Dog GPS Tracker Collars– 5 Best For Your Furry Friend!
Worried about your dog wandering off and getting lost? A GPS tracker for dogs can help keep your pet safe by letting you monitor their location in real-time. This article is your guide to the top five GPS dog trackers in the U.S., covering everything from location accuracy to health monitoring features. By the end, you’ll know:
- Which GPS tracker best suits active or senior dogs
- Key features like geofencing, activity tracking, and battery life
- How each tracker performs in different environments
- Pros and cons to help you make the best choice for your dog
Whether you have a curious pup who loves to explore or a laid-back companion, we’ll help you find a tracker that provides peace of mind.
Pawfit 3- Pet Activity Tracker
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Pawfit
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The Pawfit 3 is a well-rounded GPS tracking collar designed to keep your dog safe and sound. This dog GPS tracker does more than just help you keep an eye on your pet's location. One standout feature is the temperature alert—it lets you know if your dog might be in a hot or cold environment, keeping their comfort and safety in check. The virtual fence feature is also a lifesaver, alerting you if your dog steps outside a designated safe zone. Plus, this GPS dog tracker comes at a budget-friendly price, making it a great choice for dog owners looking to invest in tracking devices. With added features for activity monitoring and health tracking, it's a solid pick for anyone wanting real-time insights into their dog’s well-being.
Key Features:
- Real-Time Location Tracking: Offers Passive and Live mode for accurate tracking.
- Geofence Alerts: Set up to 10 safety zones for instant notifications.
- Health Monitoring: Tracks vital stats like body temperature, activity level, and heart rate.
- Audio ID: Provides your dog’s information at the press of a button.
- Temperature Alerts: Notifies you of extreme weather conditions for your dog’s safety.
- Alarm & Light Tracking: Enhances visibility and location in low-light conditions.
Specifications:
- Weight: 27 grams, ensuring comfort for the dog.
- Battery Life: Up to 6 days, with alerts for low battery.
- Attachment: Secure collar or harness attachment with removal notification.
- Subscription Plans: Basic (starting at £3.39/month) and Premium (starting at £3.99/month) are available.
Photo courtesy: Pawfit website
Pawfit Features
As a dog lover, nothing’s more terrifying than the thought of losing your furry friend. That’s where the Pawfit 3 steps in—a GPS dog tracker built to give you peace of mind. It’s lightweight, waterproof, and packed with smart features to help you keep track of your pet.
Let’s dive into what makes this dog GPS tracker a hit with pet owners. First, the collar attachment is super easy to use. Weighing only 27 grams, your dog won’t even notice it’s there. Unlike basic attachments, the Pawfit strap is designed to fit securely on different pet collars. And if it ever comes off? You’ll get an alert, which is a really thoughtful touch.
Setting it up is simple. Just charge the device, download the app, and you’re good to go! Battery life is solid, lasting up to six days. If the battery gets low, both the dog GPS tracker and the app will let you know, so you’re always prepared.
When it comes to location tracking, Pawfit 3 updates your dog’s location in real time. If your dog’s on the move, you’ll see updates every 1-2 minutes. There’s even a live mode that refreshes every 5 seconds, perfect for those “runaway moments.” Imagine your pup chasing a squirrel—you can track every move in real-time. Just note that live mode is limited to 10 minutes to help conserve battery.
Extra features? This GPS tracking collar comes with geofences, health monitoring, and even an audio ID. You can set geofence safety zones around your home or favorite spots, while the health data tracks your dog’s activity and even gives temperature alerts. On hot days, it can remind you to keep outdoor time short for safety.
Of course, there are a few drawbacks. The voice command feature could use some work—the sound is muffled and might confuse your dog. Pawfit 3 also relies on cellular coverage, so it’s not ideal in very remote areas. It’s not suitable for tiny dogs under 4kg, and there’s a subscription fee, starting at $3.39 a month for the basic plan.
