Tracking small dogs can be a challenging task, especially if they’re prone to wandering off. Small dog GPS trackers come to the rescue by allowing pet owners to keep a constant check on their pet’s location. These trackers use satellite technology to pinpoint your dog’s whereabouts, providing peace of mind and an added layer of security. Investing in a reliable GPS tracker means fewer worries about your furry friend’s safety.
When selecting a GPS tracker for your small dog, there are key features to consider. Size and weight are crucial, as a bulky tracker can be uncomfortable for a small dog to wear. Battery life is another important factor; a long-lasting battery ensures continuous tracking. Look for waterproof options, especially if your dog loves to play in the water or has a knack for getting into messy situations. There’s also the matter of the range and coverage area, which can vary significantly between different models.
We spent countless hours researching and testing various small dog GPS trackers to identify the ones that offer the best performance and convenience.
Best Small Dog GPS Trackers
Keeping our small dogs safe is a top priority. We have carefully checked the latest GPS trackers to help you find the best options available.
Let’s dive into the best small dog GPS trackers to give you peace of mind.
Tractive GPS Tracker
The Tractive GPS Tracker is a solid choice for keeping tabs on your small dog and ensuring their safety.
Pros
- Reliable real-time tracking
- Waterproof design
- Long battery life
Cons
- Subscription required
- Initial setup can be tricky
- Can be large for very small dogs
Using the Tractive GPS Tracker has been quite an experience. Attaching it to our dog’s collar was simple, and it stayed secure without causing any discomfort. The real-time tracking feature gave us peace of mind, as we could see our dog’s location at any moment through the app.
We especially appreciated the waterproof feature. Our dog loves to play in puddles and gets into all sorts of wet messes, but the tracker kept working perfectly. The battery life of up to 15 days meant that we didn’t have to worry about charging it frequently, which is a huge plus.
On the flip side, the need for a subscription can be a bit of a downside. It adds to the overall cost, and the setup process was a bit challenging at first. Plus, the size might be a bit bulky for very small dogs. However, once we got past these initial hurdles, it was smooth sailing from there.
In conclusion, the Tractive GPS Tracker is a reliable and sturdy device to keep your four-legged friend safe. If you’re willing to invest in the subscription, it’s definitely worth considering. For more details, check out the Tractive GPS Tracker here.
Vebiso GPS Tracker for Dogs
This is a practical choice for Apple users who want to keep tabs on their small pets.
Pros
- No monthly fees
- Compatible with Apple Find My app
- Long battery life
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Limited to Apple devices
- Issues with accuracy
We recently got our hands on the Vebiso GPS Tracker for our dogs. The setup was a breeze, thanks to the integration with Apple’s Find My app. The best part? No monthly fees. Just a one-time purchase, and you’re good to go.
This tracker is lightweight, so our pets don’t seem to mind wearing it at all. We particularly appreciate the long-lasting battery. It’s one less thing to worry about on a daily basis.
On the downside, this device is not suitable for dogs that love water. If your pet loves swimming or playing with the hose, this tracker might not hold up well. Additionally, it only works with Apple devices and has shown some issues with locating accuracy. For detailed information, check out the Vebiso GPS Tracker for Dogs here.
Tracki Dog GPS Tracker
If you’re looking for a reliable GPS tracker for your small dog, the Tracki Dog GPS Tracker is worth considering due to its unique features and ease of use.
Pros
- Lightweight and fits all collars
- “Chase mode” provides quick updates
- Waterproof design
Cons
- Subscription required
- Occasionally lacks pinpoint accuracy
- Initial setup can be time-consuming
We’ve been using the Tracki Dog GPS Tracker and it’s quite versatile. One of the standout features is its lightweight design, which fits comfortably on any dog collar. The waterproof feature is particularly handy for those unexpected rain showers or swims. Additionally, the “chase mode” that gives updates every five seconds is an excellent tool for finding a lost pet quickly.
Despite its advantages, there are a few drawbacks. The need for a subscription might not appeal to everyone, and while the tracker generally works well, it can sometimes miss the exact location by several meters. Also, setting it up initially took a bit longer than we had anticipated.
Overall, our experience with the Tracki Dog GPS Tracker has been positive. The additional features like “community ring” help in locating a lost pet with the help of friends and neighbors. This tracker offers peace of mind and ensures that our pets are safer, even when they are out exploring.
Fi Smart Dog Collar
This collar is a great choice for keeping track of our dog’s location and health with ease.
