An Introduction
As a dog owner, ensuring the safety and well-being of your furry friend is a top priority. One of the best ways to achieve this is by using a GPS tracker for dogs. In 2024, the market is flooded with innovative options, making it essential to choose the right tracker that fits your needs. This guide explores the best dog GPS trackers on the market that are readily available in the United Kingdom, considering several factors like accuracy, battery life, and additional features.
What is a Dog GPS Tracker?
A dog GPS tracker is a device that attaches to your dog's collar (or is the collar itself) and uses GPS technology to track their location in real time. These devices are essential for pet owners who want to ensure the safety and security of their dogs. While we're specifically stating "dogs" throughout this blog, it's important to remember that all of your furry friends can benefit from the use of GPS trackers, particularly our feline friends who spend their days (or nights) outdoors.
Why Use a GPS Tracker for Your Dog?
Using a GPS tracker for your dog can provide peace of mind by allowing you to monitor your dog's location at all times. This is particularly useful if your dog tends to wander off or if you live in an area with potential hazards. For example, growing up my family owned an Australian Cattle Dog, who for lack of a better term, was an "escape artist". We lived on a property that backed onto farmland and almost every day she would disappear for a couple of hours to romp around in the long grass and roll in you know-what. If we had GPS trackers for dogs when I was younger, it would have truly eased my mind for the days that our escape artist would be gone for slightly longer than usual.
Key Features to Look for in a Dog GPS Tracker
When choosing a dog GPS tracker, consider the following features:
- Accuracy: How precisely the tracker can pinpoint your dog's location.
- Battery Life: The longevity of the device’s battery.
- Range: The distance over which the tracker can effectively monitor your dog.
- Durability: The device’s ability to withstand rough conditions and activities.
- Subscription Fees: Some trackers require a monthly fee for GPS services.
- Additional Features: Features like activity monitoring, geofencing, and health tracking.
Top Dog GPS Trackers of 2024
1. Pawfit 3 GPS Pet Tracker
The Pawfit 3 GPS Pet Tracker offers real-time GPS location tracking, activity monitoring, and personalised fitness goals for your pooch. The device incorporates a "FIND" mode with location updates every 5 seconds so you can mitigate the stress of finding your pet if it's loose or roaming on a large property. The device has an unlimited range, which means you can track your dog anytime and anywhere, and you can set up the tracker so that you are alerted when your dog escapes your garden. In addition to these features, you can use voice commands to recall your dog when they're out of earshot. In terms of battery life, the Pawfit 3 can last up to 6 days.
You can check out the Pawfit 3 on Pawfit's Website, or here on Amazon.
2. Tractive GPS Dog Tracker
Similarly to the Pawfit, the Tractive GPS Dog Tracker offers real-time GPS tracking so that you can see the location of your dog and track them anywhere with no distance limit, LTE or 2G cellular coverage required. You can set the device up to receive escape alerts (even if you're abroad) and receive activity and health alerts to help you with the responsibility of keeping your dog fit and healthy. Another benefit of this GPS is that you can keep track of the walks that you take with your pooch, with the battery life extending up to 10 days without charging.
3. Garmin Alpha T 20 K Dog Collar
Although the Alpha T is more expensive than our first two options, we love this device for those who adventure with their pooch in the great outdoors. The top-mounted, high-sensitivity GPS and Galileo receiver keeps track of your dog’s location, offering dynamic tracking, as well as featuring bright, multicolour LED beacon lights to help you identify and track your dog in low-light conditions. For those who have a large pack, the Alpha T dog collar pairs with Garmin dog tracking handhelds, so that you can access multiple global navigation satellite systems.
4. PitPat Dog GPS Tracker
PitPat uses GPS technology to help you find your pooch and under normal weather circumstances, can identify your dog's location to within a few metres. This device is subscription-free and has a reasonable battery so that you can keep tracking your dog for longer with less frequent charging. The PitPat Dog GPS Tracker uses wireless recharging when needed. We will note that with the PitPat GPS Tracker, the device cannot be used for tracking while it is being charged or within the property.
How to Choose the Right GPS Tracker for Your Dog
Selecting the right GPS tracker depends on your specific needs and your dog's habits. Consider the environment, the size of your dog, and the features that will be most beneficial for your situation.
Benefits of Using Dog GPS Trackers
Dog GPS trackers offer several benefits, including:
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your dog's location at all times.
- Quick Recovery: Faster retrieval if your dog goes missing.
- Health Monitoring: Tracking your dog's activity and health metrics.
- Behaviour Insights: Understanding your dog's habits and routines.
Common Concerns and FAQs About Dog GPS Trackers
How accurate are dog GPS trackers?
Most modern GPS trackers are highly accurate, often within a few meters. However, accuracy can vary based on the environment and satellite availability.
Do GPS trackers require a subscription?
Many GPS trackers require a monthly subscription for real-time tracking services. Some options, like PitPat, do not have subscription fees.
How durable are these devices?
Most dog GPS trackers are designed to be durable and water-resistant, making them suitable for active dogs.
Installation and Setup Tips
Setting up a dog GPS tracker is usually straightforward. Attach the device to your dog's collar, ensure it is charged, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for pairing it with your smartphone.
In the case of Garmin's Alpha T 20 K Dog Collar, the device itself is a collar, so you would incorporate it into your routine as you would your dog's regular collar.
Maintenance and Care for Dog GPS Trackers
To ensure the longevity of your dog's GPS tracker:
- Regularly charge the device.
- Clean it to remove dirt and debris.
- Check for software updates from the manufacturer.
Dog GPS Trackers for Large Breeds
Large breeds require robust and durable trackers. Options like the Garmin Alpha T 20 K Dog Collar are ideal due to their rugged design and extended range.
Dog GPS Trackers for Small Breeds
For small breeds, lightweight and compact trackers like the Pawfit and Tractive are perfect. These devices are less cumbersome and comfortable for smaller dogs.
Our Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Choosing the right dog GPS tracker depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you need a tracker for everyday use or rugged adventures, there are excellent options available in 2024. You should take into consideration factors like battery life, range, and additional features to find the perfect fit for your furry friend.
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