Best GPS Trackers For Dogs: Collar Trackers vs Microchips

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

You might not have microchipped your dog yet, right? This is the perfect time to get this done because of its many advantages.

A microchip includes embedding a rice-sized chip between your pet’s shoulder bones.

You may be worried that your dog might be hurt by this procedure, so talk to your vet about what to expect. In the UK, GOV.UK says a microchip “must be fitted by a trained professional”.

It is suggested by many veterinarians, breeders, and also many pet associations.

In some countries it is the law. GOV.UK, for example, says: “All dogs in the UK must be microchipped and registered by the time they’re 8 weeks old.”

Microchips are nothing but radio-frequency identification (RFID) that is tagged to dogs which gives them an ID.

This RFID technique is the only technology option that is being used for implanting and not attached to the collar. This really helps in the chip not falling off a collar or anyone removing it.

There can be situations where your dog may get lost or maybe even stolen. This is the time when microchips play an imperative role.

This can happen either when they are playing at the dog park and they run off too far or someone lures them with treats. So, a microchip and a collar GPS tracker can both prove to be really useful. They do different jobs. An implanted microchip has no battery and cannot show where your dog is. A vet or shelter scans it to read an ID number and contact you. A GPS tracker is a separate device that clips to the collar and shows your dog’s location.

These microchips hold an ID number that is linked to your contact information (and, if you choose to add them, your dog’s medical and vaccination details) on a registry. This will help the authorities to contact you as soon as possible in case of any mishap.

However, the GPS tracker on the collar has its own advantages. Unlike microchips, with GPS trackers in collars, you can track location, monitor activities, send commands, track history of their routes, etc.

This is the main advantage of a collar GPS tracker. Some of the best collar GPS trackers for dogs are mentioned below:

Best GPS Trackers For Dogs (Collar Devices)

Tractive LTE GPS Dog Tracker

Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

This is one of the best trackers that you can use for your dogs. Many pet parents who are familiar with the tracking technology will surely agree with this. There are many features of this tracker that would interest you.

You can sit at any place and view where your dog is.

There is no distance limit so you can keep track of your dog anywhere whether he is at the dog park or at any corner of your home. Other interesting features include the fitness level of your dog and creating a virtual fence where you can spot if your dog is outside the predefined safety zone.

The best is that you can also watch the history of your dog’s visit and where he has spent most of his or her time.

It needs a paid subscription plan; check the current price in your country.

Features of the product:

• Share your dog’s location with your friend with a premium plan.
• 100% waterproof and shock-resistant.
• The battery life of 2-5 days with a recharge time of 2 hours.
• Lightweight tracker for the dog’s collar.

PetFon Pet GPS Tracker

Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

This is a collar GPS tracker for your dogs, which is easy to use and equally convenient to attach to your dog’s collar. It has a small GPS unit that can track your dog within a limited distance.

Accurate real-time positioning of your dog is what this GPS tracker does. Along with technical superiority, you will also like the build and how it looks on your dog’s collar.

Out of all the other features, the major and most popular is the voice command. You can record commands and communicate with your dog remotely.

This way you can stay in touch with your dog even when he is running around enjoying himself.

Features of the product:

• It is waterproof but might not work in heavy rains.
• Small and durable weighing 27.6 grams.
• The long-lasting battery of 8-16 hours.
• Equipped with tracking light and voice command.
• Simple app control for easy navigation.

HomeAgain Microchip Implant Kit

Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

This microchip implant kit is different from the regular tracker that is attached to the dog’s collar. The chip is implanted under the dog’s skin near the shoulder blades. It has no GPS and cannot show where your dog is.

It has a unique ID code that is specially made for your dog. When a vet or shelter scans it, the number is matched to your contact details on a registry.

Unlike the collar tracker, it has the advantage of not being removed or falling anywhere.

With the help of a scanner, you can scan the tag and retrieve each and every piece of information.

The best use of this microchip is if your dog ever gets lost or is being stolen. With the help of a unique ID and scanner, HomeAgain can retrieve the contact information and can unite you with your dog.

Features of the product:

• The size is that of a grain of rice.
• Unique ID to associate the owner’s information.
• Registration fee required at the start.
• 134 kHz ISO chip.
• Safe and secure and does not harm the pet.

TKSTAR GPS Tracker

Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

The best gift for your pet, as TKSTAR says, is really the best GPS tracker for pets. It has many features that all other GPS trackers have.

Geofence is best used wherein you can set the fence or the limit for your dog’s walk. The alarm is set off whenever your fur baby is outside the fence.

It also has GPS LBS WiFi Triple positioning that helps in outdoor as well as indoor tracking. It can track real-time activities with the app.

So don’t let your dog roam alone unless its collar has a TKSTAR GPS tracker.

The size of the tracker is so small that it does not hurt the dog’s neck at all.

Features of the product:

• Good battery backup, 500 mAh.
• IP65 waterproof rating.
• Sim card with a good internet or wifi connection.
• Vibration sensor and low battery alarm.
• About 3–10 m (9–32 ft) GPS positioning accuracy.

