dogtra ARC Expandable to a 2-Dog System Owner’s Manual
- June 7, 2024
- Dogtra
Table of Contents
ARC
EXPANDABLE TO A 2-DOG SYSTEM
Owner’s Manual
Please read this manual thoroughly
before operating the ARC training e-collar.
IMPORTANT SAFETY AND PRODUCT INFORMATION
WARNING
Please read all safety and product information below before using your
Dogtra product. Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in
injury to you, your dog and others, or it could result in damage to your
Dogtra product or other property.
PRODUCT SAFETY
Training Methods
Dogtra products may be used with a variety of training methods. However, each
dog may have a different reaction to training methods and to Dogtra products.
Closely observe your dog when determining the right training method to use
with your Dogtra product. Aggressive Dogs Do not use Dogtra products with
aggressive dogs as such dogs may react adversely and cause injury to people
or other dogs. Seek the assistance of a dog-training specialist or
veterinarian when dealing with aggressive dogs.
Children’s Dogtra products are not toys. Adult supervision and close attention
are necessary when Dogtra products are used by or near children.
PRODUCT DAMAGE
Electrical Product
Your Dogtra product contains electrical components and batteries. Do not use
or keep your product near heat or flammable sources. Such use or storage may
damage your product and/or cause fire, explosion, injury, or property damage.
Medical Device Interference
Dogtra products contain electrical and magnetic components that emit low-level
electromagnetic waves and radio frequencies. These electromagnetic waves or
radio frequencies may interfere with pacemakers, defibrillators, or other
medical devices. Consult your physician or medical device maker before using
your medical device with a Dogtra product. If you think that your Dogtra
product is interfering with your pacemaker, defibrillator, or another medical
device, stop using the Dogtra product.
Inadvertent Activation
The digital microprocessor offers thousands of unique codes to eliminate
frequency match-up with other Dogtra e-collars. The Constant button will
automatically shut down after being held down for 12 seconds or more as a
safety feature.
UNAUTHORIZED USE
Your Dogtra product should be used only in a humane manner to train and
educate your dog. Dogtra products are not intended for use in any other manner
nor are they intended for use with other animals or with humans.
BATTERY
Your Dogtra product contains batteries. Take care when removing and installing
batteries as your fingers may get caught. Dispose of batteries as provided by
your local regulations. Do not disassemble, crush, heat, or otherwise alter
the battery as it may cause fire, injury or property damage.
AT A GLANCE
Optional Accessories
Auto Charger
Dogtra’s auto chargers are designed for use with a 10-volt car outlet.
European Charger
Dogtra’s European chargers are designed for use with a 230 volt AC electrical
outlet.
To purchase accessories, please visit www.dogtra.com
or call customer service at
888-811-9111.
MAIN FEATURES
- 3/4-mile range
- Fully waterproof system
- Two stimulation types – Nick & Constant stimulation
- Rheostat Dial with stimulation levels 0-127
- Pager vibration
- Ergonomic slim receiver design
- LCD screen
- Enhanced contact points
- The checkered grip on the handheld transmitter
- For dogs as small as 15 lbs
- Medium output receiver
- 2-hour rapid charge lithium polymer batteries
OVERVIEW
ARC
Transmitter
ARC
Receiver
UNDERSTANDING YOUR TRAINING SYSTEM
**Turning the ARC On/Off
**
To turn the transmitter on, hold down the button on the right side of the
transmitter until the LCD screen illuminates. To turn the transmitter off,
hold down the button on the right side of the transmitter until the LCD screen
shuts off. To turn the receiver on, place the magnetic red dot on the back of
the transmitter to the red dot on the receiver. Hold the two red dots together
for a moment until the LED light on the receiver comes on.
To turn off the unit, repeat the same procedure holding the two red dots
together momentarily. The LED light will turn red for a brief moment
indicating that the receiver is now shut off.
Transmitter Button Function
The ARC has five buttons and a toggle switch on the transmitter (two on the
face of the transmitter, two on the left side, and one on the right side).
