DOGTRA ARC800 FREE PLUS User Manual

Product Safety and Health Protection

Proper Use of the E-Collar

Dogtra e-collars are designed exclusively for modifying dog behavior. They are NOT intended for use on humans or other animals. Dogtra-Europe assumes no responsibility for improper use of the Dogtra e-collar.

Aggressive Dogs

Dogtra strongly recommends consulting a professional dog trainer if you are using an e-collar to correct dogs that are aggressive towards other dogs or people.

Interference with Other Electronic Devices

Dogtra's advanced technological filtering system ensures minimal interference with other electronic devices (garage door openers, mobile phones, etc.). Our digital microprocessor offers thousands of unique codes, eliminating frequency conflicts with other Dogtra e-collars.

Dogtra recommends consulting a physician if you plan to use the e-collar and have any health concerns.

Accidental Activation

If the constant button is held for 12 seconds or more, the unit will automatically shut off. It reactivates upon release and re-pressing the button.

Proper Fit

A loose fit allows the receiver/collar to move on the dog's neck. When this happens, the contact points can rub the skin and cause irritation. If the unit is too loose, the contact points will not make proper contact, and your dog will not receive consistent stimulation.

How Long Your Dog Can Wear the Unit

Leaving the receiver/collar in the same spot on the dog's neck for extended periods can cause skin irritation. If the dog needs to wear the e-collar for a long time, occasionally reposition the receiver/collar so the contact points move to a different spot on the dog's neck. Check for skin irritation every time you use the unit.

Reaction to Stimulation

Every dog has a different tolerance and reaction to stimulation. Please observe your dog's reaction to find the correct stimulation level. The stimulation level may vary depending on the situation and distraction.

A normally distracted dog (chasing another dog, squirrels, etc.) will require a higher level of stimulation compared to a situation with no distractions.

Training Methods

E-collars can be used with many different methods. If you have any concerns about the training methods provided by Dogtra, consult a professional dog trainer.

Table of Contents

• First Introduction
• Main Features
• Overview
• Understanding Your Training System
• 1. Turning the System On/Off
• 2. Transmitter Button Functions
• 3. Setting the ARC800 FREE PLUS Code
• 4. Information about HANDSFREE SQUARE
• 5. Receiver Installation
• 6. Finding the Right Stimulation
• 7. Maximizing Range
• 8. LED Indicator
• 9. Battery Charging
• 10. LCD Handheld Transmitter
• 11. Attaching the Belt Clip
• 12. Using the Test Light
• General Training Tips
• Maintenance
• Troubleshooting Guide

Package Contents

The Dogtra ARC800 FREE PLUS package includes:

• Transmitter
• Receiver
• HANDSFREE Accessory
• Li-Po 10V 1.5A Dual Charger
• User Manual
• Belt Clip
• Test Light
• Labels

Optional Accessories

Car Charger: The car charger for ARC800 FREE PLUS has a 12V to 24V input and a 10V 1500mAh output.

To purchase accessories, visit the Dogtra online store at www.dogtra-europe.com or call customer service at +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65.

Main Features

• HANDSFREE accessory for remote control
• Expandable to up to 14 HANDSFREE SQUARE units
• Expandable to a 2-dog system
• Maximum range of 800 meters
• IPX9K waterproof certified transmitter and receiver (HANDSFREE SQUARE is not waterproof)
• 127-level stimulation with a rheostat dial and LCD screen for precise control
• Stimulation level safety lock
• Constant stimulation with a customizable Boost button for instant level increase
• LCD display shows stimulation level and battery life
• Nick/Constant stimulation & Pager vibration
• Improved contact points
• Ergonomic thin receiver design
• Checkered grip on the handheld transmitter
• For dogs 7 kg and up
• 2-hour rapid battery charging for transmitter and receiver
• Replaceable lithium coin cell battery for HANDSFREE accessory

Overview: ARC800 FREE PLUS Transmitter

Diagram of the ARC800 FREE PLUS transmitter with labeled components.

