Garmin Alpha XL Step By Step Help Page

Yes, you can use an Alpha XL and an Alpha handheld at the same time. Both can track the same collars if they’re paired correctly with no communication issues!

If your Alpha XL isn't communicating properly, there could be a few common causes. Below are some quick troubleshooting steps to help get your system back on track.

1. Check the Power Connection

The most common reason the Alpha XL stops communicating is because it’s not receiving power. The unit must remain plugged in at all times to operate correctly.

Here’s what to check:

• Power Source: Start by checking if the power cord is receiving electricity. Look at the base of the cord where it plugs into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter—if it’s powered, you should see a bright white LED indicator.
  
• Dock Connection: Make sure the cord is securely plugged into the Alpha XL dock. The power port is located just below the antenna port.
  
• Power Conformation: Turn on your Alpha XL and check the battery icon in the top-right corner of the screen. If you see a lightning bolt through the battery symbol, your unit is receiving power.
  

2. Inspect the Antenna

Sometimes communication issues can stem from the antenna setup.

What to look for:

• Ensure the antenna is properly grounded and firmly screwed in at the base.
  
• Check for cracks, chips, or breaks in the antenna or quick-connect hardware.
  
• If you're using quick connects, verify that they are tight and undamaged.
  
• To rule out an antenna issue, try plugging another tracking device into the same antenna to see if it works properly.
  
  

3. Update the Unit

If power and antenna connections are solid but you're still having trouble, your Alpha XL or dock might need a software update.

Here’s how to update:

• Garmin Express on your computer, or
  
• Wi-Fi to update directly from the handheld (see steps below if needed).
  

Keeping your system updated ensures optimal communication between the handheld and dock.

The Alpha XL is intended for truck-only use. It’s not a portable field handheld like the Alpha 300. Its size and design are optimized for vehicle dashboards.

The Alpha XL is compatible with all of the collars in the Alpha sereis line including: TT25, T20, TT15x, T5x, TT15, TT15 mini, T5, T5 mini, and TT10

The Alpha XL does include all the training features all the previous Alpha models used including: continuous stimulation, momentary stimulation, Tone, Vibrate, and Lights.

The Alpha XL has pre-downloaded topo maps when you receive the device. If you would like upgraded Birdseye mapping you have two options. You can either purchase a huntview state map card or connect your Alpha XL to the Alpha App and unlock one free year of Outdoor Maps+ this will give you one year to download all the free birdseye maps you would like replacing the previous Birdseye direct program.

If your Alpha XL gets stuck in Demo Mode, there’s a simple fix. First, make sure the Alpha XL is placed on the VHF Dock and is plugged in in your vehicle. Then, get in your vehicle and drive at a speed of about 35 MPH or higher. Once the device detects the movement while docked and powered, it should automatically exit Demo Mode and return to normal operation. This process helps the Alpha XL recognize real-world motion and disables the demo display.

Why Use the Garmin Alpha App

The Alpha App is a great tool for connecting to your Alpha® XL. It stores your waypoints, tracks, hunt information, device settings, and more — all in one place. It also makes it much easier to transfer data between devices, saving you time and effort.

Follow the steps below to get connected and start using these features.

Step 1: Download the Garmin Alpha App

Go to the App Store or Google Play Store on your phone.

Search for "Garmin Alpha" and download it.

The app icon is orange and gray with a dog on it.

Step 2: Sign In or Create a Garmin Account

Open the Garmin Alpha app.

If you already have a Garmin account, log in with your email and password.

If you don’t have an account, follow the steps to make one.

Step 3: Connect Your Alpha XL to Wi-Fi

On your Alpha XL, go to Setup.

Tap Wi-Fi and connect to your home or mobile Wi-Fi network.

Enter your Wi-Fi password.

Once you're connected, tap the back arrow in the bottom-left corner.

Step 4: Start Pairing Your Phone

From the Setup screen, tap Phone.

Then tap Add a Phone.

Step 5: Pair the App with Your Alpha XL

Go back to your phone and open the Garmin Alpha app.

Make sure you're signed in.

If it’s your first time, you’ll see an option to Pair Device — tap it.

If you’ve used the app before, tap Devices at the bottom, then tap the orange + at the top right and choose Alpha XL.

Wait about 30 seconds.

When your Alpha XL pops up, tap Accept on both your phone and the handheld.

If a code appears, enter it or confirm it to finish pairing.

How to Download Maps on the Garmin Alpha® XL

Garmin gives you 1 free year to download satellite maps when you connect your Alpha® XL to the Garmin Alpha App.

Important: If you haven’t connected your Alpha XL to the app yet, please do that first. Follow the steps in the “How to connect your Garmin Alpha XL to the Alpha App” section.