Nick & Constant Toggle Switch
Located on the face of the transmitter is a toggle switch. The toggle switch
has a setting for Nick and another for Constant. The color-coordinated buttons
(orange for the orange receiver and gray for the black receiver) will
implement the desired stimulation based on the toggle switch setting. When
either the orange or gray stimulation button is pressed and the toggle is set
on Nick, the receiver emits a single pulse of electrical stimulation. When you
press either the orange or gray stimulation button and the toggle is set on
Constant, the receiver emits a continuous stimulation for as long as the
button is pushed, for up to 12 seconds. If the button is not released after 12
seconds, the stimulation will automatically stop as a safety feature. The
receiver will be ready to be reactivated once the button has been released.
Pager Button
The Pager buttons are located on the face of the transmitter. The orange
button corresponds with the orange receiver and the gray with the black
receiver. Pressing it will give a vibration for as long as the button is
pressed, for up to 12 seconds.
Receiver Fitting
The receiver should be fitted so that the surgical stainless ** steel
contact points press firmly against the dog’s skin. You should be able to fit
two fingers underneath the collar strap. The best location is on either side
of the dog’s windpipe.
I mproper Fit**
A loose fit can allow the receiver to move around on the dog’s neck. When this
happens, the contact points may rub against the skin and cause irritation. If
the receiver is too loose, the contact will not be consistent and cause the
corrections to be inconsistent. Dogtra uses surgical stainless steel contact
points and anti-microbial plastic to
protect the dog’s skin.
Attention!
Leaving the receiver in the same location on the dog’s neck for an extended
period of time can cause skin irritation. If the dog is to wear the receiver
for long periods, occasionally reposition the receiver so that the contact
points are moved to a different location on the dog’s neck. Make sure you
check for skin irritation each time you use the unit.
Finding the Right Stimulation
The ARC has a Rheostat Dial on the top of the transmitter (0 is the lowest and
127 is the highest). Remember that you will need to adjust the setting (upward
or downward) depending on your dog’s temperament and threshold for
stimulation. Always start at the lowest level and work your way up. The
appropriate level can be found when the dog responds to the stimulation with a
mild reaction. Also, as the dog’s attitude changes, especially during times of
increased excitement or distraction, you may need to adjust the intensity
level.
Note: The stimulation intensity can be adjusted even when the stimulation is
in use.
Maximizing the Distance
The ARC has a 3/4-mile range. Depending on the way you use your transmitter, the transmitter range may vary. To get the greatest range, hold the transmitter away from your body and avoid touching the antenna. Keep your unit properly charged for maximum signal strength.
LED Indicator
The LED indicator flashes every 4 seconds when the receiver is on and ready
for use. The LED indicator will blink on both the transmitter and the receiver
when the transmitter buttons are pressed. The LED indicator color indicates
the battery life level.
Green = Full charge
Amber = Medium charge
Red = Needs charge
If the unit is used while the LED indicator is red, it may shut down
automatically.
Receiver Indicator Light
When the Constant button on the transmitter is pressed, the receiver indicator
light will glow steadily (either green, amber, or red based on the remaining
battery life), as long as you hold the button down, for up to 12 seconds. When
the Nick button is pressed, the light comes on for a fraction of a second.
Charging the Battery
The Dogtra ARC uses a lithium polymer battery. Recharge the unit if the
indicator light is red or does not come on, the transmitter LCD shows only 1
bar on the indicator, or
the system will not stay on when any button is pressed.
Note 1: Only use Dogtra-approved batteries, chargers, and accessories for
your Dogtra e-collars. This will prevent any damage that can be incurred from
attempting to use a different charger.
Note 2: The unit has a partial charge when it leaves the Dogtra facility.
Upon receipt of the system, be sure to give it a full 2-hour initial charge
before the first use away from
any flammable substances.
Note 3: When a charger is not in use, disconnect it from the power
source. Fully charge the batteries if the unit is to be stored without use for
a period of 3 months or more.
Follow the steps below to charge your system:
- Open the rubber plugs on the battery charging receptacles and plug in the charging cable.
- Plug the charger into a 120-volt wall outlet or, if using the auto charger, plug into a cigarette lighter only for lithium polymer batteries (use a 220 volt European charger for Europe). All indicator lights should glow red when properly plugged in and the unit will automatically shut off during the charging process. You will need to turn the unit on again before use once the unit is fully charged and unplugged from the battery cable.
- The lithium-polymer battery is fully charged within 2 hours. The lights will stay red during the charging process and turn green once the unit is fully charged.