• Antenna: For signal transmission.
• Rheostat Dial: Adjusts stimulation level (0-127).
• LED Indicator: Shows battery life and system status.
• Light: Illuminates when buttons are pressed.
• 1-dog/2-dog Switch: Selects which dog to control.
• Pager Button: Activates vibration.
• BOOSTER Button: Provides an instant increase in stimulation level.
• LCD Screen: Displays stimulation level and battery life.
• On/Off & Safety Level Lock Button: Powers the unit on/off and locks the stimulation level.
• Nick Button: Delivers a single, quick pulse of stimulation.
• Constant Button: Delivers continuous stimulation (up to 12 seconds).
• Belt Clip: For attaching the transmitter to a belt.
• Battery Charging Receptacle & Rubber Plug: For charging the unit.

Understanding Your Training System

1. Turning the System On/Off

Transmitter On/Off

Image showing the transmitter with the On/Off button highlighted.

To turn the transmitter ON, hold the button on the right side of the transmitter until the LCD screen illuminates. To turn the transmitter OFF, hold the same button on the right side of the transmitter until the LCD screen turns off.

Receiver On/Off

Image showing the magnetic red dots on the transmitter and receiver for activation.

To turn the receiver ON, place the 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 indicator light on the receiver starts blinking green.

To turn the unit OFF, repeat the same procedure by holding the two red dots together for a moment. The LED light will turn red briefly, indicating that the receiver is now off.

2. Transmitter Buttons

The ARC800 FREE PLUS has five buttons and a switch on the transmitter (two on the front, two on the left side, and one on the right side). You can change the receiver by pressing the switch up and down. If you purchase an additional ARC800 FREE PLUS receiver to expand to a 2-dog system, you will need to pair the new receiver before use.

Image showing the transmitter with its buttons and switch labeled.

• 1-dog/2-dog Switch: Selects between controlling the first or second dog.
• Nick Button: Located on the upper left side of the transmitter. When pressed, the receiver sends a single rapid pulse of electrical stimulation.
• Constant Button: Located on the lower left side of the handheld transmitter. Pressing the constant button provides continuous stimulation for up to 12 seconds. If you do not release the button after 12 seconds, the stimulation automatically turns off as a safety feature. The receiver will be ready for reactivation after the button is released.
• Pager Button: Located on the front of the transmitter. Pressing it activates vibration for up to 12 seconds.
• On/Off Button: To turn on the ARC800 FREE PLUS, press and hold the right On/Off button until the front LCD screen turns on. To turn it off, press and hold the right On/Off button until the LCD screen turns off. The LCD backlight will dim automatically after 4 seconds.

Safety Lock and Boosted Constant

Stimulation Level Lock/Unlock Safety Button

Images showing the LCD screen with unlocked (left) and locked (right) icons.

To lock the selected stimulation level, tap the On/Off button once you have selected your desired level. A lock icon will appear on the LCD screen, indicating that the chosen stimulation level is locked in place to prevent any changes. To unlock the stimulation level, tap the On/Off button again to release the stimulation lock.

Boosted Constant

The Boosted Constant function applies up to 12 seconds of continuous boosted stimulation at a pre-selected boosted level.

Current Level + Boost Amount = Boosted Constant Output

Example

If you set the Boost value to 10, the Boosted Constant output will increase as shown below:

Setting the Boosted Constant Function

Series of images illustrating the steps to set the Boosted Constant function.

1. Set the stimulation level to zero.
2. Hold the Boosted Constant button for 5 seconds until the LED light blinks; then release it.
3. Turn the rheostat dial to select the incremental Boost amount as shown on the LCD screen.
   Note: To use constant stimulation without boost, set the boost level to 0.
4. Tap the Boosted Constant button to save the setting.
   Note: The saved setting will remain even if the device is turned off. To reset the setting, repeat the steps above.

