How Accurate Are GPS Trackers For Dogs?

17 minutes read

GPS trackers for dogs can be quite accurate, but their precision can vary based on several factors. Generally, most GPS trackers for pets offer location accuracy within a range of about 10 to 30 feet, which is typically sufficient for finding a lost pet in open areas. The accuracy can be affected by environmental factors such as dense urban areas with tall buildings, thick forests, or other obstructions that might interfere with the GPS signals. Additionally, the device's quality and the service provider can influence performance. Many modern GPS trackers use a combination of satellite, Wi-Fi, and cellular networks to improve tracking accuracy and reliability. However, they may require a subscription plan to access data and enhance their functionality. Overall, while GPS trackers provide a reliable method for monitoring a dog's location, potential users should consider coverage, battery life, and other tracker features to meet their specific needs.

Best Dog GPS Trackers of January 2025

1
Tractive GPS Pet Tracker for Dogs - Waterproof, GPS Location & Smart Activity Tracker, Unlimited Range (Midnight Blue)

Rating is 5 out of 5

Tractive GPS Pet Tracker for Dogs - Waterproof, GPS Location & Smart Activity Tracker, Unlimited Range (Midnight Blue)

  • REAL-TIME GPS TRACKING WITH UNLIMITED RANGE: Track your dog’s live location nationwide with updates every 2-3 seconds—up to 30x faster than competitors who only update once per minute. Perfect for keeping an eye on your dog no matter where they roam.
  • VIRTUAL FENCES & LOCATION HISTORY: Set up safe zones and receive alerts when your dog leaves the area. Activate live tracking immediately to recover your dog, and review their location history to see where they've been.
  • HEALTH & ACTIVITY MONITORING: Monitor your dog’s daily health, sleep patterns, and activity levels through the Tractive app, available on iOS and Android, so you can keep them in optimal shape.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT, WATERPROOF DESIGN & LONG-LASTING BATTERY: This lightweight tracker is waterproof and rugged enough for outdoor adventures. The battery lasts up to 10 days, with extended life using Power Saving Zones.
2
Smart Pet Tracker with Collar Holder, Personalized Dog Location Finder, MFi Certified, No Monthly Fees, Compatible with Apple Find My (iOS Only), Not a GPS Tracker-Black

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

Smart Pet Tracker with Collar Holder, Personalized Dog Location Finder, MFi Certified, No Monthly Fees, Compatible with Apple Find My (iOS Only), Not a GPS Tracker-Black

  • No Monthly Fees, iOS Compatible: Enjoy hassle-free tracking with no recurring charges. Our pet tracker seamlessly compatible with Apple's 'Find My' app, designed exclusively for iOS devices. Note: Not compatible with Android
  • Easy Setup with Find My: Set up in seconds. Simply ensure your device runs on iOS/iPadOS/macOS 14.5 or later. Press the locator button, open the 'Find My' app, tap '+', select 'Add Other Item', and follow the prompts to connect
  • Real-Time Location Updates: Get instant location updates using Apple’s Find My Network. Not a GPS tracker, but uses Bluetooth signals from nearby Apple devices, offering accurate location in populated areas and up to 100-foot range
  • Compact and Lightweight Design: Measuring only 1.3 x 1.3 inches and weighing 10g, this tracker is unobtrusive and fits securely onto most collars, ensuring comfort for pets of all sizes without hindering their movement
3
Tractive XL GPS Tracker & Health Monitoring for Dogs (50 lbs+) - Market Leading Pet GPS Location Tracker | Wellness & Escape Alerts | Waterproof | Works with Any Collar (Adventure Edition)

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

Tractive XL GPS Tracker & Health Monitoring for Dogs (50 lbs+) - Market Leading Pet GPS Location Tracker | Wellness & Escape Alerts | Waterproof | Works with Any Collar (Adventure Edition)

