SportDOG FieldTrainer SD-400 User manual

Please read this entire guide before beginning
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FieldTrainer™
SD-400 & 400S
Operating Guide

2 1-800-732-0144
Thank you for choosing SportDOG Brand™. Used properly, this product will
help you train your dog efficiently and safely.To ensure your satisfaction, please
review this owner’s manual thoroughly. If you have questions regarding this
product’s operation, please see this manual’s Frequently Asked Questions or
Troubleshooting section, contact our Customer Care Center at 1-800-732-0144,
or visit our website at www.sportdog.net.
____________________________________________________________________
Table of Contents
Components ...............................................................................................3
How the System Works ................................................................................3
Key Definitions ...........................................................................................4
Prepare the Remote Transmitter...................................................................5
Prepare the Collar Receiver .........................................................................6
Fit the Collar Receiver.................................................................................8
Find the Best Intensity Level forYour Dog ...................................................8
Program the Remote Transmitter ...............................................................10
Reset the Collar Receiver ..........................................................................11
Program the Collar Receiver for Two or Three-Dog Operation .................... 11
Frequently Asked Questions ......................................................................12
Troubleshooting........................................................................................13
Test Light Instructions ..............................................................................14
Terms of Use and Limitation of Liability .................................................... 14
SportDOG Add-A-Dog™ Receivers...........................................................15

www.sportdog.net 3
Components
How the System Works
The SportDOG FieldTrainer™400 & 400S have been proven safe, comfortable and effective for
all dogs over 8 pounds. Consistent, correct use of this product allows you to reinforce commands
and correct misbehavior from up to 400 yards. The Remote Transmitter sends a signal, activating
the Collar Receiver to deliver a harmless stimulation. With proper training, a dog will learn to
associate this signal with a command. Like all SportDOG products, this model features adjustable
stimulation levels so you can tailor the stimulation level to your dog’s temperament, eliminating
the risk of over-correction.
Important: The FieldTrainer 400 & 400S have a range of up to 400
yards. Depending on the way you hold the Remote Transmitter,
the maximum range may vary. For consistent results at longer
ranges, hold the Remote Transmitter in a vertical position away
from your body and above your head.Terrain, weather, vegetation,
transmission from other radio devices, and other factors will affect
the maximum range.

4 1-800-732-0144
Key Definitions
Remote Transmitter:Transmits the radio signal to the Collar Receiver. It is waterproof and can be
submerged in water.
Transmitter Indicator Light: Indicates that a button is pressed and also serves as a low-battery
indicator.
Intensity Dial: Provides multiple levels of stimulation so you can match the correction to your dog’s
temperament.
Upper Button:This button is factory-set to deliver continuous stimulation.
Lower Button:This button is factory-set to deliver momentary stimulation, or a “Nick.”
Side Button:This button is factory-set to deliver a tone without stimulation.
Collar Receiver:Receives the radio signal from the Remote Transmitter. It is waterproof and can be
submerged in water.
On/Off Button: Momentarily pressing and holding this button turns the Collar Receiver on and off.
Contact Points: The contacts through which the Collar Receiver delivers stimulation when a
Remote Transmitter button programed for Continuous or Momentary Stimulation is pressed.
Receiver Indicator Light: Indicates when the Collar Receiver has been turned on or off and also
serves as a low-battery indicator.
Charging Jacks: For connecting the charger. Although the Collar Receiver is waterproof without it,
keep the cover in place when not charging to keep debris out of the opening.
Continuous Stimulation:When a button is programmed for Continuous Stimulation, you control
both when and how long stimulation is delivered to your dog through the Collar Receiver’s Contact
Points.When a Continuous Stimulation button is pressed for 8 seconds or more, the Remote
Transmitter will “time-out.”The button will need to be released and pressed again before additional
stimulation can be delivered.
Momentary (Nick) Stimulation:When a button is programmed for Momentary Stimulation,
stimulation is delivered for 5/100 of a second, regardless of how long the button is pressed.
Charging Jack
(With Cover)
Contact Points
Collar Receiver On/Off
Button
Remote Transmitter
Transmitter
Indicator Light
Intensity
Dial
Transmitter
Antenna
Upper
Button
Lower
Button
Side
Button
Charging
Jack
Receiver
Indicator
Light

