How To Choose A Good Dog GPS Tracker From The Eye Of A Veterinarian

As a veterinarian, I often get asked how to choose a good dog GPS tracker. Here are some tips and best practices to consider when purchasing a GPS tracker. Be sure to do adequate research on the product you are considering purchasing to look for key features and ask your friends, family, or veterinarian if they have any recommendations on GPS trackers for dogs.

1. Check the water resistance – If your dog is likely to get wet or loves to swim, you will definitely want to find a collar that is water-resistant or waterproof. Even if your dog isn’t a water lover, there is a chance that the collar will get wet if it rains.
2. Look for long battery life – Look for a product with long battery life. If your pet gets lost, it can take time to find them. You will want a collar with long battery life to give you plenty of time to find your pet.
3. Real-time mapping is a big plus – Look for a GPS collar/tracker that offers real-time mapping. This service allows you to track your dog from a cell phone or a handheld device so you can pinpoint the exact location of your pet.¹
4. Good customer service is crucial – When you lose your pet, you may need to speak with someone about the GPS tracker if you are having issues. Look for a GPS tracking company that has reliable customer service so you can talk to someone when you need it most.
5. Scannable GPS trackers make information accessible – Scannable GPS collars allow someone who finds your dog to scan the tag and have your dog’s vital information at their fingertips, so they can call you right away or take note of any pertinent information you’ve included, such as health concerns.

6. Consider ongoing subscription costs – Most GPS dog trackers require a monthly or annual subscription. Consider these costs when evaluating GPS dog trackers to find one that fits your budget.