How often have you wished you could keep an eye on your adorable four-legged friend as he explores the world around him?
Safety and peace of mind are priorities when it comes to our dogs, and this is where dog GPS trackers and locators come into play.
In this article, we will guide you through the world of dog tracking devices, exploring their features, advantages, and how to choose the right one for your faithful companion.
And if you want to know how they work before buying them, read our guide: GPS Trackers for Dogs: How They Work and How to Choose Them.
Just so you know, we might collect a small commission or other compensation from the links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Click the red link to discover our favourite products.
What are the types of dog trackers?
Dog trackers can mainly be divided into two categories: those with a subscription and those without. Here are the main differences between these two options:
Subscription Trackers
Subscription trackers require a monthly or annual payment for the use of the tracking service, but offer broader coverage, often based on cellular or satellite networks.
This means that your dog can be tracked even in remote areas or outside Wi-Fi coverage. These dog GPS devices tend to offer advanced features, such as historical route logging, real-time notifications, and customised alerts.
Non-Subscription Trackers
Non-subscription trackers do not require subsequent monthly or annual payments. These devices often depend on Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, meaning their coverage is limited to the area where your smartphone or connected device is located.
They tend to offer basic features such as real-time tracking within a certain distance and proximity alarms when the device and phone move apart from each other. They do not work in remote areas.
Best subscription-based dog trackers
Tractive – GPS for Dogs – Best Product
Tractive GPS Dog 4 is a small device, weighing only 35 grams, suitable for all dogs weighing over 4 kg. It works thanks to an integrated SIM card provided by the seller.
It attaches to the dog's collar (maximum height 2.8 cm) and allows tracking the dog's movements in real time with a dedicated app both during the day and at night. If you're an Apple fan, it can also be connected to an Apple Watch, not just an iPhone.
It is 100% waterproof, and the battery lasts from 3 days if used continuously to 10 days if used occasionally.
The coverage is complete, and the satellite GPS offers a history of the movements made by the dog when wearing Tractive.
Additionally, you can create a sort of virtual fence: if the dog crosses it, the device alerts you with a notification.
It is possible to subscribe for just one month, for example, when you go on vacation, but the price is quite high. However, by subscribing annually or for 2 years, the monthly cost is reduced to that of an ice cream.
Included:
1 satellite GPS device
1 rubber holder
Batteries
Dimensions: 2.8 x 7.1 x 1.7 cm; weight 35 grams
ADVANTAGES
Waterproof
Global tracking
Maximum safety
Can connect to home Wi-Fi
Easy-to-use app (iOS – Android)
Very accurate where there is a GPS signal
No commitment for a single-month subscription
DISADVANTAGES
High subscription for a single month
Rather large device
Not suitable for Toy or Mini dogs
The attachment is delicate
The signal light is weak
The charging cable is short (25 cm)
What users say: The reviews speak for themselves, Tractive meets buyers' expectations and works well.
Unfortunately, some users say the battery ran out quickly, and it was difficult dealing with customer service for a replacement, as the dead battery is not part of the parts under warranty.
However, this is a limited number, and to date, this device has so many positive reviews that it is definitely the best option. The unfortunate cases are just that, unfortunate!
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This version is for dogs over 4 kg, but if you have a small dog or want a smaller collar, check this out:
Tractive Cat Mini – GPS Collar for Cats and Toy Dogs
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If you have a very large dog, there is also a version for XL-sized dogs:
Tractive GPS Tracker XL for Dogs, up to 1 Month of Autonomy
Click here and save!
Kippy Review – EVO Collar GPS
The Kippy GPS for dogs offers the security of global coverage, allowing you to monitor all of your dog's movements and create a virtual fence to limit your friend's movements. If this boundary is crossed, the device alerts you with a notification.
The battery is stated to last about 7 days with location notifications every 2 hours, but this is true if the device is not in use, in which case it needs to be recharged every 2-3 days.
Moreover, the connection with the GPS is not always immediate; it takes a few minutes. However, the location is quite accurate, with a margin of error of a couple of meters.
Like Tractive, Kippy is also recommended for dogs and cats over 4 kg, but the device is shorter, making it more suitable for lighter-weight animals.
