Back in 2018, I lost my dog, while walking off-leash in the park. Fortunately, he had a GPS dog tracker. Unfortunately, it was a cheap TK Star tracking collar that was easy to break and extremely inaccurate. The good news is that Steve was found the same day in the evening. His GPS collar was broken, while the app showed me he was 40 miles away. I don’t want any dog owner to feel this. I felt so stupid and irresponsible.
Being a certified electric engineer, I decided to do big research on dog trackers that you can buy in 2023.
Out of 32 dog GPS devices, I picked only ten that are worth spending your money on. I was terrified of how bad some of the devices were! So, just having a GPS dog tracker will not solve the problem of losing your pup! BUT having a reliable and accurate pet tracker will definitely help you. I’ll cover everything you need to know in this article. Then, you can pick the GPS-tracking collar that works the best for you and your dog.
Click here to skip straight to the full list for more details.
Due to ongoing shortages and the global crisis of electronic parts, some of these dog GPS trackers might not be in stock. If you see it available and decide you want it, I would recommend buying it as soon as you can.
*This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, Technobark earns a commission at no extra cost to you.
What Dog Trackers Did We Test?
To make our list of the TOP-10 pet trackers in 2023, our team has tested and reviewed 32 pet GPS trackers. The bold ones made the list.
- Fi Smart Dog Collar (read our full review)
- Apple Airtag (read here why you SHOULD NOT it as a pet GPS tracking system)
- Findster Duo+ (read our full review)
- SportDOG Brand TEK Series GPS Dog Tracking System
- Garmin Alpha 100 Dog Tracking System (read our full review)
- DOTT Smart Dog GPS Tag* (read our full review)
- Link AKC Smart Collar (read our full review)
- Tractive Pet GPS Tracker (read our full review)
- Yandog Collar Pet Tracker* (read our full review)
- Whistle Switch (read our full review)
- Garmin Astro 430/T 5 Dog Tracking Bundle (read our full review)
- Trackimo (read our full review)
- Dogtra Pathfinder tracking e-collar (read our full review)
- Black & Decker GPS Tracking Collar*
- Garmin PT10 Dog GPS Collar
- Halo 2 Collar (read our full review)
- SpotOn Collar (read our full review)
- Tagg GPS Dog Tracker (Tagg was bought out by Whistle)
- Pawscout Pet Tag
- Tile Mate Dog Tag (read our full review)
- PETBIZ Real-Time Dog Locator
- Garmin Alpha 200i Dog Tracking Handheld (read our full review)
- Mocoe Smart Dog GPS Tag*
- Kingneed V30* (my anti-recommendation)
- TK Star Tracking GPS Collar (my anti-recommendation)
- Garmin Astro 900
- goTele dog GPS collar*
- Marco Polo Pet Tracking System (read our full review)
- Wagz Smart Collar with GPS tracking (read our full review)
- Cube GPS Tracker for dogs (read our full review)
- Tristar Hangang Pet GPS Tracker* (my anti-recommendation)
*Company has either gone out of business or isn’t currently making GPS collars for dogs.
Our criteria for picking the best dog gps tracker
The criteria for picking the best dog tracker were tracking range, functionality, battery life, cost, subscription price, and product support. We also asked people’s opinions on dog owner forums. There were so many manufacturers who failed at customer service and got many awful reviews from previous users.
Also, based on my electrical engineering experience in the past, I was able to disassemble and check what was inside dog trackers.
I know, there are too many dog tracking collars to choose from. A tracker that fits your lifestyle comes to a forever together good relationship with your dog. Based on our research, the best GPS dog trackers in 2023 are:
Table could not be displayed.Types of Dog GPS Trackers
Bluetooth/Radio
Radiofrequency (RF), a data transmission tech based on radio waves, is a technology that has a wider signal coverage. Bluetooth tracker, a type of radiofrequency (RF), is an open wireless tech for transmitting location data over short distances only.
These are older types of dog tracking systems. They may not be as effective as the newer ones as these radio dog trackers can only provide info about your dog’s distance and general direction. It doesn’t give you their real-time position. Another downside is that weather can weaken the locating functionality of the radio dog tracking collars.
The advantages are that they can locate your dogs for up to 5 miles, are great for remote areas, and can operate even without access to GPS satellites or cell sites.
Long & Short Range
These types of pet trackers rely on RFID or Bluetooth trackers. They send signals from your dog’s collar to a tracking device or a smartphone app. Short/long-range trackers are perfect for dog owners who live in large indoor facilities, like apartments. They’re also great for those who have smaller dogs that cannot carry larger and heavier GPS pet trackers comfortably.
One of the downsides is that these can only send distance and directional info of your dog. This means that these devices can only tell you that your dog is 80 yards east of your location, for example.
