Best GPS Dog Collars Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Marianne
Vlatko
In the past, dog owners had to rely on an ID tag in hopes that their furry family member would return home safely should they become lost. With these products, technology has brought about a better option. They are widely available, affordable, and worth the investment.These products work well in finding missing or stolen dogs. The American Humane Association has estimated that more than 10 million dogs (or cats) are either lost or stolen each year in the U.S. However, those estimates can be much higher as many lost or stolen dogs go unreported. In many of the cases where a dog safely returned home, a tracker was involved in their rescue.You love your dogs, and your dog’s love you, but sometimes they decide to go off on an adventure. In this article, we researched the best options to ensure you keep them close by your side.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 13 hrs of research
Easy to activate
Extremely lightweight
Amazing battery life
Can be used to track numerous dog devices
Compatible with iOS and Android phones
No need for a base station
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Whistle 3 -
Tractive
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Trackimo TRKM002
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Garmin Alpha 100
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Garmin Astro 320 T5
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Link AKC Smart
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SportDOG Brand TEK 2.0
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Tag Plus
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PETCARE Tracker
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Nuzzle Pet Activity
- Criteria Used for Evaluation
- Other Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
10 Best GPS Dog Collars
1. Whistle 3
Easy to activate
Extremely lightweight
Amazing battery life
Can be used to track numerous dog devices
Compatible with iOS and Android phones
No need for a base station
Whistle 3 GPS tracker deletes tracked information after 24 hours
The Whistle 3 comes with fast and accurate tracking by using Global Positioning, cellular service, and Wi-Fi technology, so your dog gets lost you can find them within minutes. It uses the best technology to determine your dog's location anywhere in the U.S. using the country’s largest network. This product requires you to subscribe to its services every month to be able to work.
Read moreHow it works
The Whistle 3 sends you email or text message notifications whenever your dog leaves their safe zone before they get too far away. With Whistle 3, you can set multiple safe zones to keep tabs on your dog from where you are and get text alerts when they get out. It can be where you live, your vacation home, the dog sitter and so on.
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It also allows you to monitor your dog’s activities daily and also tracks how many times it took a nap the whole day to keep the dog in great shape for their age, breed, and weight.
Cost and Value
The Whistle 3 tracker comes at a reasonable price. It is not too expensive, making it affordable for most people. This is one of the best trackers; even though it lacks some attributes, we like it from rivals, such as the Link AKC's data storage for outdoor adventures and advanced activity tracking.
2. Tractive
The Tractive is AA
The device is lightweight
You can receive alerts by text message in case your dog goes out of the safe zone
Compatible with Windows smartphones, iOS, and Android
Depends on cell service A service fee is required every month
You must recharge the non-removable batteries
Consumers have complained about the not long lasting battery life
Tractive tracker is one of the best choices if you are a dog owner who lives in the city or outskirts and you own a dog who often wanders around. This device attaches firmly to almost all devices and contains a SIM card that's built-in; it lets track the dog from your computer or cell.
Read moreReal Time
Tractive real-time track mode allows you to follow where the dog has journeyed, and where he is going. You can likewise introduce a safe region with the Tractive through the application and get a text if the dog leaves the safe zone.
Cell tower use
The only downside of this tracker is that you must be in the vicinity of a cell tower for the Tractive to function and you will also need to pay a service fee monthly.
Cost and Value
This is not expensive. If you cannot afford the other expensive options in this review, then the Tractive is an excellent choice for you. Though some customers complained about battery life, overall it is a very good choice for tracking your dog’s location. It is affordable and lightweight.
3. Trackimo TRKM002
Comes with a reasonable price
Easy to set up and activate
Extremely lightweight and compact
Amazing battery life
Compatible with Android and iOS phones
It uses batteries that can be recharged
Might work unwell secluded areas as it depends on cellular services
Some customer complained that tracking is not precise
Trackimo also depends on cell service and will require a service fee every month. As Trackimo depends on cell service, it is not the best for secluded zones. But if you are a dog owner who lives where there is good cell service, Trackimo is a great choice for pets that tend to wander around.
Read morePerks
The first year after the purchase is free, but you have to pay for the second year every month. The Trackimo comes with an SOS button, in case of emergency.
Notifications
You can set up a safe zone fencing perimeter, and whenever your pet crosses them you will get notified immediately. Comes with smart alerts, which notifies you of your change in location and speed limit.
Cost and Value
The Trackimo comes at a reasonable price. It is not too expensive, so almost everyone can afford to get one. Apart from the fact that it uses cell service, Trackimo is one of the best. It is durable, reliable, lightweight and affordable.
