One of the main things we point out in this Dogtra Pathfinder Review is that this e Collar combines both e collar and GPS technology into a handheld, and a collar receiver.

What this allows you to do is both track and train your dog/s.

Also in this review, we run through the other features, pros and cons that make this GPS e collar what it is.

We consider who it may and may not be for.

Let’s look at it more closely!

(NOTE: this is a general information guide only, and is not professional advice, or a substitute for professional advice. A qualified vet or animal expert is the only person qualified to give you expert advice in regards to your pet/s)

You can go straight to viewing the Dogtra Pathfinder here if you like:

Dogtra Pathfinder GPS E Collar (on Amazon)

You can get an add-on collar receiver which allows you to add more dogs to the system (up to a maximum of 21 dogs). They come in black, blue, green and orange colors – Dogtra Pathfinder Extra Collar (on Amazon).

Dogtra Pathfinder: Review

Features

• A ‘2 in 1’ dog training e collar, and GPS tracking collar
• The system’s main components are a collar receiver, a handheld remote – that work with a Pathfinder app you download to your existing smartphone (you need your own smart phone to use it)
• The Pathfinder app comes with a map and compass for tracking, and an e collar program for training
• The handheld remote to collar receiver has a 9 mile range (with MURS band)
• The smartphone to handheld remote has a 33ft range (with bluetooth)

TRACKING

• You can use the app without using data – your phone can be in offline mode
• The Pathfinder app gives you access to Google Maps™ with satellite and terrain views and the ability to track up to 21 dogs or hunters, share locations, playback data and create customizable Geo-Fence alerts.
• You get a two-second update rate and a powerful zoom capability on the app
• There is an option to go into ‘tracking only’ mode on the app
• Refer to the ‘how does the tracking technology work with my phone’ section in the buyer’s guide below for more information. For full information – check out the official Pathfinder product manual
• To add more dogs to the system (expandable up to a maximum of 21), you can purchase separate additional Pathfinder add on collar receivers
• The Pathfinder system is UKC events approved

TRAINING

• All of the e collar training functions are found and used within the Pathfinder app on your smartphone
• There is a static stimulation (shock) training option
• You get 100 different levels of stimulation output that you control with a slider on your phone
• You can use temporary (nick) or constant stimulation
• The power output on the stimulation ranges from low to high, so you can use it on soft up to harder/more stubborn temperament dogs
• There is also a tone/audible training option

OTHER FEATURES

• The batteries are 3.5 hour quick charge batteries
• The system is fully waterproof
• It comes with a belt clip
• Comes with Extendable Contact Points (5/8″ to 3/4″)
• The system is expandable to 21 Dogs and Hunters
• The system is for dogs 35lbs and up

Drawbacks

• Doesn’t come with a vibration/pager training mode
• The system can be dependent on your phone e.g. in hotter, or colder weather, if your phone has issues functioning, it will obviously effect the collar system as a whole
• In more wooded or denser areas, you won’t get the 9 miles range
• Some people might prefer a handheld device for the training component instead of using their smart phone – especially in cold weather when your hand can get cold
• Sometimes some people have some issues syncing up the collars with the bluetooth – it takes more than a few minutes for them to do it properly rather than it happening instantly
• Not for dogs smaller than 35lbs

View the Dogtra Pathfinder GPS E Collar on Amazon

Dogtra Pathfinder: Buyer’s Guide

What Is The Dogtra Pathfinder Designed For?

Serious and advanced dog owners, hunters and trainers who want the ability to:

• Track using a smartphone app GPS system/program
• Train using an e collar system

Who Might The Dogtra Pathfinder Be For?

• Dog owners and hunters looking for a 2 in 1 e collar training, and GPS tracking system
• People who want the ability to track their dogs and hunters
• People who want to train with static stimulation and sound/audible options
• People with a compatible smartphone
• People looking for a system that is expandable up to 21 dogs
• Dogs over 35lbs
• Soft to hard temperament dogs

Who Might The Dogtra Pathfinder NOT Be For?

• People looking for a basic e collar 
• People looking for a basic tracking GPS collar
• People on a budget
• People who want to train with a vibration option
• People who want to train or track with multiple dogs and don’t want to buy additional collars
• People who do not have a compatible or suitable smartphone for the Pathfinder app and Pathfinder system
• Dogs less than 35lbs

What Do You Get In The Dogtra Pathfinder Kit?

• GPS Connector
• GPS Collar
• Battery Charger and Splitter Cable
• Test Light
• Owner’s Manual
• Carrying Case
• Contact Point Extensions and Adjustment Tool
• Non-Stimulation Contact Point Covers

How Does The Tracking Technology Work With My Phone?

• It works without cellular data (after you’ve downloaded the app) and there’s no extra navigation packages to purchase
• You simply download the Pathfinder free maps app, and use it in conjunction with the collar receiver. Your phone can be in offline mode using no data
• You get access to Google Maps™ with satellite and terrain views and the ability to track up to 21 dogs or hunters, share locations, playback data and create customizable Geo-Fence alerts.
• You get a two-second update rate and a powerful zoom capability

Additional Notes:

– The Pathfinder App is compatible with iOS 8.1 and up, and Android 4.2 and up

– A device with Bluetooth 4.0 and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is required to operate the Pathfinder.

– Location Sharing requires a separate GPS Connector per user

– It’s definitely worth reading the Pathfinder product manual in full before using

What Might Be The Best Way To Use An E Collar On A Dog?

For professional advice on using a shock or e collar, see a vet or a professional dog trainer, or animals expert.

But, in general, good e collars come with instruction manuals and guides that tell you how to safely and effectively use their product.

Look to buy from a reputable company that cares about the safety and well being of the dogs.

The best way to use an e collar might be as a temporary device for associating negative or undesirable behavior with a cue (such as a vibration or noise), or a stimulus (such as a nick/static stimulus).

They can be used to teach or retrain a certain behavior, and then put away. They may only be brought out again if your dog/s forget that behavior, or need retraining.

So, really, they could be used ideally as a temporary training and teaching tool (not permanent) for happy and healthy dogs. 

If you notice any negative side effects to your dog’s physical or mental health from using an e collar, discontinue use immediately.

The benefits of an e collar might be:

• You don’t have to set the collar to shock if it has alternative options like tone or vibration
• The lowest shock settings on good e collars will provide a small amount of discomfort, not pain
• The feedback to your dog is instantaneous and not delayed
• It works at range
• It saves you shouting and getting frustrated
• + many other benefits

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