- After charging, cover the battery charging receptacles with rubber plugs.
Handheld Transmitter LCD
The LCD screen indicates the stimulation level on the screen ranging from (0-127). The battery life indicator shows:
3 bars = full charge
2 bars = medium charge
1 bar = needs a charg e
The battery life indicator only shows the remaining charge of your transmitter. To find the remaining charge for your receiver, observe the LED indicator light on the receiver.
Care for LCD Transmitters in Cold Temperature
In cold temperatures (10°F or below), the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) on your
transmitter may be dim or slow to respond. Wait until the display becomes
visible before selecting any training level. Even though the LCD screen might
be dim or slow to respond when you push the Nick or Constant button, the
transmitter will still function properly. In the occurrence of extremely cold
weather, the LCD screen might take a moment to respond causing the intensity
level to freeze at that current level. If you turn the Rheostat Dial, the
level on the screen may not change but the actual intensity from the receiver
will change in agreement with the dial. In this situation, it is ideal to
either wait until your transmitter is back in working order before emitting a
correction or while holding the Constant button-down, slowly turn the Rheostat
Dial while watching your dog’s reaction. Do not turn the Rheostat Dial
rapidly, because the receiver will emit a static correction based on the level
of the Rheostat Dial, which might not be correctly reflected on the LCD
screen.
Attaching the Belt Clip
Follow the instructions below to attach the included belt clip to the transmitter.
- Align the belt clip to the grooves on the back of the transmitter.
- With a firm grip, screw on the belt clip’s Phillips head screws with a screwdriver.
Caution!
Tighten until firmly in place. Be careful not to overtighten.
Using the Test Light
- Turn on the receiver by touching the magnetic red dot on the back of the transmitter to the red dot on the receiver. The indicator light will come on for a moment then blink once every 4 seconds, showing that the receiver is ready to use.
- Turn the transmitter on by holding down the on/off button on the right side of the transmitter. The LED will blink every 4 seconds and the LCD screen will show the remaining battery life.
- Place the test light, included in the package contents, on the contact points as shown in the diagram.
- Watch the test light as you push the Nick button on the transmitter. It should light up for just a moment. The higher the intensity, the brighter the test light will be.
- Watch the test light as you push the Constant button on the transmitter. It should light up as long as the button is pressed. However, as a safety feature, the receiver will automatically stop the stimulation if the Constant button is pressed for 12 seconds or longer.
- Turn the Rheostat Dial on the transmitter clockwise and then counterclockwise. The test light should glow brighter with higher levels of stimulation and dimmer with lower levels.
Note: The test light may not be visible if the intensity level is set below level ten.
GENERAL TRAINING TIPS
Your dog must know some basic obedience commands before beginning training
with the ARC. A dog learns by first being shown a command, followed by lots of
repetition over an extended period. As the dog becomes proficient at these
commands, the trainer can introduce distractions and different locations to
strengthen them.
Obedience Training on the Leash
Your dog must fully understand the obedience commands (sit, stay, here, heel,
and kennel) before using the e-collar for reinforcement of these commands. A
leash attached to a standard collar is used to “teach” the dog the basic
obedience commands (here, heel, sit, and stay). A tug on the leash/collar is
used to reinforce the command. When the dog complies with the command, use
positive reinforcement/praise. Once the dog understands these commands, the
e-collar can be used to reinforce them.
Beginning E-Collar Training
When you feel your dog understands the obedience commands on the leash we can
now start with the e-collar training. With the dog on the leash and wearing
the e-collar, continue with your obedience drills. Apply light stimulation
(Nick or Constant) when a command is given; the stimulation can be removed as
the dog complies. Through repetition, the dog learns to perform the command.
The final step is the avoidance phase in which the dog learns that he can
avoid the stimulation altogether by performing your commands. When these
training procedures are complete, the e-collar is used as a reminder when the
dog does not comply with your commands at home or in the field. Keep your
initial training sessions short and positive as dogs have a short attention
span.
How Much Stimulation to Use
Always start with low levels of stimulation and work your way up depending on
the disposition of your dog and the given situation. By using the correct
amount of stimulation o get your point across, you will have a more
controllable environment and a dog that is under less stress. Animals (and
humans) perform better in a less stressful environment. For more training
information, please visit our website at
www.dogtra.com.