Hangang Pet GPS Tracker for Dogs

Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

Hangang pet tracker specifically includes a collar GPS tracker for dogs that are trendy nowadays.

It is a competent tracker for your dog if you tend to leave him home alone or if you let your dog walk alone. If you are worried about installing it then rest assured it is very easy to install and use.

It has a built-in battery which is slightly heavy so it is recommended to use for dogs above 9 pounds (about 4 kg).

Your dog can be tracked wherever he goes, be it at any corner. It can be linked to Google Maps so you can easily track the entire route.

It gives an option of the app as well as a web tracking platform with a real-time tracking system. You can also watch the places your dog has been in lately.

Features of the product:

• A subscription plan with a 2G SIM card
• Features such as Sleep mode, Geo-Fence, Low Battery Alarm, etc. are available
• Package includes GPS tracker, collar, USB cable, and a manual
• Weight – 50 gms

Link AKC Plus Brown Classic GPS Smart Tracker for Dogs

Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

This one is a performance-oriented collar GPS tracker for your dogs.

Once you have installed it, you no longer have to worry about your dog ever being lost. It is a smart tracker that has some really incredible smart features.

One feature that makes it stand out is activity monitoring and sound training. This is not there in every tracker that you will see in the market.

With this tracker, your dog can be trained remotely and can also be guided wherever he is. Hold on, it gets better! This smart tracker has location tracking in the USA, Canada, and Mexico as well.

The best thing is that it gets software updates from time to time. So it does not lose its performance at any level.

It comes highly recommended for dogs that are heavier than 15 pounds (about 7 kg).

Features of the product:

• Per month subscription plan needed.
• The package includes a tracking unit, base station, collar, and charging cord.
• Link AKC app works on both Android and iOS.
• Customer support is available.

BLACK+DECKER Smart Dog Collar

Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

This smart dog collar looks very attractive on your dog, as well as beneficial in terms of tracking.

Black+Decker collar has new features that cannot be seen on any other tracker.

It’s a virtual dog tag wherein your dog’s information can be seen on the screen of the tracker.

It truly comes in handy when you leave your dog home alone.

In case your dog goes missing, anyone can contact you with the help of the information you have fed in the tracker through the OLED display.

It also has a Geo-Fence that tracks your dog and keeps him within the predefined safety zones. You can track your dog’s activities through the app on your mobile.

This collar is ideal if you have medium or large-sized dogs.

Features of the product:

• Water-resistant.
• 2-way audio control with OLED display.
• The tracker needs 2G coverage.
• A monthly subscription is needed after 90 days.

Ecare Dogs ID Microchip Implant Kit

Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

This microchip implant kit is different from the regular collar tracker. A regular tracker that is fitted on the collar has the possibility of being removed, stolen, or lost.

However, the microchip that is implanted inside the skin of the dog cannot be removed. This technology has become law in some countries.

It has a unique ICAR code number that will be given to your dog to identify whenever needed. Also, this tag can be read by low-frequency scanners so no need for any expensive scanners.

This chip is implanted mostly on one of the sides of the neck. Talk to your vet before using any implant kit. In the UK, a microchip “must be fitted by a trained professional” (GOV.UK).

Remember to register the microchip number on a registry, so your contact details are linked to it.

Features of the product:

• 134.2 kHz which is compatible with FDX-B ISO.
• Unique code for all dogs.
• About 2.5–5 cm (1–2 inch) read range.
• Free lifetime registration.

ZEERKEER GPS Pet Tracker

Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

This is a multifunctional tracker that allows you to track, monitor, and send messages.

All you need to do is call on the SIM card or send a message. When connected, it will send you a message with Google map links making it really easy to track your dog wherever he is.

No other tracker has yet offered this feature. This makes the ZEEKER GPS tracker stand out from the rest.

Other features include a Geo-Fence which allows setting safe zones for your dog. It also offers a free app and web tracking platform that allows real-time tracking and history of your dog’s route.

Also, activity and remote voice monitor is an added advantage.

If you want to track without an app you just have to dial a SIM number and you will get a map link on your phone. It is recommended for dogs above 9 pounds (about 4 kg) and is not suitable for cats.

Features of the product:

• Built-in 1000 mAh Li-ion battery.
• GPS and LBS service.
• Low battery alarm to alert you to recharge your tracker
• Remote voice monitor equipped with SMS feature.

BARTUN GPS Tracker with Unlimited Range

Check price on AmazonAffiliate link — Dog Fluffy may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

This tracker uses a GPS+LBS+AGPS network that allows indoor and outdoor tracking with unlimited range.

This comes with two types of services, one is just for the USA and the other one is for worldwide with 2 different plans. As said, it gives real-time tracking of the dog with his history routes.

It is quite small in size and looks attractive when worn by the dog. No worries if the dog is on an adventure or you took him on a tour. This tracker is very sturdy and will not fall off easily.

Other features include Geo-Fence, history tracking, low battery alarm, and remote targeting with app and SMS.

