As more dog owners choose to bring their dogs wherever they go, either on hunts or outdoor activities, the chances of losing the dog increase. This explains the huge market growth and popularity of the best dog gps tracker and dog GPS collars.
This dog tracking technology has been proven to be useful in finding the location of your pet. In fact, many pets have already been rescued using this GPS tracker. There is a plethora of GPS trackers in the market to choose from.
Even though many dogs are lost every year, one of the most recent studies conducted by ASPCA found that a surprisingly low number of pets are reported as lost. The study also found that dogs with GPS chips and collars were more likely to be located when lost.
Dr. Emily Weiss, ASPCA’s animal behaviorist advised owners that the best chance they have to locate lost dogs is when pets are wearing identification tags or dog GPS collars, or are microchipped.
In this detailed article, I will take an extensive look at what dog GPS collars and trackers really are, what types of dog GPS trackers exist, which ones are designed for what purpose, what does science say in terms of how effective best GPS collars for dogs are, and we’ll review some of the top rated best dog gps tracker and collars, as well as compare their features and pricing.
What are the best dog gps tracker and collars?
Collar-mounted Global Positioning Systems (GPS) trackers and loggers have gone through a big change over the last decade, and now professionals, scientist and casual dog owners alike are often using them.
There are two types of GPS trackers for dogs:
- Subscription-based GPS trackers that can be attached to a dog’s collar
- Specially designed dog GPS collars with a receiver with no subscription plans
Neither one dog GPS tracker type is better than the other; they are designed for separate purposes.
There are also two ways how a best dog gps tracker may function: GSM-based (cellular) GPS trackers and Radio-based trackers. Both of these options are very popular, but they’re normally used for different reasons. Cellular GPS trackers for dogs are often used with subscription-based technology, and radio GPS trackers for dogs are most common for independent GPS collars for dogs that function on their own.
Cellular dog GPS trackers are the new technology that will usually work by communicating the receiver’s (your dog’s) location to your phone. They are most often used for “casual” tracking of dogs. These devices have many cute features (useful to some) but have a low range for tracking and are less reliable. They are cheaper to buy from the get go, but you’ll have to pay a monthly subscription (from $39/mo to $150/mo).
Radio dog GPS collars are a more serious tracking devices that have been originally designed for hunting with dogs or tracking wild animals. They have the highest range, some going for miles and miles like certain walkie-talkies, and are the most reliable way for tracking dogs. These GPS trackers do not require any subscriptions, but they are expensive to purchase (anywhere from $200 to upwards of $1,000 per device).
All in all, cellular dog GPS trackers may be more applicable for dog owners in the city where there are no issues with cellular connections. If you’re planning to go to a farm, to a forest, hiking, camping, hunting or whatnot, it’s best to stick to radio dog GPS collars since they do not require any cellular connection.
How effective best dog gps tracker really are?
The popularity growth of GPS trackers for dogs made professionals and scientists take a closer look at this technology, and study them extensively. Tons of research papers and studies (this, this, this, this and this) were performed on how these GPS trackers work with dogs as well as other animals and wildlife.
In short, most good quality, rated best dog gps tracker and collars are extremely effective. Further research (this, this, this, this and this) into animal GPS systems, including dog GPS collars, has shown immense promise for how effective these devices can be for both professionals and casual dog owners.
Radio GPS collars for dogs in particular have gained a great reputation among hunters, scientists and animal behaviorists. Several well-known brands (e.g. Garmin, SportDOG, Marco Polo) who are also known for manufacturing best electronic dog training collars, have perfected the technology and signal accuracy.
This buying guide will help you find out all the possible options for your dogs. Read on for more of the roundup of the top-rated GPS locators in the market.
Top 7 Best Dog GPS Tracker Comparison
1. Garmin PT10 Dog Device Red Collar Review
Best Dog GPS Tracker By Garmin PT10
The Garmin PT10 is the best dog GPS tracker that demonstrates versatility. You can use it even in wet conditions because of its stainless steels created with insulated points to provide ultimate comfort.
The built-in BarkLimiter of this tracker is integrated with the Advanced Bark Correction Technology for more convenience and efficacy. The BarkLimiter is used as a correction device equipped with the Tri-Tronics technology. It is used to measure the number of your dog’s barks, and it decreases fall corrections.
The BarkLimiter uses the vibration on the throat of the dog for him to realize it’s a barking or just scratching of the throat. The frequency can go as far as 1 mile with 27MHz frequency.