GPS
GPS or Global Positioning System is a radio navigation system that is one of the GNSS or Global Navigation Satellite Systems that sends time and geolocation information to any GPS receiver anywhere on Earth that is not obstructed to the line of sight of a constellation of GPS satellites.
This means that this is a better and more effective type of tracking technology for your dogs than the first two because this uses a more advanced technology that can better locate them at a further range, especially in cases where they get lost.
The downside of using GPS dog collars is that it drains the battery life of the device faster when activated. Another downside is that it usually requires a monthly or yearly subscription to be able to activate the GPS. We included these factors when compiling our list of the best dog trackers.
Real-time
LIVE or real-time dog tracking means that a GPS dog tracker sends the location info at a high frequency at a consistent rate. This is the best type of dog GPS tracker because it offers real-time or live updates of your dog’s location every couple or few seconds, with more accuracy and efficiency.
One of the downsides is that it drains more battery power when in use as it constantly sends live location updates to your device so you might need to recharge the battery constantly. Another is those pet trackers that offer real-time tracking systems can be more expensive than those not offering this feature. They might also require cellular data plans for GPS real-time tracking.
No cell service pet trackers
No cell service dog trackers are devices that do not require cellular networks to locate your dogs (it’s mostly Garmin collars). So if your dog gets lost or goes past your dedicated safe zone, you will still be able to track their movements and pinpoint their location. This is a feature that many dog owners might want to have in their dog’s GPS tracking system, most especially if you are the type to go on off-grid adventures with your dog.
Advantages Of GPS Dog Trackers
GPS pet trackers can save your dog’s life and give you peace of mind for a safe outdoor experience for your dogs. In the unlikely event that your dog escaped from your house, you have the tool in your hands to search and potentially find them immediately, rather than having to stress yourself while searching for them in the streets by yourself.
GPS dog trackers can easily and accurately pinpoint the location of your dog and instantly see that information through their apps. Not only that, but GPS dog collars will also ping you instantly whenever your dog goes over the designated virtual fences or safe zones that you chose for them. Some of them could even be used as a GPS fence.
Some dog GPS collars feature activity tracking which then can help inform you more about the behavior of your dogs and also the levels and duration of activities they do during the day. We want our dogs to stay healthy and at the same time, we would want to have something to check on them and their habits. And such devices nowadays can give you so much information about their travel paths, how many steps they took while taking walks, the distance traveled during such walks, the duration of their sleep, and many more.
This information can also make it much easier for their vet to gauge their health during a regular visit but most especially in case they get sick, as such data can also be vital to the diagnosis and treatment of your dog’s illness.
Disadvantages Of GPS Dog Trackers
There are also some disadvantages of GPS tracking devices for dogs.
Some GPS pet trackers are quite expensive. However, it is best to check out the features that they offer first before not considering buying one. Sometimes, the features absolutely justify the higher price tag.
Most companies that sell GPS pet trackers also require you to pay monthly subscription fees in order to use some of the features their GPS devices offer.
10 Best Dog GPS Trackers In 2023 based on consumer ratings, reports, and personal experience
And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for (or not, if you skipped ahead)! Here are my picks for the best of the best!
SpotOn GPS Collar and Fence System
First, before we go any further, I just want to mention two things. #1, as of 3/10/23, the SpotOn GPS Fence is now $1295 instead of $1500. Second, if you use the coupon code BARK for $100 off! That brings it down to $1195.
Okay, so honestly, if you ONLY need a GPS collar and don’t really need a whole fence system, then SpotOn may be a bit much (both in terms of price and features). However, if you want something that contains your dog so he doesn’t get lost in the first place, tracks him if he does manage to break free of his leash during walks, and even helps you train your pooch, then SpotOn is a tremendously awesome collar.
With SpotOn collar, you can quickly and easily create and maintain up to 20 totally unique fences in areas ranging from 0.5 to 1,000 acres. With four satellite navigation systems and patented True Location™ GPS technology, it’s one of the most accurate GPS dog-tracking devices.
The SpotOn GPS collar continuously tracks your dog’s location and direction so you always know where your pet is thanks to its connection to 25-30 satellites.
Another cool feature, especially for hikers, SpotOn has a Forest mode that enhances GPS reception in areas with lots of trees. Also, SpotOn dog fence collars have 30 levels of static correction. With proper training, you can set it at an extremely low level so that it doesn’t hurt your dog when he gets too close to his boundaries.
As with anything, there are a few drawbacks. First, you need a subscription to take advantage of all of the features. That’s pretty common with all GPS collars, but Spot On’s subscription is one of the pricier options for a dog tracker. I HIGHLY recommend going with a 2-year subscription because it’s almost half the price of a month-to-month plan.
