Dog trackers are a great tool for keeping tabs on your furry friends, especially if they love to roam or tend to wander off. While they aren’t a substitute for microchipping and careful supervision, these trackers provide a reliable and smart way to monitor your dog’s movements. Even if your dog is mostly indoors, a tracker can be useful, especially for adventurous pups.
We’ve tested a variety of dog trackers to help you make the best choice for your pet. Our testing focused on their accuracy, ease of use, and how dog-friendly each device was. After careful testing, we found the Whistle Go Explore GPS Tracker to be the overall best dog GPS tracker. However, we know every dog is different, so we’ve included other great options as well.
Best Dog Trackers: Quick Overview
| Tracker | Best For | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whistle Go Explore GPS Tracker | Overall Best | $129.95 | Real-time tracking, health monitoring, long battery life |
| Fi Smart Dog Collar | Runner-Up | $149 | GPS location, escape detection, long battery life |
| Garmin Alpha 100 Bundle | Best for Outdoor Dogs | $799.99 | Tracking range up to 9 miles, training features |
| Jiobit GPS Dog Tracker | Best for Small Dogs | $129.99 | Accurate live GPS, water-resistant, lightweight |
| Link AKC Smart Collar | Best for Fashion-Forward Dogs | $99.99 | GPS, activity monitor, waterproof, stylish design |
| Tracki GPS Tracker | Best Budget | $18.88 | Unlimited range, waterproof, lifetime warranty |
| Pawscout Pet Tracker | Best for Urban Areas | $26.99 | Community-powered network to help find lost dogs |
| Petfon GPS Tracker | Best for Hiking | $199.99 | No monthly fee, 3.5-mile range, waterproof |
| Apple AirTags | Best for Basic Tracking | $39.98 | Simple setup, excellent battery life, easy-to-use app |
Top Picks Explained
1. Whistle Go Explore GPS Tracker: Overall Best
At $129.95, the Whistle Go Explore is a standout choice. It combines GPS tracking with health and fitness monitoring, giving you real-time updates on your dog’s location. You can track your dog’s activity and receive updates on their health, including rest and play patterns. The Whistle Go Explore offers a long 20-day battery life and works through a subscription service.
Pros:
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Tracks your dog’s location in real-time
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Health and fitness tracking (rest, play, etc.)
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Waterproof and durable
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Long battery life
Cons:
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Requires a subscription for full features ($6.95/month)
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Slightly bulkier design compared to other trackers
2. Fi Smart Dog Collar: Runner-Up
The Fi Smart Dog Collar offers exceptional performance, especially for dogs that love to run and roam. For $149, this collar features GPS tracking, activity monitoring, and escape detection. It’s built to withstand tough conditions, and its battery lasts up to 3 months on a single charge. It also has a sleek, low-profile design that won’t weigh your dog down.
Pros:
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Accurate real-time GPS tracking
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Long battery life (up to 3 months)
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Escape detection feature to alert you if your dog gets loose
Cons:
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Subscription required (starting at $99/year)
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Collar size may not fit smaller breeds
3. Garmin Alpha 100 Bundle: Best for Outdoor Dogs
The Garmin Alpha 100 Bundle is the perfect tracker for outdoor-loving dogs. With a range of up to 9 miles, it’s ideal for hunting, hiking, or any outdoor activity. This bundle includes both the tracking collar and a handheld device, making it easier to track multiple dogs at once. It also doubles as a training device, allowing you to communicate with your dog while on the move.
Pros:
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Extremely long tracking range (up to 9 miles)
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Includes a training feature for obedience and commands
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Perfect for active, outdoor dogs
Cons:
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Very expensive (bundle costs $799.99)
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Bulky design, may not be comfortable for small dogs
4. Jiobit GPS Dog Tracker: Best for Small Dogs
The Jiobit GPS Dog Tracker is a lightweight, highly accurate tracker at $129.99. It’s ideal for smaller dogs, weighing only 0.6 ounces. With real-time GPS tracking and a 7-day battery life, it’s perfect for dogs that don’t mind wearing something a little extra. It’s also water-resistant, making it suitable for all weather conditions.
Pros:
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Ultra-lightweight and comfortable for small dogs
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Accurate GPS in real-time
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Water-resistant and durable
Cons:
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Monthly subscription required (from $8.99/month)
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Bluetooth range may be limited
Why These Trackers Matter
Each of these trackers offers unique benefits depending on your dog’s needs. The Whistle Go Explore is perfect for everyday use with a strong focus on both location and health monitoring. The Fi Smart Collar is great for dogs that tend to wander, while the Garmin Alpha 100 Bundle is designed for serious outdoor activities. Whatever you choose, these trackers provide peace of mind knowing you can always stay connected to your dog.