According to best dog GPS tracker reviews, the Garmin PT10 can work for both PRO 70 and PRO 550. You can even train up to 6 dogs as you like with this dog collar device and It also includes LED beacon lights for easier visibility. This is most useful if you have to perform a night-time search for your dog.
When you buy the Garmin PT10, it comes with ¾” red collar strap and a charging clip for convenience. An AC adapter is also included in the pack together with the contact point set. To make it easier for you, a manual is included.
Most of the users praise this dog gas because of its ability to sync efficiently with the system. It can also notify you if it’s working or not through a flashing -green light. The best thing about it is that it can go running up to three days after charging.
2. Dynotag Web/GPS Enabled QR Smart Mini Fashion Review
Best Dog GPS Tracker By Dynotag Web/GPS enabled QR Smart
The Dynotag QR Smart is probably the best dog GPS tracker of all time because of its mod-cons inclusions. This is powered by the web and every Dynotag of QR Smart has an allotted web page for it.
As long as there is an internet connection, this dog tracker can work perfectly well. You can do it on any device that supports web browsers. In fact, smartphones are no longer needed to make it work. Wherever you are in the globe, you can benefit from this GPS tracker.
You won’t have any problems in maintaining it because it is made to be very durable. This dog tracker is waterproof so you can rely on it even during rainy days. The device is shock proof and there are no electronics in its tag.
This is one of the best in the market because of its full functionality. In fact, it already reached its Gold level when it comes to functionality. You will also love the fact that the subscription to Dynotag QR Smart system has a lifetime offer.
One of its primary features is the simplicity of activation. All you need to do is to create an account and click the‘’Activate Tag’’ button. After the activation, it’s all set to be used. You can also set the password to heighten up the security of your account.
The material of this tracker is made up of a synthetic plastic. To add to its durability, it is laminated so you can use it whether it’s rainy or sunny. The mini-tags are secured and can deliver full functionality.
3. Tractive GPS Pet Tracker Review
Best Dog GPS Tracker By Tractive
The best dog gps tracker from Tractive that can track your dog using real time settings. All you need to do is to attach it to your dog’s collar and you can start tracking where he is heading as well as his current distance from your location.
The good thing about this product is that you could check the location of your dog through your smartphone. To make it easier for you to find your dog, the GPS tracker is created with an integrated light to make him seen even in the dark.
This tracker also allows you to fence areas where your dog might have been. Aside from this, there is an option for the power saving mode for a longer battery life. It sets the device to receive a periodic set of notification and updates.
Another good thing about the Tractive GPS tracker is that it is waterproof. You don’t need to worry if your dog is wearing it out in the field or if he suddenly plunges into a puddle of water. You also don’t need to pay anything to use the GPS system.
Another great news is that it can work for both Android and iOS platforms. You can track your dog’s location anytime just by using your smartphone. This is indeed one of the most convenient trackers in the market.
Compared to other GPS trackers today, Tractive GPS tracker delivers more accuracy and efficacy because of its live tracking capability. Other GPS locators in the market also have lower security features.
If your dog can’t resist having fun in the water, then this is the GPS tracker for your dog.
4. Whistle GPS Pet Tracker Review
Best Dog GPS Tracker By Whistle
If you are looking for the best solution to your tracking needs for your dog, then the Whistle GPS Pet Tracker is the best option for you. This is the best GPS dog tracker if you would like to track a lost pet as quickly as possible.
According to Whistle GPS reviews, if your pet is going to a Whistle zone, you will immediately receive a notification. It also allows you to track your dog through your smartphone. You can customize it using your home location and the area around it.
The fact that this locator uses GPS technology means that it has nationwide coverage. This is automatic whenever the device detects cell sites. Aside from this, you will get notifications or a text message if your dog is out of the Whistle area.
The best thing about the Whistle GPS Pet Tracker is that you can also keep up with your dog’s health. You will be able to keep track of all his activities the entire day. This way, you would know if there’s something wrong with your pet.
Just like other best dog GPS tracker, this is also very durable and waterproof. It can perfectly work whether it is a rainy day or sunny day. This tracker is recommended for dogs that weigh 15 lbs or above.
The application of this tracker can easily be downloaded in your smartphones and this makes it very famous among users. The users particularly praise the push notifications that are being sent consistently. Truly amazing and innovative products for your beloved pets.
5. Pet Monitoring/Tracking and Locating System Review
Best Dog GPS Tracker By Eureka Technology
The Eureka Technology monitoring system is a simple device used to track the location of your dog. With just a press of a button, this GPS locator can begin searching for your pet. It also provides the distance of your dog as well as the direction going there.
