PetSafe Elite Little Dog In-Ground Pet Fence Receiver Collar Instruction Manual

Introduction

The PetSafe Elite Little Dog In-Ground Fence Receiver Collar is designed to integrate with your existing PetSafe in-ground fence system or serve as a replacement collar. This lightweight, waterproof collar is suitable for small dogs weighing over 5 lbs and features adjustable static stimulation levels and a tone-only mode to aid in training. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your receiver collar to ensure your pet's safety and well-being within the defined containment area.

Product Features

• Designed for Little Dogs: Fits dogs over 5 lb with neck sizes from 6 to 16 inches.
• Adjustable & Waterproof: Offers 4 levels of static stimulation and a tone-only mode for training, allowing adjustment to your dog's temperament.
• Expandable System: Add unlimited pets to your existing PetSafe In-Ground System (compatible with all PetSafe In-Ground Systems except YardMax and UltraSmart).
• Reflective Collar Strap: Enhances visibility for your pet during nighttime.
• Low Battery Indicator: Alerts you when battery replacement is necessary.

Image: The PetSafe Elite Little Dog In-Ground Pet Fence Receiver Collar, emphasizing its waterproof design and key features like suitability for small dogs, long battery life, and low battery indicator.

Setup and Components

Included Components:

• 1 x Receiver Collar
• 1 x RFA-188 3-Volt Battery
• Product Manual
• Test Light Tool

Before You Begin:

Ensure your existing in-ground fence system is fully installed and operational before commencing training. If you require assistance with system installation, refer to your system's specific installation guide or contact PetSafe customer care.

Place the provided boundary flags around your yard, approximately 10 feet apart, to visually mark the containment area. These flags will serve as visual cues for your pet during the initial training phases.

Operating Instructions: Pet Training Guide

Patience and consistency are crucial for successful training. Make training sessions positive and fun for your pet. Conduct training sessions for 10-15 minutes at a time. More frequent, shorter sessions are generally more effective than less frequent, longer sessions.

Day 1: Familiarization with Pet Area and Tone

The goal for Day 1 is to familiarize your pet with the designated 'Pet Area' and to associate the collar's warning tone with the boundary. Set the receiver collar to Level 1 (tone-only setting). If your collar does not have a tone-only setting, you can help your dog recognize the tone without static correction by holding the collar close to their ear as they approach the boundary, or by using a contact point cover (if available).

Ensure your pet wears a separate, non-receiver collar and leash during training to avoid putting pressure on the receiver collar's contact points. Before starting, spend 5-10 minutes playing with your pet to make the session enjoyable.

1. With your pet on a leash, walk them towards one of the boundary flags until they hear the receiver collar's warning beep.
2. Allow them to hear the beep for approximately 2 seconds, then gently pull them back into the Pet Area.
3. Immediately offer praise (e.g., "Good boy!") and a treat when they return to the safe area.
4. Repeat this process for about three different flags on Day 1. Continue working until your pet shows resistance to approaching the first flag.

Image: An owner adjusting the collar on a small dog, illustrating the importance of correct collar settings for effective training.

Days 2-4: Introducing Static Correction

During these days, you will introduce the static correction feature. If your collar has multiple levels, start at Level 2. Test your pet's recognition of this level. Your pet will hear the tone and receive a static correction. Observe your pet for signs of recognition, such as ears going back, looking at the ground, or a slight flinch. If no recognition is observed, increase the collar to Level 3.

1. With your dog on a leash and the collar set to the chosen level, walk towards a boundary flag.
2. Allow your dog to receive the warning beep followed by the static correction.
3. When corrected, gently pull them back into the Pet Area, saying "Good dog!" and offering praise and a treat.
4. If your dog shows signs of stress (e.g., ears tucked, body lowered), stop the session, engage in playtime, and reinforce praise.
5. Continue this process until your pet consistently resists entering the static correction zone.

Days 5-8: Testing with Distractions

At this stage, your pet should be familiar with the Pet Area, recognize the tone and static correction, and understand the flags. Now, introduce distractions to ensure they won't attempt to leave the area. Use a toy (like a ball) or treats to test their adherence to the boundary.

1. While your pet is in the Pet Area, throw a toy or treat just outside the boundary.
2. Observe if your pet resists the temptation to retrieve it.
3. If they resist, praise them enthusiastically and offer a treat.
4. Repeat this process around the entire Pet Area, always praising when they do not go after the temptation.

After 8 Days: Off-Leash in Pet Area

Once your pet consistently respects the static correction area and the Pet Area, they are ready for off-leash time within the designated zone. During this phase, do not include distractions like throwing toys outside the boundary zone. Allow your pet to enjoy the yard freely.

If your pet does go outside the static correction zone, immediately remove the receiver collar, lead them back into the Pet Area, and reinforce the training as previously described.

After 2 Weeks: Removing Boundary Flags

After approximately two weeks of consistent training, most pets are fully trained. You can begin removing every other boundary flag for four days, until all flags are removed. You may wish to save your boundary flags for future use, such as when moving to a new home or expanding the containment area.

Maintenance

• Daily Collar Removal: For your pet's comfort and health, remove the receiver collar daily. This helps prevent pressure sores, similar to bedsores in humans.
• Battery Replacement: The low battery indicator will alert you when the RFA-188 3-Volt battery needs replacement. Ensure to use only genuine PetSafe replacement batteries.
• Contact Point Check: Regularly inspect the contact points on the receiver collar for cleanliness and proper fit against your pet's skin. Clean as needed to ensure proper function.
• Collar Cleaning: Clean the collar strap regularly with mild soap and water to prevent skin irritation.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your PetSafe Elite Little Dog In-Ground Pet Fence Receiver Collar, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

• No Tone/Correction: Check the battery level. Ensure the collar is properly fitted and the contact points are touching your pet's skin. Use the test light tool to verify the collar is receiving a signal at the boundary.
• Inconsistent Correction: Verify the boundary wire integrity. Ensure there are no breaks or interference from other electronic devices. Check the collar's correction level setting.
• Pet Not Responding: Re-evaluate the training steps. Ensure consistency and positive reinforcement. The correction level might need adjustment to a higher setting if your pet shows no recognition.
• Skin Irritation: Remove the collar immediately. Clean your pet's neck and the collar. Allow the skin to heal. Ensure the collar is not too tight and is removed daily. Consult a veterinarian if irritation persists.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

This PetSafe product comes with a 1 Year Limited Warranty. For any questions regarding product operation, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact PetSafe customer care. Their pet product experts are available by phone, email, or chat to assist you.