Steps to Download Satellite Maps:

Go to the home screen on your Alpha XL.

Tap Outdoor Maps+.

Tap Download Satellite Imagery.

• 
  A map will appear with a black box on the screen.
• Move the map so the black box is over the area you want to download.
• 
  Tap the arrow icon in the bottom right corner to start the download.
  

Want to search by location instead?


• Tap the magnifying glass icon on the right side.

• Choose to search by address, waypoint, or coordinates.

• Once it finds the location, tap the arrow icon to download.

Renewing Your Outdoor Maps+ Subscription

All Garmin Alpha® XL units come with a free one-year subscription to Outdoor Maps+. If you need to renew your subscription after the year is up, follow these steps:

Open the Garmin Alpha App on your phone.

Tap Devices at the bottom of the screen.

Select the device you want to renew the subscription for.

Tap Outdoor Maps+.

You’ll be redirected to Garmin’s website and the Outdoor Maps+ plan page.

Tap Select This Plan.

Agree to Auto-Renewal and review the Terms of Service.

Fill out your billing and payment information.

Follow the rest of the on-screen instructions from Garmin to complete your purchase.

If you run into any issues, Garmin’s website will walk you through each step, or you can reach out to their support team for help.

Benefits of Using the Garmin Alpha App

The Garmin Alpha App is the perfect companion for your Alpha® XL and other Garmin tracking systems. It makes everything easier — from setup to syncing, tracking, and managing your data.

Quick and Easy Data Transfers

The app makes transferring data between devices a breeze. You can move track logs, waypoints, hunt history, and dog information with just a few taps. It’s especially helpful when switching between handhelds like the Alpha XL, Alpha 200, Alpha 200i, Alpha 200 Plus, or Alpha 300.

Map Screen for Devices Without One

If you’re using a device like the Alpha 10 or Pro 550+, which don’t have built-in map screens, the Garmin Alpha App fills in that gap. The app gives you a full map view on your phone, showing dog locations, tracks, and terrain in real time.

Sync and Store Your Hunt Information

Your waypoints, tracks, and hunt data are automatically saved in the app. You can easily review past hunts, scout areas, or keep a record of where your dogs have been.

Outdoor Maps+ Management

Use the app to activate, renew, and manage your Outdoor Maps+ subscription. You can also download and view detailed maps directly through the app.

Device Management and Updates

The app helps you manage all your Garmin devices in one place. It also notifies you when software or firmware updates are available, so you can keep your gear running smoothly.

Great for Multi-Device Users

Whether you're switching between handhelds or managing multiple dogs and devices, the Garmin Alpha App keeps everything organized and connected. It’s a must-have tool for serious hunters and trainers who rely on multiple Garmin systems.

The main reason your status is stuck in one place is most likely because the collar lost GPS signal. If it stays like that for a while and you’re able to find the dog, take the collar off and turn it off, then back on. If it still doesn’t fix the issue, please call us and talk to a tech. The GPS wire inside the collar may be damaged.

GPS is different from communication — if you’ve lost communication, there will be a question mark (?) where the dog’s location should be. See the "Lost Communication" section for help with that.

Why is there a “?” symbol next to my dog’s icon on the Alpha XL?

The “?” means your Alpha XL handheld has lost connection with the collar. Here are some common reasons why this happens:

Too far away – Your dog may be out of range with the Alpha XL.

Blocked signal – The collar might be in a ravine or thick woods where the signal can't get through.

Dead collar battery – If the collar battery is dead, it can't send a signal.

Handheld issue – The Alpha XL may not be turned on or isn't connected properly to the VHF dock.

Antenna damage – A damaged or loose antenna on either device can cause signal loss.

Interference With Another Collar- If two collars in a similar area are both being ran on the same ID this can cause for one or neither of the collars to be able to communicate or communication may be sporadic.

If persistent issues with communication keep happening please call us at 757-482-1000 and ask to speak with a tech.

What is Tracking Autozoom on the Alpha XL?

Tracking Autozoom is a feature that automatically changes the map’s zoom level to keep all tracked dogs visible on the screen.

If dogs move far apart, the map zooms out.

If they’re close together, the map zooms in.

This helps you see the whole pack without manually adjusting the map.

Why it's useful on the Alpha XL:

The Alpha XL has a big 10" screen, so Autozoom gives you the best possible view—zoomed out when needed, and close-up when dogs are nearby.

Can you turn it off?

Yes, in the map settings. Turning it off keeps the map at a fixed zoom level, which can be helpful if you want a constant view (like when watching from a truck).