MAINTENANCE
Basic Maintenance
Be sure the rubber-charging cap is securely in place when the receiver is in
use. After each training session, carefully inspect the unit for any missing
parts or damage to the casing. The damaged or broken casing may affect the
waterproof guarantee on the unit. After confirming that there is no damage to
the casing, rinse the receiver and clean out any dirt or debris.
Storage Maintenance
The ARC should be fully charged before storing for extended periods. While in
storage, the unit should be given a full charge once a month, and before the
first use. Store the units in room temperature. Do not keep the units exposed
to extreme climates.
Troubleshooting
If the unit is malfunctioning, please refer to the “Troubleshooting Guide”
before sending it to Dogtra for service. If you have any questions or
concerns, you may email them to info@dogtra.com, or
call customer service at 888-811-9111.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
-
My dog is not reacting to the receiver.
– Make sure the receiver and transmitter are turned on by holding down the on/off button on the transmitter and place the two red dots together to turn on the receiver until it illuminates.
– Make sure the collar strap is tight enough so both contact points are touching the dog’s skin.
– The contact points may be too short for the dog. To place an order for longer contact points that are more appropriate for your dog, please call (888) 811- 9111.
If you are already using the longest contact points available, you might need to trim down the hair on the dog’s neck so both contact points are touching the dog’s
skin.
– The intensity level may be too low for your dog. Keep increasing the stimulation until the dog responds, usually with neck movement, head shaking, looking over its shoulder, etc. (response may be very subtle). -
The test light comes on, but I do not feel any stimulation.
– Your tolerance may be higher than your dogs. We recommend placing both contact points on your inner wrist, where the sensitivity is higher, in order to test the unit.
– The battery may be low, so check the LED light for battery life. -
The transmitter has no range or stimulation is less when the dog is farther away.
– The antenna(s) may be damaged. To order parts, please contact customer service at 888-811-9111 or go to www.dogtra.com.
– The range indicated on the unit’s box is for flat terrain.
Heavy brush, trees, hills, or moisture will affect the range of your unit. For best range, hold the transmitter vertically above your head, and/or try moving to a higher
ground.
– Any electrical conductors will affect the range, such as cars, chain-link dog runs, metal structures, and radio towers. For best results, operate away from these items. -
My unit is not holding a charge.
– The batteries might not be charged properly, or the charger, splitter, and the charging port may not be functioning properly. You can send in your charging units to have us inspect them.
– The charging pin may be damaged. Inside the charging port, there is a metal pin that should be standing straight up and stiff. If the pin is wobbling, broken, or missing, you will need to send the unit in to the Repair Department. The charging port must be clean prior to charging; clean the dirt out with a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol. If the dog is in saltwater, be sure to rinse the receiver and charging port with clean water.
– If the above does not resolve your issues, contact Dogtra customer service at info@dogtra.com or 888-811-9111.
DOGTRA PRODUCT WARRANTY
LIMITED WARRANTY
For Dogtra Products Purchased from Dogtra Authorized Dealers
One-Year Warranty
Except as otherwise provided below, Dogtra warrants to the original retail
purchaser (“You”) that its Dogtra products shall be free of defects in
materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of
purchase (“Warranty”). The Warranty covers the cost of repair (parts and
labor) or replacement (if repair is not feasible) of a defective Dogtra
product during said one-year period. For such repaired or replaced products,
the remaining portion of the original warranty period, or ninety (90) days,
whichever is longer, shall apply. Dogtra, at its sole discretion, shall
determine whether to repair or replace a product covered by the Warranty.
Warranty Conditions
The Warranty is not transferrable and applies to your Dogtra product only if:
(1) You are the original retail purchaser of the product,
(2) You bought the product from a Dogtra authorized dealer, and
(3) You present a receipt or other proof of purchase showing valid purchase
date, the name and address of the authorized dealer, and the purchased product
identified by model and/or serial number.
Warranty Exclusions
The Warranty does not cover damage, loss, or deterioration to your Dogtra
product caused: by misuse, neglect, abuse, or another improper handling of the
product; by failure to follow use or care instructions; by use of the product
for other than its intended purpose; by accident or natural forces such as
fire or flooding; or by normal wear and tear such as scratches to the product
surface.
