Best GPS trackers for dogs in 2025: Top-rated devices for pet safety and location monitoring

Keeping track of your dog is important for their safety and your peace of mind. Dogs can get lost during walks, escape from yards, or wander off during camping trips. GPS trackers designed for dogs help you locate your pet quickly when they go missing.

Dog GPS trackers work differently than basic ID tags or microchips. These devices use satellite technology to show your dog’s real-time location on your phone. Most trackers attach to your dog’s collar and connect to a mobile app that displays their position on a map.

When choosing a GPS tracker for your dog, you need to consider battery life, size, and monthly fees. The tracker should be lightweight enough for your dog to wear comfortably all day. You also want a device with good GPS accuracy and a reliable cellular connection. Many trackers require a monthly subscription to access the tracking service.

The right GPS tracker depends on your dog’s size, activity level, and how often you plan to use it.

Best GPS Trackers for Dogs

Below is our full list of the best GPS trackers for dogs. These devices help you keep track of your pet’s location and give you peace of mind when they’re out of sight.

Tractive Smart Dog GPS Tracker

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This tracker stands out with its health monitoring features and frequent location updates, making it ideal for owners who want detailed insights into their dog’s wellbeing.

Pros

• Updates your dog’s location every 2-3 seconds instead of once per minute like other trackers
• Monitors your dog’s heart rate and breathing patterns to catch health issues early
• Battery lasts up to 14 days and works anywhere in the world with cellular coverage

Cons

• Requires a monthly subscription starting at $5 to use any tracking features
• Only works on dogs weighing more than 8 pounds due to its size
• Virtual fence alerts may not always be perfectly accurate

The Tractive tracker gives you real-time updates on where your dog is going. You can watch their movement live on your phone as it happens. The tracker also learns your dog’s normal habits and sends alerts if something seems different about their sleep or activity.

This device goes beyond basic location tracking. It watches your dog’s vital signs and can spot changes in their health before you notice them. The tracker sends notifications if your dog’s heart rate or breathing changes from normal patterns.

You can set up virtual boundaries around your yard or neighborhood. The tracker alerts you right away if your dog crosses these invisible fences. The waterproof design means it keeps working even when your dog goes swimming or gets caught in the rain.

The subscription covers all the cellular data the tracker needs to work. You get a 30-day trial to test it out before committing to the monthly fee. The tracker works worldwide, so you can take it on trips without losing coverage.

Ztobny Smart Pet Tracker

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This budget-friendly tracker offers basic location monitoring for iOS users without monthly fees, though it has limited compatibility and tracking accuracy.

Pros

• Works without ongoing subscription costs or monthly payments
• Lightweight silicone design won’t bother your pet during daily wear
• Waterproof construction handles rain, swimming, and outdoor adventures

Cons

• Only works with Apple devices, leaving Android users out completely
• Location updates can be delayed by hours instead of real-time tracking
• Relies on other Apple devices nearby to report your pet’s location

The Ztobny Smart Pet Tracker stands out for pet owners who want to avoid monthly subscription fees. This tracker connects directly to Apple’s Find My network without requiring additional payments. The setup process takes just one tap to link with your iPhone or iPad.

Your pet will barely notice wearing this tracker thanks to its lightweight silicone construction. The soft material prevents irritation during long walks or active play sessions. The IP68 waterproof rating means bath time and rainy day adventures won’t damage the device.

However, this tracker has some notable limitations that might frustrate certain users. Android phone owners cannot use this device since it only works with Apple’s ecosystem. The tracking accuracy depends on other Apple devices being nearby to ping your pet’s location, which can create gaps in rural areas or less populated neighborhoods.

Tractive XL Smart Dog GPS Tracker

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This tracker offers excellent real-time tracking with health monitoring features, making it a solid choice for owners of larger dogs who need reliable location data and wellness insights.

