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GPS Trackers for Dogs: The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Your Furry Friend Safe

Published on January 3 by Julia

As dog owners, one of our biggest concerns is the safety and well-being of our pets. Whether it's the fear of your dog running away or simply wanting to keep tabs on their whereabouts during walks, a GPS tracker can offer peace of mind and help ensure your dog stays safe. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of GPS trackers for dogs, how they work, and some of the best GPS trackers available on Amazon.

Why Should You Consider a GPS Tracker for Your Dog?

  1. Prevents Losing Your Dog
    Dogs can sometimes slip out of gates, dart away during walks, or get lost while exploring new areas. A GPS tracker allows you to quickly locate your dog if they wander off or get lost, reducing the stress of trying to find them.
  2. Improves Safety
    With real-time tracking, you can monitor your dog’s activities and whereabouts. This can be especially useful for off-leash training or when you're in unfamiliar areas, ensuring your dog doesn’t venture too far from you.
  3. Tracks Health & Fitness
    Some GPS trackers come with additional features that monitor your dog's activity levels, helping you ensure they get enough exercise and stay healthy. These features are beneficial for dogs with specific fitness goals or medical needs.
  4. Peace of Mind
    Whether your dog is a curious escape artist or you just want an extra layer of protection, knowing you can track your dog’s movements in real-time offers immense peace of mind.

How Do GPS Trackers for Dogs Work?

GPS trackers for dogs use satellite technology to track and report your dog’s location in real-time. Most trackers rely on a combination of GPS, cellular networks, and sometimes Bluetooth to send location data to your smartphone. Many models also feature geofencing, which allows you to set up a virtual boundary around a specific area. If your dog leaves this designated zone, you’ll receive an alert.

Key Features to Look for in a Dog GPS Tracker:

  • Real-time location updates
  • Geofencing (Virtual safe zones)
  • Battery life (Longer battery life means less frequent charging)
  • Durability (Water-resistant and shockproof design)
  • Size & Comfort (Lightweight for small dogs, adjustable straps)
  • Subscription Plans (Many GPS trackers require a monthly or annual service plan for cellular connectivity)

Best GPS Trackers for Dogs Available on Amazon

Here are some of the top-rated GPS dog trackers you can find on Amazon, each offering unique features to suit different needs:

1. Whistle Go Explore GPS Tracker for Dogs

  • Price: $129.95
  • Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars

The Whistle Go Explore is one of the most popular GPS trackers for dogs. It provides real-time tracking, health monitoring, and activity tracking, making it ideal for pet parents who want to keep a close eye on their dog’s health and location.

Features:

  • Tracks location in real-time via GPS and cellular networks
  • Health monitoring includes metrics like active minutes and rest time
  • Geofencing alerts when your dog leaves the designated area
  • Waterproof and durable
  • 20-day battery life
  • Requires a subscription plan for cellular service

Pros:

  • Easy-to-use app with activity and health reports
  • Excellent battery life for long trips or hikes
  • Waterproof for swimming dogs

Cons:

  • Requires a subscription for tracking services

2. Fi Smart Dog Collar GPS Tracker

  • Price: $149.00
  • Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

The Fi Smart Collar is known for its sleek design and high-quality GPS tracking. This tracker is perfect for dogs who love to roam, as it provides real-time location updates and is extremely durable.

Features:

  • Real-time GPS tracking with cellular connectivity
  • Long-lasting battery with up to 3 months of use per charge
  • Geofencing to set safe zones for your dog
  • Waterproof design for dogs who love water
  • Includes activity and fitness tracking for health-conscious owners

Pros:

  • Extremely long battery life
  • Stylish design with a durable collar
  • Great for active and adventurous dogs

Cons:

  • Monthly subscription required for tracking
  • Initially higher price point

3. Link AKC Smart Collar

  • Price: $99.00
  • Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars

The Link AKC Smart Collar is an excellent choice for dog owners who want an all-in-one GPS tracker and smart collar. It provides location tracking, activity monitoring, and even temperature alerts to ensure your dog is not exposed to extreme weather conditions.

Features:

  • GPS location tracking with real-time updates
  • Geofencing and safe zone alerts
  • Activity and wellness tracking (steps, calories burned)
  • Temperature alerts for extreme heat or cold
  • Waterproof and durable design

Pros:

  • Sleek, comfortable design
  • Multiple functions for safety and health
  • Great for urban and suburban settings

Cons:

  • Requires subscription service
  • Battery life can be shorter with frequent use of GPS

4. Petfon Pet GPS Tracker

  • Price: $99.99
  • Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

The Petfon Pet GPS Tracker is a more budget-friendly option, offering real-time tracking without the need for a cellular plan. This tracker uses its own technology for tracking, meaning it doesn’t require a phone or monthly subscription.

Features:

  • Real-time GPS tracking via its own proprietary network (no SIM card or cellular plan needed)
  • Safe zone alerts when your dog leaves designated areas
  • Waterproof design, suitable for outdoor adventures
  • Long battery life (up to 8 hours with GPS on)
  • Includes a voice message feature to call your dog from a distance

Pros:

  • No monthly subscription required
  • Simple and cost-effective solution for tracking
  • No phone needed for tracking

Cons:

  • Range is limited to about 3 miles in open areas
  • Shorter battery life with constant GPS usage

5. Garmin Alpha 100 TT 15 Dog Tracking Bundle

  • Price: $799.99
  • Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

For those with working dogs or adventurous pets that need more precise tracking, the Garmin Alpha 100 TT 15 is a premium choice. While on the pricier side, it provides a powerful GPS and training tool in one.

Features:

  • High-sensitivity GPS for tracking in challenging terrain
  • Multi-dog tracking capabilities (ideal for hunting or working dogs)
  • Up to 9-mile range (with direct line of sight)
  • Real-time tracking with 2.5-second updates
  • Built-in training features for remote training and correction

Pros:

  • Great for hunters, hounds, or working dogs
  • Multi-dog tracking
  • Durable and rugged design for extreme environments

Cons:

  • Expensive compared to other options
  • Bulky design not suitable for small dogs

The right GPS tracker depends on your dog's lifestyle, size, and your personal needs. For most dog owners, trackers like the Whistle Go Explore or Fi Smart Collar provide a solid mix of tracking and health monitoring features. If you have a more active or working dog, consider something more robust like the Garmin Alpha 100.

Before purchasing, make sure to evaluate the subscription costs, battery life, and whether the tracker meets your dog’s specific needs. Whether you're preventing your dog from getting lost, keeping track of their health, or just giving yourself some peace of mind, a GPS tracker can be a lifesaver.