3. Setting the ARC800 FREE PLUS Code

To code your ARC800 FREE PLUS transmitter to a new or existing additional receiver, follow these steps:

Coding Transmitter and Receiver:

1. Set the 1-dog or 2-dog switch on the transmitter and rotate the rheostat dial to stimulation level 0.
2. With the receiver OFF, place the red dot on the transmitter to the red dot on the receiver. Hold them together until the green LED on the receiver starts blinking rapidly.
3. Press the "Nick" and "Constant" buttons on the transmitter while the receiver's LED is blinking.
4. The LED will blink every 4 seconds after the receiver's LED is turned on, indicating the connection is complete.

4. HANDSFREE SQUARE Accessory

The HANDSFREE SQUARE gives you the freedom of multitasking and discreet fingertip control. The function (Nick, Constant, or Pager) can be coded to the HANDSFREE SQUARE, allowing you to control it remotely instead of having to hold the transmitter in your hand.

Image showing the HANDSFREE SQUARE worn on a wrist.

The HANDSFREE SQUARE has been tested and can be used in extreme conditions, between -20 °C and 60 °C.

Range

Depending on where the transmitter is placed, your body can act as a barrier between the HANDSFREE SQUARE and the transmitter. The handheld transmitter's antenna should be open for maximum range.

Placing the transmitter at the bottom of a bag or in a pocket, where the antenna is covered, can reduce the range between the transmitter and receiver.

The HANDSFREE SQUARE must be within 10 meters of the transmitter to function.

Battery Life

The LED on the HANDSFREE SQUARE will blink when the button is pressed. Once the LED stops blinking, replace the battery in the HANDSFREE SQUARE. With normal use (button held for 12 seconds, 100 times a day), the battery should last 7-10 years.

Attaching the HANDSFREE SQUARE Strap

The HANDSFREE SQUARE strap can be attached to the wrist, palm, or around a gun stock. Follow the attachment instructions below.

Images showing how to thread the strap through the buckle.

1. Wrap the strap around the object you are attaching it to. Thread the strap through the bottom part of the buckle and use the notch to keep the HANDSFREE SQUARE securely in place.
2. Thread the strap back through the top part of the buckle.

Changing HANDSFREE SQUARE Settings

The default setting for the HANDSFREE SQUARE is constant stimulation.

To change settings or add another HANDSFREE SQUARE, follow these steps:

1. Start with the transmitter turned off.
2. On the transmitter, hold the following buttons to code the desired setting to the HANDSFREE SQUARE:

ARC800 FREE PLUS - First Dog (D1)

Images illustrating button combinations for D1 settings.

• Nick: Move the switch up to "D1". Hold the On/Off button and the Nick button.
• Constant: Move the switch up to "D1". Hold the On/Off button and the Constant button.
• Pager: Move the switch up to "D1". Hold the On/Off button and the Pager button.
• Boost: Move the switch up to "D1". Hold the On/Off button and the Boost button.

ARC802 FREE PLUS - Second Dog (D2)

Images illustrating button combinations for D2 settings.

• Nick: Move the switch down to "D2". Hold the On/Off button and the Nick button.
• Constant: Move the switch down to "D2". Hold the On/Off button and the Constant button.
• Pager: Move the switch up to "D2". Hold the On/Off button and the Pager button.
• Boost: Move the switch up to "D2". Hold the On/Off button and the Boost button.

3. Once you see the light blinking rapidly, release all buttons. The transmitter will continue to blink rapidly until the next step is completed.
4. Hold the HANDSFREE SQUARE button. Once the rapidly blinking light on the transmitter and HANDSFREE SQUARE illuminates steadily, release the button.
5. Release all buttons. The HANDSFREE SQUARE should now be coded.
6. Up to 14 HANDSFREE SQUARE units can be paired with one transmitter and can have duplicate functions. For example, 4 can be paired for Pager, 5 for the Nick button, and another 5 for the Constant button.

5. Fitting the Collar with the Receiver

Diagram showing a dog wearing the e-collar correctly.

The receiver/collar should be fitted so that the stainless steel contact points press firmly against the dog's skin. When properly fitted, you should be able to fit one or two fingers snugly between the contact points and your dog's skin. When the receiver is properly fitted, the collar should not move on the dog. The best placement for the receiver/collar is on either side of the dog's windpipe.