Pros

• Updates location every 2-3 seconds instead of once per minute like many competitors
• Monitors your dog’s heart rate and breathing patterns to catch health problems early
• Battery lasts up to one month between charges with waterproof protection

Cons

• Monthly subscription fee starting at $5 is required for all tracking features
• Only works for dogs weighing 50 pounds or more due to the larger size
• Initial cost plus ongoing fees can add up over time

The Tractive XL stands out with its fast location updates that refresh every few seconds. This quick tracking helps you follow your dog’s exact path in real-time. Most other trackers only update once per minute, which can leave big gaps in location data.

Your dog’s health gets constant monitoring through built-in sensors. The device tracks heart rate and breathing patterns throughout the day. These vital signs can help you spot potential health issues before they become serious problems.

Setting up safe zones around your property triggers instant alerts when your dog leaves the area. The virtual fence feature sends notifications to your phone right away. You can then switch to live tracking mode to follow your pet’s movements step by step.

The rugged design handles tough outdoor conditions without breaking. Rain, mud, and snow won’t damage the waterproof tracker. The month-long battery life means less frequent charging compared to devices that need power every few days.

BONSO 2-in-1 GPS Dog Collar

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This collar works well for iPhone users who want basic tracking without monthly fees, but Android users should look elsewhere.

Pros

• Works with Apple’s Find My app at no extra cost
• Built tough with waterproof design that handles weather
• Quick setup takes less than a minute

Cons

• Only works with iOS devices, not Android
• Newer product with limited user feedback
• Tracking depends on Apple’s network coverage

The BONSO collar combines a regular dog collar with GPS tracking in one package. You get real-time location updates through your iPhone without paying monthly fees. The tracker connects to Apple’s Find My network, which uses other Apple devices to help locate your pet.

This collar stands out because of its waterproof build. Rain, snow, and splashing won’t damage the tracker. The nylon material feels sturdy and should last through daily wear.

Setup takes almost no time at all. You pair the tracker with your iPhone just like an AirTag. The collar fits small, medium, and large dogs with its adjustable design.

The main downside is that it only works with Apple devices. Android users can’t use this tracker at all. You also depend on Apple’s network to find your dog, which might not work as well in remote areas with fewer iPhones nearby.

Tractive Smart Cat GPS Tracker

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The Tractive Cat Mini offers solid tracking features for outdoor cats, but you’ll need to budget for ongoing monthly fees.

Pros

• Updates location every 2-3 seconds for precise real-time tracking
• Lightweight design at under one ounce won’t weigh down your cat
• Territory mapping shows where your cat spends the most time

Cons

• Monthly subscription costs start at $5 with no option to avoid fees
• Some users report signal issues when cats move away from home
• Only works for cats weighing 6.5 pounds or more

This GPS tracker gives you frequent location updates that beat many competitors. While other devices might check in once per minute, the Tractive system pings every few seconds. This means you can watch your cat’s movements almost like a live video feed.

The device weighs less than an ounce and comes with a breakaway collar for safety. Your cat can wear it comfortably without being weighed down. The waterproof design handles rain and outdoor adventures.

You can set up virtual fences around your property. The app sends alerts when your cat crosses these boundaries. The territory feature maps out your pet’s favorite hangout spots over time.

Battery life reaches up to seven days depending on usage. Power saving zones help extend this further when your cat stays in familiar areas. The charging cable connects easily for quick power-ups.

The monthly subscription covers cellular service and data usage. Plans begin at $5 per month with no hidden charges. However, this ongoing cost adds up over time compared to one-time purchase trackers.

Buying Guide

Battery Life

Look for trackers that last at least 3-5 days on one charge. Check if the device has low battery alerts. Some models offer weeks of battery life in power-saving mode.

Size and Weight

Choose a tracker that fits your dog’s size. Small dogs need lightweight options under 1 ounce. Large dogs can handle heavier trackers with more features.

Range and Coverage

Consider your tracking needs. Some devices work only within 100 feet. Others use cellular networks for unlimited range. Check if the tracker works in your area.