Dog tracks on the Garmin Alpha XL are colored lines that show each dog’s path on the map in real time. Each dog has a unique color, making it easy to track multiple dogs and see where they've been. This is helpful for spotting patterns, retracing steps, or checking how far a dog has traveled.

You can customize how long tracks stay visible by selecting from No Tracks, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, or showing all. These settings help keep your map clean or provide full trail history. Track lines can also be turned on or off in the map or dog setup settings.

How To Turn On/ Off and customize dog tracks- To change how long dog tracks show on your map in the Alpha XL, start by going to Setup in the bottom right corner of the main menu. Then select Dog Tracking, followed by Dog Tracks on Map. From there, you can choose how long you want the tracks to stay visible—options include Show None, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, or Show All. This setting helps you control how much trail history shows up on your map during a hunt.Dog Track Time Frame Options – What They Mean and When to Use Them

Show None – Turns off dog tracks completely. Great if you prefer a clean map with no track lines.

5–10 Minutes – Ideal for handlers running multiple dogs. It gives a quick view of where each dog has recently been and where they’re heading—without cluttering the screen.

30 Minutes – A balanced option for those with several dogs. It offers more trail history than 10 minutes but still keeps the display manageable.

1–2 Hours – Perfect for users with fewer dogs. These settings show a good overview of your dog’s movement patterns over a couple of hours and help you track their path without overwhelming the screen.

Show All – Keeps all dog tracks on the map until you start a new hunt. This is a great option for those running just a few dogs who want to see the full history of the hunt.

Bonus Tip:

Even if you choose a shorter track time (like 5 or 10 minutes), don’t worry—you can still view the full track for each dog in your Track Manager. The Alpha XL records the complete path, so you won’t lose any tracking data. It just keeps your map view cleaner while still saving everything in the background.

Contact Tracks on the Garmin Alpha XL

Contact tracks are colored lines that show where other handhelds (like your hunting partners) have traveled on the map. Each handheld has its own color, making it easy to see movement history and retrace steps if needed.

You can choose how long these tracks stay visible by going to Setup, selecting Dog Tracking, then Contact Tracks on Map. From there, pick a time frame: Show None, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, or Show All.

Shorter time frames like 5 or 10 minutes are great for groups with multiple handhelds, while longer options or Show All are better for smaller teams wanting a full session history.

Tip: Even if you use a shorter setting, the full path is still saved in your Track Manager for review later.

How to Clear Tracks Without Starting a New Hunt

If you want to clear all the visible tracks on your map without starting a new hunt, go to Setup, select Dog Tracking, then tap Clear Tracks on Map. This will remove all dog and contact tracks currently showing, giving you a clean map view while keeping the full history saved in Track Manager.

Contact message alerts are what is sent to you when a contact (other alpha handheld) sends you a message from their device. This is where you will choose if you want a toned message alert, just a message, or no alert. To locate this please select setup, dog tracking, select contact message alert, select the alert type you would like.

Dog-Specific Map Overlays on the Garmin Alpha XL

The map overlays on the Alpha XL are colored lines that appear next to your dog’s track, giving you extra insight into their behavior. These overlays show real-time status updates based on the collar's data.

There are three main overlay types:

Speed Overlay highlights the track when your dog exceeds a speed you set in the Speed Setup.

Bark Overlay appears when your dog is barking at or above the rate you've set in Bark Setup (measured in BPM).

Treed Overlay shows when the collar detects the dog is treed.

To customize the look of these overlays, you can change their colors by tapping the color bar next to each overlay title in the Map Overlay Settings. To access this menu, go to Setup, select Dog Tracking, and then choose Map Overlay.

These overlays give you quick, visual feedback to help you better understand your dog's behavior during a hunt.

The dog indicator is the the symbol that shows up on the map screen that symbols each dog or contact. Under each indicator you are able to display infromation like the name, distance, and lost dog timer. There is two option for the symbol you can either chose the direction or status. The direction is a arrow and show the dog is headed at all times. The status symbol show the status for the dog at all times if there walking, running, sitting, treed, pointing, etc. and show the direction the dog is headed based on the way the symbol is pointed but does not give as accurate of a direction as the direction arrow. To change your indicator go to setup, dog tracking, dog display, indicator, and then status or direction

The dog indicator size is the size the dog status or direction symbol will show up on the map screen. The size is all in personal preference depending on things like eyesight, quanity of dogs on the screen, style preferance.

To change the Icon size- Select Setup, Dog tracking,

To show your dog’s name on the map screen under each dog’s indicator status, go to the main menu and select Setup. Then choose Dog Tracking, followed by Dog Display. In that menu, select Show Dog Names and enable the option. This will display each dog’s name directly beneath their status icon on the map screen.

