5 Best GPS Trackers for Dogs: 24/7 Monitoring
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Our top pick
Best Overall
Tracki GPS Tracker
Being able to track your fur baby no matter where he is in the world brings peace of mind that any pet parent would want!
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Our picks
Tracki GPS Tracker is our top pick. Being able to track your fur baby no matter where he is in the world brings peace of mind that any pet parent would want!
| Pick | Best for | Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Top pickTracki GPS Tracker | Best Overall | Check price |
| Tractive GPS Tracker for Dogs | Best for Universal Tracking | Check price |
| SportDOG Brand TEK Series 2.0 GPS | Premium Choice | Check price |
| Whistle GO Explore GPS + Fitness Dog Tracker | Best for Versatility | Check price |
| Apple AirTag (Budget Bluetooth Alternative) | Best for Budget | Check price |
The best GPS tracker for most dogs is the Tracki GPS Tracker for its small size and real-time tracking, while the waterproof Tractive tracker is our pick for active dogs and the SportDOG TEK 2.0 is the premium choice for hunting and off-grid use. Most cellular GPS trackers need a monthly subscription, so factor that in before you buy.
5 Best Dog GPS Trackers
There are a lot of GPS trackers for dogs on the market, each with special features, durable construction, and various designs. Picking a good one takes a lot of your precious time, so we did the legwork for you!
1Tracki GPS Tracker
Why We Love It
“Being able to track your fur baby no matter where he is in the world brings peace of mind that any pet parent would want!”
The first one has plenty of reviews that say amazing things. The Tracki GPS tracker beats out a lot of the rest by providing real-time tracking with no fixed range limit, because it reports your dog’s location over the cellular network. You can use it at home in the U.S. and in many other countries, as long as there is mobile coverage (a data plan is required).
It’s smart, it’s light, and it uses GPS satellites as its primary location technology, which means it provides the most accuracy. The rechargeable battery can last up to five days and the device comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Unlimited distance real-time tracking
- Long battery life
- Lifetime warranty
- Small and lightweight
Cons
- Nondescript battery indicator
2Tractive GPS Tracker for Dogs
Why We Love It
“We love the sturdy construction of a 100% waterproof device that won’t fail during harsh weather.”
The Tractive GPS tracker for dogs also provides tracking without a fixed range limit over the cellular network, and it stands out because it is waterproof and very durable.
It works in a long list of countries wherever there’s mobile coverage (check Tractive’s coverage map for your area), and rain, mud, or a swim won’t stop it. Like most cellular trackers, it requires a subscription.
On top of that, you also get a bunch of fancy features you can monitor through the compatible mobile app such as activity monitoring and setting up virtual fences.
Pros
- All-day activity monitoring
- Works in many countries with mobile coverage
- Small and lightweight
- Robust and waterproof
Cons
- Customer service can take a while
3SportDOG Brand TEK Series 2.0 GPS
Why We Love It
“This is an excellent device for serious trainers. It can locate lost dogs up to 10 miles away and you can set up geofences, waypoints, and more.”
This one is a little pricey, but hear us out. This isn’t just a device to locate lost dogs, this is a heavier-duty option that can do that but also track dogs for outdoor sports and hunting. Instead of relying on a cell signal, it uses a handheld unit that talks directly to the collar, so it works in remote areas without coverage. It comes with a GPS tracking device and an e-collar that are expandable to locate up to 21 dogs.
The design is by far the most hard-wearing and you will be able to see your dog’s and your location as well as the path he takes. The device comes with preloaded topographical maps and lifetime map updates.
Pros
- Strong build
- Expandable design
- Bluetooth headset compatibility
- Uses GPS satellites
Cons
- Higher price tag
4Whistle GO Explore GPS + Fitness Dog Tracker
Why We Love It
“Needless to say, we love the ability to get in touch with vets if necessary, and you can do that through the app.”
This next GPS tracker provides a lot of bells and whistles and it comes in neon colors so it’s easy to spot. You not only get the standard GPS function, but you also get activity, health, and fitness monitoring with reports, alerts, notifications, and more.
The battery life is rated at up to 20 days, and there’s an extra night light function. What makes this our number four choice is definitely the on-demand vet help Whistle GO provides through the app.