Water Resistance

Pick a waterproof or water-resistant model. Dogs get wet from rain, swimming, and drinking water. Look for IPX7 rating or higher for best protection.

Subscription Costs

Many GPS trackers require monthly fees for cellular service. Compare costs before buying. Some charge $5-20 per month. Factor this into your budget.

Key Features to Compare

Feature	What to Look For
Real-time tracking	Updates every 1-5 seconds
Geofencing	Custom safe zone alerts
Activity monitoring	Steps, sleep, health data
Attachment method	Collar clip or built-in collar

App Quality

Test the mobile app before buying. The app should be easy to use and load quickly. Read reviews about app crashes or connection problems.

Durability

Choose models built for active dogs. Look for shock-resistant cases and strong attachment clips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dog owners often wonder about subscription costs, rural coverage, and safety of GPS tracking devices. Battery life, real-time updates, and brand comparisons also create confusion when selecting the right tracker.

What features should I consider when choosing a GPS tracker for my dog?

Battery life stands as the most important feature to examine. Most quality trackers offer 2-7 days of active use between charges.

Look for waterproof ratings of IPX7 or higher. Your dog will encounter rain, mud, and water during outdoor activities.

Real-time tracking updates every 10-60 seconds provide the most accurate location data. Slower update intervals may miss your dog’s exact position.

Geofencing alerts notify you immediately when your dog leaves safe areas. This feature works best with customizable boundary sizes.

Which GPS trackers for dogs offer real-time tracking without a subscription fee?

No GPS trackers provide true real-time tracking without monthly fees. All devices require cellular or satellite networks that cost money to operate.

Some trackers offer limited features without subscriptions. These typically show location updates only every few hours or require manual checking.

Budget $5-20 monthly for reliable GPS tracking services. This covers cellular data and mapping services needed for accurate positioning.

How reliable are GPS trackers for dogs in rural areas with limited cellular service?

GPS trackers struggle in areas with weak cell tower coverage. Poor signal strength delays location updates or prevents them entirely.

Check carrier coverage maps before purchasing any tracker. Verizon and AT&T networks typically offer the best rural coverage in most regions.

Some trackers use multiple carrier networks automatically. These devices switch between towers to maintain stronger connections.

Satellite-based trackers work better in remote areas but cost significantly more. Monthly fees range from $30-50 for satellite coverage.

Are implantable GPS chips for dogs a safe and effective option for tracking?

Current implantable chips do not contain GPS tracking technology. Microchips only store identification numbers that require manual scanning.

True GPS implants remain experimental and unavailable for pets. Battery power requirements make implantable GPS devices impractical with current technology.

Standard microchips help identify lost dogs at shelters and veterinary clinics. They work alongside external GPS trackers for complete protection.

Stick with collar-mounted or harness-attached GPS devices for active tracking. These provide real location data that implants cannot offer.

What are the advantages of using a dedicated dog GPS tracker over a multipurpose tracking device?

Dog-specific trackers include activity monitoring features like steps, calories, and sleep patterns. General trackers lack these pet health insights.

Dedicated devices offer longer battery life optimized for dog behavior patterns. They account for active periods and rest times throughout the day.

Dog trackers provide breed-specific activity goals and health recommendations. Generic devices cannot offer this specialized guidance.

Waterproof ratings on dog trackers exceed most multipurpose devices. Dogs encounter harsher conditions than typical tracking applications require.

How do Garmin dog trackers compare to other brands in terms of coverage and accuracy?

Garmin Alpha and Astro series offer superior accuracy in dense forests and remote areas. These devices use both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems.

Battery life on Garmin units typically lasts 20-40 hours during active tracking. Most competing brands provide 2-7 days with less intensive use.

Garmin trackers work without cellular coverage using radio frequency communication. The handheld unit must stay within 4-9 miles of your dog.

Monthly subscription fees are not required for basic Garmin tracking functions. Advanced features like smartphone connectivity may require small monthly charges.