go so far. As long as you can pick up the signal, you know hte exact distance between you and your dog and what he is doing (pointing or running).
When your dog runs out of range, what then?
The biggest difference when using a GPS tracking system is that you will be able to see the exact point that the signal drops off. You will also have the advantage of knowing the last spot you were able to get a signal.
With a tracking collar, once you lose the signal, you no longer have any information. You are either getting a signal or you don’t. When you lose your signal you have to start hunting your dog by trying to get close enough to actually pick up the signal. This can be a major problem if you have no idea where to start looking.
With a GPS dog tracking system, you will know the exact location that you got the last signal. This allows you to immediately go to the last known location and pick up a current location.
What About Beeper Collars?
Beeper collars can really confuse some dogs. You have to condition them to the sound and you have to time your commands in the field since your dog can’t hear anything while the beeper is going off. While I’ve never had proof of a dog suffering any significant hearing loss from long term use of a beeper collar, I can’t see that any dog would enjoy wearing one. The hunter’s hearing plays a major role in how well you can hear a beeper, too. It’s one of the hardest things to determine when picking the beeper for a customer. Until you hear one in the field, you really will not know if a beeper is going to work with your hearing. GPS tracking eliminates hearing-related issues. I have always been amazed at how wind and terrain can make beepers useless. Sometimes you can tell exactly where your dog is with a beeper and sometimes you can’t.
The Advantages of GPS Dog Tracking
You Know Your Dog’s Exact location – the most frustrating thing about running radio tracking collars and beeper collars is that you never know exactly how far out yoru dog is from you. GPS tracking systems like the Garmin Astro and Garmin Alpha give you an exact location, distance from you, direction traveling (if moving), and status or what the dog is doing : running, pointing, sitting, or treed. This is more information than we have ever had before from a dog location system.
GPS Offers Silent Running – GPS is silent. Unlike beeper collars, GPS does not make a sound. This is better for you and your dog. GPS dog tracking totally eliminates the disadvantages of running a beeper collar. The beauty of a GPS tracking system is that it will also not bother the birds. While many upland birds are not bothered by the sound of a beeper collar, some birds (especially pheasants) learn very quickly that a beeper means hunters and dogs and they high-tail it out of the country.
Point Alarm Tells You Running or “On Point” – GPS trackers like the Garmin Astro or Garmin Alpha Dog GPS have a “Point Alarm” that will tell you when your dog goes on point. This way you don’t have to constantly check. The system tells you when you need to go find your dog.
Modern bird dog telemetry tracking collars can tell you if your dog is running or if he is on point, but you have to actually track the dog to get this information. For example, when my bird dogs are running close (50-400 yards) I can turn on my tracking collar and hear them without opening the antennas. By listening to the beeps, I can tell if they are moving or on point. If they are running close enough that I get a signal with the antennas closed, I don’t even bother tracking them. It’s their job to range out and find birds. The downside of this is that if my dog goes on point the second I cut my system off, I will not know about it until I check again, say 5-10 minutes later.
Using a Garmin Astro Dog GPS System in Field Trials or Pointing Dog Hunt Tests
The Garmin T5 and Garmin T5 Mini collars are AKC competition approved. The AKC Performance Events Department has approved both collars for use in pointing breed field trials and hunting tests.
https://www.gundogsupply.com/dog-fence.html https://www.gundogsupply.com/infenfaq.htmlInvisible Fence Buyers’ Guide
Your dog needs space to exercise safely. You want the best of both worlds: freedom to roam the yard, but not be able to go into the street or other areas you don’t want them to. Wooden and chain link fences are expensive. Enter the invisible fence: affordable, invisible, and safe for your dog. There are countless options for pet containment systems.
Wired vs. Wireless
Choosing an invisible fence for your pet begins with choosing if you want a wired or wireless system. Wireless systems provide a circular area for your dog to roam within based upon a set radius. They require less labor, but can lead to more pitfalls. A wireless system does not fit your property lines or your exact yard. It’s a circle; therefore, it’s better suited for homes that are centered on the lot.
Wired invisible fences allow you to fit the boundary to your exact yard or property line. In addition, you can prevent your dog from entering certain areas, such as flower beds, pools, or sheds. However, the wired system requires more labor: you have to physically bury the wire. The upside is that you can fully customize what shape you want the boundary and if there are any other areas that you don’t want your dog to go inside of.