A loose fit allows the receiver/collar to move on the dog's neck. When this happens, the contact points can rub the skin and cause irritation. If the receiver/collar is too tight, dogs may have difficulty breathing.

6. Finding the Right Stimulation

The ARC800 FREE PLUS 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 (up or down) depending on your dog's temperament and stimulation threshold. Always start at the lowest level and work your way up. The appropriate level can be found when the dog reacts 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.

7. Maximizing Range

The ARC800 FREE PLUS has a maximum range of 800 meters. The transmitter's range may vary depending on how it is used.

To get the greatest range, hold the transmitter away from your body and do not touch the antenna. To maintain maximum signal strength, keep the unit properly charged.

Illustrations showing optimal transmitter holding positions for maximum range (left: arm raised, transmitter held high; middle: transmitter held at waist level, away from body; right: transmitter held at side, away from body).

The range will decrease if the handheld transmitter's antenna is covered or in contact with your body. Optimal range can be found in the following wearing methods:

Illustrations showing incorrect transmitter holding positions (left: antenna pointing towards body; right: transmitter in pocket, antenna pointing down).

Carry the handheld transmitter with the antenna pointing away from you.

Do not place the handheld transmitter so that the antenna touches your body or points downwards.

8. LED Indicator

The LED indicator blinks every 4 seconds when the receiver is turned on and ready for use. The LED indicator will blink on both the transmitter and receiver when the transmitter buttons are pressed.

The color of the LED indicator indicates the battery life level:

• Green = Full charge
• Orange = Medium charge
• Red = Requires charging

If the unit is used while the LED indicator is red, it may automatically shut off.

Receiver Indicator Light

When the Constant button on the transmitter is pressed, the receiver indicator light will illuminate steadily (either green, yellow, or red depending on remaining battery life) if you hold the button for up to 12 seconds.

When the Nick button is pressed, the light will illuminate for a fraction of a second.

9. Battery Charging

Diagram showing the charging setup for a two-dog unit, including charging cable, 220V charger, and wall outlet.

The Dogtra ARC800 FREE PLUS uses a lithium-polymer battery.

Charge the unit if the indicator light is red or does not illuminate, the transmitter LCD shows only 1 bar on the indicator, or the system does not stay on when any button is pressed.

To charge the system, follow these steps:

1. Open the rubber plugs on the battery charging sockets and plug in the charging cable.
2. Plug the charger into a 220V outlet or, if using an automatic charger, plug it only into the cigarette lighter for lithium-polymer batteries. All indicator lights should be red if properly connected, and the unit will automatically turn off during the charging process. Once the unit is fully charged and disconnected from the battery cable, you will need to turn it on again before use.
3. The lithium-polymer battery is fully charged within 2 hours. The indicator lights will remain red during the charging process and will turn green when the unit is fully charged.
4. After charging, cover the battery charging jacks with the rubber plugs.

Charger Information

• Manufacturer: E-SUN
• Country of Origin: CHINA
• Model Name: MKC-1001500SEU
• INPUT: 100-240V~50/60Hz 0.4A
• OUTPUT: 10V 1500mA 15.0W

10. LCD Screen

Image of the transmitter's LCD screen displaying '127' and the Dogtra logo.

The LCD screen displays the stimulation level in the range (0-127). The battery life indicator shows:

• 3 bars = full charge
• 2 bars = medium charge
• 1 bar = needs charging

The battery life indicator only shows the remaining charge of your transmitter. To check the remaining capacity of your receiver, observe the LED indicator on the receiver.

Care of LCD Transmitter in Low Temperatures

At low temperatures (-12 °C or below), the liquid crystal display (LCD) on your transmitter may be dim or react slowly. Before selecting any training level, wait for the display to appear. Even if the LCD screen is dim or slow, when you press the Nick or Constant button, the transmitter will still function correctly. In extremely cold weather, it may take a while for the LCD screen to react, which will cause the intensity level to freeze at the 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 accordance with the dial. In this situation, it is ideal to either wait until your transmitter is functional again and then perform the correction, or slowly turn the rheostat dial while holding the Constant button and observing your dog's reaction. Do not turn the rheostat dial quickly, as the receiver will deliver static correction based on the rheostat level.