Visit Website: https://www.pawfit.com/
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AMAZON RATING |
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As of 3/25/2024 4.1 Stars | 1,289 Ratings |
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GPM Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - January 2, 2024 This works great, and it tracks my dog's exercise. I can have multiple zones for properties, and this seems to be a pretty accurate solution to keep my dog safe. So far, I am very pleased! |
RP Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - June 28, 2023
It's a device that I bought for the safety of my pet. He ran away from the house twice, wearing a fully charged tracker. On both occasions, when I tried to locate him, I got the message stating that the tracker was not responding. The same happened a number of times when I tried to locate my dog, even within the house. I live in a neighborhood with good coverage by most companies and powerful WiFi. The company should make clear disclaimers about what it can and cannot do, so people don't get lulled into a false sense of security. |
PitPat – Best Dog Activity Tracker
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PitPat
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Another popular dog activity tracker in the U.S., PitPat, easily connects to your smartphone through a mobile app using Bluetooth. Since it doesn’t use GPS, it’s more focused on your dog’s health and well-being rather than providing real-time tracking. So, if you’re looking to keep tabs on your pup’s fitness rather than their location, PitPat might be just what you need.
One standout feature of this dog GPS locator is its long-lasting CR2032 battery, which can last up to a year before needing a replacement. That’s a big perk for anyone who wants to skip the hassle of frequent charging. Plus, PitPat lets you create a social profile for your dog, including their breed, age, weight, and activity goals. It’s a fun way to set fitness targets that help your dog live their best life!
Priced at around $39, PitPat is an excellent choice for dog lovers who don’t need the GPS locator features of other dog GPS collars. Instead, it’s perfect for those who want a reliable pet tracker focused on health and activity monitoring.
Key Features of PitPat GPS Tracker:
- Innovative Dog Finder: Guides you to your dog, even in the dark.
- Market-Leading Battery Life: Longer tracking with less frequent charging and easy wireless recharging.
- Exercise and Rest Monitoring: Tracks activity with recommended individual goals and rewards for your dog.
- Nutrition and Activity Tracking: Monitors calories burned, distance traveled, and activity levels.
- Vet-Designed and Recommended: Developed with professional insights for optimal utility.
Specifications of PitPat GPS Tracker:
- Device Weight: Approximately 30 grams, making it lightweight for your dog’s comfort.
- Dimensions: About 2.4 inches by 1.3 inches, compact for easy attachment.
- Waterproof and Durable: Suitable for active dogs, withstands water and rough play.
- Attachment: Comes with a Velcro strap for easy attachment to collar or harness.
- App Compatibility: Works with the PitPat app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
- GPS Update Frequency: Adjustable to every 2, 4, or 8 minutes, with live updates every 10 seconds in tracking mode.
Photo Courtesy: TomsGuide
PitPat Dog GPS Tracker Features
Setting up the PitPat GPS tracker is super easy, even if tech isn’t your thing. Just place it on the charging pad, pair it with the app, and attach it to your dog’s collar. In about 15 minutes, you’re ready to go—quick and hassle-free!
One standout feature is the shared access. Both you and your partner can keep an eye on your dog’s activity. For example, if you’re at work while your dog, Lucy, is with a walker, you can check in anytime. This dog GPS tracker updates location every 2, 4, or 8 minutes using satellite signals, so you’re not totally in the dark. Just note there’s a slight delay in location updates—it’s not quite real-time tracking.
Another helpful feature is the nutrition monitoring. The PitPat helps you track how many calories your dog burns each day. This makes it easy to adjust their diet, like adding a bit of kibble after a super active day. It’s especially useful if you’re mindful of keeping your dog at a healthy weight.
Of course, there are a few quirks. The tracker initially struggled with accuracy, estimating distance based on average stride length. For instance, it underestimated Lucy’s distance because she tends to wander off the path. Thankfully, you can fine-tune the distance estimate in the app, which boosted accuracy by around 40%.
One downside is that it doesn’t provide a detailed route map. You’ll see how far your dog’s gone, but not the exact path. And remember to keep it charged! PitPat’s battery life varies depending on the GPS setting, so if you often forget to charge your devices, this might be a bit of a hassle.
