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This is our review of the SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X.
There are several impressive training collars on the market, but we at Dog Training Boss wanted to break down the features of the SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X collar and explain why it’s one of the more popular products.
After thoroughly researching the pros and cons, we spent weeks compiling the most valuable information on collar training features, options, and alternatives so you can make the best decision for your dog.
We looked at features like device range, water resistance, battery life, size, weight, and customer reviews to analyze what dog owners find most beneficial in a dog training collar.
This comprehensive review will look at the key features of the SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X and how they can be beneficial to dog owners. We will also take a close look at what customers have to say about the design and value along with discussing possible alternatives.
Let’s dive in!
SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X
It didn’t take long to understand why many dog owners liked the design and many features of the SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X. Owners liked the compact design, 2-hour battery quick change, and the ability to use the trainer system with up to 3 dogs.
Feature Analysis
Dog trainers can use this system to train up to 3 dogs at one time with separate buttons for each dog on one remote device. The remote has a 500-yard range for training and the system is water-resistant. Most users described the overall quality to be well-made and the receiver as small and lightweight for their furry friend.
The SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X comes with three training modes – vibration, tone, and static stimulation. (The SD 425X has 21 levels of static stimulation, which is a difference from the SD 425 with 7 levels.) Users like the options and many use the tone-only setting to get their dog’s attention or a vibration when needed.
Now, let’s take a closer look at what the features mean and if they are beneficial for you and your do.
Settings and Modes
The SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X can be operated without looking at the remote. There is a tactile dial and users can feel the dial click through the levels. If you forget what level you’re on roll the dial all the way up for the tone/vibrate modes.
Setting the different modes and levels can be a bit challenging as some buttons are unmarked, but the manual’s instructions are effective in clarifying questions. The manual also explains how to teach some commands and how to use the collar for training. Not all training collars break down how to use their technology with proper training and many owners appreciate the extra guidance.
We at Dog Training Boss suggest training your dog to understand basic commands before beginning work with a training collar. Many dog trainers find the training to be faster and more successful for the dog and owner if there is a foundation of proper training first. If you are new to teaching training commands or would like a refresher on methods, we’ve created a guide of commands and how to teach them to your dog.
Expansion: Up To 3 Dogs
Many owners with several dogs found the ability to expand the SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X up to three doges to be a useful and valuable feature. Programming extra dog collars took many owners just a few minutes and each dog has a separate button for tones and vibrations.
Generally, owners liked the ability to train several dogs at the same time from a single remote, however, you’ll need to purchase additional SportDOG Add-A-Dog collars.
Distance Range
The SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X offers an effective range of about 500 yards. If you are planning basic obedience training around your home and yard, most dog owners find the range to be sufficient.
If you and your companion require more distance, consider models like the SportDOG 875 which offers up to ½ mile. Read our review of the SportDOG 875 below, in our review of alternative training collars.
Size and Weight
Both the receiver and remote are compact and lightweight. The remote transmitter with antenna measures 5.30″L X 1.70″W X 1.00″ D. The transmitter weighs 4 oz and comes with a lanyard for easy movement.
The receiver without strap measures 2.60″L X 1.30″W 1.23″D. The receiver is on a 3/4″ collar strap and weighs 3.3 oz with the collar included. The SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X collar can also be used with smaller dogs. The collar can be adjusted to fit neck sizes from 5 – 22 inches. While it is one of the smallest SportDOG products, owners will need to be sure it fits their dog correctly and should not be used on dogs smaller than 8lbs.
Owners liked the size and less-bulky design of the remote. Its handheld device is a compact size for dog trainers who might also have their hands full with training treats, water bottles, or personal items like a cell phone or wallet.
Battery Life
We’ve reviewed several products with dog owners complaining about short battery life and devices that seem to constantly need charging. The SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X uses rechargeable lithium-ion batteries which can be fully charged in about 2 hours and last between 50-70 hours.
Many dog trainers appreciate the value of a quick-charge training collar. The SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X also comes with a duel lead changer so that owners are able to charge both the collar and transmitter at the same time.
There are also battery life indicators to remind you when it’s time to recharge.
Waterproof
The SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X uses DryTek technology allowing the device to still be used in wet weather or terrains. Users have reported this device working well in lakes, snow, oceans and other environments. It is also submersible up to 25 feet.
Before You Start Collar Training
As with any training, it’s important that you have spent some time learning how to appropriately use training collars and training with your dog so they know what to expect before using a training collar.
Make sure to take off the collar when not training.
Training collars should not be used for discipline or on young dogs.
This is not a tracking device, so if you have a furry escape artist, you may want to consider other options with a GPS system specifically for tracking.
While the SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X system can be used on smaller dogs (at least 8lbs or more), many users agree that this training system is a better fit for larger dogs. Dog Training Boss has also reviewed an alternative option to consider for smaller dogs.
Alternative Training Collars
If the SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X isn’t the best fit for you and your dog, here are a few similar products that you might want to consider.
SportDOG SportTrainer 875
This device is made for field and hunting dogs, up to a ½ mile range. Like the SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X, it has a multi-dog option for up to three dogs, is water resistant, and has adjustable levels for tones and vibrations.
The SportTrainer 875 has a bright OLED screen to view the level options and battery life status. Rechargeable batteries offer between 50-70 hours per charge. The receiver weight is 3.2 oz, and some users mention this device is also better suited for medium-large dogs.
Some dog owners have noted the charger connectors can be a bit challenging and may require a little wiggling or pushing to make sure they are connected properly.
PetSafe Remote Training Collar Lite
PetSafe makes a training collar designed for smaller dogs. It is water resistant, has a tone-only mode and adjustable vibration settings. Battery life is up to 40 hours before needing a recharge.
The PetSafe Remote Training Collar Lite has a range of about 100 yards and the collar device weighs in at about 1.4 oz. Many owners of small dogs say they like the less bulky collar for their pup.
Users like the lower-intensity, smaller, lightweight option for smaller dogs and are generally happy with the customer service PetSafe provides.
SportDOG YardTrainer 100
Dog owners interested in close-range training, inside a home or small yard might consider the SportDOG YardTrainer.
The YardTrainer provides a 100 yard range, rechargeable batteries, and a waterproof receiver. It also has the three training modes, but comes in at a more budget-friendly price.
Charing the batteries takes about 2 hours for the battery to last 50-70 hours. It also uses DryTek technology to make the device submersible up to 25 feet and handles well in rain, snow, and mud.
The YardTrainer is not suitable for dogs under 8 lbs.
Our Final Thoughts
For dog owners looking for a successful training collar from a well-known company, we recommend the SportDOG Field Trainer SD 425X for its training tone and vibration levels, battery life, water resistance, and well-made quality.
Before you make an investment in the training system, decide what features you’ll use. Some of the accessories and additional dog collar devices for multiple dogs will be an extra cost.
With any training collar system you use, be prepared to study the device and what it does so you can provide a safe, positive training experience and make the best choice for your canine.
A Word About Collar Training
We at Dog Training Boss do not recommend using shock collars on pets. Shock collars can cause pain, anxiety, and promote a negative relationship with training relationships. Animal experts do not advise the use of shock collars. Ask your vet for more information about the use of shock collars.
The difference between shock and vibrating collars is that a vibrating collar uses a mild sensation to redirect the dog away from undesirable behaviors. In some cases, the level of vibrating intensity can be controlled by a remote.
However, in high-anxiety or fearful dogs, even a mild vibration might negatively impact your dog and be less effective in training. If that’s the case with your canine, speak with your vet about possible options that would be a better fit specific to your dog’s needs.