Both wired & wireless invisible fences require you to train your dog to utilize them properly. You can learn how to train your dog to respect the boundaries set by invisible fences here.
Additional Features
There are a variety of features that some units come with built-in. Others have to have these features added. Features that we recommend having in your invisible fence include battery backup, lightning protection, and audible line break warnings.
Battery backup is used when the power goes out or a breaker is tripped. It allows your transmitter to continue working even when the AC power goes out. This ensures your dogs’ confinement, even if the power goes out unexpectedly.
Similarly, lightning protection prevents system failure if it is struck by lightning or experiences a power surge for another reason. Invisible fences are susceptible to power surges (such as lightning) since they operate by generating an electric field.
Audible line break warnings help identify issues with your buried wire in a wired system. It alerts you to there being an issue without you having to constantly monitor the transmitter’s performance by issuing an alarm if the circuit fails. You can even add on an RF choke device. The RF choke device allows you to use an AM radio to find the exact location of the broken wire or circuit failure.
Number of Pets
The final consideration when choosing an invisible fence is the number of pets. You have to be sure that your transmitter can support the number of collars that you need. Every transmitter is different, so be sure to read the product description.
Our Top Picks
PetSafe Stay & Play Wireless Rechargeable Pet Fence PetSafe YardMax Rechargeable In-Ground Fence Best Of: Best Wireless Best Wired Maximum Number of Pets Unlimited Unlimited Range 3/4 acre or 105 foot radius 500 feet of wire included, expandable up to 10 acres Battery Backup?: Yes No Lightning Protection?: No, but can be added Yes Minimum Pet Size: 5 lbs. 5 lbs.
Most invisible fence systems come with one collar included. If you need more, you can purchase them separately. You can see extra collars and available accessories here. Overall, purchasing and installing an invisible fence is more cost effective than a traditional wood or chain link fence. An invisible fence can also provide more flexible boundaries than a traditional fencing solution.
In Conclusion
You can’t go wrong with either of the above options. They both allow you to have unlimited numbers of pets contained, and have the possibility to be expanded. The wireless fence option allows you to add more transmitters, and the wired version has additional wire available for purchase.
It comes down to how much work you want to do to install the system and how your property is shaped. Call our product specialists at 1-800-624-6378 if you have any other questions.
https://www.gundogsupply.com/whistle-buyers-guide.htmlDog Whistles Buyer’s Guide
A dog trained with whistle commands is easier to handle at a distance, in heavy cover, and when the wind is high. Whistle commands keep from alerting the game.
Basic Features
We carry 3 brands of whistles: Acme, Roy Gonia by SportDOG, and Fox 40. All three of these brands make high-quality whistles in a variety of styles. Most of our whistles are made of high-density plastic, but there are a few metal whistles.
Some dog whistles include a “pea,” which is a cork ball inside the whistle that allows you to make different combinations of sounds. Peas allow the whistle to “trill.” Pealess whistles are designed for extreme cold weather because the pea can freeze in sub-zero temperatures. Pealess whistles are better for making quick blasts of sound.
SportDOG’s Roy Gonia line offers whistles that come in the “Mega” version. They have a small megaphone built around them so that the whistle produces louder sounds that travel farther. The megaphone pushes sound away from the handler and towards the dog. They are very loud, but their design makes them easier on your ears.
Silent Whistles
Silent whistles operate the same as other whistles, but they create sound at a frequency that humans are unable to hear. You still hear something, but not much - usually just the sound of air going through the whistle.
Silent whistles are designed to not disturb people standing near the operator. These whistles sound loud to dogs, but quiet to people. Bewarned that some dogs do not respond to the frequency range of silent whistles.