4. Garmin Alpha 100
Does not need to be connected with cellular service or pay service fees
The battery life of the Garmin Alpha is up to 25 hours and can extend to 45 when in rescue mode
It can be used for multiple dogs (tracking only)
Waterproof
It uses rechargeable batteries
It comes with a year warranty
Expensive
Can be a bit large for some dogs
Takes time to learn how it works
The Alpha GPS TT is great if you own more than one dog that and you want to track their movements. This waterproof option combines global positioning and Tri-Tronics technology that uses up to 18 levels of tracking and continuous and brief stimulation.
Read moreKeeping your pet safe
The Alpha 100 also allows you to set up virtual boundaries for your dogs to keep them away from danger. It is not necessary to wait until your dog gets lost or in jeopardy before you recover him. Once the dog strays out of the boundary you set, the Garmin Alpha alerts you so you can call him back.
Dependable
The Alpha also doesn't depend on cell service to work, so it’s a great option for dog owners who live in secluded zones. The handheld receiver comes with a color display and a TOPO U.S. 100K maps and even shows you each dog’s speed.
Cost and Value
The Alpha is expensive, so if you are thinking of getting one for your dog, you have to think twice. This is a great choice for dog owners who love their dogs and will do anything to keep them safe. Though very expensive, the Alpha is worth every dime you spend on it.
5. Garmin Astro 320 T5
20 h battery life (and up to 30 hours of use when in rescue mode)
Waterproof
Possess a vibration awareness in case your dog leaves your chosen safe zone
It uses lithium batteries which are rechargeable
Not appropriate for small dogs
The 320 is one of the finest options in this review. Even though it is primarily advertised for dogs used for sports, the 320 is a great option for enthusiastic campers, hikers and for people who live on huge, secluded farms.
Read moreDependable
One of the major selling points of the Astro is that it is an independent unit that does not depend on cell service. This item is waterproof and has a durable, modifiable antenna (made of steel), which communicates your dog’s location every 5 secs to the handheld receiver with you.
Signal and Display
The signal of the tracker is sufficient to keep track of your dog’s location even in heavy covered places. The receiver that will be with you has a 2.6" display in color; this allows you to see your dog’s present location and a trace of his path.
Cost and Value
It is expensive but worth every penny. If you are a low-income earner, it is better to look for another alternative which can also be found in this article. But if you can afford it, then you won’t regret buying it.
6. Link AKC Smart
Durable
Long battery life
You get notified once your dog leaves your safe zone
It comes with a year warranty
High-quality leather
LED night light
A bit expensive
It is bulky
The Link AKC is an elegant device that mounts on your dog's device to track its fitness, location, and even ambient temperature. This is a classy option aimed for the comfort of your dog, fashion, and fit. It allows you to track as well as monitor the dog’s activities, and receive temperature alerts when your dog gets too cold or hot.
Read moreMembership
The Link AKC application allows you to be more active in handling your dog's safety and to be more connected with your dog even when you're distant. Link AKC memberships are required to activate the tracking unit and have the complete feature functionality of the application. The application is available for Android and iOS smartphones.
Conclusion
The Link AKC is one of the best in so many ways; it comes with an advanced activity tracking and a. The downside though, is that it requires a base station, which is somewhat cumbersome.
Cost and Value
Despite the fact that the Link AKC thoroughly tracks the location of your dog and its activities, it is quite expensive compared to other devices in this review.
7. SportDOG Brand TEK 2.0
Can be used to track numerous dog collars
You can receive text messages or email alerts if your dog leaves his safe zone
Compatible with iOS and Android phones
It uses lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged
Comes with a year warranty
Very expensive
With the introduction of Bluetooth capability, dog owners can get real-time audible voice updates on their dogs' locations through a Bluetooth-compatible earpiece which you have to purchase separately. Simply put, no other GPS system allows you to hunt and navigate with such confidence.
Read moreImproved Technology
This tracking device comes with a new look technology, SportDog improved the technology game by introducing the TEK 2.0.The TEK 2.0 technology exceeds all other tracking devices on the market regarding range, accuracy, and reliability. The preloaded maps keep you on course while the system delivers feedback on your dog’s location.
Features and specifications
Ranges up to 10 miles by the use of HopTek technology
Bluetooth compatible
You get to receive voice updates directly to your earpiece which you need to buy separately
Comes with preloaded maps
Free, indefinite map updates
Waterproof
Lithium-ion batteries which can be recharged
Cost and Value
Because the SportDog is one of the best, if not the best, it comes at a very high price. If you are planning to get one of these for your dog, expect to pay a lot.
8. Tag Plus
Lightweight
Durable and water resistant
The battery of the Tag Plus last for over 40 hours in rescue mode
The Android application is known to crash
The whole tracking system is affordable but comes with a monthly service fee. This uses advanced location tracking and the largest wireless network in the nation to find your dog wherever they go.
Read moreAdded Benefits
The Tag Plus comes with an air temperature sensor that protects your dog from extreme temperatures. This device monitors your dog’s surroundings and notifies you when they get too hot or too cold.
