Dogtra ARC 1200S User Manual

Product Safety and Warnings

Correct Use of a Training Collar

Dogtra training collars are solely for modifying dog behavior. They are not intended for use on humans or other living beings. Dogtra assumes no liability for improper use of a Dogtra training collar.

Aggressive Dogs

Dogtra strongly recommends consulting a professional dog trainer if the training collar is to be used on a dog that exhibits aggressive behavior towards other dogs or people.

Interference with Other Electronic Devices

Dogtra's advanced filter system minimizes interference from other electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones). Our digital microprocessor allows for thousands of different codes, virtually eliminating the risk of frequency overlap with other Dogtra devices. Dogtra-Europe recommends consulting a physician if you wear an electronic medical device and wish to use an electronic training collar.

Accidental Activation

If the continuous impulse button is pressed for longer than 12 seconds, the device will automatically shut off for safety. It will reactivate once the button is released and another transmitter button is pressed.

Duration the Dog Can Wear the Device

Wearing the device for extended periods in the same spot on the neck can cause skin irritation. If the dog needs to wear the training collar for a long time, remove it periodically and reapply it so the contacts touch a different area of the skin. Regularly check the dog for skin irritation. If the dog shows signs of skin irritation, consult a veterinarian.

Correct Collar Fit

A collar that is too loose can cause the receiver to slide on the dog's neck. This can cause the contacts to rub against the skin, leading to irritation. If the collar is too loose, the impulse perceived by the dog will be inconsistent.

Understanding Dog Behavior and Training

Reaction to Stimulation

Each dog exhibits a different tolerance and reaction to stimulation. Observe the dog's reaction carefully to find the optimal impulse level. The required impulse level can vary depending on the situation and the dog's state of arousal. Generally, a dog distracted by external influences (e.g., chasing another dog or wildlife) may require a higher impulse level than a dog that is not distracted.

Training Methods

Training collars can be used with various methods. Consult a professional dog trainer if you have questions about the methods offered by Dogtra.

Product Overview and Features

At a Glance

The Dogtra ARC 1200S package includes:

• Sender [transmitter-symbol]
• Receiver Collar
• Charger [charger-symbol]
• Charging Cable
• User Manual
• Belt Clips [belt-clip-symbol]
• Test Lamp [test-lamp-symbol]

Separately sold accessories include:

• Car Charger: For use with a 10V cigarette lighter in your car.
• US Charger: 110V charger for use in the USA.

Accessories can be purchased from Dogtra dealers or on the Dogtra-Europe website: www.dogtra-europe.com.

Main Features of the ARC 1200S

• Discreet, ergonomically shaped receiver collar
• Sender grip surfaces with fish-scale texture
• Powerful Pager (Vibration) [vibration-symbol]
• Advanced contacts
• Rheostat intensity dial with levels 0 - 127
• Maximum range of 1200 meters
• Momentary ("Nick") and Continuous ("Constant") impulses [stimulation-symbol]
• Low to high impulse intensity
• Waterproof
• LCD screen
• Belt clips
• Batteries with short charging time (approx. 2 hours)

Understanding the Training Collar

1. Turning the Device On and Off

To turn on the transmitter, press the blue button on the right side of the transmitter until the LCD screen lights up. To turn off the transmitter, press the same blue button until the LCD screen displays "OFF" and turns off. To turn on the receiver, press the blue button until the LED indicator lights up green. To turn off the receiver, press the same blue button until the LED indicator turns red and then goes out.

2. Description of Transmitter Buttons

ARC 1200S Transmitter: The ARC 1200S transmitter has four buttons (one on the front, two on the left side, one on the right side).

• Nick Button (Momentary Impulse): Located on the left side of the transmitter. Pressing the Nick button delivers a short, fraction-of-a-second static impulse to the receiver.
• Constant Button (Continuous Impulse): Located on the left side of the transmitter. Pressing the Constant button delivers a static impulse that lasts as long as the button is pressed, up to a maximum of 12 seconds. If the button is held for more than 12 seconds, the impulse will automatically shut off for safety. The receiver can be reactivated once the button is released.
• Pager Button (Vibration): Located on the front of the transmitter. Pressing the Pager button activates a vibration on the receiver collar for as long as the button is pressed, up to a maximum of 12 seconds.
• Transmitter On/Off Button: The button on the right side of the transmitter is used to turn the transmitter and the LCD screen on and off. To turn on the transmitter, press this button until the LCD screen lights up. To turn off the transmitter, press the same button until the LCD screen displays "OFF" and turns off.

ARC 1202S Transmitter: The ARC 1202S transmitter has five buttons (two on the front, two on the left side, one on the right side) and a toggle switch.