Our Recommendations
Acme Alpha 3-Inch Oblong Dog Whistle Acme Small Thunderer Whistle Dallesassee Field Trialer Whistle -- 5 inch Best For: Best for Close Working Dogs Best All Around Best for Long-Distance and Retriever Training Price: $14.99 $5.49 $18.00 Material: Plastic Plastic Plastic Other Features: - Comes in 3 colors
- Higher pitch sound
- Rubberized comfort grip coating
- Bite-resistant
- Effective in heavy cover
- Litle interference from wind and weather
- Can be heard up to 400 yards
- Comes in 4 colors
- Sound is directed away from the user's ears
Training a Whistle
In order to train your dog with whistle commands, you first have to train them with verbal and/or hand commands. A dog that knows their verbal commands will usually pick up whistle commands very quickly. However, if your dog does not obey your verbal commands, they will not obey whistle commands.
Without training, whistles are just another form of noise for dogs. You can properly whistle train a dog by overlaying the whistle command once the verbal command has been mastered. The first step in the whistle training process is to pick out a set of whistle commands. You can train pretty much any command with a whistle, but the most common ones are “here,” “sit,” and “change direction.”
Just like with verbal commands, the whistle command you use is not what matters. You just have to be consistent. Steve recommends teaching commands on a long line or check cord so that you have physical control over the dog. This way, you have control and can make the dog complete the full command. Two or three whistle commands will usually get the job done.
Whistles Cannot…
It is very important to remember that while a whistle is a very good training tool, there are some things that whistles are not able to accomplish. By going into whistle training with a reasonable set of expectations, you are setting yourself up for success.
Whistles cannot stop or prevent dogs from barking. Using a bark collar is an effective method for controlling unwanted barking. In fact, some dogs even get annoyed by whistles and bark more.
Walkers and joggers frequently ask us if there is a whistle that repels dogs from approaching them. Unfortunately, we are unaware of a whistle that will repel a dog or make them leave an area. Similarly, we are not aware of a whistle that will stop a dog fight. A whistle may distract a dog who is fighting, but a dog who is aggressive will continue to fight.
A dog training whistle is not conducive to training a hearing impaired dog. Sometimes, you can find a frequency that a hearing impaired dog is able to hear using a tunable whistle. However, a vibration collar would likely be the more ideal option for training a hearing impaired dog. You can pair a vibration collar to get your dog’s attention with hand signals so that your dog is not expected to hear anything.
All of our whistles have a video of the sound they make so that our customers can know what they sound like before they purchase.
https://www.gundogsupply.com/warner-snell-dog-boots.htmlDog Boots Buyer’s Guide
Whether on the hunt or on the street, your dog can benefit from dog boots.
Sand spurs, rocks, ice, and other rough terrain can cause injuries while hunting. In town, hazards like hot pavement, glass, metal, and other debris can hurt your dog’s feet. Dog boots can be used to protect sore or injured paws.
Just like with your own hunting boots, there are a number of things to consider before pulling out your wallet. It’s important to know what material your boots need to be, as well as any extra supplies you’ll need to be sure the boots fit your dog comfortably and safely.
Using Dog Boots in the Field
I carry dog boots with me wherever I go. You never know when having boots will make the difference between a successful hunt and a completely ruined day. It’s better to have them and not need them, especially if you’re traveling hundreds or thousands of miles.
For folks that travel to their hunting location, but don’t have a large number of dogs, I recommend booting their dogs for the entire trip. Even if their paws are in good shape, using boots cna extend their ability to hunt longer & over more days. This can make a big difference in the success of your hunting trip.
I’ll confess: I’m not a fan of booting dogs. It’s a pain in the butt and cuts into hunting time. If you try and boot your dogs ahead of time then leave them in the dog box,, you’re likely to end up with some chewed off boots. It’s best to wait and boot them right before you run them.
I mainly use dog boots for sand spurs – their growth can be unpredictable, affected by drought and soil disturbance. You may not have them on a piece of ground one year, but they could show up the next. Perhaps the most evil of plants, the sand spur’s only purpose in life is to crush a bird dog’s spirit. It’s very rare for a dog to be able to hunt through the pain of sand spurs.
Another reason I carry boots is to prevent or help a dog that blows out a pad. My experience is that some dogs are worse about pad injuries early in the season than others. Maybe it’s genetic. Thin pads and lots of drive aren’t a good combination. They can cause a hunting dog to end up on the injured reserve list.