Apps
In addition to normal tracking, Tag Plus comes with numerous useful applications for Android phones and iPhones such as maps and directions, activity, text and email alerts, and health monitors.
Cost and Value
Tag Plus is not expensive despite it being of high quality. It is affordable even for the lower income earners. It is lightweight and durable; it keeps track of your dog activities. Great for those looking for a basic yet very functional product.
9. PETCARE Tracker
Petcare is durable
Long battery life
You get notified, once your dog leaves your safe zone
It comes with a year warranty
Keep track of your dog’s activities
Schedule when to give your dog its medications
Social networking for pet owners
Not water resistant
Petcare is an elegant device that mounts on your dog's unit to track its fitness, location, and even ambient temperature. Petcare is a classy option aimed for the comfort, fashion, and fit of your dog.
Read moreDoes just about everything
It permits you to track a lost dog with GPS, monitor the dog’s activities, and receive temperature alerts when your dog gets too cold or hot.
Stay connected
Petcare application if used with the smart collar helps you take a more conversant and active role in handling your dog's safety and to feel connected to your dog even when you're distant from each other.
Cost and Value
The Petcare is not expensive. If you cannot afford the other expensive options in this review, then this is an excellent choice for you.
10. Nuzzle Pet Activity
Does not need to be connected with cellular service or pay service fees
Ranges up to 10 feet
Nuzzle collar is waterproof
Affordable
No maps
Nuzzle is a cutting-edge device that locates your dog and tracks their activities and habits using general cellular coverage at no extra cost to you. Simultaneous 3G connectivity correctly pinpoints your dog's location to within 10 feet so that even when your dog is out of sight, they are never out of reach.
Read moreStop the wonder
Ever wonder what your dogs are doing when they are not in sight? With the Nuzzle application, you will get real-time updates on your dog's location and activities for the whole day. The low profile design of the Nuzzle comfortably fits large and small dogs. You can also design it the way you want.
The difference
Unlike other products, Nuzzle does not require any service fee whatsoever, be it monthly or yearly because the manufacturers believe nothing should come between you and your dog, especially a fee.
Cost and Value
The Nuzzle is a great choice for most dog owners who don’t want to spend big. Though Nuzzle cannot be compared to some of the products in this review, it is still a great choice for dog owners.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Durability
When purchasing these items, one of the significant things you should have in mind is the durability. A good product should be hit resistant. Dogs are playful animals, thereby liable to hit the item on hard surfaces. Also, it must be waterproof. There are times when you take your dog for adventures or a walk, and it starts to rain. If the device is not waterproof, it is certain to get damaged.
Value
The price of these devices is also one of the criteria used in evaluating them. We have selected the best ones based on their price. You might find some of the options in this review to be expensive, but they are of the highest quality.
Weight
It must be as light as possible, so the dog won’t feel uncomfortable when attached to their neck. Rest assured, the products we have picked are lightweight. A lightweight device gives your dog the confidence to move about and play without any hindrance.
Effectiveness
The best options on the market today give your dog the opportunity to move around, while some restrict your dog’s movement to as little as 5 feet. The main purpose of the tracking device is to give your dog the freedom to play around. So, a device that restricts their movement is not good for their happiness or their overall health.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Durability Value Weight Effectiveness 
This is rather apparent; nevertheless, the size of a dog’s collar is one of the most ignored features. Dog owners tend to buy either a small or large option for their dogs. Having the right size for your dog is essential because wrong sized devices are one of the leading causes of injury to dogs today. A unit that is too tight prevents circulation of blood around the neck region, and the warm temperature encourages bacterial growth, which may lead to infection of the dog’s skin.
Another important factor to consider is the type of technology used. The kind of technology used by dog tracking devices is not the same. In the past, dog trackers used radio technology. That sort of technology provided a fast response as soon as you are in range; the downside of this technology though is that you have to be in that precise range so as to locate the position of your dog.
Other Factors to Consider
Features
As time goes by, these products continue to have several additional features due to the manufacturers need to satisfy their customers as well as the competition to produce the best. However, you should be able to classify what features matter most to you and your dog. There are options that are medicated to kill bugs, but sometimes the medication is too much that it can cause problems for the dog’s skin when worn for lengthy periods of time. Another issue for new dog owners is that they consider the visual appeal as part of the best features. It isn’t rare to see a toy dog putting on an oversized device because their owners consider it pretty. That adorable instant can give rise to injuries which could have been stopped if they decided on the proper dog device.
Battery Life
The battery life of the tracking device is an important feature we used in evaluating the best devices. It should have a long-lasting battery to ensure it remains operational should your dog wander or is stolen.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How many dogs can it track at a time?
Some can track as many as 20 dogs at a time, but this feature is available only for the best devices. Not all can track that much.
q: Do they come with maps?
Yes, most trackers come with maps. However, some might not possess this feature.
q: Is it waterproof?
While most are waterproof, it’s important to read the features that come with the specific product you purchase.