Second, SpotOn virtual fence system requires a cell phone if you want to actually track your pup. I don’t think that’s such a huge “con” though because honestly, nearly everything requires a smartphone and an app these days.
For a more in-depth look at the pros and cons, read my detailed SpotOn collar review here and make sure to get it from the official website only to avoid scammers and resellers. Don’t forget to use the SpotOn coupon code BARK at checkout!
Fi Smart GPS Dog Collar
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Fi smart dog collar is my personal favorite for daily use and I use it to track my 4 dogs for years. It is been the best dog GPS tracker for many years until Tractive upgraded its GPS collar. Now, considering the price (Fi Series 2 costs $150, while Tractive is only $49 from the official website), I would probably pick Tractive.
However, Fi has just released a new Series 3 collar that I recently ordered and tested. It is 50% smaller, stronger, and more resistant, and gives you better coverage across the US. It has some upgrades and they decreased the cost from $150 to $100 but check the current price on the official website (you can see it once added to the cart).
Location accuracy and battery life (it works for 3 months even after a few years of use) are the best among all the dog trackers on the list and these are crucial factors for every dog owner. It is available in small to extra-large sizes and in yellow, grey, blue, and pink band colors for the collar.
With these aesthetic choices, you can definitely choose a collar that is perfect for your dog’s needs and personality. The collar’s GPS tracking feature is superb as it uses three constellations of satellites to track down your dog’s exact location. It also allows the dog’s GPS tracking to be fast and accurate and can track within a 7ft radius in an open sky. No surprise it’s the best GPS collar on the list, right?
Real-time tracking of your dog’s location is also possible with this dog GPS tracker! Fi collar also has its own app which lets the dog owner see the exact coordinates of the dog when tracking and will show the last whereabouts of the dog if it went missing. The pet tracker itself is also waterproof and can even withstand ocean and salty water, it even has an IP68 Waterproof rating. This is perfect if you have a dog that is a beach and sea-lover.
Another feature is that it is resistant to dirt and is bite-resistant since the collar has an armored aluminum faceplate and reinforced metal armor. Buyers (including me) have said that this tracker has definitely helped them in locating their pet’s location when it got lost, ran away, and enjoyed the company of some animals, like deer.
Additionally, Fi’s sleeping tracker is another excellent feature that is beneficial to both dogs and owners.
With this new feature, you can monitor your dog’s sleeping pattern. The device will also notify you if there are any changes in your dog’s habits and if you should be alarmed by them.
Fi GPS collar has over 128 reviews on Chewy. Kelly Dug said:
This GPS collar works great. I love being able to track my dog’s exercise and know that I’d be able to find him if he were to ever run off. The battery life is also great. I get about 3-4 weeks on one single charge. This can very based on how often your dog is away from the charging base or your wifi network. Overall, I highly recommend this collar to all my friends.
Fi dog tracker is the best dog GPS collar for me and my personal choice on the list. In addition to that, my own dogs have been using this Fi Series 2 smart dog collar for years now and I am truly satisfied with it. Compared with other dog GPS trackers on the list, this tracker by Fi is a win-win with its price and quality. It is the best option to have so far if you are tight on a budget but looking for a high-quality one.
Tractive GPS Pet Tracker
Table could not be displayed.Tractive GPS pet tracker has been recently upgraded and it’s almost at the same level as Fi. I am currently testing it with my Jack Russel to see whether it lasts long because their previous GPS collar had battery issues after 12 months of use but Tractive claimed it’s been fixed. If you pick products based on the price/quality ratio, then Tractive is the best GPS dog collar on the market so far (well, with Fi Collar Series 3 release they are even now).
The Tractive dog tracker is small and weighs 35 grams (about 1.2 ounces). It can fit dogs weighing 9 lbs. or 45 kg. It is water-resistant and almost unbreakable when you go to the pool or take your dog to play on sandy beaches and in muddy soil. Tractive collar takes less than 2 hours to become fully charged. The battery usually lasts between four to seven days. I love Tractive since it’s cheaper than Fi, and also location accuracy is a little bit better.
There is a Geofence technology where you set an area and the tracker will alert you through your smartphone when your cute dog is out of your own yard. The chip inside this pet tracker frequently calculates your dog’s location and is updated on the app’s map every 2-3 secs. It will show you where your dog is in real-time. At night, the LED on the dog collar will help you to guard your canine companion further.
Tractive works in up to 150 countries operating 24/7. You don’t have to worry if you are flying overseas and you want to be sure that your pet is not leaving your house. It will be better if you will include your dog in your travels. For the US edition, the GPS dog collar comes with an integrated SIM card that will surely work anywhere in the United States. There are various options in the service plan to choose from, starting from $5 per month.