The dial may not display correctly on the LCD screen.

11. Attaching the Belt Clip

Diagram showing how to attach the belt clip to the transmitter.

Attach the included belt clip to the transmitter according to the instructions below.

1. Align the belt clip with the grooves on the back of the transmitter.
2. Firmly screw the Phillips head of the belt clip screws using a screwdriver.

12. Using the Test Light

Image showing the test light placed on the receiver's contact points.

1. Turn on the receiver by pressing the on/off button. The indicator light will illuminate briefly and then blink every 4 seconds, meaning the receiver is ready for use (if the indicator light is red, the receiver needs to be charged).
2. Turn on the transmitter by holding the on/off button on the right side of the transmitter. The LED will blink every 4 seconds, and the LCD screen will display the remaining battery life (the transmitter needs to be charged if the battery icon on the transmitter's LCD screen shows only 1 bar).
3. Place the test light, which is included in the package, on the contact points as shown in Figure 4.
4. Observe the test light when you press the Nick button on the transmitter. It should illuminate briefly. The higher the intensity, the brighter the test light will be.
5. Observe the test light when you press the Constant button on the transmitter. It should illuminate as long as the button is pressed. However, as a safety feature, the receiver automatically stops stimulation if the Constant button is pressed for 12 seconds or longer.
6. Turn the rheostat dial on the transmitter clockwise and then counter-clockwise. The test light should glow brighter at higher stimulation levels and dimmer at lower levels.

Maintenance

Basic Maintenance

Ensure the rubber cap of the charging port is securely in place when the system is in use. After each training session, carefully check the unit for any missing parts or damage to the casing. Damage or breakage of the casing can affect the unit's waterproof warranty. After confirming no casing damage, rinse the receiver and clean any dirt and debris.

Storage Maintenance

The unit should be fully charged before storage for extended periods. During storage, the unit should be fully charged once a month and before first use. Store units at room temperature. Do not leave units exposed to extreme climatic conditions.

Troubleshooting

If the unit is not functioning correctly, refer to the "Troubleshooting Guide" before sending it to Dogtra for service. If you have any questions or concerns, you can email them at info@dogtra-europe.com or call customer service at +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65.

Troubleshooting Guide

1. My dog is not reacting to the collar.

• Ensure the unit is turned on: Place the two red dots together to turn on the receiver and press the black button on the transmitter until it illuminates to turn on the transmitter.
• Ensure the collar strap is sufficiently tight so that both contact points touch the dog's skin.
• The contact points may be too short for the dog. To order longer contact points that are more suitable for your dog, call +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65 or email us at info@dogtra-europe.com. If you are already using the longest available contact points, you may need to trim the hair on your dog's neck so that both contact points touch the dog's skin.
• The intensity level may be too low for your dog. Continue increasing the stimulation until the dog reacts, usually by moving its neck, shaking its head, looking over its shoulder, etc. (the reaction can be very subtle).

2. The test light illuminates, but I don't feel any stimulation.

• Your tolerance may be higher than your dog's. We recommend placing both contact points on the inside of your wrist, where sensitivity is higher, to test the unit.

3. The transmitter has no range or the stimulation is weaker when the dog is further away.

• The battery may be low, so check the LED indicator for battery life. If you have a full charge and have done everything above, your unit may require service. Please contact customer service at info@dogtra-europe.com or +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65.
• The antenna(s) may be damaged. To order parts, please contact customer service at +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65 or visit www.dogtra-europe.com.
• The range stated on the unit's box is for flat terrain. Dense brush, trees, hills, or moisture will affect your unit's range. For best range, hold the transmitter vertically above your head and/or try moving to higher ground.
• Any electrical conductors will affect range, such as cars, dog runs, metal buildings, and radio towers. You will achieve the best results when working outside these structures.