To show the dog distance on your map screen beneath the dog status symbol, start by going to the main menu and selecting Setup. Next, choose Dog Tracking, then select Dog Display. From there, tap on Show Dog Distances and enable the setting. This will display each dog’s distance directly on the map screen under their status icon.

The dog label size determines how large the dog’s name and distance appear under the dog status symbol on your Garmin tracking device map screen. This setting is based entirely on personal preference and does not affect how the device functions. To change the dog label size, go to the main menu and select Setup. From there, choose Dog Tracking, then select Dog Display. In the Dog Display menu, tap on Dog Label Size. You will be given three options for text size: Small, Default, and Large. Choose the one that best suits your visibility needs.

The Lost Dog Timer on the Garmin Alpha® XL is a feature designed to help locate a dog if it becomes disconnected from the handheld or goes out of communication range. When this setting is enabled, the device begins counting down from a set time (e.g., 2 minutes, 5 minutes, etc.) after it loses contact with a dog collar.

To turn this feature on, go to the main menu and select Setup. Then choose Dog Tracking, followed by Dog Display. Scroll down and select Lost Dog Timer, and make sure the orange checkmark shows up in the righthand box to confirm the feature is enabled.

Show Barks under the Dog Tracking settings is a feature that displays a sound bar next to your dog’s status symbol on the map screen. If your dog is barking above the set BPM (barks per minute) threshold, the sound bar will fill in, letting you know the dog is barking—without sending an alert across the screen.

To turn this feature on, go to the main menu and select Dog Tracking, then choose Dog Display. Scroll down and select Show Barks. To confirm it’s turned on, look in the right-hand corner and make sure there is an orange checkmark in the checkbox.

Why Am I Hearing a Sounded Alert on My Alpha XL?

The sound you're hearing is caused by tone alerts being enabled for dog notifications. To turn off the sound, follow these steps:

1. Power on your Alpha XL.

2.Tap the Settings icon (⚙️).

3.Select “Dog Tracking.”

4.Scroll down and tap on “Dog Alerts.”

5.Choose the specific alert you'd like to silence.

6. Once inside the alert settings, set the option to “Message Only” if you still want the alert to appear on screen without sound, or set it to “Off” if you don’t want to receive the alert at all.

7. Save your changes, and repeat the steps for any other dog tracking notifications you'd like to silence.

Dog alerts can be great but if they are not needed they can be a real pain to deal with. Follow these steps to turn them off.

1. Power on your Alpha XL.

2.Tap the Settings icon (⚙️).

3.Select “Dog Tracking.”

4.Scroll down and tap on “Dog Alerts.”

5.Choose the specific alert you'd like to turn off.

6. Once inside the alert settings, set it to “Off” and you will not receive any alerts.

7. Save your changes, and repeat the steps for any other dog tracking notifications you'd like to turn off.

An "On Point" alert on Garmin devices like the Alpha XL is a notification that signals your dog has likely gone on point—a behavior typical of pointing breeds like Pointers, Setters, and Brittanys.

What it means:

The collar detects that your dog has stopped moving and remained completely stationary for a set period of time. This behavior often indicates the dog has located game and is holding still, pointing toward its location.

Why it’s useful:

This feature is especially valuable for upland bird hunters. It allows you to quickly locate a dog that may be locked on game in thick brush or over a ridge—without needing to constantly watch your screen.

A "Treed" alert on Garmin devices like the Alpha XL is a notification that indicates your dog has likely treed an animal. This is a common behavior in hunting dogs like coonhounds, curs, and other treeing breeds.

What it means: The collar detects a mix of behaviors—specifically, when your dog stops moving forward and shows signs of upward motion or posture, such as barking up a tree. If this behavior continues for a certain amount of time, the handheld will send you a “Treed” alert.

Why it’s useful: It helps hunters quickly find dogs that have located game in a tree, like raccoons or squirrels. Instead of needing to watch the screen constantly, the alert lets you know when and where it’s time to go.

Customizing the alert: On the Garmin Alpha XL, you can usually adjust whether the alert plays a tone, vibrates, or just displays a message. You can also customize the delay and movement sensitivity that triggers the treed alert.

A GPS Lost Alert on Garmin devices like the Alpha XL notifies you when your handheld temporarily loses GPS connection to your dog’s collar. This alert means the system can no longer provide live location updates because it isn’t receiving GPS data from the collar.

What it means: The collar may have moved into an area with poor satellite visibility, such as a deep hollow, heavy cover, or under dense canopy. It can also occur if the collar is turned off or the battery is drained.

