Each GPS collar available today has a different feature set and level of reliability, ranging from simple Bluetooth pings to full-on health trackers. The best one depends on your environment and your dog's behavior. Here are the answers to some key questions that'll ease your decision-making process for your first or next GPS collar.
How do GPS Collars Track a Dog's Location?
GPS collars use several different technologies to provide locations. The method of connection can greatly impact a model's reliability, so it's important to understand the basics. No device is perfect, but a well-made option should allow you to get within line of sight of your pup quickly.
Cellular Network Coverage
We most commonly see devices that are located using LTE cell service networks and the networks' satellites. Think of it like a mini-cell phone that can communicate with networks and satellites to share your dog's real-time location with your phone. These devices typically require a monthly subscription and are usually very reliable as long as the device is within cell range. Without coverage, finding your pup can become more difficult, so it's important to keep an eye on the device's cell strength in your area. Some options only use one cell provider, but we found the best connectivity with models that use multiple providers, including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.
=Bluetooth=
Bluetooth can be used to locate a dog in a few ways. Some models utilize a Bluetooth radar function that helps you get the exact location of your pup if they're within ~100 feet. This is useful if you're in dense brush or if it's nighttime. Another way Bluetooth can be used is via the Apple-specific “Find My” network system, which locates a device if it's within Bluetooth range of an iPhone or iPad. This system is more effective in the city, where there are many Apple devices that can help locate the device. Ultimately, we only suggest using a Bluetooth-connected collar if it's a just-in-case device for a pup who normally stays close to you.
Satellite GPS Positioning
Satellite GPS positioning connects to multiple satellites to locate a device, and is a very dependable location system. Devices that use this are generally on the pricier side, and are likely to include their own handheld unit rather than pairing with an app on your phone. Devices like this will best serve hunters who regularly have their dogs off-leash in the backcountry.
What Features Come with a GPS Collar?
In addition to basic location tracking, there are a few other features that can be fun, useful, or both. A geofence is a virtual boundary you can set within the device's app, allowing you to create safe zones around your home or any area where you're comfortable letting your dog roam. Unlike an electric fence, a geofence doesn't physically restrain your dog but instead sends you a notification if your dog leaves the designated area, giving you an immediate alert if your pet wanders off. Many devices allow you to set up multiple geofences, so you can create zones for places like friends' homes, dog sitters' yards, or a piece of land where your dog is free to explore. Other helpful features include health analytics, which let you monitor your dog's activity, set fitness goals, and keep an eye on sleep patterns, and some advanced models even offer vitals monitoring that notifies you if your dog's vital signs move outside the normal range, signaling that a vet visit might be needed.