Visit Website: https://www.pitpat.com/
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AMAZON RATING |
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As of 3/25/2024 4.1 Stars | 1,892 Ratings |
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Chris Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - April 26, 2023 I bought this to get an idea of how many miles my 11-year-old Siberian Husky actually puts in on a daily basis. He constantly moves. He has daycare and bike rides twice weekly as well. |
MSavage Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - October 14, 2022
Waste of money. It doesn't work. I have had it on my dog for days, and it hasn't tracked a thing. It's a UK product. Maybe it works there, but definitely not here in the US. Don't buy. |
Garmin GPS – Best Hunting Dog GPS Tracker UK
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Garmin GPS Dog Tracker
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The Garmin TT 15X is a dog tracking and training collar designed for serious tracking needs. With a top-mounted, high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS receiver, it can keep tabs on your dog up to 9 miles away. So why do hunting dogs need a tracking collar? When you’re out in the field, this tracking collar helps you not only track your dog but also your game—especially when it’s in your dog’s mouth!
Built to withstand tough conditions, this collar is rugged and water-resistant up to 10 meters, making it reliable across any terrain your dog explores.
For training, the TT 15X offers 18 levels of stimulation, along with tone and vibration options, compatible with certain Garmin handheld devices. In low light or at night, LED beacon lights on the collar, visible up to 100 yards, make it easier to spot your dog. The collar comes with a 1-inch red strap, with replacement straps available in various colors. It’s also designed to work with Garmin Alpha, PRO 550 Plus, and Astro 430 handheld devices, making it a solid choice for those needing both tracking and training functions.
Key Features of Garmin TT 15X Dog Collar
- Offers up to 80 hours of use, ideal for extensive outdoor activities.
- Capable of tracking up to 9 miles, suitable for large areas and challenging terrains.
- Allows the collar to be put to sleep, reducing interference and conserving battery life.
- Records and stores your dog’s activities, which can be overlaid on maps for detailed tracking.
Specifications of Garmin TT 15X Dog Collar
- Dimensions: Measures 3.5″ x 1.75” x 1.85″ (8.9 x 4.4 x 4.7 cm), a compact size for ease of use.
- Weight: 7.3 oz (207.0 g) for the transmitter and antenna, 10.0 oz (284.0 g) total with collar, balancing durability with comfort.
- Battery Type: Comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion pack, which is user-replaceable for convenience.
- Connectivity with Basecamp: Enables the connection to Basecamp for detailed tracking and analysis of your dog’s movements.
Visit Website: https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/856402
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AMAZON RATING |
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As of 3/25/2024 4.7 Stars | 18 Ratings
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Keith Positive Review |
Amazon.com- Review Date - January 11, 2024 I adopted Sir Winston, a beagle mix, on March 15, 2022. I had put a bug in the ear of my local ACO to be on the lookout for a small to medium-sized dog. Winston chose me to be his forever home. In mid-summer, something terrible happened. Winston took off for some critter, and at the precise moment, I took my eyes off for a split second. Needless to say, our home is almost surrounded by a thick bush. We called his name all night long. Thirty hours later, he wandered into the neighbor's yard, three doors down. After removing many hugs and ticks, and after a warm bath, he slept in his own bed. A vet visit the next day got him taken care of and on antibiotics. Tractive was ordered the night he came back home. He doesn't go outside without it. Thank you. |
Twocrowsdown Negative Review |
Amazon.com - Review Date - April 5, 2023
Do not buy it if you want to use it in Australia. Frequencies are wrong; they will not work. Frequencies cannot be changed to work in Australia. Operates in the wrong part of the radio spectrum. |
Tractive LTE GPS Dog Tracker UK
Tractive offers a smart pet tracker that provides real-time location tracking and health monitoring for your furry friend. For around $3.73 per month, this GPS tracking collar delivers features like escape alerts, activity tracking, and health indicators. Need to access your pet's live location in an emergency? Or set up a virtual fence to define a safe area? Tractive has you covered. It's also the top-selling and top-rated pet GPS on Amazon!
Key Features of the Tractive Dog GPS Tracker
- Real-Time GPS Tracking: Track your dog’s location anywhere with no distance limit.
