What are GPS Dog Collar? And How Do They Work
When our dogs go for a jog, we can track their location on our smartphones. When they return home, we know exactly when they crossed the boundaries of our property. But even with the help of GPS dog collar, tracking a dog is still challenging. If you own an adventurous or highly active dog, you may want to consider getting a GPS dog tracking collar.
These devices transmit your pet’s position via radiofrequency identify unique signals given off by your pet as he moves along. As a result, even if your dog has his own radio frequency collar, the two of you can stay in touch using the same frequency so that you don’t need another device to coordinate your efforts.
The best GPS dog collars are able to track both the direction and speed of your pet for a period of time after which they automatically end their transmission until the next set of coordinates are received. In this article, we will tell you what a GPS dog tracker is, its uses and benefits.
What is a GPS Dog Collar?
GPS dog collars work by scanning the area surrounding your pet for radio waves given off by your pet’s movements. These radio waves are then detected by the receiver. Your GPS dog collar will then send a signal to your smartphone which will Then show the location of your pet on a map.
There are a large variety of GPS dog trackers on the market. They all have different advantages and disadvantages. Some of the main advantages of GPS dog collars include: Simple to use: Just put your pet in the collar and walk away.
You won’t have to spend a lot of time looking for your pet. No special training required: All you need to do is put your dog in the collar and let him go. No monthly fees: You can get a GPS dog collar for as low as $80. No batteries needed: The transmitter unit lasts for up to 6 months without being charged.
How Does a GPS Dog Tracker Work?
A GPS dog tracker works by sending out radiofrequency signals that your pet picked up when he was within range of the receiver. Each GPS dog tracker has a unique radio frequency that your dog will detect when he moves in that area.
Your GPS dog tracker will automatically transmit the dog’s location when your pet returns to his home. You can also set it up so that it sends a signal when your pet leaves the area you captured on camera. The transmitter unit fits easily in the palm of your hand. It measures about the size of a paperback novel and weighs less than an oz.
The GPS dog tracking device uses a satellites system to send the position information to the receiver. Your GPS device will use the military frequency that your pet is familiar with to communicate with the satellite.
What Are the Benefits of Using a GPS Dog Tracker?
Predictive tracking: Using the location data from your GPS dog collar, you can create a map that indicates the best route for your pet. You can then send him that way when he’s off-leash. Increased safety: With animal tracking, you can keep an eye on your dog at all times.
You may even be able to see if he’s in trouble or in heat. Easier to manage your pet: When you know where your pet is at all times, you can better manage his diet, training and health. Possible reduction in dog bites & attacks: GPS trackers are ideal for dog walkers because they allow you to monitor your pet’s movements while letting him roam free.
Dog friendly areas: Since your GPS dog tracker uses the same frequency as your dog’s radio collar, you can easily integrate it into your dog’s existing routine.
Who needs GPS dog collar the most?
- Every dog owner should buy a GPS collar for his dog.
- Hunters should also buy this GPS tracker for hunting dogs because their hunting dog might get lost in the thick forest.
- Hikers need this monitoring GPS collar because it is reported repeatedly that people lost their dog while hiking.
Points to be considered before buying a GPS collar
- It should have long battery time so that it remains operational when you are locating your dog exact location because if its charging expires, then it will be quite difficult for you to find your lost dog.
- It should be waterproof and heat-resistance. Good quality GPS collar, last more than an ordinary collar.
- You can access the location of your lost dog from different devices like your computer, apps, etc. from where you can get real-time updates about your lost dog location the collar should be supportive for different devices as I have mentioned.
- GPS collar should be light and comfortable for dogs in this way your pet will remain calm while wearing it.
- What are GPS Dog Collar? And How Do They Work
- What is a GPS Dog Collar?
- How Does a GPS Dog Tracker Work?
- What Are the Benefits of Using a GPS Dog Tracker?
- Who needs GPS dog collar the most?
- Points to be considered before buying a GPS collar
- Whistle GO Explore Dog Collar
- FitBark GPS Dog Tracker
- Garmin Alpha 100 Bundle GPS Tracking
- Tractive Waterproof GPS Dog Tracker
- Jiobit by Life360 Smart Tag
- Buying Guide Best Dog GPS Collar
- GPS Accuracy
- Water Resistance
- Pet Size
- Tracking Range And Battery Life
- Cost-Effectiveness
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Words
| Award | Design | Reviews | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| It has a live-tracking mode |  | Check Price | |
| Waterproof Smart Tracking Device |  | Check Price | |
| sensitive GPS |  | Check Price | |
| Lightweight and Waterproof |  | Check Price | |
| Best for Location Tracking |  | Check Price |
Whistle GO Explore Dog Collar
It has a live-tracking mode
There are many joys of a healthy and safe pet owner but the biggest fear is my much-loved furry companion zipped out or getting spooked on a walk. Equipped with GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GLONASS Whistle Go Explore GPS Tracker monitor my pet in real-time.