www.sportdog.net 5
Prepare the Remote Transmitter
Charge the Remote Transmitter
1. Lift the rubber cover protecting the
Remote Transmitter Charging Jack.
2. Connect one of the charger
connectors to the Remote
Transmitter Charging Jack.
3. Plug the charger into a standard
120-volt AC wall outlet.
4. Charge the Remote Transmitter for
24 hours for the first charge.
Recharges take only 12 hours.
Note:The Transmitter Indicator Light
will flash after 12 hours of charging. For
the first charge, continue to charge the
Remote Transmitter for an additional
12 hours.
5. When charging is completed, replace
the rubber cover.
Charger
connector placed
in the Remote
Transmitter
Charging Jack
Note: Approximate battery life between charges is 40 to 60 hours, depending on frequency of use.
Transmitter Indicator Light
Remote Transmitter Function Indicator Light Response
Continuous Stimulation or Tone Only
button pressed
Solid in color
Momentary (Nick) Stimulation button pressed Single flash
Low battery – Continuous Stimulation or Tone
Only button pressed
Flashes continuously
Step
1

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Prepare the Collar Receiver
Charge the Collar Receiver
1. Lift the rubber cover protecting
the Collar Receiver Charging Jack.
2. Connect the charger connector to
the Collar Receiver Charging Jack.
3. Plug the charger into a standard
120-volt AC wall outlet.
4. Charge the Collar Receiver for
24 hours for the first charge.
Recharges take only 12 hours.
Note:The Receiver Indicator Light
will flash after 12 hours of charging.
For the first charge, continue to charge
the Collar Receiver for an additional
12 hours.
5. When charging is completed,
replace the rubber cover.
Charger connector
placed in Collar Receiver
Charging Jack
To Turn the Collar Receiver On:
1. Press and hold the On/Off Button until
the Receiver Indicator Light comes on
and the Collar Receiver beeps 5 times.
2. Release the On/Off Button.
The Receiver Indicator Light will flash
until the Collar Receiver is turned off. The
flashing light indicates the Collar Receiver
is ready to receive a radio signal from the
Remote Transmitter.
On/Off Button
To Turn the Collar Receiver Off:
1. Press and hold the On/Off Button until the Receiver Indicator Light comes on and
the Collar Receiver beeps 2 times.
2. Release the On/Off Button.
To extend the life between charging cycles, turn the Collar Receiver off when it is not in
use. Approximate battery life between charges is 20 hours, depending on frequency of use.
Step
2

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Receiver Indicator Light
Collar Receiver Function Indicator Light Response
Collar Receiver on – good battery Flashes once per second
Collar Receiver on - low battery Flashes once every 4 seconds
Continuous Stimulation button pressed Solid in color
Momentary (Nick) Stimulation button pressed Single flash
Rechargeable Batteries
• The rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries are not memory sensitive
and do not require depletion before charging.
• The batteries come partially charged from the factory, but will require a full charge (24
hours) before the first use.
• Remember - Always keep batteries away from flame.
• When storing the unit for long periods, remember to regularly give batteries a full
charge (12 hours). This should be done once every 4 to 6 weeks.
• Excessive overcharging can shorten battery life. After initial charge, never leave the
battery plugged in for more than 12 hours.
• If your equipment has not been charged for an extended period, you may experience
a decrease in battery life the first few uses. Afterwards, the battery life will return to
previous capacity levels.
•You should expect hundreds of recharge cycles from your batteries. However, all
rechargeable batteries lose capacity over time relative to the number of recharge cycles
they experience. This is normal. If your operating time drops to half of the original life,
contact the Customer Care Center to purchase a new battery.
• The batteries should last for a period of 3-5 years.When a battery needs replacement,
you can order a new pack by calling our Customer Care Center at 1-800-732-0144.
Please do not open the Collar Receiver or Remote Transmitter until you have received
the replacement.

