Why a GPS Dog Collar is One of the Best Investments for Your Pet

[Updated March 2023]

One of the most valuable purchases you can make for your dog is a GPS dog collar. Many people have asked me, “Why do you need a GPS collar when your dog already has a microchip?” While microchips are important and every dog should have one, they are a passive tool for identification. A microchip only works if someone finds your dog, takes them to a veterinarian or shelter, and scans the chip.

A GPS collar, on the other hand, is an active tool that allows you to track your dog in real time. If your dog goes missing, you can switch the collar to lost mode, which activates LTE-M cellular tracking, allowing you to locate them on a map—assuming you’re in an area with cellular coverage.

Key Features of GPS Dog Collars

Here’s what to expect with a GPS dog collar:

• Price: $50–$150 for the device
• Subscription Cost: Around $100 per year (varies based on plan duration)

Stories of lost pets flood social media, with dogs running off due to fireworks or escaping when a delivery driver arrives. Fortunately, GPS collars have helped reunite countless lost pets with their families. For example, Lex, an Australian Shepherd, found his way home thanks to his collar, and Kazoo was recovered—along with his owner’s stolen car—thanks to GPS tracking.

Another great perk? GPS collars track your dog’s daily activity, similar to a fitness tracker. The two most popular options on the market are the Fi Dog Collar and Tractive GPS Dog Tracker.

Why an AirTag Isn’t the Best Alternative

Some people consider using an Apple AirTag instead of a GPS collar. While AirTags are more affordable and don’t require a subscription, they work differently.

AirTags rely on nearby Apple devices to update their location. If your dog is in an area with few people, such as a forest, it may be nearly impossible to track them. Even in a busy area, by the time you reach their last known location, they may have already moved on.

AirTags are great for tracking items like keys or wallets but are not ideal for a pet that moves unpredictably. Apple even discourages using them for pet tracking.

Final Thoughts

A GPS dog collar is a game-changer when it comes to keeping your pet safe. Unlike a microchip, which relies on someone else finding and scanning your dog, a GPS collar gives you real-time tracking to take action immediately. While alternatives like AirTags may seem appealing, they don’t offer the same level of reliability, especially in less populated areas.

If you want the best chance of recovering your dog if they ever get lost, a GPS dog collar is one of the smartest investments you can make.