Its prompt location update feature and advanced behavior algorithm help track every moment details that point to potential health issues and Unlimited Televet Access focus on pups’ health by calculating the right amount of food according to the size.
With its lightweight, water-resistance, built-in light for visibility, the brand-claimed battery lifetime of up to 20 days provides the facility of a Safe zone. If the dog goes outside the safe zone and you activate Track mode, within a blink of an eye it checks the AT&T network for location info more often.
But sometimes it gives false signals if we don’t place the tracker properly with the collar, it detaches.
Pros
- It works on lost dog mode
- Stores data history
- Affordable monthly and annual subscription fees
- Pre-emptive notification and alerts
- Durable and waterproof
- Easy setup installation
- Refundable within 90 days trial period
Cons
- A bit heavy for the pups weighing under 25lbs
- Not compatible with new internet services
- Only functional within the United States and Canada
- Poorly designed plastic collar clip attachment
FitBark GPS Dog Tracker
Waterproof Smart Tracking Device
The only lightweight device weighing 17g but ensuring that pooches of all sizes (5lb-240lb) can be located.
This tracker with a long-lasting battery fit for 10-14 days requires Verizon LTE-M and Wi-Fi with a monthly subscription to monitor actions like pain, stress, anxiety, mobility, and skin diseases.
Leveraging the dog-owner relationship with a focus on monitoring the pet’s physical activities 24/7 is highly innovative.
What is extra cool about this tracker is linked with Fitbit, Apple Watch, HealthKit, or Google Fit with 30 day money-back return policy on all plans.
This waterproof rating of IPX7 has many great extra features, but its main downside is the location lag. It takes a few minutes to catch up on your pup’s accurate location, and if you have a speedster, when you get the alert they may be far away.
Pros
- 30 days money back guarantee
- Designed for dogs of all sizes
- Multiple carriers
- Loved and trusted by 150+ Countries and Universities
- Designed with hard and inflexible plastic
- Measure calories burned, skin condition, and sleep quality
Cons
- Not great for very active dogs
- Not compatible internationally
- Can break in geolocation
Garmin Alpha 100 Bundle GPS Tracking
sensitive GPS
Want some clear-headed stats about everyday threats to our little furry pups and belongings especially when you know just how much happiness our fluffy ones bring into our lives? Garmin Alpha 100 Bundle GPS Tracking is a tremendous tool for dog handlers in search and rescue operationsis what I look for, along with my favorites.
One of the highly technological handheld devices incorporated with a highly sensitive GPS with GLONASS Tracking allows you to both track and train at a maximum range of 9 miles when paired with Garmin TT 15.
This Trans fluent, touch-screen tracker with built-in LED beacon lights provides a Map Screen and is pre-bundled with the Topo US 100-K Maps. It tracks and trains 20 of your sporting and hunting dogs at the same time by sending location pings every 2.5 seconds near real-time.
This remote training device has free one-year use of Birdseye Satellite Imaginary Subscription.
The tracker has a small screen which makes causes visually impaired users read.
Pros
- Capable of training multiple dogs at the same time
- Send location every 2.5 seconds
- Rescue Mode gives an additional 12-hour battery level
- Waterproof with a rating of IPX7 and dustproof
- The tracker Touch screen is glove-friendly
- A barometric altimeter and 3-axis electronic compass make tracking more accurate
- 1 year of free subscription
Cons
- They tend to draw down the battery faster.
- Maximum battery life up to 20-40 hours
- Pricey
- The maximum range reaches only up to 9 miles
- Require an adapter or converter to use internationally
- Operating with gloves is a bit clumsy
Tractive Waterproof GPS Dog Tracker
Lightweight and Waterproof
Save yourself the worry over everything and just buy it. This pet tracking device works with an IOS or Android App on your cell phone with a monthly affordable subscription but it is worth it.
In addition to its Live and History mode, this app allows you to build a virtual safe zone that notifies you every time your pup leaves that area.
This built-in LED-light tracker not only tracks the dogs in the United States and Canada, but it has worldwide location tracking (150 countries).
This lightweight, waterproof, shock resistance with an unlimited range of mobile networks like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Viaero Wireless brags an impressive amount of features on a budget. This tracker also keeps a close eye on the health and fitness of my pup.
This plastic and silicon-made band with rubber clips breaks away in case it gets stuck. Also, its prolonged GPS interference and extreme temperature situations (below -5 and above 40
) lead to a decreased battery life. Its maximum battery life is of up to 7 days.