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Fit the Collar Receiver
Important: The proper fit and placement of the Collar Receiver is important
for effective training.The Contact Points must have direct contact with your
dog’s skin.
To ensure a proper fit, follow these steps:
1. With your dog standing (3A), center the Collar Receiver where the
Contact Points are underneath your dog’s neck, touching the skin
(3B). If your dog has a long or thick coat, trim the hair around the
Contact Points to ensure consistent contact.
2. The Collar Receiver should fit snugly, yet loose enough to allow
one finger to fit between the strap and your dog’s neck (3C).
3A
3. Allow your dog to wear the collar for several minutes,
and then recheck the fit. Check the fit again as your dog
becomes more comfortable wearing the Collar Receiver.
3B
Care and Cleaning
To ensure the effectiveness of this product and
the comfort and safety of your dog, check the
fit of his collar frequently. This Guide describes
proper collar fitting. If you notice that your dog
is experiencing skin irritation, discontinue use of
the collar for a few days. If the condition persists
beyond 48 hours, see your veterinarian.
3C
To prevent skin irritation from occurring:
• The Collar Receiver should not be worn for more than 8 hours out of every 24-hour
period.
•Your dog’s neck and the Contact Points must be washed weekly with a washcloth and
mild hand soap, then rinsed thoroughly.
_____________________________________________________________
Find the Best Intensity Level for Your Dog
The FieldTrainer 400 & 400S have multiple intensity levels.This allows you to choose
the stimulation that is best for your dog.
Note: Always start at the lowest level and work your way up.
For training efficiency, it is important to find the right intensity level for your dog. This
is called the Recognition Level, at which your dog looks around in curiosity, scratches at
the collar, or flicks his ears.
Step
4
Step
3

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Finding Your Dog’s Recognition Level:
Note: Every dog is different and you cannot predict where your dog’s Recognition Level will be.
Watch closely for any slight change in behavior that tells you your dog is feeling the stimulation.
1. With the Collar Receiver turned on and properly fitted to your dog, set the Remote
Transmitter’s Intensity Dial at Level 1 and press the Continuous Stimulation Button
for 2 to 3 seconds.
2. If your dog shows no reaction to Level 1, go to Level 2 and repeat the process.
3. YOUR DOG SHOULD NOT VOCALIZE OR PANIC WHEN RECEIVING
STIMULATION. IF THIS HAPPENS,THE STIMULATION LEVEL IS TOO
HIGH AND YOU NEED TO GO BACK TO THE PREVIOUS LEVEL AND
REPEAT THE PROCESS.
4. Once you find your dog’s Recognition Level, this is the level you should use when you
begin a training exercise.
5. If you have progressed to Level 8 while searching for your dog’s Recognition Level
and your dog continues to show no response, check to see if Collar Receiver is snug
against your dog’s neck. Then go back to Intensity Level 1 and repeat the process. If
your dog still does not indicate he is feeling the stimulation, you may have to trim the
hair beneath the Contact Points.
If after completing all of these steps your dog still does not indicate he is feeling the
stimulation, please contact Customer Care Center at 1-800-732-0144.
General Training Tips
Now you are ready to use the FieldTrainer 400 & 400S and begin training your dog.
Please keep the following training tips in mind.
• Eliminate one misbehavior or teach one obedience command at a time. If you move
too fast with the training, your dog may become confused.
• Be consistent. Give your dog a tone and/or stimulation with each misbehavior.
• Do not overcorrect your dog. Use as few stimulations as possible to train your dog.
• Restrict your dog from situations in which he has a history of misbehaving unless
you can supervise him and use the FieldTrainer 400 & 400S for applying tone or
stimulation.
• If you notice one situation in which your dog misbehaves repeatedly, set up this
situation as a training session.This will dramatically increase your chances of success.
• If your dog has a timid reaction to the tone or stimulation (especially the first couple of
times), do not be alarmed. Redirect his attention to a simple and appropriate behavior
(i.e. a known command, such as “Sit”).
• Never use the FieldTrainer 400 & 400S to correct or eliminate any form of aggressive
behavior. If your dog exhibits such behavior, contact a professional trainer. Aggression
in dogs is the result of many factors – it may be a learned behavior or it may be
brought on as a result of fear. Another factor contributing to aggression in dogs is
social dominance. Every dog is different.