The Warranty also does not cover Dogtra products that: are purchased from non-
authorized dealers; are purchased outside of the United States or Canada; have
been damaged during shipment (even if Dogtra paid or arranged for shipping);
have been modified or tampered with in any manner; are opened or repaired by
anyone other than Dogtra, or have serial numbers that have been altered or
defaced.
Sole Warranty
This Warranty is the only warranty offered by Dogtra for its Dogtra products.
Other than said Warranty, Dogtra makes no other representations or warranties
whatsoever regarding its products, whether oral or in any product manual, on
any packaging, on any website, or in any other written material. No dealer of
Dogtra products, nor any employee or agent of Dogtra, is authorized to make
any additions, changes, or extensions to the Warranty. Dogtra, at its sole
discretion and at any time, reserves the right to modify the Warranty.
DISCLAIMER OF OTHER WARRANTIES
THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS PROVIDED IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. DOGTRA DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES INCLUDING, BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Limitation of Remedies
Dogtra’s liability is limited to the cost of repair or replacement of the
Dogtra product under Warranty. Any claim or action to enforce the Warranty
must be commenced within thirty (30) days of the Warranty’s expiration for
your product. Dogtra will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special,
consequential, or similar damages based on breach of warranty, breach of
contract, negligence, strict tort, or any other legal theory relating to
Dogtra and its products. Damages that Dogtra will not be responsible for
include, but are not limited to: loss of income or profits; loss of revenue
or savings; loss of use of the product or associated products; cost of any
substitute products or
services; inconvenience, downtime, or any other time; loss of goodwill; claims
of third parties including customers; and damage to property.
Legal Rights May Vary By State or Jurisdiction
The Warranty gives You specific legal rights, and You may also have other
rights which vary by state or jurisdiction. Some states or jurisdictions do
not allow certain limitations of implied warranties or of incidental or
consequential damages or other remedies, so certain of the foregoing
limitations may not apply to You. If any portion of the Warranty is held by a
court to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining portions of the Warranty
shall remain in full force and effect and shall in no way be affected or
invalidated, and the invalid or unenforceable portion shall be modified so as
to most nearly achieve the intent of the Warranty.
Product Registration
Dogtra recommends that customers register their products as soon as possible
after purchase. Product registration will facilitate any future warranty
service. You may also receive useful information and updates about your
existing and future Dogtra products. To register your product, visit
www.dogtra.com/product-registration. If your product is not registered with Dogtra, You will be
required to provide a receipt or other proof of purchase (as provided above)
to qualify for warranty service.
How to Obtain Warranty Service
Should your Dogtra product require warranty service, please contact Customer
Service by phone or email for a warranty evaluation (see below for contact
information). Upon approval of your warranty work, Dogtra will repair or
replace (at Dogtra’s election) your product without charge for labor or parts.
You are responsible for shipping, including the cost, of your product to
Dogtra for warranty service. Dogtra will handle shipping, including cost, of
the repaired or replaced product back to customers in the USA. Dogtra will not
be responsible for shipping, including cost and/or applicable taxes or fees,
for products sent to Canada. Such costs, taxes, or fees will be borne by the
customer.
To register your product, visit www.dogtra.com/product-
registration.
Dogtra Customer Service
22912 Lockness Avenue, Torrance, CA 90501
888-811-9111
repair@dogtra.com
Mon – Fri, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (PST)
© 2020 Dogtra. All rights reserved.
Should your Dogtra product require warranty service, please contact Customer
Service by phone or email for a warranty evaluation (see below for contact
information). Upon approval of your warranty work, Dogtra will repair or
replace (at Dogtra’s election) your product without charge for labor or parts.
You are responsible for shipping, including the cost, of your product to
Dogtra for warranty service. Dogtra will handle sipping, including the cost,
of the repaired or replaced product back to customers in the USA. Dogtra will
not be responsible for shipping, including cost and/or applicable taxes or
fees, for products sent to Canada. Such costs, taxes, or fees will be borne by
the customer.
To register your product, visit www.dogtra.com/product-
registration.
Dogtra Customer Service
22912 Lockness Avenue, Torrance, CA 90501
888-811-9111
repair@dogtra.com
Mon – Fri, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (PST)
© 2020 Dogtra. All rights reserved.
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