They sell their collar on both Amazon and Tractive, but I highly recommend getting this from the official website so you have an account that will be integrated with their app and have proper support.
Halo 2 GPS Smart Collar
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Halo exploded the smart collars market in 2020 when they released their device. It has been recently upgraded to Halo 2 model with more unique features for dog owners. It is an all-in-one device that could be used as a GPS dog tracking collar, smart fence, and many many more. This dog GPS collar can track the location of your dog within 10 feet with high accuracy and it comes with a 21-day training program! However, it is mostly used as a virtual fence for your dog.
It is extremely expensive because of all the extra features. If you are looking for a dog GPS tracking feature only, then skip this pet tracker. The price is $999 for the collar but there is a reason. Along with great GPS tracking, it also acts as a health monitor AND an invisible fence. I highly recommend checking our big review on the Halo 2 dog collar before buying it or checking the current price here (use the official website only to avoid scammers).
Garmin Alpha 200i Dog Tracking System
- Monitor up to 20 dogs at the same time
- Tracking range is up to 9 miles away (no cell coverage required)
- Preloaded maps
- Smart SOS alerts
- Battery life is up to 20 hours
- Monitor up to 20 dogs at the same time
- Tracking range is up to 9 miles away (no cell coverage required)
- Preloaded maps
- Smart SOS alerts
- Battery life is up to 20 hours
This is a long-range dog tracking system made by Garmin that is mostly used by hunters. It’s worth its money but if you are looking for a dog tracking collar for small hikes or daily walks there is no need to overpay and just get the Fi Collar which is 80% cheaper. Garmin 200i is one of a kind since it is a touchscreen, so it is easily navigable. Also, with the ray of sunlight since the running of dogs is usually made in daylight, Garmin claims that this smart tracker in readable even in direct stroke of sunlight. Same with other dog locator collars, you could add up multiple dogs to track their running time and distance simultaneously. I would say it’s the best dog tracker if you go hunting or hiking.
This could hold up to 20 dogs and could monitor their track up to 9 miles in range with an update of 2.5 seconds of interval per auto-update by using multiple global navigation satellite systems GPS and Galileo. It also has an Inreach satellite communication and the same with Garmin Alpha 100, once your dog escaped the safe zones designated by you, there will be an interactive SOS alert and it has a two-way messaging communication built in this smart tracker via the 100% global Iridium satellite network through an active satellite subscription is required.
Garmin Alpha 200i GPS dog collar also has preloaded TOPO active maps as well as direct-to-device Birdseye view satellite imagery and a built-in three-axis compass and barometric altimeter for better monitoring. If you have other Garmin GPS dog trackers as well, you could transfer location data between compatible Garmin devices too.
You might like the video where these guys are testing the Garmin 200i dog tracking device:
Garmin Astro 900 Dog Tracking Collar
Table could not be displayed.If you consider Garmin 200i too expensive and you want to stick to the Garmin brand, then this dog tracking collar is the best option price-wise.
If you are looking for something durable and fits your active dogs, the Garmin Astro 900 Dog Tracking Collar is an excellent choice. It is perfect for hunting and sports dogs. This gadget has the potential of tracking up to 20 dogs. This may be used in conjunction with T9 dog gadgets to fully leverage its 5-mile range. Even while your dogs are running, Astro 900 can detect the track they are following. The system broadcasts the position of each dog every 2.5 seconds.
Like other Garmin tracking collars, Astro 900 is evidently strong enough to withstand bumps and weather changes. The tracker can definitely keep up with your dog’s running pace. The device is also preloaded with TOPO mapping for the United States and southern Canada. It also includes a complimentary 1-year subscription to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery for improved location awareness. It also has a microSD card slot for storing additional mapping options.
Aside from the amazing tracking system and durable collar, another great feature of the Garmin Astro 900 that I like is the expanded connectivity options. The Astro 900 can share data with a range of compatible Garmin devices. Garmin DriveTrack, for example, can receive and display dog placements on its interactive map with topographic or satellite image views, displaying navigation pointers to your dog’s present location. Similarly, a compatible fēnix GPS watch may get dog status updates and alarms for a quick display on your wrist.
The Garmin Astro 900 is a promising device that has a multitude of connectivity options that dog trainers will surely love. This dog tracking collar is definitely worth your bucks! You can check the current price here.
