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The SideWalker is used to train dogs to walk ‘on-leash’ without pulling and to reinforce ‘on-leash’ training.

A sensor under the collar strap on the SideWalker is triggered by pressure when the dog pulls on the leash (or when you pull the leash to direct the dog into the desired position.) When the sensor is activated, the dog receives either a vibration or an electronic stimulation. The SideWalker should be set to a level that is just enough to distract the dog from the pulling behavior. Most dogs learn quickly that the sensation stops when the pulling stops.

The collar strap needs to be placed on the smallest part of the dog’s neck, just below the dog’s ears. It should be snug but must be able to rotate from one side of the neck to the other as the dog moves. If the collar is too tight, the vibration/stimulation may be triggered when the dog is not pulling. If the collar is too loose, the vibration/stimulation may be inconsistent or the dog may not feel the sensation. To ensure consistent pressure when the dog pulls, the SideWalker must be placed on the collar strap so it is opposite the ‘D’ ring (where the leash attaches to the collar strap).

Battery life depends on frequency of use and the pulling behavior of the dog. A collar worn for long periods and activated frequently will need recharging more often than a collar that is worn for shorter periods and activated only occasionally. The charge typically lasts several days for a collar that is worn 1-2 hours per day with low to moderate activation.

Yes. The rechargeable battery life is typically several years. The rechargeable battery needs to be replaced when the duration of a re-charge decreases significantly. Replacement batteries are available from DogWatch. The battery is easy to replace.

Yes. When not actively using the SideWalker, it should be taken off the dog and turned off. This will prevent accidental activation and will help to preserve the battery charge.

Turn on the SideWalker and set it to ‘V’ (Vibration). Put the SideWalker on your dog and attach a leash to the ‘D’ ring.  Gently pull on the leash and watch carefully for any kind of a reaction, such as a head shake, ear twitch, or any subtle change in behavior. If you do not see a reaction, increase the setting to the next level and repeat the process. When you see a subtle reaction from your dog, that setting is a good place to begin training.

Several variables affect how quickly your dog’s behavior will change, most notably the personality of your dog and the environment in which you are training the dog. Most dogs begin to understand the relationship between pulling and the vibration/stimulation after several activations of the collar. The pulling behavior diminishes quickly in some dogs and more gradually in others. If there is no noticeable change in pulling behavior after a reasonable trial period, check the collar to make sure the fit is good and the contact posts are the correct size. If collar fit is appropriate and the dog continues to pull, the SideWalker setting should be increased one level.

Turn on the SideWalker. If the Status Light on the SideWalker blinks green, the battery is charged and the SideWalker should be working. Another indication of that The SideWalker is working properly is that it should vibrate briefly when you turn it on and also after you change the setting.