Choosing the right dog whistle might seem simple until you realise how many ACME options there are. Alpha, Classic, 210, 210.5, 211.5… so what’s the actual difference?
Below is a clear, practical breakdown of the ACME whistle range, including pitch guidance and common breed pairings to help you choose with confidence.
Alpha vs Classic: The Key Difference
ACME dog whistles fall into two main ranges: Alpha and Classic.
ACME Alpha Whistles
The Alpha range is the modern evolution of the classic ACME whistle. Designed for clarity, consistency and long-range work, Alpha whistles produce a sharper, more stable frequency that carries exceptionally well across open ground and in challenging conditions.
- ACME Alpha 210.5 Dog Whistle – tailored for spaniel and cocker work
- ACME Alpha 211.5 Dog Whistle – ideal for Labradors and retrievers
ACME Classic Whistles
The Classic range is what made ACME famous. These whistles are simple, robust and trusted by trainers for decades, making them ideal for everyday training, club work and field trials.
- ACME Classic 210.5 Dog Whistle – popular choice for spaniels and cockers
- ACME Classic 211.5 Dog Whistle – go-to pitch for Labs and retrievers
- ACME Classic 210 Dog Whistle – higher-pitched all-rounder for distance work
- ACME Classic 212 Dog Whistle – commonly used for HPR and pointer-type breeds
What Do the Numbers Mean?
The numbers on an ACME whistle refer to its pitch (frequency). Different pitches tend to suit different breeds and working distances. As a general guide:
210.5 – Spaniels & Cockers
A pitch commonly chosen for spaniel and cocker work, offering a responsive tone suited to closer, fast-paced handling.
211.5 – Labradors & Retrievers
A very popular choice for Labradors and retriever breeds, delivering a clear, steady tone ideal for controlled handling and recall.
212 – HPR & Pointer-Type Breeds
Often favoured for HPR and pointer-type breeds, particularly where dogs are working at distance across open ground.
210 – Higher-Pitched All-Rounder
The 210 is a higher-pitched all-round option, frequently chosen for dogs working further out or in situations where additional sound carry is beneficial.
This guidance is not a hard rule — the most important factor is choosing a pitch your dog responds to consistently and sticking with it.
ACME Whistle Pitch Comparison
| Pitch | Typical Breeds | Working Distance | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 210.5 | Spaniels, Cockers | Close to Mid | Fast-paced handling, responsive work in cover |
| 211.5 | Labradors, Retrievers | Mid | Controlled handling, recall, clear differentiation |
| 212 | HPRs, Pointers | Mid to Long | Distance work across open ground |
| 210 | All-rounder | Long | Distance work where extra carry is needed |
Which ACME Whistle Should I Choose?
- Spaniels & cockers: 210.5
- Labradors & retrievers: 211.5
- HPR & pointer breeds: 212
- Dogs working further distance: 210
Most experienced handlers choose a whistle pitch early on and stick with it throughout a dog’s working life — consistency is key to clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions About ACME Dog Whistles
Should I change whistle pitch as my dog progresses?
Generally no. Once a dog is trained to a particular whistle frequency, consistency helps reinforce commands and avoid confusion.
Are Alpha whistles louder than Classic whistles?
Not louder, but clearer. Alpha whistles are designed to project sound more efficiently, making them easier to hear at distance and in challenging conditions.