Our Recommendations
Lewis Rubber Dog Boots RuffWear Grip Trex Dog Boots Sylmar Cordura Nylon Dog Boots Best For: Best for Hunting Dogs Best for Pets Best Budget Price: $52.99 $39.99 $15.95 Size Options: Medium -- X-Large 2.00 -- 3.25 Small -- X-Large Material: Tire Tread Rubber Rubber & Air Mesh Cordura Nylon Other Features: - Comes as a set of 4
- Treads on bottom help with traction
- Secure to feet using waterproof adhesive tape
- Individual boots available to purchase
- Comes as a set of 4
- Designed like human running shoes
- Washable in cold water on gentle cycle
- Hook and loop closure
- Improves traction
- Come as a set of 4
- Easy to carry in hunting vest
- Do not require tape
- Hand washable
- Easy to put on and take off
Choosing Field Boots
Choosing the best field boot for your dog is going to depend on a few factors: how easy they are to put on, long-term durability, and price point.
The easiest boots to put on are the ones that have Velcro attachments. These boots don’t require tape. However, that does not mean that you shouldn’t tape them on your dog, especially the most expensive boots. The RuffWear Grip Trex Dog Boots and a href=gds-dog-boots.html> Sylmar Cordura Nylon Dog Boots both have Velcro closure.
By contrast, the Lewis Rubber Dog Boots require tape every time you boot your dog. I recommend removing your Lewis Dog Boots at the end of every hunt. I’ve got a video that shows you how to put Lewis boots on your dog.
I’ve gotten the longest life out of Lewis Dog Boots. The RuffWear Grip Trex have also lasted me years of heavy use. I’ve used other types of boots, but those are my go-to’s. If they get a hole, you can patch them with spray-on rubber.
The Sylmar Cordura Nylon Dog Boots have the shortest lifespan, but they’re priced accordingly. They can be patched and repaired to extend their lifespan.
There’s a wide range of prices on our dog boots. They vary based on materials and durability. You need to expect to lose some boots in the field. I don’t care how well you tape them, it’s going to happen.
I found that as I got more comfortable booting dogs, I’d get really fast at it. This is when I tend to lose more boots. Take the time to put your dog’s boots on correctly and securely to keep your losses at a minimum.
https://www.gundogsupply.com/box-style-bird-launcher-buyers-guide.htmlBox-Style Bird Launcher Buyer’s Guide
Box-Style bird launchers are an important piece of equipment used in training pointing dogs, flushing dogs, and retrievers. The launcher allows you to control the bird’s location and when it will flush. The bird can’t walk off or run away, and it can’t flush until you pull the release lever. The strong springs in the launcher toss the bird high enough that it must fly.
What is a Box-Style Bird Launcher?
Even with good birds, it’s important to be able to control the location of your birds and the timing of their flush when you’re working with a young dog. A box-style bird launcher allows you to create the setup you need and keeps the birds where you put them. You can launch them exactly when you need to. Even when birds aren’t great at flying, they’ll still move on when you toss them 6-8 feet in the air.
The situation most like training on wild birds is flushing birds with remote “catapult” style launchers. When steadying a pointing dog to wing and shot, using two or more launchers at the same location cna help maintain the dog’s interest and intensity after the initial flush. An occasional second or third delayed flush will help the dog anticipate additional flushes on all points. Manual launchers can also be used for delayed 2nd and 3rd flushes.
The launcher’s steel box has an open design which allows for good airflow, so the dogs have plenty of scent to help them locate the bird. Bird Launchers come in regular sizes that are to be used with pigeons, quail, and chukar. Many models also come in larger versions to accommodate pheasants. The larger size models can launch smaller birds as well, making them a great choice for trainers who may want to launch pheasants at some point.