Garmin Alpha 100 GPS Dog Tracking Collar
- Up to 9 miles range
- Long battery life (20-40 hours)
- Preloaded with TOPO U.S. 100k maps
- Track up to 20 dogs at the same time
- No internet connection needed
- Up to 9 miles range
- Long battery life (20-40 hours)
- Preloaded with TOPO U.S. 100k maps
- Track up to 20 dogs at the same time
- No internet connection needed
This is another great Garmin GPS pet tracker through the dog collar with the antenna for a powerful signal. It could also cover multiple dogs in one tracker, which is up to 20 dogs or buddies from up to 9 miles for TT 15 model or 4 miles away for the TT 15 mini model. Similar to Garmin 200i, this dog tracking collar is mostly recommended for hunting dogs.
The device has a compass screen, wherein you could get the in-depth speed, direction traveling and distance away information for any of the dogs covered by the tracker. Garmin Alpha 100 dog tracker also has high sensitivity as it uses GPS and Glonass, which capture location from both satellite constellations, just like the Sportdog Brand Tek Series, and know exactly where your dogs are and where they are headed.
No products found.The Alpha 100 could easily measure your dog’s speed and the distance traveled. As one of the best GPS tracking collars for dogs with training features, this Garmin dog tracking system is preloaded with TOPO U.S. 100k maps. The pet tracker is equipped with LED beacon lights and Rescue mode in case the dogs go missing from the manually set up virtual safe zones in the maps wherein you could receive an alert message while automatically sending a recall signal to your dog through stimulation levels, either in tone and vibration mode when he is already out of your geofence, making sure that he is out of the danger zones.
Whistle Switch GPS Dog Collar
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Whistle Switch has been recently released on August 2021 and slightly upgraded to “Health & GPS+” model in 2023. They improved pretty well compared to the previous models (Whistle 3 and Whistle GO). With the power of Wi-Fi, GPS, and cellular technology, the Whistle Switch tracking device for dogs can locate your pet 3,000 miles away from you. You can check where your dog has been 24 hours before. This GPS dog collar can serve as a dog sports activity tracker too since you can check your dog’s daily activity and rest. By monitoring your dog’s activity, you are also keeping your dog in good shape. Healthy dog results in a happy dog, right? I really love that video of how they test the Whistle GPS pet tracker:
I would say that a dog GPS collar from Whistle is on the same level as the Fi collar, however, Whistle is more expensive as well as subscription price is more expensive as well. As a result, I would pick Fi collar over Whistle, but make sure to check for the discount. You can check the current price for Whistle Switch here and for Fi dog tracking collar here and just pick the one which is cheaper. Whistle GPS device has controversial reviews though based on customer reviews. They are currently upgrading this model.
Dogtra Pathfinder GPS E-collar For Dogs
Table could not be displayed.Dogtra Pathfinder GPS dog tracking collar is manufactured by the Dogtra Store and is available in black. It can track up to a 9-mile range and can be used simultaneously with Google Maps. It has a lot of map options including the Offline Maps mode which is very helpful in tracking your dog in a remote area. Using Google Maps, you can track your dog in normal, satellite, and terrain view mode.
No products found.This dog tracker also has a tracking mode and a two-second GPS update for accuracy in tracking. Aside from that, it is also capable of zooming the image via the PATHFINDER app which shows the live-action detail and accuracy of your dog’s location. You can also set your own Geo-fence and receive alerts when your dog is out of it. The GPS dog tracker is made of plastic material and is suitable for dogs weighing 35 lbs or more.
You need The Dogtra Pathfinder if you are a dog owner who is always in it for an adventure outdoors like in the woods when going out for a camping trip or for dog owners who are always out there for good days during hunting seasons. It’s a decent option, however too pricey if you are looking for a daily walks solution.
SportDOG Brand TEK Series Dog Tracker
Table could not be displayed.You could easily track the whereabouts of your dog through this handheld dog GPS device and the GPS locator in your dog’s collar. This tracker could cover up to 10 miles with its powerful range. It could also withhold the test of weather since this is waterproof and could be the best dog tracker even in the rainy season.
No products found.SportDOG TEK GPS monitor could also be navigated around with multiple dogs, up to 21 dogs specifically, under your supervision, thanks to its multi-colored indicator in the maps. This dog locator is also real-time so the tracking is more reliable than ever and you will know your dog’s exact location through its Hoptek technology that blocks possible interference in the tracking and monitoring through GPS. It also has a voice feature that would tell you the exact direction your dogs are headed, exactly how far away they are and how fast they are moving, allowing you not even to look at the monitor of your handheld device and do more prioritized activities.
This also has increased accuracy thanks to GPS+Glonass which captures location from both satellite constellations. The monitor of the handheld device has an icon-based menu app, allowing you to have quicker navigation.