Pros
- Setup a virtual fence and notify by sending an alert on a smartphone
- GPS tracker with sturdy elastic band
- Follow the pups in real-time by using Find Feature with a Bluetooth range of 10 meters
- 30 days of money back guarantee
- It provides a Live Tracking feature and we get updated every 2-3 seconds
- Comprehend installation menu and available in various languages options
- Durable and versatile
- Dog-safe power button ensures that your pet will not accidentally turn off any function
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- It generates and uses an electromagnetic field
- Doesn’t work without a monthly or annual subscription
- The tracker is not suitable for humans and objects
- Need frequent charging to turn the battery alive
- Don’t work well in extreme temperature
Jiobit by Life360 Smart Tag
Best for Location Tracking
Nothing is more petrifying than turning around in a crowded place or outdoor space, and finding that your adored one is no longer visible.
Applause to the Jiobit Real-Time Location Tracker whose next-gen features like a low-power 5G compatible network, beaconing technology using a combination of cellular, GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth with a go fence radius of 100 to 800 feet helps you to keep an eye on your four-legged friends and respected ones.
A lightweight, tiny, unobtrusive, and long-lasting GPS Tracker for pets, kids, seniors, and more by providing real-time location updates. Easily worn by everyone without getting damaged and keep track of every distance and moment inside out. The flaw is this device is not compatible outside the USA. You can’t track your furry pup or loved ones outside of the USA due to network limitations.
Pros
- 5G compatible technology
- Outdoor and indoor tracking facility
- Waterproof & shockproof
- 30 days worry-free return policy
- Does require a monthly subscription
- Stress-free application
- Multiple wearing options
Cons
- Battery life tends to drain fast
- Expensive
- Not compatible internationally
- Not having the capability of location history of more than 2 days
Buying Guide Best Dog GPS Collar
Before buying a GPS dog collar for your pet, you should take into account various elements. This is because the primary reason for buying one is to guarantee your dog’s safety. You must pay attention to the following characteristics when shopping for a GPS collar for your dog.
GPS Accuracy
A high-gps dog collar is what you should look for if you want to track your pet using a GPS dog collar. If you want to track your pet using a GPS dog collar, you should choose one with high GPS accuracy. In other words, the collar you buy should be able to provide you with the precise location of your pet in real time.
Air Tags or collars with GPS and map synchronization are our preference. The items we’ve reviewed on the list offer high GPS accuracy, with some recording your pets’ movements precisely. By looking at the product descriptions before buying, you can check for this feature.
Water Resistance
It is not a secret that some dogs are escape artists. In this case, you should purchase a water-resistant dog collar. When tracking your dog, most of the items on this list can adapt to dry and humid weather conditions.
Pet Size
We believe that the size of the collar must be verified before buying it, just as the description should. The size of the collar should be considered before purchasing it. There are some sizes that are listed but other sizes are adjustable. We recommend you buy one that is suitable for your dog’s size so that it doesn’t get caught on its neck and fall off easily.
Tracking Range And Battery Life
If your dog wanders too far, purchase a collar with a comprehensive tracking range. Using advanced GPS technology, a pet’s location can be tracked for up to 3 miles. Go for those that charge faster, have long-lasting charges, and have more power.
Cost-Effectiveness
You must make the final decision on a dog collar by considering its value. Consider a collar that is both affordable and beneficial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best GPS collar for your dog?
It all depends on your requirements and your dog’s behavior and habits. This list contains only the most reliable trackers in the market today that meet all requirements. Read our reviews and you’ll surely find one that will best suit your needs.
Do GPS collars for dogs really work?
If you purchase these from trusted brands and follow the guidelines, you don’t have anything to worry about. The trackers will be able to do the job. It is important to ensure that you’re able to match the right product to your specific needs as well as your dog’s size and level of activity.
Why should my dog have a GPS collar?
There are a variety of reasons why your pet needs to wear a tracking collar. The most popular one is to locate them quickly in the event that they wander off or are stolen by someone else.
GPS trackers can help people who have large lands or who hunt in packs. They’re also helpful in locating dogs who are on rescue missions.
Do all GPS trackers require a monthly fee?
Absolutely no! It’s possible to locate a GPS dog collar that does not require a monthly fee however, they are available.
This list includes both collars as well as that of the Garmin T5, and a tracker called the PetFon and PetFon. Both don’t require a subscription and are among the top products available.
Do I need to download an app to use a GPS dog collar?
It is dependent on the tracking device you choose. Some require users to download an application and then pay an annual subscription fee to access information.
Other handheld devices or websites don’t need you to download an application and certain trackers only send you text messages or emails with the information.
Final Words
In general, all of the GPS trackers on our list will get the work done for monitoring your dog. The one you need depends on your needs. If we needed to pick a general favorite, then we would pick the Garmin Astro 430/T.
But if you reside in an area with cell phone service, then you have a couple more options. Our favorite choice is your Link AKC intelligent collar. It has a fitness monitoring app on it too, so it is possible to see exactly how much exercise your dog receives daily. There really isn’t anything to complain about using the collar.
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