You can monitor up to 3 pets with this device with its simultaneous programs. You can customize the safety zones for each dog so you will be notified if they went out of the fence. You don’t need to have cell data to use this one.
When you buy this dog GPS system, it comes with a rechargeable lithium battery that only takes a couple of hours to get fully charged. You will be surprised to know that it can last up to 90 days of monitoring and tracking activities.
This self-contained GPS system has a collar tag for each dog. This makes it possible to carry out 24 hours of dog monitoring. The accessories include a charger and a collar tag to be used by your dog.
The tag has a unique way of securing the account of each dog. You will be ensured that it cannot be found somewhere else because it is created to be unique. Aside from this, the tags are provided to be waterproof, so it will not be a problem if your dog plunges in the puddle.
If you are looking for the best dog GPS tracker for finding wandering pets, then Eureka Pet Monitoring system is the best option for you.
6. Whistle Activity Monitor For Dogs Review
Best Dog GPS Tracker By Whistle Activity Monitor
First things. Many dog owners confuse dog activity monitors with dog GPS trackers or smart dog collars. While many of the best dog GPS trackers have activity monitors integrated into the technology, no dog activity monitor has the GPS capability.
Whistle is a popular brand, but it is NOT a GPS tracker for dogs. It’s an activity monitor for dogs, and I thought it deserves a quick mention in here due to its popularity, so that dog owners know exactly what they’re looking for.
Dog activity monitor from the famous company Whistle is designed the same way as Tractive and Tagg dog GPS trackers mentioned below in our list of best dog GPS collars. It’s a smartphone-based pet tracking device that will send different data to your phone about your dog’s daily behavior, long-term health trends and activity levels. Similarly to the GPS dog tracker from Tractive, Whistle’s dog tech device is mostly about monitoring activity than tracking your pet.
Whistle activity monitor for dogs has a bunch of useful features, including automatic updates and reports about how active your dog was on that day, and what kept your pooch busy. The device works with both Android and iOS operating systems, is very simple to set up using a mobile app and Internet or Bluetooth and allows to create a full profile of your dog. You can even use this thing as a communication hub in the family to connect with anybody who’s caring for your pet and is also using to track your dog’s activity.
With Whistle dog activity monitor out of the way, I hope you understand the difference between the two technologies, so let’s take a look at the best dog GPS tracker and collars.
7. Garmin Alpha 100 TT 15 Dog GPS Bundle Review
Best Dog GPS Tracker By Garmin Alpha 100 TT 15
GPS Technology: Radio (plus, GLONASS)
Subscription: No subscription needed
Range: 9 miles
Battery: 20-40 hours
How many dogs can it track: 20 dogs
Finally, the very best dog GPS tracker is the professional equipment from Garmin – Alpha 100 TT tracking device for pets. Prepare to fall in love with this dog GPS collar, and the company itself.
This very expensive yet very powerful tracking device will usually be useful for pet owners with many dogs who love to go out often, or for someone who’s running a dog business with multiple canines on the facility. Alpha 100 TT is not subscription based; it’s an independent dog technology with its own GPS tracker and will work perfectly no matter where you are.
Garmin Alpha 100 TT is the best dog GPS tracker by miles (literally, and figuratively). Out of all dog GPS trackers, this one can track the most dogs, has the largest range, is the only one with GLONASS tracking system to accompany GPS, has dog training collar features, as well as tons of others. It’s also made by the most popular, well-known and reliable GPS manufacturer on the planet, Garmin.
When purchasing Garmin Alpha 100 TT on Amazon, you also get 1-year free BirdsEye subscription service. This is an amazing tracking service that are often used by hunters and other professionals. It’s not essential for this dog GPS tracker to work; it simply further enhances your experience outdoors.
One of the coolest features is the vibration motor for silent alerts if you set it up to notify you whenever one or more dogs leave the safe zone. You also get a 2.6″ 65,000 color TFT display where you can track up to 20 dogs at once, and with a worldwide basemap with shaded relief you can do that anywhere, anytime with extreme ease.
Alpha 100 TT dog GPS tracker is by far the most expensive on the list, mostly due to its electronic dog training collar features. It’s designed for any type of dog owners: those who love to spend time outdoors, traveling and otherwise find ways to hang out with dogs, and for those with working dogs (possibly more than one) or with dog businesses. If you can afford this investment, you will hardly be disappointed in the functionality and reliability of this dog GPS tracker.