Honorable Mention: Tile Mate Dog Tag
Table could not be displayed.This one isn’t technically a dog GPS collar. But if you’re looking for an all-around tracker, then the Tile Mate and Slim Combo Pack could be used as a dog tracker! Originally designed for keeping track of anything, Tile can also compete as a dog-tracking device! (you can not use Apple Airtag for dog tracking though but if you are about to use it, get a high-quality AirTag dog collar).
The Tile Combo Pack consists of two Tile Slim and two Tile Mate Bluetooth Trackers. This means that you can have four trackers in one purchase! One for your dog, one for your wallet, one for your keys, and one for your laptop. This is the most ideal product if you’re the type of dog owner that tends to forget things.
No products found.The four Tile tags are connected to one app. The Tile app automatically records the last time and place it saw your tile so if your item or dog goes missing, you’ll know where to look first! The function of the Tiles doesn’t end there because you can also use them to find your phone! Simply double-press the button of your Tiles and it will make your phone ring even on silent mode.
For a short range of tracking, you can ring your Tiles using your smartphone. But for long-range tracking, Tile features a global network that will help you find your missing dog. When any Tile user comes within the range of your missing dog or item, you will be notified of its most recent location.
Tips for Buying Dog GPS Trackers
Dog trackers are a good option for keeping your dog secure in case something happens, or just to know where your best friend is, but buying one problem is when you are choosing one, there are so many options and so many features than you thought and you don’t know what to pick for your dog, so here is a list of things you should think about before you buy a GPS pet tracker so you don’t end up buying you don’t really need instead. Make sure to pick the best dog tracker specifically for your needs to avoid disappointment.
1. Look at the specifications you need
Although we all love our dogs, we do not all have the same dog. This is why it is important to look at the specifications you need for your dog depending on your dog.
For example, if you have a sport dog you might like a pet tracker which could have more accuracy in the location of the dog. If you have a dog with medical issues you may like a collar that could help you check the health of your dog. There are even some pet trackers that save your dog’s heartrate and sleeping patterns.
On the other hand, if you have a very active dog then you may like the one that helps you to monitor the places where he is going. That way, you know if he’s in a safe zone or not.
Heck, you could even have a very lazy dog and you may not need so many specifications. For example, I use Fi Collar on my dogs for daily walks however Garmin Alpha 100 when going for outdoor adventures.
2. Check the size of your dog
Not all GPS pet trackers can be used in all dogs, some collars may be too small for your dog and others too big, this is why you need to check the specifications of the size of the collar so you won’t get the wrong one.
3. See the functionality
Dog GPS trackers aren’t really a one-size-fits-all device and not all collars have the same system. Some collars help you take care of your dog in case something happens with an SOS button integrated so you can have the best security, efficiency, and precision of where your dog is at every moment. Most come with an app so you can easily get the info on your phone. Also, if your dog is a sporty pup (swimming, running, or agility coursing for example) make sure your pet tracker is waterproof. You don’t want to buy a K9 GPS collar and ruin it the next day at the pool! Check how many dogs you can track at the same time too. Maybe the collar is okay for one but you are also looking for a device that could help you track more than one dog through the same app.
4. Battery Life and Durability
It’s important to pay close attention to this point, not just because obviously not all dog trackers have the same battery lifetime, but also because the battery life could affect the quality of the information you are getting from the GPS dog collar. Think again about the specifications of the dog as well. Most collars can work properly for a week if you use them two hours per day, but if you’re trying to monitor your dog for great periods of time the charge may not be enough. This is why there are also GPS pet trackers that can last even 96 hours in a row without charge. So if you are looking for a more strict monitor for your dog, those are typically your best option.
5. The cost
This may be the most obvious thing to do but you also need to think about your budget, your needs, and how many options offer you the best balance for the pet tracker of your dreams.
For example, let’s say you don’t have a very hyperactive dog so you won’t need as many different features . But maybe one has a subpar battery compared to the other. Perhaps one is a better brand overall than any other but you can not afford it.
Or maybe the one you think you want is not exactly what you need and although you have the money there are other options that offer you almost the same service but at a smaller price.
Or let’s say you don’t want to spend so much but you really need a good dog GPS collar. You get the point. Bottom line, the choice you make will be adjusted on how much money you have AND which option checks off all your “must-haves.” It’s all about finding the perfect balance.
6. Paid or non-paid subscription
I think that this is another huge factor in choosing the right GPS pet tracker for us dog lovers out there. For most of us, it becomes quite inconvenient and expensive when companies choose to add a mandatory paid subscription on top of the upfront fees. It’s enough to make us want to look elsewhere right away, isn’t it? The only time they can probably persuade you to subscribe is if they have innovative features that highlight their uniqueness and difference from other GPS dog tag products. Always make sure to check that paying for a subscription is worth it and that the features you are subscribing to are really valuable and not available for free from other dog GPS collars. Check this list of the best GPS tracking collars without a monthly fee.