Our Recommendations
DT Systems Remote Quail Launcher Dogtra Remote Quail Launcher Dogtra Remote Pheasant Launcher Best For: Best Budget Best Quail Best Overall, Best Pheasant Price: $349.99 $399.98 $399.98 Remote?: Yes Yes Yes What We Like: - Add up to 16 launchers to transmitter
- Easy-load trap door makes bird loading or unloading quick & easy
- 700 yard range
- Beeper locator
- Uses standard 9-volt batteries
- Can load multiple birds into same launcher
- Safety lock feature allows birds to stay in launcher during transport
- Can be used with quail or similarly sized birds
- Adjustable for quieter launch or higher throw
- Rechargeable batteries
- 2 sound options: mallard duck call or beep locator
- Each transmitter can operate 8 receivers
- 1,000 yard range
- 100 yard sound range with duck call
- 3-color battery life indicator light
- Compatible with other launcher systems
- Water-resistant
- Waterproof transmitter
- Large enough for pheasant
- Can be used with smaller bird species
- Adjustable for quieter launch or higher throw
- Rechargeable batteries
- 2 sound options: mallard duck call or beep locator
- Each transmitter can operate 8 receivers
- 1,000 yard range
- 100 yard sound range with duck call
- 3-color battery life indicator light
- Compatible with other launcher systems
- Water-resistant
- Waterproof transmitter
Getting Good Game Birds for Training Your Upland Dog
For most of us, the days of training a bird dog on wild birds only are long gone. Most of today’s bird dogs get started on pen-raised birds. The first step in training a bird dog is finding good birds. Many pen-raised birds will run instead of flying. Or, in the worst case, they won’t move at all, since they only associate humans with feeding time.
I have several breeders in my area, but I also have my own flight pen that allows me to make the young birds strong and wary. It’s important to locate a game farm that understands what you are doing. You want birds who are raised to be strong fliers and not accustomed to human or dog contact. Quail Forever’s website has a good bit of information regarding where to find birds in your area.
How old should my dog be before I start using a bird launcher?
It’s hard to put an exact age on anything in training. You want to wait until your dog has been introduced to birds and gunfire, and is showing an active interest in “hunting.” Some dogs will be ready at 6 months, while others may be ready at 12-16 months.
Bird launchers should not be used to introduce young dogs to birds. The last thing you want is a young pup getting too close to a launcher when it is deployed, causing them to be scared. This can turn your pointing dog into a “blinker.”
Bird launchers should be used with young dogs only when they have good control. I recommend working young dogs on check cords when you use a launcher, so you can prevent them from getting too close.
Why would you need a beeper on a bird launcher?
I asked the same question the first time I saw one. It’s a great idea, but it has nothing to do with training the dog. The beeper allows you to locate the launchers once you’re done training. A beeper makes a lot of sense after you have spent 20 minutes searching a field for a launcher because you can’t remember where you hid it. It’ll save you time in the long run.
Both Dogtra and DT Systems launchers have a built-in remote beeper locator. DT Systems’ launchers offer a battery saver feature that shuts the system down when it has launched the bird, but the remote beeper will work even when the launcher is shut off.
In Conclusion
If you’re in a hurry, here’s the skinny. I train alone the majority of the time, so I don’t use manual launchers. Remote systems save me time and give me better control. Dogtra systems come in a manual version that are easy to upgrade, but it is a bit more expensive. DT Systems’ launchers are difficult to convert from manual to remote.
If I was going to start over today and only train flushing or pointing dogs, I would buy the DT Systems launchers. They offer a side entry door, super quiet launch, and beeper locator. They are high-quality and I love their features.
I own both pointing dogs and retrievers, so that makes the Dogtra launchers a better choice. Their electronics are the same used for launching remote wingers. If you train both upland and waterfowl dogs, you can use the same electronics on both systems and save money in the long run.
https://www.gundogsupply.com/beeper-collars.htmlBeeper Collars Buyer’s Guide
Beeper collars allow you to keep up with pointing dogs in heavy cover. These collar accessories offer longer ranges than the traditional dog bell. With the creation of GPS tracking systems, the beeper collar has somewhat fallen to the wayside. However, for those who may not see a reason to invest in a GPS system, the beeper collar can provide a happy medium between a full GPS system and a bell.
How Beeper Collars Work
Beeper collars use a motion sensor to tell the hunter what their dog is doing currently. Most beeper collars have a run/point mode. When the dog is running, they beep every 5-10 seconds. Then, when the dog locks up on point, it begins beeping every second while the dog is stopped. There are also beeper collars that only beep when the dog is on point.