• Nick & Constant Buttons: Located on the left side of the transmitter. These buttons control the impulse type (Nick/Constant) and target dog (Dog 1/Dog 2) based on the toggle switch position.
• Pager Buttons: Located on the front of the transmitter. These buttons activate vibration for the respective dog.
• Toggle Switch (Nick/Constant): Located on the front of the transmitter. This switch allows selection between momentary (Nick) and continuous (Constant) impulses.
• On/Off Button: Located on the right side of the transmitter.

3. Fitting the Collar

The collar should be fitted so that the stainless steel contacts rest firmly against the dog's skin. It should still be possible to slide one finger between the dog's skin and the contacts. When fitted correctly, the receiver should not slide around. The best position for the receiver is on the side of the throat. If the collar is too loose, the receiver can slide, causing the contacts to rub against the dog's skin and cause irritation. If the collar is too tight, it can make breathing difficult for the dog.

4. Finding the Correct Stimulation Level

The ARC 1200S transmitter features a rheostat intensity dial to adjust the impulse strength. Level 0 is the lowest, and 127 is the highest. The optimal impulse strength for your dog depends on its sensitivity. Always start with the lowest level and gradually increase it. The appropriate level is reached when your dog shows a slight reaction, such as a slight head shake or tightening of the neck muscles. The required impulse level is also situation-dependent; a distracted dog may require a higher impulse level.

NOTE: The impulse level can also be adjusted during impulse delivery.

5. Maximizing Range

The ARC 1200S has a maximum range of 1200 meters. The range can vary depending on how the transmitter is held. Hold the transmitter away from your body to achieve the maximum possible range. For maximum range, the device should be fully charged.

Diagram Description: The diagram shows three scenarios for holding the transmitter: Maximum Range (transmitter held high and away from body), Medium Range (transmitter held at chest level), and Minimum Range (transmitter held low or close to body). An asterisk note states: "Avoid touching the antenna, as this can significantly affect the range."

6. LED Indicator

The LED indicator blinks every 4 seconds when the receiver is turned on and ready. The LED indicators on the transmitter and receiver blink simultaneously when a transmitter button is pressed. The color of the LED indicator shows the battery charge status:

• Green = Fully charged
• Yellow = Half charged
• Red = Needs charging

If the device is used when the LED indicator is blinking red, it will automatically shut off.

Receiver LED Indicator: When the Continuous ("Constant") impulse is activated, the receiver's LED indicator lights up continuously (in green, yellow, or red, depending on battery charge) for as long as the button is pressed, up to 12 seconds. When the Momentary ("Nick") impulse is activated, the receiver's LED indicator lights up for a fraction of a second.

7. Charging the Batteries

The ARC 1200S uses Lithium-Polymer batteries.

1. Charge the device before first use.
2. Do not charge batteries near flammable materials.
3. If the device is not used for more than three months, charge it fully before storage and then every three months.

Charge the batteries when:

1. The receiver's LED indicator blinks red.
2. The battery indicator bars on the transmitter's LCD screen show only one bar.
3. The LED indicator on the transmitter or receiver does not blink.
4. The LED indicator on the transmitter or receiver blinks but does not light up when the continuous impulse is activated.

NOTE: The device is shipped half-charged by Dogtra. Charge the device fully upon receipt before use.

Charging Procedure

1. Connect the charging cable to the transmitter and receiver (see diagram).
2. Plug the charger into a 220V power outlet or your car's cigarette lighter if using a car charger. When the cable and charger are correctly plugged in, the LED indicators will light up red continuously. The device is off during charging. Once charging is complete and the cables are unplugged, the device can be turned on again.
3. The Lithium-Polymer batteries are fully charged after 2 hours. During charging, the LED indicators light up red continuously and turn green when the batteries are fully charged.
4. After charging, close the charging ports on the transmitter and receiver with the rubber covers.

NOTE: Use only Dogtra-branded batteries, chargers, and accessories for your Dogtra devices. Unplug the charger from the power outlet when not in use.

Charger Info:

• Manufacturer: HON-KWANG
• Manufacturing country: CHINA
• Model name: HK-AW-100A150-EU
• INPUT: 100~240V~50/60Hz 0.4A
• OUTPUT: 10V 1.5A

CAUTION: For safety reasons, the device must be located near the power outlet during charging, and the outlet must be easily accessible.