This collar GPS tracker for dogs is very useful and should be a part of your dog’s protection accessories.

Features of the product:

• Supports 150 countries.
• IP67 is waterproof and shockproof.
• Positioning accuracy up to 5 meters.
• A monthly subscription plan is needed to activate.

Dog Microchip Vs Dog GPS Tracker

A dog microchip is basically an RFID implanted inside the dog. The ID is used to store details of your dog as well as your contact details. The information is gathered from this small chip.

It’s made out of a small, electronic chip that conveys a unique ID number. Usually, it is enclosed in a glass chamber, around 11-14 mm long and 2-2.3 mm thick.

The size of this chip is as small as a grain of rice. It weighs around 0.025 grams.

One thing to note here is that currently there is no GPS associated with microchips. These microchips are small but work efficiently and smoothly. This comes in handy in case you ever lose your dog.

The authorities can scan the chip retrieve your information and get in touch with you immediately. This is possible because the chip ID is linked to your contact information.

The chip can be scanned by any low-frequency scanner.

Keep your contact details on the registry up to date. The RSPCA says: “Microchipping is only effective if you keep your details up-to-date.”

When compared with the GPS tracker, the GPS tracker works differently. It tracks your dog in real time and helps you in monitoring different tasks.

There are many features depending on the tracker you choose.

A collar GPS tracker contains a GPS receiver and a mobile or satellite radio. This allows you to find it anywhere in the world.

It is done with the help of GPS satellites. The tracker works out its position from GPS satellites and sends it over the mobile network to the maker’s server.

Once it has arrived locally it is then sent to the smartphone app of the tracker.

Coverage depends on the tracker’s mobile network, and most trackers need a subscription plan.

Are GPS Trackers Safe For Dogs?

A collar tracker is worn like a tag, so the main things to check are the fit and the weight for your dog’s size. If you have any health concerns, talk to your vet. Some trackers also log activity.

It is especially recommended when you leave your dog alone while you go to work or let him loose around the dog park.

GPS trackers help you to connect to your dog on a real-time basis whether you are with him or not.

What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of GPS Trackers?

Below mentioned are the advantages and disadvantages of the GPS trackers.

Advantages

While Traveling

If you are traveling with your dog to a new place and you lose your fur baby or maybe he ran around and lost his way back, then the GPS tracker you have installed will definitely prove to be a boon.

Dogs love to explore but this can cause a problem when you are new to the area and you don’t know your way around. At this point in time, a GPS tracker comes in handy.

Leaving Your Dog Alone

If you leave your dog alone for a long time while you are at work or you have left your dog at some other place.

Your dog may find a way out or go out to play and get lost.

In this case, you can use the Geofence feature that can set the limit. Luckily, a few GPS trackers can send a message to you that your pet has left the safety zone.

Dognapping

Dogs are sometimes stolen. A collar GPS tracker may show where your dog was taken, until the collar is removed.

A microchip is under the skin, so if your dog is found and scanned, it links the dog to you.

Activity Levels

GPS trackers also help to identify the dog’s activity level. Certain GPS trackers monitor your dog’s activity level and keep track of all his activities.

It will also send you alerts if there are any changes in your dog’s activities. A sudden change in your dog’s activity is worth mentioning to your vet.

Unknown Behavior

If you have adopted an older dog it will take time for him to get used to his new surroundings. Some may even misbehave and try to run away depending on their past. Using a GPS tracker in such cases will prove to be highly beneficial.

Disadvantages

Devices Might Be Large

Some collar GPS trackers are bulky, and not every dog can carry them comfortably.

Check the tracker’s weight and the maker’s minimum dog size, especially for small dogs.

This can even lead to irritation for your dog or it may break. So you will have to choose according to his weight and size.

Monthly Fee

Many companies that make GPS trackers charge a monthly fee to keep it active. You may also need a sim card with a good network to run which may again cost you more.

It is better to get a tracker that allows you to make a one-time payment.

Battery Problem

Batteries that are required for a tracker need to be charged/changed frequently. Some trackers have good battery capacity but some don’t.

You may forget to charge the battery sometimes and this can lead to you not being able to track your dog.

This can cause major problems if your dog is stolen or lost. To solve this, the new trackers are equipped with low battery indicators so you know when to charge the batteries.

The Tracker May Get Lost

With all the activities that your dog does it may loosen the tracker and your dog may drop it or lose it while playing. And if the tracker is lost you can’t track your dog. You may end up losing both.

A dog thief can also remove the collar and steal your dog. So just being dependent on a tracker is not the solution.

Before You Go

Dogs are considered to be man’s best friend and they deserve to be treated with the utmost care and protected from any kind of harm. A GPS tracker for dogs is a good gadget that is trending in many countries across the globe.

Considering the above, a collar GPS tracker is useful safety equipment, and a microchip is a good back-up because it cannot fall off. You can also opt for microchips if you want a permanent solution for your dog. But it does have the disadvantage of not being able to track.

However,  it will only help in case your dog is lost. Also, it does not need much investment. Choose whichever you feel is best for your dog.

FAQs