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Program the Remote Transmitter
Note:The Transmitter is factory set to mode 1. The mode of the Remote Transmitter can be
changed to fit your type or style of training.
To change the mode:
1. Referring to the table below, adjust the Intensity Dial
to the mode you want to use.
2. Turn the Remote Transmitter over.
3.
With a pen or paperclip, depress and release the mode
button.When the mode button is pressed, the Transmitter
Indicator Light will be solid in color.When it is released,
it will flash the mode selected.
For example, if mode 5 is desired, adjust the Intensity Dial to Level 5. Once the mode
button has been depressed, the Transmitter Indicator Light will be solid, and once the
mode button is released, the Transmitter Indicator Light will flash five times.
Note: Continuous Stimulation will transmit for no more than eight continuous seconds no matter
how long the button is pressed.To reactivate, release and repress the button.
MODE UPPER BUTTON
FUNCTION
LOWER BUTTON
FUNCTION
SIDE BUTTON
FUNCTION
# OF
DOGS
1Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set
by Intensity Dial
Momentary (Nick)
Stimulation with intensity
level set by Intensity Dial
Tone only 1
2Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set
by Intensity Dial
Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set at
the maximum (8)
Tone only 1
3Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set
by Intensity Dial
Continuous Stimulation
two levels higher than the
setting on the Intensity Dial
Tone only 1
4DOG #1
Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set
by Intensity Dial
DOG #2
Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set by
Intensity Dial
DOG # 3
Continuous
Stimulation with
intensity level set
by Intensity Dial
3
5Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set
to high end of reading
on Intensity Dial
Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set
to low end of reading on
Intensity Dial
Tone only 1
6Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set
to high end of reading
on Intensity Dial
Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set
to low end of reading on
Intensity Dial
Momentary (Nick)
Stimulation with
intensity level set
by Intensity Dial
1
7Continuous Stimulation
with intensity level set
by Intensity Dial
Tone with one-second-
delayed Continuous
Stimulation with intensity
level set by Intensity Dial
Tone only 1
Note: In Mode 5 or 6, the “high” and “low” ends of reading on Intensity Dial are within the
level set by the Intensity Dial. For example, if the Intensity Dial is set to 4, the Upper Button will
deliver stimulation lower than level 5, and the Lower Button will deliver stimulation higher than
level 3, but the Upper Button will deliver stronger stimulation than the Lower Button.
Step
5