8. Sender's LCD Screen

To turn the LCD screen backlight on/off, briefly press the transmitter's On/Off button. The LCD screen displays the impulse level (0 - 127). The bar indicator shows 3 bars when the battery is fully charged, 2 bars when half charged, and one bar when the device needs charging. The bar indicator only shows the transmitter's battery status. The receiver's battery status can be checked via the receiver's LED indicator color:

• Green = Fully charged
• Yellow = Half charged
• Red = Needs charging

Handling the Sender with LCD Screen in Frost

In very low temperatures (below -12°C), the transmitter's LCD display may react slower or appear dimmer. Wait until the displayed numbers are clearly visible before selecting the impulse level. Even if the LCD display reacts slower or is dimmer, the transmitter will still function correctly when an impulse button is pressed. In very cold weather, the LCD display might freeze on a number for a moment. In such cases, the actual impulse strength delivered by the receiver will change immediately when the intensity dial is turned. In this situation, it is advisable to wait until the display is fully functional again before triggering an impulse, or to adjust the impulse strength very slowly while observing the dog's reaction. Do not turn the intensity dial too quickly, as the selected and delivered impulse may not correspond to the displayed impulse level.

9. Attaching the Belt Clip to the Sender

To attach the included belt clip to the transmitter, follow these steps:

1. Place the belt clip onto the back of the transmitter.
2. Tighten the included screws.

Caution: The screws must be tightened firmly to hold, but not excessively.

10. Using the Test Lamp

Diagram Description: The diagram shows the test lamp placed on the receiver's contacts.

1. Turn on the receiver and place the test lamp on the contacts (see diagram).
2. When the Nick button is pressed, the test lamp lights up briefly. When the Constant button is pressed, the test lamp lights up for as long as the button is pressed, up to a maximum of 12 seconds.
3. If the impulse level is increased, the test lamp lights up brighter.

General Training Tips

Starting with the ARC 1200S Training Collar

The dog should already know some basic commands before you begin training with the ARC 1200S. A dog first learns a command by being shown it, followed by many repetitions over a longer period. Once the dog reliably performs these commands, they can be practiced with distractions and in different locations. Working with a proper mix of positive and negative reinforcement results in a well-behaved dog.

Obedience Exercises on Leash

The dog must understand basic commands (Sit, Stay, Come, Heel) before the training collar is used to reinforce these commands. To teach these basic commands, it is best to use a regular dog collar and leash. A leash correction is used to emphasize commands. If the dog obeys the commands, positive reinforcement is required. Once the dog understands these commands, the training collar can be used to reinforce them.

Starting Training with the Training Collar

Once you determine that the dog understands commands on the leash, you can begin training with the training collar. With the dog on leash, wearing the training collar, continue with command learning exercises. A mild impulse (momentary or continuous) is given along with the command. The impulse is stopped as soon as the dog responds to the command. Through repetition, the dog learns to stop the mild impulse by following the command. Training with the training collar is another form of negative reinforcement, similar to a leash correction on a regular collar. Once the dog follows the command, praise/positive reinforcement is used. The final stage is the avoidance phase, where the dog learns to completely avoid the impulse by following commands. After these training stages are completed, the training collar is used as a reminder of commands during training at home or outdoors (please observe the current legal regulations in your country!). Initial training sessions should be short and positive. Dogs, especially young dogs, have short attention spans.

Choosing the Right Stimulation Level

Always start with a low stimulation level and increase it as needed to suit your dog's sensitivity and the specific situation. By using only as much stimulation as necessary to achieve the desired response, the dog experiences less stress, and you have better control. Animals (and humans) function better in a stress-free environment. For more information on training, consult a professional dog trainer.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Care and Maintenance

Ensure that the charging port covers are always closed during use. Inspect your device after each use for any missing or damaged parts. A damaged casing can affect the waterproofing warranty for both the receiver and the transmitter. Once you have confirmed the receiver casing is intact, clean the receiver of any dirt.

Storage Information

If you wish to store your device for an extended period, charge it fully beforehand. For longer storage, the device should be fully charged once a month and before reuse. Store the device at room temperature. Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

If your device does not seem to be functioning correctly, please refer to the "Troubleshooting" section before sending your device for repair. If you have any questions or concerns, contact us: info@dogtra-europe.com or by phone: +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65.

1. My dog shows no reaction to the training collar.

• Ensure the receiver is turned on. To turn on the receiver, hold the red magnetic points of the transmitter and receiver against each other until the LED indicator lights up.
• The collar must be snug enough for both contacts to touch the dog's skin.
• The contacts may be too short for your dog's coat type. To order longer contacts, contact us or your Dogtra dealer. If you are already using longer contacts, trimming the hair around the dog's neck can help the contacts make good skin contact.
• The impulse strength may be too low for your dog. Gradually increase the impulse strength until you can detect a slight contraction of the neck muscles or a slight head shake from your dog. The reaction may be very subtle, so close attention is required.

2. The LED light is on, but I don't feel an impulse.

• Your dog's sensitivity may be higher than yours. You can test the impulse strength on your fingertips or wrist. Note that you must touch both contacts to feel the impulse.
• The battery charge may be too low; check this via the LED indicator.
• If your device is fully charged, you have followed all the above points, and there is no improvement, the device should be checked. Please contact our customer service at info@dogtra-europe.com or by phone: +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65.