- Health Alerts: Monitors sleep quality and activity patterns, sending alerts for unusual behaviors.
- Activity Tracking: Tracks your dog’s Wellness Score to help maintain their fitness and compare activity levels with similar breeds.
- Escape Alerts: Sends notifications if your dog leaves a predefined safe area.
Specifications of the Tractive Dog GPS Tracker
- Weight: Extremely lightweight at just 1.2 ounces, suitable for small dogs over eight pounds.
- Waterproof Rating: 100% waterproof and shockproof, tested in various conditions.
- Battery Performance: 7-10 days battery life, with power-saving mode available when connected to Wi-Fi.
- Attachment: Snugly attaches to collars at least one inch wide, and stays secure even in active situations.
- Subscription Options: Basic and premium plans are available, with features like family sharing, worldwide coverage, and access to 365-day location history.
- Design and Comfort: Sleek, unobtrusive design, comfortable for continuous wear by pets.
Photo Courtesy: Dog Gear Review
Tractive Pet GPS Features
When Lucy, my adventurous poodle mix, first tried on her Tractive GPS Pet Tracker, I wasn’t sure it could keep up with her antics. At just 1.2 ounces, the device seemed almost too lightweight for her escapades. But soon, it proved its worth. Lucy’s quite the escape artist—one day, she slipped out of the yard chasing a squirrel. Thanks to Tractive, I got an instant alert when she left our designated Safe Zone. Using Live Tracking, which updates every 15-60 seconds, I was able to follow her all the way to the park. Although the refresh rate could be quicker, it accurately mapped her route. This feature does drain the battery faster, but it’s essential in a pinch.
Speaking of battery life, Tractive lasts about seven days, which could be longer compared to some other pet GPS options. In power-saving mode, it stretched to nearly ten days, especially when linked to our home WiFi, which was perfect since Lucy spends a lot of time lounging at home.
Tractive’s activity monitoring feature was a pleasant surprise. It tracks Lucy’s active minutes and sleep, giving me insights into her health. It doesn’t catch every little behavior, like her occasional obsessive licking, but it provides a solid overview of her daily activity.
The subscription cost is reasonable, starting at $5 a month. I opted for the premium plan, which offers perks like sharing Lucy’s location with family and reviewing her location history, which includes some amusing moments like our traffic-delayed adventures.
Setup was a breeze. After charging, creating Lucy’s profile, and setting up Safe Zones, we were ready to go. I worried about adding another device to the list of things to charge, but Tractive’s quick charge time and dependable tracking made it totally worth it.
Tractive has a few downsides, like the battery life and minor delays in remote areas, but for an escape artist like Lucy, it’s a game-changer. This dog tracker gives me peace of mind and a deeper look at her health and habits, making it a must-have for any pet owner with an adventurous pup!
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As of 3/25/2024 4.0 Stars | 26,755 Ratings |
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Whistle Go Explore – Best Overall For Dog GPS Tracking UK
The Whistle Go Explore is a top-tier smart dog collar designed to keep your furry friend safe. It uses satellite technology and AT&T's LTE-M cellular network, integrating with Google Maps for precise location tracking. Imagine you're hiking with your dog; with Whistle Go Explore, you can monitor their movements via your smartphone, even if they wander off the trail.
To access its GPS features, a monthly subscription is required. The good news is, it's compatible with any phone network, so you don't need to switch carriers. Plus, Whistle offers a 90-day risk-free trial, allowing you to test it during your daily walks or adventures. If it doesn't meet your expectations, you can get a full refund.
Key Features:
- No need for a base unit at home.
- Extended battery life up to 20 days.
- Smart charging recommendations.
- LED light for visibility.
- Activity and health tracking capabilities.
- Direct access to a veterinarian team via the app.
Specifications:
- Battery Life: Up to 20 days.
- Charging Time: 2 hours with a fast charger.
- Waterproof: IPX 8 rating.
- Weight: Lightweight design.
- Compatibility: AT&T LTE-M network.