These are some tips for you to know and pick the best pet tracker for you, but there are some other things that you want to personally take into account when buying a GPS tracking collar. For example, if your dog plays rough, you’ll want to look for something that can hold up to that. If Fido has sensitive skin or super short fur, you’ll either need something that works with another collar under it or already comes with a comfy collar attached to it. I recommend making a quick list of “must-have” and “nice-to-have” features before you start shopping.
FAQs about GPS Tracking Collars for Dogs
Let’s finish off with a few quick FAQs!
Depending on which tracking device you go with, it can cost as little as $10 to as much as $2,000.
If there’s even a slight chance that your dog can escape your yard or slip the leash, then yes, GPS dog trackers are absolutely worth it for the peace of mind that they offer.
I’ve seen a lot of talk about how GPS collars for dogs cause cancer. While there is some evidence too much exposure to radio waves can increase the risk of cancer, most GPS dog collars emit less radiofrequency radiation than a cell phone.
It’s also important to understand what “increased risk” really means. I’ve seen people take that way out of context way too often. Let’s say that a study finds that using a pet tracker increases a dog’s risk of brain cancer by 10%. That doesn’t mean that there’s a one in 10 chance that your dog will develop a brain tumor if you decide to buy one.
It means that if your dog has a 0.005% of developing brain cancer (it accounts for roughly 2-5% of all cancers in dogs), a tracking collar increases that to 0.10005%. In other words, just over one-tenth of one percent.
Conclusion
We hope our article was informative enough and it was a good guide for you through the best dog tracking devices that are available on the market in 2023.
Make sure to identify what type of dog tracking collar you need, check if you can pair it with your device, and make sure it is available in your country.
My personal choice for those who don’t need a whole big invisible fence system is the Fi dog tracking collar because of its GPS accuracy, battery life, and price. If you DO want a fence system, go with SpotOn.
You can also watch a quick recap of the best dog GPS collars on our Youtube channel:
If you click this link and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you. 2023-05-19
The list is great but do you have other suggestions aside from the ones on the list?
Have you guys tried trackimo? It’s a GPS tracker and it’s very lightweight for you to attach to your dog.
Thanks for the list Mark. I personally bought Findster from the list because this dog tracker does not require monthly fees, but it was so bad and I had to return it. Spent a bit extra for Fi and it works so well for over a month now.
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Feel free to share as long as you refer to us 🙂 Thanks!
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Hello, do you have a specific list and comparison table of tracking collars which do not require cell service? I have a Siberian husky who is proving to be a runner, but we live in a very rural area with limited cell service. The one time that she ran and didn’t come back on her own, she ended up going about 5 miles through dense woods and over several mountain foothill ridges. She was only 4 months old at the time. Thankfully she wandered herself into someone’s yard and we were able to use social media to connect with this person. But I’d really like to have peace of mind to be able to find her if she does that again.
I am very interested in a wireless fence, but from reading your review on the Halo collar, it seems this would not be a good fit for us at this time.
Thank you for all of the wonderful information you’ve provided here. These reviews have definitely helped me decide that the more popular options are likely not a good fit for us and I won’t waste my money on them.
We do have such an article – https://technobark.com/best-no-monthly-fee-dog-trackers/
In you case, Garmin 200i dog tracking system could be the best for your needs.
Would you buy a halo collar just for tracking purposes if price was not a factor? We have had Fi before but I am looking for something more reliable in rural areas/areas that don’t have the best ATT service. Thanks for the wonderfully informative article!
I definitely would, Halo is the next-level collar. Happy to help!
Mark – I just bought the Fi and have found that there is much to be desired of this collar. Here are my observations that people need to know before investing in this company as I have listed below:
1) The update (or refresh rate) is horrible to say the least. When using in the standard mode it updates location every 5 Minutes. In lost dog mode its every 1 Minute.
2) The location accuracy is spotty. When walking the dog in the city the map is always trying to place the Dogs location to the nearest street, and in some cases, it placed him in a completely false location.
3) I walked him in a large marina, and it started showing him on the street by the marina. Another error.
4) I tested the collar in my hand with the Antenna facing the sky with no obstruction left his “Safe Zone” and it took 5 minutes to alert that he has left the zone. When performing this test, I had left my phone on our boat (nowhere near the collar and had my wife monitor the app.
5) The fastest you could track your dog is every 1-minute refresh rate in lost dog mode.