Pros
- Accurate GPS tracking
- Long-lasting battery
- Durable design
Cons
- Initial cost is high
- Subscription required after first year
- Limited to US coverage
We recently tried out the Fi Smart Dog Collar on our dog, and its accuracy impressed us. The GPS tracking is spot-on, ensuring that we always know where our pup is, even if they decide to wander off. The escape alerts are a wonderful safety net and have given us peace of mind.
The battery life on the Series 3 is amazing. We didn’t have to worry about constantly recharging it, which is a big plus for us. Additionally, the collar’s durability certainly stands out. It’s built to withstand rough use, and the waterproof feature means it holds up even when our adventurous dog decides to splash around in water.
We did find the initial price a bit steep, and knowing we need a subscription after the first year is a little disappointing. For now, the added cost seems justified by the quality of the product. However, it’s crucial to note that this collar only works within the US, which might be a limitation for some users.
Overall, the Fi Smart Dog Collar is reliable and offers great features, making it a valuable investment for pet safety and health.
PitPat GPS Tracker for Dogs
This GPS tracker offers comprehensive features without hidden costs, ideal for small dog owners.
Pros
- No subscription fees
- Long battery life
- Waterproof and durable
Cons
- Requires manual start for live tracking
- GPS signal might be slow at times
- Charging issues
We recently tried the PitPat GPS Tracker for our small dog, and we were impressed by its robust build and waterproof design. The no-subscription fee model is a huge plus, saving us from ongoing costs.
Operating the tracker is simple. The app is user-friendly, and setting up was a breeze. We really liked how it offers real-time satellite tracking, providing peace of mind when our dog roams.
There are some drawbacks, though. The signal can sometimes lag, and starting live tracking manually is a bit of a hassle. Also, we found the charging process a bit finicky at times. Nonetheless, this tracker remains a solid choice for dog owners looking for reliability and value.
Spy Tec Mini GPS Tracker
This small GPS tracker offers extensive features for real-time tracking, making it a solid choice for keeping tabs on our small dogs.
Pros
- Easy setup and use
- Compact and portable
- Durable and weatherproof
Cons
- Requires a subscription plan
- Battery life could be better
- Slightly expensive monthly fees
The Spy Tec Mini GPS Tracker is straightforward to set up and start using. We liked how seamlessly it integrated with our daily routine. The device’s compact size makes it easy to attach to a small dog’s collar without causing discomfort.
Additionally, the weatherproof feature is a great advantage. We tested it in different weather conditions, and it held up well without any issues. This makes it ideal for outdoor adventures with our dogs.
We did find a few drawbacks, such as the need for a subscription plan. This adds to the overall cost, and the battery life could last longer. Despite these cons, the real-time tracking and ease of use make this device highly reliable for monitoring our furry friends.
Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2
If you need a reliable way to keep track of your small dog or any important items, the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 is a great choice.
Pros
- Long battery life
- Water-resistant
- Supports SmartThings integration
Cons
- Requires a Samsung device
- Limited Bluetooth range
- Registration is required
We found the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 to be incredibly useful for keeping track of our small dog. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 500 days. This means we don’t need to constantly worry about replacing batteries. It’s water-resistant too, which is great for outdoor adventures.
Setting up the device is quick and easy. You’ll need a Samsung device running Android 11 or later. Once it’s up and running, the SmartThings integration lets you automate various tasks, which can be really handy.
The Bluetooth range is somewhat limited, especially if there are obstacles in the way. Having to register and log in to a Samsung account might be a hassle for some. Despite this, we think the SmartTag2 offers reliable performance and peace of mind for pet owners and anyone needing to keep track of their valuables.
Apple AirTag 4 Pack
This product is a must-have for anyone looking to keep track of their small pets with ease.
Pros
- Easy to set up with an iPhone or iPad
- Long-lasting battery life of over a year
- Water and dust resistant
Cons
- Relies heavily on other Apple devices for tracking
- Additional accessories sold separately
- Limited to Apple ecosystem for full functionality
We recently tried out the Apple AirTag 4 Pack and found it to be a fantastic tool for keeping tabs on small dogs. The setup is incredibly simple and only takes a few taps on our iPhone. Before we knew it, we had connected the AirTags and were ready to go.
One of the standout features is its long battery life. With a replaceable battery that lasts over a year, there’s no constant worry about the tracker dying. Plus, these AirTags are water and dust resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use and ensuring they survive various weather conditions.