Pros
- Health reports
- Long battery life
- Sleep and calorie tracking
- Proactive alerts
Cons
- Might be a bit bulky for tiny dogs
5Apple AirTag (Budget Bluetooth Alternative)
Why We Love It
“It’s an inexpensive way to keep tabs on your dog’s location through Apple’s Find My network, with no tracker plan to sign up for.”
The Apple AirTag isn’t a true GPS tracker: according to the listing, it connects to your iPhone or iPad over Bluetooth and is located with the help of the hundreds of millions of Apple devices in the Find My network. That makes it a budget option for dogs that mostly stay close to home or in busy areas, but it won’t give you the live, anywhere tracking of a cellular GPS collar.
Setup is one tap with an iPhone or iPad, and the built-in speaker can play a sound to help you find your dog nearby. On select iPhone models, Precision Finding with Ultra Wideband guides you right to it, and Lost Mode notifies you when it’s detected in the Find My network. Apple markets it for keys, wallets and luggage rather than pets, so you’ll need a separate collar holder, and it doesn’t work with Android phones.
Pros
- Uses the large Apple Find My network
- Simple one-tap setup
- Plays a sound to help you find your dog nearby
- Location can be shared with up to 5 people
Cons
- Bluetooth only, not real-time GPS
- iPhone/iPad only, not compatible with Android
- Collar holder sold separately
What to Consider When Shopping for a Dog GPS Tracker
How do you know if a tracker is good enough, will do what it says, and is right for you? Check out these top features to look for.
Read about: Best QR Code Dog Tag: Scan Your Dog!
1Real-Time Tracking
Look for a GPS tracker that provides real-time updates and tracking so you know exactly where your dog is. This makes it easier to locate your pooch and to catch up to him.
2Range
Range depends on how the tracker sends its location. Cellular GPS trackers work anywhere with mobile coverage, radio-based trackers (like the SportDOG) work without a cell signal but only within a few miles of the handheld, and Bluetooth tags only work within roughly a hundred feet or when another phone passes by. Pick the type that matches where your dog is most likely to go missing.
3Accuracy
What tracking technology does the device use? It’s best to go for one that relies on GPS satellites for supreme accuracy.
4Notifications
Consider devices with the ability to send notifications when you need them, such as when your dog leaves a safe zone or when the device is low on battery.
5Battery Life
Speaking of battery, look for devices that have a long battery life. Trackers should be rechargeable, although replaceable batteries can work well too, and last for at least 5 days.
6Size
For big dogs, the size may not matter much, but it is definitely something you want to look into if your dog is of smaller stature. Not only should the size be appropriate, but you also want anything on your dog to be lightweight.
7Construction
Durability is a top consideration for a dog GPS tracker. Look for ones that are waterproof and can stand against the elements.
8Fees
Most devices that work with a mobile app and send real-time locations over the cellular network require a subscription, since they need a data connection. Trackers advertised with “no monthly fee” are usually Bluetooth-based or radio-based, so check how they work before buying. Don’t forget about this added cost!
9Additional Features
What additional features do you require? Fitness tracking? Health reports? How about direct access to a vet for advice? Make sure the device has what you’re looking for.
10Mobile Compatibility
Last but not least, a GPS tracker that has mobile compatibility will make your life easier with everything accessible at your fingertips.
Why Choose a GPS Tracker Over a Normal Tracker?
Is it really necessary to spend more of your hard-earned dollars on a fancy GPS tracker instead of a basic Bluetooth tag? Let’s see what it can provide that a normal tracker can’t.
What Makes GPS Trackers Better?
- GPS technology for real-time tracking
- Wider coverage
- Compatibility with mobile devices
- Ability to set boundaries
- Additional tracking abilities (fitness, health, etc.)
- Tracking history and data
Conclusion
A dog GPS tracker provides peace of mind for parents by enabling real-time tracking, helping locate lost dogs, aiding in training, and providing advanced features. It offers convenience by providing everything through mobile apps.
A GPS tracker is a valuable tool for ensuring the safety and well-being of your furry friend and you! Just remember that it complements, rather than replaces, a microchip with up-to-date contact details and an ID tag on your dog’s collar, since batteries can run flat and collars can come off.
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