Best Dog GPS Tracker Buyes’r Guide
Why Buy The Best Dog GPS Tracker For Your Dog?
Admit it. One of the worst things that could happen to your pet dog is to lose him. They are like small children who have a tendency to wander on their own due to their mischievousness and curiosity.
There are a plethora of reasons why you must purchase a dog GPS system. Whether you have hunting dogs or pet dogs, the benefits of this GPS locator are remarkable. You would want to keep an eye on your beloved dog as much as possible.
The containment fence for your dog can set boundaries for your pet. This is important because it’s the only way of managing and controlling them where they go. You would also be able to detect and keep an eye on their behaviors.
Nowadays, technology is continuously improving so the best tracking device for dogs can surely locate your dog wherever they are. It is necessary to invest on a good GPS collar because you can use them for a longer period and will surely be reliable in case of an emergency.
They are also recommended in training your dogs and you can choose to use it simultaneously if you want to. The problem here is how to choose the best locator for your dog. You need to consider a lot of things like the price and features.
1) Buying Expensive Dog Collar – You might be wondering if it’s better to buy high-quality dog collars with GPS for your pooch than purchasing a GPS Tracker. The answer to this question still depends on the cost of the GPS collar system depends on the brands, the quality, and the mod-coms included. though you can get a decent one without hurting your pocket.
2) Investing for the long term use – It is recommended to get a dog GPS tracker that you can use in the long run. You might want to get a collar that has great features for detecting and locating pets quickly. It is also advisable to get a collar that has real time updates.
There are many good finds in the market but make sure that they are worth your money. Remember that it is wiser to invest on something that will last longer despite its price.
Things to Consider
It is of utmost importance to pay attention to the important features of dog GPS tracker. If you are looking for the best product, then you should be keen on details.
1) Main Feature of the best dog GPS tracker– One of the most important features to look for is the ability of the GPS tracker to regularly update data. As a dog owner, you will surely like to have a device that has real-time updates and notifications about the whereabouts of your dog.
The time interval is one of the most important things to consider. It is important to make sure that your pet is in the exact place where the device is located. You need to ensure that your GPS locator will produce accurate results.
2) Subscription – Dog GPS trackers can be independent locators or used along with your smartphones. If you prefer the smartphone-based GPS tracker, then you should take note that the quality of data that you will receive solely depends on the type of smartphone that you have.
If you would like an independent tracker, you don’t need to pay any subscription fee. All you need to do is to pay once and you can use it for a lifetime. Determine which category will work for your needs.
You can also choose a plan depending on your budget. Some GPS locators give you the option to get a monthly plan or quarterly post-paid plan.
3) The Device – You also need to consider if the GPS tracker is comfortable to be worn. Some dogs feel burned by large collars. Make sure the weight and the size fits your dog. It is critical to consider their comfort first.
Another thing to think of is the outer covering of the device. Make sure that it is entirely waterproof so you can still use it even on rainy days. Also, make sure that it is shock-proof for the safety of your dog.
4) The Application – It is important to consider if the dog GPS locator can give off real time updates. It would be best if your device can send push notifications in the text message so you can get updated anywhere you go.
If you prefer smartphone-based GPS locator, it is recommended to make use of a reliable app that can be synchronized with your smartphone. In this way, all the data will inevitably be transmitted without delays and other technical issues.
5) Other Services Offered – In all the products that you will buy, make sure that your device is covered by warranty. It is also critical to check if the maker of the Dog GPS Tracker offers great after-sales service. This will come in handy when there is a technical concern.
Some GPS trackers have additional mod-cons that are sought after in the market. One of these other features is the customizable safe zone for your dog. In this way, you can get updated on the exact location of your dog.
In order to maximize the benefits of these GPS locators, you should look for a device that best fits your area’s strength of signal. It is also advisable to consider the weather condition in your area.
Conclusion
GPS tracker for dogs are advantageous for dog owners who have paws that are always wandering. If you find yourself as one of these owners, then it’s time to search for the best dog gps tracker.
There are different kinds of trackers that you could choose from. You can always sync them with your PC or smartphone. Aside from GPS locators, there is radios monitoring system. Radio tracking trackers are primarily used for hunting dogs.
The Tractive GPS system is highly recommended because of the real-time monitoring system. The features are incomparable to other ordinary GPS tracking system because it has many additional features that make monitoring more convenient.
Aside from this reason, the control system can give real-time updates and notifications. It can also detect the behavior of your dog. It can provide information on the health status of your dog. Indeed, GPS trackers for dog are active and viable ways of tracking your dogs.
