Dog GPS Tracker

For those that have experienced a runaway dog, you know that this can be one of life’s most stressful moments. It can cause panic, as most of the time you have no idea which direction your dog went. You yell out to family to scour the neighborhood, each heading in a different direction calling your dog’s name. This scenario probably sounds familiar to many.

Or maybe you live in a remote area, and fencing is not practical. Maybe you want your dog to live its best life exploring a larger territory off leash.

Whatever the reason, having the ability to know where your dog is at all times is peace of mind.

There are many options to choose from when selecting a dog tracking device.

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers.

What is a GPS for dogs?

• A GPS for dogs, also known as a dog GPS tracker or dog tracking device, is a device that may use GPS (Global Positioning System) satellite technology to track and locate dogs.

• Want to learn more about GPS? Go to the Official U.S. government information about the Global Positioning System (GPS) and related topics

Do all dog trackers use the same GPS location finding technology?

No.

• Some use a combination of WiFi networks, GPS, and cellular.

• Some use Bluetooth technology only.

• Some use only US satellites.

• Some use a combination of US and other world satellites.

Why do I need a GPS tracker for my dog?

• Find your lost pet faster.

• Get an alert if your dog leaves your house, yard, or other designated area.

• If your dog gets away, you can track the location of your dog in real time, using the associated mobile app or website associated with the tracker to precisely determine the dog’s location.

• If you live in remote location, a GPS tracker could be very useful.

• If you enjoy hiking in the woods with your dog off leash, A GPS tracker would be very useful.

• If you would like to know where your dog is at all times, A GPS tracker would be very useful.

How does the GPS tracker attach to the dog?

• GPS dog trackers are designed to attach to a dog's collar.

My dog is already microchipped, do I still need a GPS tracker?

• A microchip does not use GPS to track a dog, a microchip only holds dog owner contact information. When a lost or found dog is taken to a shelter, veterinarian, or animal control agency, staff uses a microchip scanner to read the identification number on the microchip, and access the microchip registry database (which should have your contact information that you provided during the microchip registration process) so you, the dog owner can be contacted.

How much do dog GPS trackers cost?

• What we found is a wide cost range between $50-$400, or more. Costs depend on the brand, retailer, and any offered discounts or added special features. Many GPS trackers may also require a paid subscription or monthly service fee for connectivity.

How long is the battery life in a dog GPS tracker?

• The battery life of a GPS tracker can vary depending on several factors, including the device's design, power-saving features, usage, and the frequency of location updates.

• Battery life can be from a few days to several months, depending on the product and usage.

How accurate is a dog GPS tracker?

• GPS dog tracker’s accuracy can be within a few meters, with a clear view of the sky.

• For additional information and GPS accuracy and limitations see Official U.S. government information about the Global Positioning System (GPS) and related topics

What is the range of a dog GPS tracker?

• GPS dog tracker's range vary per each product's technology utilized. Some advertise nationwide range, some advertise worldwide range.

What dog tracker features should I look for?

Dog tracker features that you are looking for should be dependent on you and your dogs particular needs. The more features the tracker has, typically the higher cost.

• Durability How rough and tough is your dog? Very active dogs need durable trackers. -Long battery life. Different trackers have different battery life estimations. The units will need to be charged, some more frequently than others.
• Size and weight Make sure the one that you choose will fit the size and weight of your dog.
• Extra tracking features that monitor calories, sleep, activity, and overall fitness. Look for these features if you would also like to monitor your dog’s fitness or set fitness goals.
• Water resistance Does your dog swim in pools, lakes, rivers or ponds? If yes, make sure the dog tracker is waterproof.
• Past location data Some GPS dog trackers can provide historical location data, so you can view your dogs past locations and activity.
• Setting virtual boundaries or geofencing Some GPS dog trackers advertise that they can provide a feature of geofencing (setting virtual boundaries), or wireless dog fence, sending dog escape alerts if your dog leaves the set area.
• Customer and product support Some GPS dog trackers offer more customer support than others. Review the product support information prior to purchasing.
• Price range and payment options Review any subscription fees carefully so you know what to expect.

In summary, there are many dog tracker products on the market in 2023, each with a different price point, features, and cost, which can be confusing to the pet parent.

Determining your dog tracking needs in advance will help you to avoid paying for features that may not be useful to you.

Make sure you have at least a 30 day return policy on the product you choose so that you can return the product for a refund if it does not meet you and your dog's needs.