3. The transmitter has insufficient range, or the impulse weakens over longer distances.

• Ensure your fingers are not touching the antenna, as this can significantly reduce the range.
• The specified range for the product refers to open, level terrain. Bushes, trees, hills, or moisture can affect your device's range. For the best possible range, hold the transmitter vertically above your head and/or try to reach a high point in the terrain.
• All electronic conductors can negatively impact range, such as cars, metal dog leashes, and transmission masts. To achieve the best possible range, we recommend training as far away from such objects as possible.

4. My device does not hold a charge.

• The charging pin may be damaged. Inside the charging port, there is a metal pin that should stand straight up in the center. If the pin is wobbly, broken, or missing, send your device for repair immediately.
• The charging port should be cleaned before charging. Use a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol for cleaning. If your dog has been in saltwater, clean the receiver and charging port with fresh water.
• If you own a Dogtra device older than two years, the battery performance may decrease. In this case, the batteries can be replaced. You can perform the replacement yourself after consulting with us. Damage to the device caused by improper battery replacement is not covered by the warranty. Dogtra-Europe recommends sending the device for inspection.

5. My dog has skin irritation.

• This could be related to the contacts. If your dog has skin irritation, consult your veterinarian. Once the skin condition returns to normal, continue using the training collar and check your dog's skin after each use.

Warranty and Repair Information

Two-Year Warranty

Dogtra-Europe grants the original purchaser a limited two-year warranty from the date of purchase for products sold by Dogtra-Europe and its dealers. Replaceable batteries for models YS100, iQ No Bark, iQ CLiQ, and BALL TRAINER are excluded from the warranty.

* Costs for returning warranty devices to Dogtra-Europe customer service are borne by the buyer. Costs for returning repaired warranty devices to the buyer are borne by Dogtra-Europe. Any express shipping requested by the buyer will be at the buyer's expense. If the repair is not covered by the warranty, the buyer will be charged for parts, labor, and postage.

Using the Dogtra Warranty

Keep your dated invoice/sales receipt for your Dogtra product. Warranty exclusions: Dogtra-Europe does not provide a warranty for damage caused by improper handling/use, improper maintenance, and/or loss of parts. Damage caused by moisture ingress into the water-resistant, not waterproof, transmitters of models Dogtra 175NCP, 180NCP, 200NCP, 400NCP, 410NCP, iQ PLUS, iQ CLiQ, and BALL TRAINER, or the water-resistant, not waterproof, receivers of the RRS, RRD, RR Deluxe, BALL TRAINER, is excluded from the warranty. Replacement of a lost transmitter or receiver is the customer's responsibility. The warranty is void if the device has been modified, or if an unauthorized person has attempted to service it. Replacing batteries yourself during the warranty period is not recommended. If the buyer decides to replace the batteries, any damage to the device caused during this process is not covered by the warranty. If the serial number of a Dogtra device is removed, the warranty is void. Dogtra-Europe reserves the right to retain and dispose of replaced parts after repair and replacement.

Out-of-Warranty Repair

For repairs not covered by warranty, charges will apply for parts, labor, and postage. Please include a brief written description of the problem along with your name and address.

Repair Procedure: If your device is not functioning correctly, please consult the "Troubleshooting" section of the user manual and contact our customer service at +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65 or via email at sav@dogtra-europe.com before sending the device to Dogtra-Europe for repair. Costs for returning warranty products to Dogtra-Europe are borne by the customer. Dogtra-Europe is not responsible for damage or loss incurred during the return shipment of devices. Dogtra-Europe is not responsible for time loss or other inconveniences caused to the buyer by the return of the device. Dogtra-Europe does not provide loaner devices or any compensation while a device is being repaired. A dated invoice/sales receipt must be presented for warranty repairs. Please include a brief written description of the problem along with your name, address, phone number, and email address. If the repair is not covered by the warranty, you will be provided with a cost estimate before the repair. If you have questions, contact us by phone at +33 (0)1 30 62 65 65, or send an email to sav@dogtra-europe.com.

Note: The representations and illustrations in this user manual may differ slightly from the actual product depending on the model and version.

Declaration of Conformity, Warranty, and After-Sales Service

The device is approved for use in EU countries and therefore bears the CE marking. All required documentation is available on the website www.elektro-halsbander.de. Changes to technical parameters, features, and printing errors are reserved.

Service Center and Distribution

Reedog s.r.o.
Sedmidomky 459/8
101 00 Prag
Czech Republic
Phone: +49 176 34 433 212
E-Mail: info@elektro-halsbander.de