Why a GPS can save your dog
The first minutes after a dog escapes are the most critical. A GPS active on the collar gives you the exact location in real time and can mean the difference between finding them in 10 minutes or spending hours searching.
Types of trackers: which to choose
| Type | How it works | Range | Monthly fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real GPS (4G/LTE) | Satellite + mobile network | Worldwide | Yes (โฌ5โ15/month) |
| AirTag (Apple) | Network of iPhones | Variable | No |
| Samsung SmartTag | Galaxy network | Variable | No |
| Bluetooth | Direct signal | 30โ100m | No |
AirTag works well in dense cities with many iPhones. In rural areas, countryside or farms it can take hours to update the position. For dogs that escape to the countryside, you need a real GPS with SIM.
Which GPS by dog size?
| Dog size | Max recommended weight | Recommended models |
|---|---|---|
| Small breeds (<5 kg) | <25g | Tractive Mini, Pawfit 3S |
| Medium breeds (5โ25 kg) | <45g | Tractive GPS DOG 4, Weenect Dogs 2 |
| Large breeds (>25 kg) | No restriction | Tractive GPS DOG 4, Garmin TT15, Kippy EVO |
Options by budget
Simple location
โฌ30โ60 + fee
- Real-time position
- Basic app
- 2โ3 day battery
- Works with existing collar
GPS + activity + fence
โฌ50โ100 + fee
- Real-time GPS
- Virtual fence with alerts
- Activity and sleep monitor
- Route history
- Waterproof
Professional GPS
โฌ150โ400
- Works without mobile coverage
- Beeper/buzzer for hunting
- Screen on handset
- No monthly fee
- For hunting or mountain dogs
Recommended models
Tractive GPS DOG 4
Best-selling in Europe. Real-time, virtual fence, history, activity monitor. Waterproof. From โฌ50 + โฌ5/month.
See price โPawfit 3S
GPS + health and activity monitor. For small breeds from 2.5 kg. Battery up to 7 days in saving mode. From โฌ60 + โฌ4/month.
See price โWeenect Dogs 2
Real-time tracking, vibration and buzzer for remote training, annual plan available. From โฌ40.
See price โGarmin T5/TT15
For hunting or mountain dogs. Works without mobile coverage via radio. Screen on handset. No monthly fee. From โฌ250.
See price โ