Navigating the Challenges of Pet Ownership: The Role of Technology in Keeping Your Furbaby Safe
Pet ownership is a rewarding yet challenging journey filled with love, companionship, and responsibilities. While we strive to keep our furry friends safe and healthy, the reality is that pets can go missing despite our best efforts. Additionally, just like humans, dogs and cats can struggle with weight gain, especially as they age. As pet owners, it is our duty to ensure their happiness, health, and safety. If you’re looking for technology to assist in caring for your beloved pet, you’ve come to the right place. After over a decade of reviewing pet tech, we’ve compiled a list of the best pet trackers available, with the Fi Series 3 Smart Dog Collar standing out as our top pick for its durability, long battery life, and rapid location updates.
The Importance of Pet Trackers
Pet trackers are essential tools for modern pet owners. They provide peace of mind by allowing you to monitor your pet’s location, activity levels, and even health trends such as scratching, licking, and sleep patterns. With the right tracker, you can ensure that your pet remains safe, healthy, and happy.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Most Durable: Fi Smart Dog Collar Series 3
Pros & Cons:
- Pros:
- Smaller than the Series 2
- More frequent location updates in Lost Dog Mode
- Stainless steel case for improved strength
- Cellular subscription includes hardware
- Long battery life
- Seamless setup process
- Cons:
- Slower escape alerts than the last generation in testing
Why We Picked It:
The Fi Smart Dog Collar Series 3 is designed for pet owners who want a reliable and durable tracking solution. Its smaller, lighter tracking module is perfect for tiny dogs, while its robust build withstands the wear and tear from chewers and leash pullers. The improved waterproofing ensures that adventurous pups can explore without worry. Although escape alerts were slightly slower in testing compared to previous models, the Series 3 excels in providing quick location updates in Lost Dog Mode, all while maintaining impressive battery life.
Who It’s For:
This collar is ideal for most dog breeds, offering sizes that cater to both small and large dogs. If escape alert speed is your primary concern, consider the Tractive tracker as an alternative.
Learn More about Fi Smart Dog Collar Series 3
Fastest Escape Alerts: Tractive GPS Dog LTE Tracker
Pros & Cons:
- Pros:
- Fast escape alerts
- Attaches to your pet’s existing collar
- Tracks activity, sleep, and calories
- In-app activity leaderboards
- Cons:
- Minimal social features
- Doesn’t track steps or sleep interruptions
Why We Picked It:
The Tractive GPS Dog LTE Tracker is known for its rapid escape alerts, typically notifying you within a minute if your dog leaves a designated safe zone. While its battery life may not be as long as some competitors, it offers excellent GPS tracking capabilities at a reasonable price.
Who It’s For:
This tracker is suitable for dogs weighing at least 8.8 pounds. If your dog enjoys rough play, the Fi Series 3 may be a more durable option.
Learn More about Tractive GPS Dog LTE Tracker
Best for Small Cats and Dogs: Whistle GO Explore
Pros & Cons:
- Pros:
- Excellent battery life
- No base station required
- Multiple safe zones
- Night light for visual tracking
- Works for both cats and dogs
- Cons:
- Lag for initial notification when pet is out of safe zone
- No web interface
Why We Picked It:
The Whistle GO Explore is a versatile tracker that monitors your pet’s location and health stats, including calories burned and distance traveled. While it may not provide the fastest escape alerts, its long battery life and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for smaller pets.
Who It’s For:
Weighing just 1.3 ounces, this tracker is perfect for small dogs and cats, easily attaching to any collar.
Learn More about Whistle GO Explore
Best for iPhone Owners: Apple AirTag
Pros & Cons:
- Pros:
- Accurate and reliable
- Provides directional cues
- Can send location from a distance
- Replaceable battery
- Cons:
- No Android compatibility
- Limited anti-stalking tools
Why We Picked It:
Apple’s AirTag is a great option for iPhone users looking to keep track of their pets. It utilizes Bluetooth technology to help locate lost items, including pets, by leveraging the vast network of Apple devices.
Who It’s For:
This tracker is best suited for iPhone or iPad users, but it’s important to note that it’s not a true GPS tracker and relies on proximity to other Apple devices.
Best for Samsung Phone Users: Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2
Pros & Cons:
- Pros:
- Compact design
- Rugged IP67 rating
- Long battery life
- Replaceable battery
- Cons:
- Works only with Samsung Galaxy devices
- Alert could be louder
Why We Picked It:
The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 is designed for Samsung users, offering a durable and reliable tracking solution that easily attaches to your pet’s collar.
Who It’s For:
This tracker is ideal for Samsung Galaxy device owners looking for a solid option to keep tabs on their pets.
Learn More about Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2
Buying Guide: The Best Pet Trackers and GPS Dog Collars for 2024
How Pet Trackers Connect
Most pet trackers utilize apps for Android and iOS devices, providing quick access to the data they collect. Some models may require a base station for communication, while others, like the Whistle GO Explore, use your home Wi-Fi to create a connection.
Can You Track Your Pet’s Activity?
Many pet trackers also monitor activity levels, offering insights into your pet’s fitness. Some devices even track temperature, although accuracy can vary.
How to Find Your Pet Via GPS
GPS tracking is a primary reason for investing in a pet tracker. It’s essential to use these devices in conjunction with microchips for the best chance of reuniting with a lost pet.
Do Pet Trackers Work for Cats?
While many trackers are designed for dogs, some are suitable for cats. Be sure to consider the size and weight of the tracker for your feline friend.
Can You Use Bluetooth Trackers for Pets?
Bluetooth trackers can be effective for locating pets, but they have limitations. Apple’s AirTag is not recommended for pets, while Tile trackers are more versatile.
In conclusion, technology has made it easier than ever to keep our pets safe and healthy. With a variety of pet trackers available, you can find the perfect solution to suit your needs and ensure your furry friend remains happy and secure. Whether you choose the durable Fi Smart Dog Collar Series 3 or the versatile Whistle GO Explore, investing in a pet tracker is a step toward responsible pet ownership.