With all of this being said I would have to say this is a horrible product if someone is purchasing to “protect” their pets in the case that they are stolen. I feel this is one of the main reason pet owners are purchasing these GPS Collars, as Hunters already know to purchase Dogtra or Garmins for their upland dogs. The Only purpose of this collar is to monitor peoples Walkers and to check the distance they walk. I will be purchasing a different GPS Tracker as this Fi collar just doesn’t cut it. As a Side note our dog was stolen (He was returned do to other factors within 48 hours). He was stolen within 2 minutes time and with a refresh rate of 1 minute and the flaws in the actual GPS locator I would never trust this with my pet’s life on the line. Just my thoughts and enjoyed your article. I also use the Garmin Alpha 200i when hunting and it is phenomenal. However, wouldn’t work in a stolen pet situation as there is no way to disguise this as anything but a GPS tracker. Thanks again for taking the time to write this article.
Hey Todd, thanks for your feedback on Fi GPS Collar. I am surprised to see this because it works perfectly well on my dogs! I also gave it as a gift to my dog owner community in the city and I never heard such feedback. I have a refresh rate every minute that totally works for me and the location is always accurate. Maybe you were in the city? In this case, most of the GPS dog collars will ve inaccurate.
Hello Mark,
As others have said.. thank you for your valuable information and the product testing you did to help us desperate dog owners find just the right tracker. Like Nikki above, I too live in a very rural area with spotty cell service and low grade internet. I have a porch/house potato dog that is always in sight unless he happens to hear thunder rumbling 10 miles away that we can’t hear yet. Because we never know when that will happen, he would need to wear his collar all day, so battery life and size is important. I also need the ability to just turn it on and find him when he takes off. I bought a Findster and it doesn’t help me because the dog has to be right next you when you put it on to start the tracking. Do you think the Garmen 200i is also my best choice?
Thank you! In my opinion, for your purposes Garmin 200i (or cheaper Garmin collars) would be the best choice.
We have had Whistle for two years now. It worked OK but is now broken and we have to buy a new one. We only care about two features and nothing else! 1. Alert when the dog gets out of its safe zone and 2. Live tracking once out. We live on a 12 acre ranch and the dog is never in WiFi range of the house. We bring the collar inside when it is time to charge. We don’t care how often we have to charge the collar. Our dog is a livestock guardian dog and works nights. We just want accurate alerts when it is out of safe zone. Do you have a recommendation other than Whistle?
Unfortunately, the tracker you like so much (Phee), it’s really cool in many ways, but it has a significant limitation that no one mentions – it turns out it only works in the USA(((
Thanks for taking the time to check out all of these brands. I’m curious though why you didn’t look into Yip.
It’s affordable, and available at every pet store in my area (south east NC)
The tag shows up as an item in Find My.. If your smart tag is not in range of your iPhone (will be labeled as ‘with you’), the tag will go into extended range mode and begin looking for other iPhone devices to communicate with. As soon as the smart tag comes within 300 feet of another iPhone, the location of your smart tag will update on your iPhone, in the Apple Find My app.
Oh and the battery lasts a year, just a 2032 watch battery
Hi Mark – Thanks for this but we’ve had the Fi collar for two years and I’m done. We live near Boston with a 60-pound Sheepadoodle who loves being off-leash in large woods (who wouldn’t). We’re through our second Fi collar now, each having lasted about one year. The battery didn’t last anywhere near three months and the location tracking was not reliable. Very spotty. I was hoping that this article would point me towards a more reliable alternative.
Hi, what about Trackimo gps pet trackers? They get great reviews and are $5 per month monitoring. We just bought 2 for our GSP’s and hope they live up to the hype.
Actually, I am currently testing Trackimo dog trackers and the review will be ready in a month or so.
Thanks for the information. We have a pointer that is an escape artist. In the mornings, he is locked in the outdoor kennel but he climbs out daily. He makes it home when we arrive in the evenings. I would love to know where he travels in the neighborhood. Seems easy. NOT, we live in a rural area – no internet/wifi.
Any suggestions on a collar.
Any list comparing subscription prices? I’m looking for a no-frills tracker with lost dog mode, i.e. baseline tracking with option to toggle between saving battery and turning on live mode. The plan is to make a donation to a local rescue that relies on fosters to quarantine and house dogs until adoption. There have been instances of lost dogs who were never found — a scared dog outside of their environment and with access to forested terrain will not come out to people. So… I just want to buy a set of 5-10 collars, get some service paid for, hopefully at some lower-profit rate, possibly with the option to activate whenever they have a high risk adult pup in foster. Not looking for any fancy feature for health, steps or temperature. Maybe geofencing — that’s it. Suggestions?
This may help: https://technobark.com/best-no-monthly-fee-dog-trackers/, it’s a list of the best options that don’t require a monthly fee. That way, you can donate the collars without them having to worry about keeping up with fees. It’s so wonderful that you want to do that!