Despite these strengths, it’s important to note that the AirTag works best within the Apple ecosystem. While it uses a vast network of Apple devices to help locate items, it does require reliance on those nearby devices. This might be a downside if you’re in an area with fewer Apple users. Additionally, to get the most out of the AirTags, you may need to invest in some accessories which are sold separately.
In summary, the Apple AirTag 4 Pack offers convenience, durability, and efficient tracking for small dogs, making it a worthwhile purchase for pet owners who are already part of the Apple ecosystem.
sotfkd GPS Tracker
A practical option for pet owners wanting a budget-friendly way to track their pets, but it has limitations.
Pros
- No monthly fees
- Lightweight and durable
- Built-in speaker for easy locating
Cons
- Limited app compatibility
- Only connects to one device
- App issues for Android users
We recently tried out the sotfkd GPS Tracker, and it’s a handy tool for keeping tabs on our pets without breaking the bank. The best part is no monthly fee, making it a great cost-effective choice. It’s light and doesn’t bother our pets when they wear it. Plus, the speaker feature makes it simple to find them when they’re close by.
But we did notice a few drawbacks. The app is currently more Apple-friendly, which leaves Android users struggling. Many of us found it hard to get the Android app working correctly, which can be frustrating. We also noticed it can only be connected to one device at a time, which might not be ideal if multiple family members want to track the pet.
Despite these shortcomings, the sotfkd GPS Tracker offers a lot of value for its price range. If you’re using an Apple device, it’s definitely worth considering. Just remember, if you’re an Android user, you might want to keep looking for something more compatible.
Buying Guide
When looking for a small dog GPS tracker, it’s essential to focus on what matters most. Our pets are like family, and we want to ensure they are always safe and secure. Here are some key factors and features to consider.
Accuracy
A GPS tracker’s accuracy is crucial. We should choose a tracker that provides precise and real-time location updates. This helps us quickly find our dogs if they go on an unexpected adventure.
Battery Life
Battery life can vary significantly among GPS trackers. We should look for a tracker with a long-lasting battery to avoid frequent recharging. Some trackers offer weeks of battery life, while others may need daily charging.
Size and Comfort
Since our dogs are small, the tracker should be lightweight and comfortable. We don’t want them to feel burdened or restricted. The device should fit their collar without adding too much weight.
Durability
Dogs are active and can be tough on their gear. We need a tracker that is durable and can withstand the elements, including water, mud, and rough play. Look for features like water resistance and sturdy materials.
Range and Coverage
The effectiveness of a GPS tracker can depend on its range and coverage. Some trackers work better in rural areas, while others are designed for urban environments. We should choose a tracker that fits our lifestyle and where we usually take our dogs.
Ease of Use
User-friendly apps and interfaces make using a GPS tracker easier for us. The app should provide clear maps, location history, and alerts. It’s important to choose a tracker that we can easily operate and understand.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | High |
| Battery Life | Medium to High |
| Size and Comfort | High |
| Durability | Medium to High |
| Range and Coverage | Medium to High |
| Ease of Use | High |
By focusing on these features, we can find the best small dog GPS tracker to keep our furry friends safe and sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
We often get questions about GPS trackers for small dogs. It’s important to know what features to look for and how to choose the best one for your pup.
What are the best GPS trackers for small dogs?
There are several popular options on the market. Some top choices include Whistle GO Explore, Tractive GPS Dog Tracker, and Fi Smart Dog Collar. Each of these offers reliable tracking and additional features.
How do I choose a GPS tracker for my small dog?
First, consider the size and weight of the tracker. It should be lightweight and comfortable for your dog to wear. Next, look at battery life, ease of use, and the accuracy of the tracking.
What features should I look for in a small dog GPS tracker?
Key features include real-time tracking, a long battery life, and a durable, waterproof design. Some trackers also offer activity monitoring, health insights, and virtual fences.
Can I find a GPS tracker for dogs without a monthly fee?
Yes, there are a few options available that do not require a monthly fee. For instance, the Garmin TT 15 Mini Dog Device provides GPS tracking without needing a subscription.
How effective are GPS implants for tracking dogs?
GPS implants are not typically used for tracking pets. Most pet owners prefer collars or attachable devices since implants would require surgical procedures and are not widely available.
What’s the smallest GPS tracker currently available for dogs?
The smallest GPS trackers for dogs are usually compact and designed specifically for pets. One of the smallest options available is the Findster Duo+ which is lightweight and does not need a subscription.