Our Picks
Standalone Beepers
Dogtra STB Standalone Beeper Dogtra STB Standalone Beeper -- Hawk SportDOG SD-Beep Add-On Collar Price: $89.99 $89.99 $149.99 Range: Up to 400 yards Up to 400 yards Up to 500 yards Remote?: No No Yes Mode Options: 2 modes 2 modes 3 modes Battery Type: Rechargeable Rechargeable Rechargeable Sound Type: 1 sound option 1 sound option 9 sound options Other Features: - For dogs 25 lbs. and up
- 2 hour charge time
- Fully waterproof
- Magnetic on/off and mode switch
- Hawk sound
- For dogs 25 lbs. and up
- 2 hour charge time
- Fully waterproof
- Magnetic on/off and mode switch
- Add-on beeper
- Orange color
- Does NOT fit on 1 inch training collar strap
- Remote on/off
- Different sounds for hunt and point
Beeper/Training Collar Combos
Dogtra 2700 T&B Training & Beeper Collar SportDOG Upland Hunter SD-1875 Garmin Tri-Tronics Upland 550 Beeper-Trainer Price: $359.99 $429.95 $549.98 Range: 1 Mile 1 Mile 1 Mile Remote? Yes Yes Yes Mode Options: 3 beeper modes 2 beeper modes Battery Type Rechargeable Rechargeable Rechargeable Sound Type: 2 sound options 1 sound option 8 sound options Other Features: - 127 stimulation levels
- 3 beeper volumes
- 2 hour charge time
- Fully waterproof
- Magnetic on/off
- 12 stimulation levels
- Fully waterproof
- Includes tone and vibrate features
- Expand up to 3 dogs
- 21 levels of stimulation
- Includes tone and vibrate features
- Expand up to 3 dogs
- Can remove beeper from collar if desired
Selecting a Beeper Collar
In order to choose the right beeper collar for you and your dog(s), you will need to look at your needs and physical requirements. There is no “perfect” beeper collar across the board, because everyone has different needs and requirements.
The majority of beeper collars are separate units that you activate when you put the collar on the dog. The collar runs until you take it off of the dog and power it down.
There are some beeper collars that work in conjunction with an electronic training collar. The handler’s transmitter allows them to turn the beeper on and off as needed. This allows the handler more control over when the beeper feature is activated – if cover thickens and the dog is working farther away from you, you can turn the beeper on.
We also carry remote-activated beeper collars that are not part of a training collar. The DT 809 Remote Beeper allows you to turn the beeper on and off from up to 250 yards away.
Range
The first consideration when choosing a beeper collar should be range. Some beeper collars are louder than others, and the distance between you and your dog in the field dictates the amount of range you will need. Be careful to not confuse range with volume. Some loud beeper collars do not produce sound at a frequency that travels as well as others.
Most beeper collar manufacturers state a range on their product. This manufacturer-stated range varies depending on several factors. Some individuals can simply hear better than others, and some sounds are easier to hear than others. Lower-toned sounds are usually easier for people with hearing loss to hear as we tend to lose our higher range of hearing.
Wind noise is a major factor in how well you will be able to hear your beeper. If the wind is blowing upwards of 40 mph, even the best, loudest beeper collar will be difficult to hear.
Cover and terrain also make a difference in the actual range of a beeper collar. Sound carries better in flat, open land. Land with gullies and ground cover can make it harder to hear the beeper collar’s sound.
Beeper Size
Steve’s dogs have been known to hunt while wearing 3 or 4 collars: a regular ID collar, tracking collar, training collar, and beeper. People have even joked that he should breed dogs with longer necks.
Some of this bulk can be cut down by using a remote beeper combination unit or by using an add-on beeper. Add-on beepers are designed to be worn on your remote training collar. When you use an add-on beeper, you’ll need a counterweight such as the remote training receiver in order to keep the beeper on the back of the dog’s neck. The beeper being properly placed on the dog allows it to be heard farther.
Sound Type
The type of sound emitted by a beeper collar varies. There are hawk screams, which emit the sound of a hawk screaming. Some beeper collars offer simply a beeping sound. Some birds hold better and longer with a hawk scream, while others are going to run regardless of what sound the beeper is emitting.
Some beeper collars allow you to change sound type from a handheld transmitter, while others require you to open the cover and manually change the sound type. If you want to change from Run/Point mode to Point only mode, some models require you to lay hands on the collar to change the mode.