4. My unit is not charging.

• The battery may not be charging correctly, or you may need to check the charger, splitter, and charging port. If you suspect your charger/splitter is not working correctly, please contact customer service at info@dogtra-europe.com or call us at +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65. You can send us your charging units for inspection.
• The charging pin may be damaged. Inside the charging port is a metal pin that should stand straight and firm. If the pin is wobbly, broken, or missing, you will need to send the unit to the repair department. The charging port must be clean before charging; clean dirt with a cotton swab and a little rubbing alcohol. If the dog is in salt water, remember to rinse the receiver and charging port with clean water.
• Dogtra units older than two years from the date of purchase may require battery replacement. You can replace them yourself by contacting Dogtra. However, damage to the unit due to improper battery installation is not covered under any warranty, and any other unauthorized service or tampering with the unit voids the warranty. This will be at the user's discretion.
• If you still have problems after replacing the batteries, Dogtra strongly recommends sending the unit for inspection.

Warranty and Repair Information

Two-Year Limited Warranty

Dogtra-Europe provides a two-year LIMITED WARRANTY to the original purchaser on products sold by Dogtra-Europe and its authorized distributors/retailers. The warranty begins from the date of original purchase. Replaceable batteries YS100, iQ No Bark Collar, and iQ CLiQ are not covered by the warranty.

*Shipping costs for warranty products back to Dogtra-Europe are the customer's responsibility. Dogtra-Europe will provide/pay (via regular ground service) shipping costs back to the customer. Any expedited shipping will be at the customer's expense.

If the repair is not covered by warranty, the cost of parts, accessories, labor fees, and incurred shipping fees are the customer's responsibility. Labor fees will vary depending on the scope of work required.

To Qualify for Dogtra Warranty

Proof of purchase is required to initiate warranty repairs. We strongly recommend keeping your original receipt.

Not Covered by Warranty

Dogtra-Europe does NOT cover the costs of repairs and replacements due to owner or dog abuse, improper maintenance, and/or loss of units. Any water damage to Dogtra waterproof transmitters 175NCP, 180NCP, 200NCP, 400NCP, 410NCP, IQ CLIQ, and iQ PLUS Series and waterproof receivers RRS, RRD, and RR Deluxe will not be covered. All costs for transmitter or receiver replacement are the owner's responsibility. The warranty does not cover failures caused by damage, abuse, or loss of parts. The warranty is void if the unit has been altered or damaged by an unauthorized person attempting repairs. Battery replacement by the customer during the warranty period is not recommended. If the customer decides to replace the batteries, any damage to the unit during replacement by the owner will void the warranty. Removing serial numbers from any Dogtra products will void the warranty. Dogtra reserves the right to retain and dispose of any parts or accessories found damaged during replacement and repair.

Repair Procedure

If the unit is not functioning correctly, please refer to the "Troubleshooting Guide" in the User Manual and call customer service at +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65 before sending it to Dogtra-Europe for service.

Shipping costs for warranty products back to Dogtra-Europe are the customer's responsibility. Dogtra-Europe is not responsible for units damaged or lost during transit to Dogtra. Dogtra-Europe is not responsible for lost training time or inconvenience while the unit is under repair. Dogtra-Europe does not provide loaner units or any form of compensation during the repair period. A copy of the sales receipt with the purchase date is required before warranty work begins.

Please provide a brief explanation of the problem and include your name, address, city/state/zip code, daytime phone number, evening phone number, and email address. If repair costs are not covered by warranty, we will ask you for payment information and authorization.

If you have any questions regarding your Dogtra products, call us at +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65 or email us at sav@dogtra-europe.com.

Send repair units to:

Diagrams and illustrations in the manual may vary slightly from the actual product depending on the model type.

EU Compliance and Service Center

The device has been approved for use in EU countries and is therefore marked with the CE mark. All necessary documentation is available on the website: www.elektro-obojky.cz. Changes to technical parameters, features, and typographical errors are reserved.

Service Center and Distribution