Whistle Go Explore Features
The Whistle Go Explore does come at a premium compared to more basic pet collars, but the advanced features make it worth every penny. While a simpler dog tracker might cost around $50, the Whistle Go Explore is closer to $100. However, it goes beyond simple location tracking.
A standout feature is its health tracker. Similar to a Fitbit for humans, this device monitors your dog’s daily activities and health, which is incredibly helpful if they’re recovering from an injury and need their activity levels monitored.
Another unique benefit is the access to a veterinarian through the app. If you notice anything unusual in your dog’s health stats, you can quickly consult with a vet—perfect for peace of mind in emergencies.
Battery life is also a major plus. Unlike basic dog GPS trackers that may last only a few days, the Whistle Go Explore can run up to 20 days on a single charge. This extended battery life is ideal for camping trips or other adventures where charging options are limited.
Precision location tracking is another feature that sets it apart. For example, if your dog wanders off in a busy park, the Whistle Go Explore can pinpoint their location within a few meters, helping you find them quickly.
Lastly, its durable and waterproof design means it can handle just about any condition. Whether your dog loves swimming or just gets caught in the rain, this smart tracker can keep up.
Visit website: https://www.whistle.com/
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As of 3/25/2024 3.8 Stars | 3,748 Ratings |
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What Is A Dog GPS Tracking Device
A dog GPS tracker is a small device that attaches to a dog’s collar, using GPS technology to track their location. It connects to satellites to pinpoint your dog’s exact location and transmits this data via cellular networks to a smartphone app or web interface.
Once on your dog’s collar, the tracker receives GPS signals to calculate its position, often enhanced by Wi-Fi or cellular data for better accuracy in areas with poor GPS reception, like dense urban or wooded locations.
Dog owners use these trackers primarily for peace of mind. If a dog wanders off, you can quickly locate them with real-time data, which is especially helpful for adventurous pets or rural settings. Many trackers also include features like activity monitoring to track fitness and geofencing to alert you if your dog leaves a safe area. These added functions make GPS trackers a valuable tool for keeping pets safe and healthy., making dog GPS trackers a valuable tool for responsible pet ownership.
Key Features To Consider When Looking For a GPS Tracker For Dog
Real-Time Location Tracking
Real-time location tracking allows you to monitor your dog’s whereabouts instantly. This feature is crucial for quickly locating your pet if they wander off, providing peace of mind for adventurous dogs.
Geofencing Alerts
Geofencing lets you set safe boundaries for your dog, notifying you if they leave the designated area. This feature is essential for ensuring your pet stays safe while giving them the freedom to roam.
Activity Monitoring
Activity monitoring tracks your dog’s daily movements and helps you understand their fitness levels. This feature is important for maintaining your dog’s health and can alert you to changes in their behavior that may indicate health issues.
Long Battery Life
A GPS tracker with long battery life reduces the need for frequent recharging. This feature is especially valuable during outdoor adventures or camping trips, ensuring your device remains functional when you need it most.
Waterproof Design
A waterproof design ensures the tracker can withstand various weather conditions, including rain or swimming. This feature is vital for active dogs who enjoy playing outdoors, providing durability and reliability.
FAQs
Can A GPS Dog Tracker Be Harmful To Your Pet’s Health?
Are you concerned about the safety of GPS dog trackers? In the UK, these devices are a popular choice for pet owners wanting to keep their dogs safe. They track your dog’s location, potentially saving their life if they get lost. But, have you ever wondered if these trackers could harm your pet?
As a dog owner, ensuring your pet’s safety is your priority, starting from puppy-proofing your home. To further safeguard your dog, you might consider a GPS tracking collar. These collars provide real-time location updates, offering peace of mind if your dog wanders off. However, they use cellular technology to transmit data. That means your pet tracker is like having a cell phone attached to your dog 24/7. Is this safe? According to the National Library of Medicine, exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields from pet tracking devices should not be a concern for pet owners.
Studies have raised concerns about prolonged cell phone usage, linking it to various health risks. If using a cell phone for an hour is concerning, imagine a device constantly attached to your dog. Currently, there’s no extensive research on the health impacts of GPS collars on pets.