www.sportdog.net 11
Reset the Collar Receiver
To reset the Collar Receiver to work with a new Remote Transmitter or to reprogram a
new Collar Receiver to work with your existing Remote Transmitter:
1. Turn the Collar Receiver off.
2. Press and hold the On/Off Button. The Receiver Indicator Light will come on, then
turn off after 4-5 seconds. If the On/Off Button is released too early, the Receiver
Indicator Light will begin flashing as normal. If this occurs, start over and repeat the
process.
3. After the Receiver Indicator Light has turned off, release the On/Off Button.
4. Press and hold the Upper Button on the Remote Transmitter until the Receiver
Indicator Light flashes 5 times.You may need to hold both units 2-3 feet from each
other before this occurs. Once the Receiver Indicator Light has flashed five (5) times,
the Collar Receiver has been reset and will begin flashing as normal. If the Receiver
Indicator Light does not flash 5 times, start over and repeat the process.
_____________________________________________________________
Program the Collar Receiver for Two or
Three-Dog Operation
With the Transmitter set to mode 4, SportDOG Collar Receivers can be set to respond
to the upper, lower, or side Remote Transmitter buttons. SportDOG Add-A-Dog™
receiver(s) must be purchased to train additional dogs.
1. Program the Remote Transmitter to mode 4.
2. Program the first Collar Receiver.
A. Turn the Collar Receiver off.
B. Press and hold the On/Off Button. The Receiver Indicator Light will come on,
then turn off in 4-5 seconds. If the On/Off Button is released too early, the Receiver
Indicator Light will begin its normal flashing. If this occurs, start over and repeat the
process.
C. After the Receiver Indicator Light has turned off, release the On/Off Button.
D. Press and hold the Upper Button on the Remote Transmitter until the Receiver
Indicator Light flashes 5 times.You may need to hold both units 2-3 feet from each
other. If the Receiver Indicator Light does not flash 5 times, start over and repeat the
process.
3. Program the second Collar Receiver using A. through D. above, but using the Lower
Button in place of the Upper Button.
4. Program the third Collar Receiver using A. through D. above, but using the Side
Button in place of the Upper Button.
Step
6
Step
7

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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the stimulation safe for
my dog?
While the stimulation is unpleasant, it is harmless to your
dog. Electronic training devices require interaction and
training from the owner to achieve desired results.
How old does a dog have to
be before using the
FieldTrainer 400 & 400S?
Your dog should be able to learn basic obedience
commands such as “Sit” or “Stay.” The Collar Receiver
may be too large for dogs under 8 pounds.
Once my dog is trained and has
been obeying my commands,
will he have to continue to wear
the Collar Receiver?
Probably not. He may need to wear the Collar Receiver
from time to time for reinforcement.
Is the Collar Receiver
waterproof?
Yes. If the rechargeable battery pack ever needs to be
replaced, make sure the o-ring and o-ring groove are free
from dirt and debris.
Can I use the FieldTrainer 400
& 400S with more than one dog?
Yes, SportDog Add-A-Dog™Collar Receivers must be
purchased and the Remote Transmitter must be changed
to mode 4. Please refer to page 15 for a list of compatible
Collar Receivers.
Can I use the FieldTrainer 400
& 400S on aggressive dogs?
We do not recommend any of our products to be used on
aggressive dogs.We recommend you contact your local
veterinarian or professional trainer to determine if your
dog might be aggressive.
Will I get exactly 400 yards of
range with the FieldTrainer 400
& 400S?
The range you get with your FieldTrainer 400 & 400S
will vary according to terrain, weather, vegetation, as
well as transmission from other radio devices. To get the
maximum amount of range, please refer to “How the
System Works” section of this guide.
How long can I continuously
deliver stimulation to my dog?
The maximum amount of time you can press the
Continuous Stimulation Button and deliver stimulation
to your dog continuously is 8 seconds. After eight
seconds, the Remote Transmitter will time-out, and the
Continuous Stimulation Button must be released and
pressed again.
What do I do if my dog’s neck
becomes red and irritated?
This condition is due to the Contact Points irritating the
skin. Discontinue use of the Collar Receiver for a few
days. If the condition persists beyond 48 hours, see your
veterinarian. Once the skin returns to normal, replace
Collar Receiver, and monitor the skin condition closely.