Why it’s important: Without GPS data, your handheld can’t show you where the dog is or provide accurate tracking. The alert lets you know that the system has lost contact so you can take action, like moving to higher ground or checking the collar.

Customizing the alert: On the Garmin Alpha XL, you can choose whether to receive the GPS Lost alert as a sound, vibration, or message only. You can turn it off entirely if you prefer not to be notified.

A Lost Comm. Alert on Garmin devices like the Alpha XL tells you when your handheld has lost communication with your dog’s collar. This means the collar is still powered on, but the handheld is no longer receiving its radio signal.

What it means: This alert typically occurs when your dog travels out of the handheld’s communication range, which can happen due to distance, terrain, or obstacles like hills and thick woods. Even though the collar might still have GPS signal, the handheld can’t pick up its data.

Why it’s important: Without communication, your handheld can’t provide real-time tracking or updates. The alert warns you that your dog’s collar is out of range or temporarily blocked, so you can move to a better location or try reconnecting.

Customizing the alert: On the Garmin Alpha XL, you can set this alert to play a tone, vibrate, or display a message only. You can also disable the alert if you don’t want to be notified.

Speed Setup on the Garmin Alpha XL allows you to receive alerts when your dog exceeds a specific speed threshold. This feature is particularly useful for monitoring your dog's activity levels during hunts or training sessions.

What it means: When activated, the device monitors your dog's speed and notifies you if it surpasses the set limit. This can help you identify when your dog is chasing game, moving too quickly, or potentially in distress.

Why it's useful: By receiving real-time alerts about your dog's speed, you can make informed decisions in the field, ensuring both safety and effective training.

Customizing Speed Setup: On the Alpha XL, you can set the desired speed threshold and choose how you want to be alerted—options typically include tone, vibration, or message only. You also have the option to disable this alert if you prefer not to use it.

Customizing Speed Setup: On the Alpha XL, you can set speed thresholds and choose how you want to be alerted. Options usually include tone, vibration, or message only. You can also turn it off completely if you prefer not to use it.

Bark Alert Setup on the Garmin Alpha XL allows you to receive notifications when your dog barks. This feature is useful for monitoring your dog's behavior during hunts or training sessions.

What it means: When activated, the device detects your dog's barks and notifies you accordingly. This can help you understand your dog's activity and respond promptly if needed.

Why it's useful: By receiving real-time alerts about your dog's barking, you can make informed decisions in the field, ensuring both safety and effective training.

Customizing Bark Alert Setup: On the Alpha XL, you can set the desired alert preferences and choose how you want to be notified—options typically include tone, vibration, or message only. You also have the option to disable this alert if you prefer not to use it.

Having Trouble with HuntView Maps Not Loading or Disappearing on Your Alpha XL?

If your HuntView maps aren’t loading correctly or are randomly disappearing from your Garmin Alpha XL, make sure your device is fully updated. This was a known issue when the Alpha XL was first released, but Garmin has since released a software update to fix it. Keeping your device up to date should restore normal map functionality.

How to Update Your Alpha XL:

To update using Wi-Fi, connect your Alpha XL to a Wi-Fi network by going to Main Menu, then Settings, then Wi-Fi. Follow the prompts to connect. Once connected, go to Settings, then System, then Software Update. If an update is available, you will see the option to download and install it. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update.

To update using Garmin Express, download and install Garmin Express on your computer from www.garmin.com/express. Plug your Alpha XL into the computer using the USB cable. Open Garmin Express and add your Alpha XL if prompted. If an update is available, Garmin Express will show the option to install it. Click Install and follow the prompts to complete the update.

After updating, your HuntView maps should function normally. Let us know if you need help with any of these steps.

If your birdseye/ satilite maps disappear randomly first go to view map from the home scree, from there go to the hamburger symbol on the right side of your map screen,from there verify if satilitte imagery is on. If it is not on please select satilitte maps.

If that is still not working if you have huntview please go to

To add a waypoint on your Alpha XL, start by tapping View Map. On the map screen, tap the exact spot where you want to place the waypoint. Once the location is selected, tap the flag icon in the bottom right corner.

Next, enter the name you want for the waypoint. You can also choose a symbol to represent it on the map. If you’d like, you can add it to a collection to keep things organized.

When everything looks good, tap Save. Your waypoint is now added to the map.

To zoom in and out on your Alpha XL map screen, use the + and - buttons found on the side of the screen. These buttons are located on the opposite side from the training bar.

You can also zoom in and out by using your fingers—just pinch or spread them on the touchscreen, like you would on a phone or tablet.