In Conclusion
Having the option to locate your dog without GPS can be helpful in situations where a full GPS system is not feasible. For people who hunt more infrequently, the beeper can provide hunters with the ability to locate their dog on point without the added complexity of GPS. If you find yourself needing more than a beeper collar offers, check out our Tracking Collar Buyer’s Guide for all you need to know about GPS tracking systems.
https://www.gundogsupply.com/automatic-dog-waterers-buyers-guide.htmlAutomatic Dog Waterer Buyer's Guide
Water is vital for all of us, including our dogs. We offer a wide range of automatic waterers for convenient watering of your dog. You're probably here because you're wondering "What waterer fits my dog and me best?"
Dogs need access to clean, fresh water year-round
Heat is certainly a consideration when choosing an automatic water solution. Your dog's need for water increases in hotter months and in warmer climates
Believe it or not, cold weather can cause your dog to be dehydrated -- not only because your home's environment is more dry due to central heat running, but also because of lower atmospheric humidity in the winter months.
Keeping your dog well-hydrated year-round helps maintain normal body temperature, moves nutrients & oxygen throughout the body, aids in digestion, and so much more. Dehydration is never good for a dog, and the easiest way to make sure they have access to clean water is by using a dog waterer. We have options for at home or on the go.Using an Automatic Waterer
Automatic waterers are a great way to provide your dog with a constant supply of fresh, clean, cool water. Many of the models that we carry are designed to allow you to connect them directly to your water source, such as by screwing them onto a hose or connecting the waterer directly to the water pipe. Buckets and bowls don’t offer this convenience.
By purchasing an automatic waterer, you may be tempted to stop checking your dog’s water daily. If your waterer stopped functioning properly, your dog could be at risk for dehydration. Therefore, these products should be checked daily to ensure proper function. Always remember that your dog is at your mercy when it comes to water being available.
How Do They Work?
Automatic dog waterers are very similar to a toilet. As the water valve floats in the water, the flow of water coming into the reservoir slowly stops. It is the same technology that allows your toilet to refill with water after flushing.
Our Automatic Waterer Recommendations
Product: Lixit Automatic Dog Waterer Aqua Buddy Automatic Waterer Tough Guy Automatic Waterer Sir Aqua III Automatic Waterer Nelson Automatic Dog Waterer Best For: Best Budget Option Best Budget Plastic Best Plastic Best Budget Metal Best Overall Price: $8.99 $22.99 $44.99 $37.99 $179.99 Material: Stainless Steel, Zinc, & Aluminum Polypropylene Polypropylene Stainless Steel & Polypropylene Stainless Steel Capacity: Unlimited 2 Quarts 1 Gallon 1.8 Gallons 3.5 Quarts Mountable?: Yes, connects directly to spigot/faucet No Yes, can be mounted to fence or wall No Yes, can be mounted to fence, wall, or pole Other Features: - Requires dog to be trained to use
- Connects directly to spigot
- Prevents algae
- Corrosion-proof
- No standing water
- Made in the USA
- Sun-resistant
- Easy to clean
- Stylish appearance
- Connects to garden hose
- Sun-resistant
- Includes drain with twist plug
- Connects to standard garden hose or 1/2 inch pipe
- Replacement valve available
- Connects to standard garden hose
- Replacement valve available
- Float & valve protected by polypropylene guard
- Float & valve protected by stainless steel guard
- Easy installation
- Removable bowl for easy cleaning
- Includes supply hose
The Price Differences
Automatic waterers come in a variety of price points, ranging from $20 to $180. This difference in price is attributed to the material they are made of – stainless steel is more expensive than plastic. The internal compartments that allow these watering holes to function are higher quality in more expensive products. Metal waterers are better suited for dogs who may be destructive, while plastic options can be destroyed easily by dogs who tend to chew.
If you think you’d be better off using a good ole bucket, we’ve got that covered, too.
What is a Lixit?
The Lixit is a different concept than an automatic water bowl in that it does not fill up. It is more akin to a water fountain. A Lixit connects directly to your outdoor faucet. It has a lever on one end allowing your dog to drink when the lever is pressed. Most dogs that learn to use them love them, and they are inexpensive. They decrease the likelihood of algae or water buckets being tipped over.
A bowl-style automatic waterer is fairly easy for a dog to understand. However, a Lixit takes a bit of training. The easiest way to train your dog to use a Lixit is by putting peanut butter or your favorite treat on the end of the lever. Most dogs love peanut butter, so they will lick the treat and water will run out.