It works through an app (the SIM is integrated into the device), and you can choose between 4 tariffs.
The subscription package is similar to that of Tractive, with the single month slightly lower and the annual slightly higher. There is a very affordable three-year subscription. For the single month, there is a 4-month commitment.
As for the cost of the device, it is higher than that of Tractive, a rather significant detail in the choice of two competing products.
Dimensions: 5.5 x 3.7 x 2.2 cm – weight 38 grams
ADVANTAGES
Shorter than Tractive
Durable
Waterproof
App compatible with iOS – Android
Good price for the single month
DISADVANTAGES
The attachment detaches easily
The battery does not last as long as stated
Long replacement times
4-month commitment for single-month subscription
What users say: Kippy has many positive reviews, so it is well-liked by buyers, but in this case, there seem to have been some unfortunate issues related to the battery.
Customer service is available and efficient, but the replacement times for defective parts seem to be long.
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Weenect Review – GPS for Dogs
The Weenect satellite GPS for dogs ensures unlimited coverage throughout Europe, except Switzerland. It's compatible with Samsung and Android devices.
It features a virtual fence function and connects about every 10 seconds. It also has another practical feature that allows the device to vibrate as a warning signal for the dog, so it associates the vibration with a recall and returns home. In short, it's like a simulation of an electric collar's input, but without pain for the dog.
It offers three monthly subscription plans: the single month (minimum 3 months) has the best price among the products presented, while the annual and three-year plans (not two-year like Tractive and Kippy) are comparable.
The seller states that the battery lasts three days (much less than competitors) but according to many users, it needs to be recharged daily if in continuous use.
Otherwise, it has more or less the same functions as Tractive and Kippy, but they are more precise in location tracking. Weenect also has a location flashlight.
Dimensions: 2.3 x 1 x 5.8 cm; 25 grams
ADVANTAGES
Slightly smaller than competitors
Waterproof
With vibration
Easy-to-use app
Best price for single month
DISADVANTAGES
Less precise location
Limited battery life
Takes a few seconds to update the position
3-month commitment for single month subscription
What users say: In this case too, the main complaint is about the battery life, but here it's mentioned by about twice as many users, so it might not be bad luck, but a characteristic of the device.
Weenect does its job adequately, but for now, Tractive continues to win in terms of functionality, and especially for the significantly lower purchase price on the base model.
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Our Favourite Products
We have reviewed a limited number of products because they are the best on the market, and given the important purpose, it didn't seem right to review products that we wouldn't buy ourselves for our pets.
If you prefer a non-subscription tracker, keep reading to discover the most functional ones below.
Apple AirTag Tracker
The very popular AirTag is an excellent tracker and also works well as a dog tracker. Just attach it to the leash and your pet will be protected and safe.
Compatible only with the iOS operating system, it is not a GPS and is not suitable for outdoor experiences in remote areas. 100% waterproof, excellent functionality, best value for money.
Click here and save!
AirTag Collar Holder
A practical silicone AirTag holder in various colors, 4 pieces per pack in assorted colors. They attach to the collar and keep your AirTag and with it, your dog, safe.
Practical, small, and flexible, these AirTag cases are also the perfect solution for those who don't want to put the AirTag on the leash, as they easily attach to the harness as well.
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Reflective Collar with Built-in AirTag Holder
If you don't want the hassle of attaching and detaching an AirTag holder from the collar every time you go out and come back with the dog, you can choose a collar with a built-in AirTag holder.
It attaches and detaches quickly and easily and is reflective. It's available in 3 sizes and 2 colors.
Click here and save!
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Author's Note
I invite all readers to share their experiences on this topic in the comments section.
Any information you wish to share about health, temperament, products, and advice on training or diet will help us create a great community of owners who not only love dogs but also know how to manage them best.
From the Staff of Khani.co.uk
If this post was helpful to you and you want to learn more about dog care, well-being, and training, we are happy to help. Find here lots of useful information to better understand your beloved companion.
Disclaimer
The information provided on our site is general in nature and does not replace the advice of a veterinarian or industry experts. Always consult your veterinarian if you have any doubts.