Map Layers on the Garmin Alpha® XL allow you to customize the types of information displayed on your map screen, giving you control over what data is visible while tracking dogs or navigating. This feature helps reduce clutter and lets you prioritize the most relevant information for your situation. Map layers include satellite imagery, landowner names, topographic maps, parcel boundaries, traffic, tracks, waypoints, and more.

To turn map layers on or off, first select View Map, then tap the Map Menu icon (which looks like a hamburger menu on the right side of the screen). Under the Layers tab, you can toggle different map layers on and off. When a layer is enabled, there will be an orange ring around the box with an orange checkmark inside it.

To show or hide waypoints, tracks, or other saved items, go to the Collections tab instead. From there, you can toggle on or off whichever collections you want to display or hide from the map screen.

On the Alpha XL, if you scroll in close enough to any piece of property, the landowner names should automatically populate on the map screen. This feature is especially useful for identifying private land boundaries and understanding property ownership while in the field. If the landowner names do not appear automatically, you can still access the information manually. Simply zoom in to the property you're interested in, then tap anywhere within the property boundaries. A white box should appear at the bottom of your screen displaying the landowner’s name. If you tap on that box, it will open up additional details, including information about the hunting season for that specific property.

To change the Alpha XL screen from 2D to 3D, simply tap the arrow symbol on your map screen. Depending on your zoom level, this arrow icon may appear in the top left corner or on the side of the screen opposite the training bar. Tapping the arrow will switch your device between 2D and 3D viewing modes, allowing you to choose the perspective that works best for your situation.

In addition to manually switching views, you can preset your preferred navigation mode. To do this, go to the main menu, select Setup, then choose Map, followed by Driving Map View. From there, you can select your default orientation—3D, North Up, or Track Up—based on how you prefer to navigate.

If you accidentally start navigating to an unwanted location on the Alpha XL and want to turn off navigation, you have two options. First, you can go to the Home Page and tap the Stop button in the top right corner of the screen to stop the navigation. Alternatively, you can go to the Map Screen, tap the Menu Bar in the bottom right corner (represented by three horizontal lines), and then select Stop. Either method will cancel the current navigation and return you to standard map tracking.

To manually add a dog to the training bar, start from the home page and select Training Setup.

Scroll until you see a section that says "Add" in the command spot instead of a dog’s name, then select the section where you want to add a command.

Choose Training Command, then select the name of the dog you want to assign the command to.

Next, select the specific training command you want for that spot.

Click Done, and repeat the process as many times as needed.

Dogs Not Showing in Training Bar – Common Fixes

If your dog isn’t appearing in the training bar on your Garmin Alpha XL, the most common reason is that the "Add When Paired" option is not turned on. Here's how to check and fix it:

Turn on your Alpha XL and go to Training Setup. Select the wrench icon in the top left corner. Choose Training Defaults. Make sure the "Add When Paired" checkbox has an orange checkmark. If it doesn’t, select the box to turn it on.

Once you turn on "Add When Paired," you will need to re-add your collars to get the training commands to show up. If you don’t re-pair the collars, you will need to manually add them to the training section.

If "Add When Paired" was already enabled and the dog still isn’t showing up:

Make sure the collar or device you’re adding has training capabilities.

If you are manually entering a code, double-check that you're using the Control Code, not the Track Code.

How to Change the Training Commands for a Dog Already in the Training Bar

To update a training command for a dog already in your training bar on the Garmin Alpha XL:

Power on your device and go to Training Setup. Scroll until you find the dog’s name that you want to edit. Once you’ve located it, find the specific command you want to change.

For example, if you want to change the momentary shock to a vibration, select the momentary section.

Select Adjust Training, then switch it to your desired command.

If you want to change the command to a different dog or to a non-training action:

Change Action.

Training Command, then choose the dog and the command you'd like to assign.

If you’re just editing the command:

Change Action.

Adjusting Training Levels from the Training Bar

To be able to adjust training levels directly from the training bar, go to Training Setup, click the wrench icon in the top left corner, and make sure that “Adjust Stim With Each Use” is turned on. Once this setting is enabled, you’ll be able to adjust the stimulation levels directly from the training bar screen without needing to go back into the training setup.

If you prefer not to have “Adjust Stim With Each Use” turned on, you can still manually adjust levels. To do this, go to Training Setup, locate the dog’s name you want to change, select the section of the training bar you want to update, select Adjust Training, and then set the level to your desired strength.

Changing the Default Training Bar Commands

The Alpha XL comes standard with the training bar set to momentary correction on the top icon, continuous correction in the middle icon, and tone on the bottom icon. If you want all of your dogs to automatically use different commands when they’re added, you can update the default settings. From the home page, select Training Setup, then click the wrench icon in the top left corner. Select Training Defaults, then select Training Button 1, 2, or 3. Training Button 1 is the top training key, Button 2 is the middle key, and Button 3 is the bottom key. To change a training key, select the button you’d like to edit and switch it to the command you prefer.