Freezing Temperatures
In freezing temperatures, water in automatic bowl waterers, Lixits, bowls, and buckets can freeze. A heated waterer is more ideal for below-freezing conditions. Heated waterers require a water and electricity source in order to prevent freezing. You need to be sure your dog is not being put in a situation where they can chew on electrical wires.
For heated waterers, the Farm Innovators Heated 3-Quart Pet Bowl and 18-Quart Heated Rubber Flat-Back Bucket are great options. They prevent the water from freezing, providing your dog with water even in the coldest of temperatures. These models do not refill automatically.
The Nelson Blue Devil Water Bucket Heater is a standalone unit that can be used with your metal, plastic, or rubber bucket. This heater heats up to 5 gallons of water and features copper tubing to protect the electrical components from chewing.
Our Heated Waterer Recommendations
Farm Innovators 3-Quart Heated Pet Bowl Farm Innovators 18-Quart Heated Rubber Bucket Nelson Blue Devil Dog Water Bucket Heater Best For: Best Budget Best Overall Most Versatile Price: $39.95 $49.95 $129.99 Material: Stainless Steel Insert & Plastic Base Stiff Rubber Epoxy-Sealed Stainless Steel & Copper Capacity: 3 Quarts 18 Quarts 5 Gallons Mountable?: No Yes Yes Manufacturer Warranty: 1 year 1 year 3 year Other Features: - Cord is protected to prevent chewing
- Non-tip/Non-skid plastic base
- Stainless steel bowl is not removable
- Operates only when needed using thermostat
- Can be hung on fence, wall, etc. with hardware
- Tested up to -20F
- Discreet cord feeds through side of bucket
- Bucket is not chew proof
- Operates only when needed using thermostat
- Works with metal, plastic, and rubber buckets
- Copper tubing prevents chewing and corrosion
- Security chain prevents heating element from being pulled into kennel
Preventing Algae
Algae growth is one of the main things to watch out for when providing a dog with water. While treated city water is supposed to have no algae, when you set the bowl, bucket, or automatic waterer outside, the water is exposed to organic material and organisms which can provide the perfect breeding grounds for algae.
To fight algae buildup, place your dog’s water source in the shade. You’re probably thinking, “but the shade changes throughout the day!” Yes, we know, and we highly recommend considering your kennel and water locations prior to installing a waterer or putting a bucket of water out. Algae requires sunlight to grow, and by moving your water to the shade, you cut down on the likelihood.
Warmer temperatures can also contribute to algae growth – algae grows remarkably fast when the temperatures begin to rise. Most algae is not that harmful, but if you don’t want to drink water from a water source contaminated with algae, your dog probably doesn’t want to either.
Dumping and refilling stationary water sources, such as bowls and buckets, at least every other day helps prevent algae growth. If you notice algae in your dog’s water source, the fastest way to clean it is using Wysiwash. Be sure to follow the Wysiwash product directions before refilling your bucket. Bleach and soaps can also eliminate algae.
If your dog is not around water, you will want to go with either a Nylon or Leather collar.
Leather is a natural material, classic, and stylish. We offer a variety of styles of leather at several different price points. Our favorite leather collar is the 1” Premium Deluxe Standard Collar. This collar offers double-layered lined leather, which prevents dogs with long hair from getting tangled as well as allowing the collar to move easily on their neck as they move.
If you prefer a center-ring collar, the 1” Deluxe Leather Center Ring Collar or OmniPet 1” Leather Center Ring Dog Collar are great choices for you.
Nylon offers the versatility of being adjustable, which is great for growing puppies. With nylon, we also offer collars that have quick-release buckles which allows for a dog to break free if they get hung on something in their environment.
Choosing a Style
There are four main styles of collars that we offer: Standard, O-Ring, D-Ring/D-End, and Adjustable.
How to Measure Your Dog's Neck for the Perfect Fit
Finding the right collar for your dog is essential for their safety and comfort, especially when walking them on a leash or securing them on a stakeout chain.A properly fitted collar ensures your dog won’t slip out, and it gives you control when needed. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to measure your dog's neck correctly so you can select the best collar size.