www.sportdog.net 13
Troubleshooting
The answers to these questions should help you solve any problem you have with this system. If
they do not, please contact the Customer Care Center at 1-800-732-0144 or visit our website at
www.sportdog.net.
My dog is not responding when
I press a button.
• Check to see if the Collar Receiver has been turned on.
• If your range has reduced from the first time you have
used it, please check to see if the battery is low in either
the Remote Transmitter or Collar Receiver.
• Many factors can impact the range you have with the
FieldTrainer 400 & 400S. For a list of these factors,
please refer to “How the System Works”.
•You can verify the Collar Receiver is delivering
stimulation to your dog by placing the test light, enclosed
in your kit, on the Collar Receiver. Please refer to the
“Test Light Instructions” Section for details.
• Increase the Intensity Dial. Refer to “Find the Best
Intensity Level For Your Dog” for more information.
• Make sure the Collar Receiver’s Contact Points are
placed snugly against your dog’s skin. Refer to “Fit the
Collar Receiver” for more information.
• If you notice your operating time dropping to about half
the original time, your Collar Receiver battery needs
to be replaced. Contact the Customer Care Center to
purchase a new one.
The Collar Receiver will not
turn on.
• Make sure the Collar Receiver has been charged. For the
initial charge, be sure to charge it for 24 hours. Future
charges only take 12 hours.
The Collar Receiver is not
responding to the Remote
Transmitter.
• Verify the Collar Receiver has been turned on. Refer to
“Turning the Collar Receiver On and Off”.
• Refer to “Reset the Collar Receiver.”

14 1-800-732-0144
Test Light Instructions
1. Turn the Collar Receiver off.
2. Loosen the Contact Points with pliers.
3. Bend the leads around the base of each Contact Point.
4. Hand tighten the Contact Points, making sure that the leads stay
in contact with the base of each Contact Point.
5. Turn the Collar Receiver on.
6. Press the Continuous Stimulation button on the Remote
Transmitter.
7. The Test Light will flash. Note: At higher intensity levels, the Test Light
will flash brighter.
8. Remove the Test Light and hand-tighten the Contact Points.
Note: Over-tightening can damage the Contact Points.
9. Save the Test Light for future testing.
Note: If the Test Light does not flash, recharge the battery and re-test. If Test Light still does not flash,
contact the Customer Care Center at 1-800-732-0144.
Terms of Use and Limitation of Liability
1. Terms of Use
This Product is offered to you conditioned upon your acceptance without modification of the
terms, conditions and notices contained herein. Usage of this product implies acceptance of all
such terms, conditions, and notices.
2. Proper Use
This Product is designed for use with pets where training is desired. The specific temperament of
your pet may not work with this product. We recommend that you not use this product if your pet
is less than 8 pounds or if your pet is aggressive. If you are unsure whether this is appropriate for
your pet, please consult your veterinarian, certified trainer or contact our Customer Care Center
at 1-800-732-0144.
Proper use includes reviewing the entire Operating and Training Guide provided with your
product and any specific Caution statements.
3. No Unlawful or Prohibited Use
This Product is designed for use with pets only. This pet training device is not intended to harm,
injure, or provoke. Using this product in a way that is not intended could result in violation of
Federal, State or local laws.
4. Limitation of Liability
In no event shall Radio Systems Corporation be liable for any direct, indirect, punitive, incidental,
special or consequential damages, or any damages whatsoever arising out of or connected with the
use or misuse of this Product. Buyer assumes all risks and liability from the use of this Product.
5. Modification of Terms and Conditions
Radio Systems Corporation reserves the right to change the terms, conditions and notices under
which this Product is offered.

www.sportdog.net 15
FCC COMPLIANCE
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. Unauthorized changes or modifications to the equipment
that are not approved by Radio Systems Corporation are in violation of FCC regulations and
could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment and void the warranty.
SportDog Add-A-Dog™Receivers
Description Part Number
FieldTrainer™ Add-A-Dog - Standard Power SDR-FS
FieldTrainer™ Add-A-Dog - High Power SDR-FH
SportHunter™ Add-A-Dog - Standard Power SDR
WetlandHunter™ Add-A-Dog - High Power SDR-CH

Radio Systems Corporation
10427 Electric Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37932
1-800-732-0144
www.sportdog.net
400-696
©Copyright 2004, Radio Systems Corporation