If you already have collars added to your Alpha XL, updating the training defaults will not change the layout for those dogs. You will need to manually update each one in the training bar if you want to change their training commands.

Changing the Side the Training Bar Appears On

To change which side of the screen the training bar shows up on with your Garmin Alpha XL:

Turn on your unit and go to Training Setup. Select the wrench icon in the top left corner. Then select Training Menu Position. Choose whether you'd like the training bar to appear on the left or right side of the screen.

This setting only applies when the device is in landscape orientation.

The Alpha XL gives you two stimulation options: traditional and linear. Traditional stimulation has a wider gap between low, medium, and high levels—this means each jump in level gives a stronger increase in intensity. Linear stimulation offers a smoother, more gradual increase in intensity across the scale, allowing for more fine-tuned control when adjusting correction levels. This setting can be useful for dogs that are more sensitive or when you need smaller adjustments in stimulation strength.

"Adjust Stim With Each Use” is a setting on the Alpha XL that lets you change the stimulation level directly from the training bar screen each time you use it. When this option is turned on, you can tap the stimulation level on the training bar and adjust it on the spot without having to go into the training setup menu. This makes it easier and quicker to increase or decrease the correction level as needed while you're actively using the device.

Play Tone on Training Command

The “Play Tone on Training Command” setting on the Garmin Alpha XL enables an audible tone to accompany each training command you send to your dog’s collar. When this feature is activated, every time you press a training button—whether it’s for momentary stimulation or continuous stimulation—a tone will sound. This tone provides immediate auditory feedback, which can help reinforce training cues and improve your dog’s responsiveness.

The Garmin Alpha XL provides several training default settings that allow you to customize how training commands are applied to your dogs, ensuring consistency and efficiency during training sessions.

To configure these settings, access the Training Setup menu and select the wrench icon in the top left corner. Within the Training Defaults section, you can assign specific training commands to each of the three training buttons:

Training Button 1 corresponds to the top training key. Training Button 2 corresponds to the middle training key. Training Button 3 corresponds to the bottom training key. These assignments determine the default commands that will be applied when new collars are paired with the device. It's important to note that these default settings will not automatically update the training commands for collars that have already been added; existing collars will retain their current configurations unless manually adjusted.

Additionally, the Alpha XL allows you to choose between Linear and Traditional stimulation modes. Linear stimulation provides a gradual increase in intensity levels, offering 18 levels of stimulation for precise control. Traditional stimulation, on the other hand, offers quick changes using low, medium, and high settings within predetermined stimulation levels (1 through 6).

Other customizable settings include enabling Add When Paired, which automatically applies your default training commands to any new collar paired with the device. The Adjust Stim With Each Use setting allows you to adjust the stimulation level directly from the training bar screen during use, eliminating the need to navigate back to the training setup menu. Enabling Play Tone on Training Command causes an audible tone to play each time a training command is issued, providing immediate auditory feedback to reinforce training cues. Lastly, you can choose to display the training menu on either the left or right side of the screen using the Training Menu Position setting; note that this setting only applies when the device is in landscape orientation.

By configuring these training defaults and settings, you can tailor the Alpha XL to fit your specific training needs, ensuring a more effective and personalized training experience for both you and your dog.

On the Garmin Alpha XL, the "Button Layout" setting determines how many training buttons are displayed per dog in the training bar. You can choose between two layouts:

In the one-button layout, each dog has a single training button, suitable for basic training commands. In the three-button layout, each dog has three training buttons, allowing for more advanced training commands.

To adjust the button layout, navigate to Training Setup, select the wrench icon in the top left corner, then choose Training Defaults. From there, select Button Layout and choose either the one-button or three-button option based on your training needs.

Please note that changing the button layout affects the training bar's appearance for each dog. This setting helps tailor the interface to match your preferred training approach.

If you want to change the order of your dogs in the training bar, start from the home screen and go to the training setup menu.

Once there, find the dog whose position you want to change and select "Reorder Sets."

Press and hold the area where the arrows appear below the dog’s name, then drag the dog to the position you prefer in the training bar.

After moving all the dogs you want to reposition, tap "Done" to save your changes.

To remove a dog or row from your training bar, start from the menu screen and go to Training Setup.

Locate the dog or row you want to delete, then select the three dots at the bottom of that row to open the menu.

From there, choose "Delete This Row" to remove it.

Alpha XL Vertical vs. Horizontal Mounting

Vertical (Portrait) Position:

Takes up less space—great for tight spots or when mounted lower on the dash.

Gives you a taller view—helps see more of your route ahead.

Ideal for tracking dogs moving in a straight line or long distances.

Easier to read lists, like dog names or notifications.

Horizontal (Landscape) Position:

Offers a wider map view—great for open terrain or trail systems.

Feels more like a traditional GPS or tablet layout.

Best for seeing side-to-side movement or multiple dog locations at once.

Which Should You Use?

It’s all about preference and how your vehicle is set up.

Use vertical if space is limited or your mount sits low.

Use horizontal if you want a wider map view or a more familiar display.

The Alpha XL screen will automatically rotate depending on how it’s mounted.

What Is the Alpha XL VHF Dock?

The Alpha XL VHF Dock is the part that holds and powers the Garmin Alpha® XL inside your vehicle. It’s more than just a mount—it’s an essential component that:

Provides GPS and VHF tracking signal to the handheld

Connects to your long-range antenna for improved range

Holds the Alpha XL securely in place

Supplies power when used with the Alpha XL 12V charger

Without the VHF dock, the Alpha XL won’t be able to track dogs or connect to antennas from inside your vehicle. It's required for full tracking functionality and is a must-have for truck-mounted setups.

Long Range Truck Antennas & the Alpha XL

All long range truck antennas sold by Outdoor Dog Supply are fully compatible with the Garmin Alpha® XL. You do not have to use the factory antenna that comes with the unit.

We highly recommend upgrading to one of our long range antennas for the best tracking range and signal performance, especially when running dogs over large areas or in tough terrain.

If you’re using a quick connect-style antenna, make sure to purchase a quick connect kit to get your existing antenna to work properly with the Alpha XL’s VHF dock.

Using Your Alpha XL in Multiple Vehicles

You can move your Alpha XL from one vehicle to another—but let’s be honest, it’s not always convenient. The good news is, you can set up each vehicle with its own mounting system so all you have to do is move the Alpha XL screen between trucks.

If you want a full setup in more than one vehicle, here’s what you’ll need:

1. Long Range Antenna

You’ll need a separate long range antenna for each vehicle. It’s not recommended to move antennas back and forth between vehicles.

2. VHF Dock

Each vehicle must have its own Alpha XL VHF Dock. This holds the unit and provides the GPS and tracking capabilities.

3. Alpha XL 12V Charger

This powers the system by connecting into the VHF dock. Each vehicle should have its own.

4. Mount

You’ll need a mount for the VHF dock and Alpha XL. Some great options include:

Double window mount

Cup holder mount

Gooseneck mount

With this setup, moving your Alpha XL between vehicles is as easy as snapping it in place.

There are many great mounting setups for the Alpha XL. It all depends on what you are needing for your vehicle. Here is some of the outdoor dog supply favorites for the Alpha XL. ODS Heavy Duty Double Window Mount for Alpha XL this is a great heavy duty mount for your windshield with two suction cups bases it provides a steady base with little moment. Another one of our favorites is the cup mount. If you are not wanting your XL in your window is a great heavy duty mount that will last for ages to come. Try the Alpha Xl in the vertical position with a cup mount that is a beach billy favorite.

The Alpha® XL works great when it's within 50 feet of the VHF dock. As long as it's in that range and the dock is powered with the charging cord, the system maintains strong VHF communication and reliable tracking with your collars. This setup gives you flexibility to move the Alpha XL around your truck or nearby areas without losing performance.

However, if the Alpha XL is taken more than 50 feet away from the dock or if the dock loses power, the handheld will no longer be able to track or communicate with the collars. Staying within that 50-foot range is key to keeping everything connected and working smoothly.

The Garmin Alpha® XL charges through the VHF dock using the provided charging cord. To power the screen and maintain its tracking and communication capabilities, the charging cord must be plugged directly into the VHF dock. The Alpha® XL itself does not have a direct charging port for tracking functionality—everything runs through the dock.

This setup ensures the unit stays powered and maintains full VHF communication with your dog collars. If the charging cord is not connected to the dock or becomes unplugged, the handheld may continue to run on battery power for a time, but VHF tracking and communication with the collars will not function until it's properly reconnected to the powered dock.

Yes, the Garmin Alpha® XL can be removed from its VHF dock. This provides flexibility for users who may need to temporarily take the device out of their vehicle or reposition it. However, it’s important to note that for the Alpha® XL to maintain its tracking capabilities, it must remain within 50 feet of the VHF dock. If taken beyond this distance, the device may lose the ability to communicate with the dog collars via VHF signal. This makes it essential to keep the unit in proximity to the dock if continuous tracking is needed.