  • VIRTUAL FENCES & LOCATION HISTORY: Set up safe zones and receive alerts when your dog leaves the area. Activate live tracking immediately to recover your dog, and review their location history to see where they've been.
  • HEALTH & ACTIVITY MONITORING: Monitor your dog’s daily health, sleep patterns, and activity levels through the Tractive app, available on iOS and Android, so you can keep them in optimal shape.
  • DURABLE, WATERPROOF DESIGN WITH EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE: Built for large dogs 50 lbs+, this tracker is waterproof and tough enough to handle the roughest play. Battery lasts 5-15 days, or up to 30 days with Power Saving Zones activated via Wi-Fi.
4
Dog Tracker-Airtag Dog Collar-Pet Tracker-GPS Tracker for Dogs | Android and iOS Universal | No Charging Required | No Monthly Fee | Works with Any Collar

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Dog Tracker-Airtag Dog Collar-Pet Tracker-GPS Tracker for Dogs | Android and iOS Universal | No Charging Required | No Monthly Fee | Works with Any Collar

  • 【How to use】: Scenario ①: US Android users search for omyTag in Google Play Store to download. Scenario ②: Apple users download findmytag from Apple App Store.
  • 【Versatile and Flexible】Our Tracker (Android and iOS Universal) When your pet doesn't like the collar they're wearing or the collar is worn out, you can attach the tracker to any new collar.
  • 【Warm Tips】The package contains 1 pet collar, 1 tracker, batteries , user manual; Locator for Android and Apple phones; The item finder can only be connected to a single device, but a device can be connected to multiple trackers.
5
Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2, Bluetooth Tracker, Smart Tag Tracking Device, Item Finder for Keys, Wallet, Luggage, Pets, Use w/ Phones and Tablets Android 11 or Later, 2023, 1 Pack, White

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2, Bluetooth Tracker, Smart Tag Tracking Device, Item Finder for Keys, Wallet, Luggage, Pets, Use w/ Phones and Tablets Android 11 or Later, 2023, 1 Pack, White

  • REDESIGNED TO DO MORE: The redesigned Galaxy SmartTag2 is made so you can keep calm and keep track¹; Its design makes it easy for you to tag and carry your belongings
  • EASY TO USE: It's IP67-rated water- and dust-resistant², activates your compatible IoT devices³ and stays powered for up to 500 days⁴ or even up to 40% more on Power Saving Mode⁵
  • SEARCH NEAR WHEN IT'S NOT FAR: Lose something? Switch on Search Nearby⁶ and get instructions to your item's location via Compass View⁷; If you still don't see it, just ring your Galaxy SmartTag2 to have it send out an audible signal
6
GPS Tracker for Dogs, Mini GPS Cat Tracker, IPX8 Waterproof GPS Tracker for Cats with Holder, No Monthly Fee, Work with Apple Find My(iOS Only), Smart Tracker for Dogs Finder Tracker Pets(Black)

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

GPS Tracker for Dogs, Mini GPS Cat Tracker, IPX8 Waterproof GPS Tracker for Cats with Holder, No Monthly Fee, Work with Apple Find My(iOS Only), Smart Tracker for Dogs Finder Tracker Pets(Black)

  • Pet Finder, Never a Monthly Fee: The GPS tracker for dog comes with no service fees or monthly fees. The pet trackers with holder is a finder that can monitor pets in real time, allowing you to accurately know the location and movement trajectory of your pet. Keep an eye on your pet's whereabouts at all time, and prevent your pet from being stolen or lost.
  • Fit for all dogs cats collars:This mini GPS tracker for dogs can be used on dog cat collars, keys, wallets, bags,kids,elder and any various items.With this items finder locator with sound, ensures that you never lose your valuable items again. Provide good protection for our pets, kids and parents.
  • IPX8 Waterproof:The dog gps tracker comes with a waterproof silicone holder cover.withstands splashes, rain, and even brief immersion. allowing you to accurately find your items in any bad weather.
  • After-sales Service: we are committed to providing you with high-quality products. item finders are rigorously tested before leaving the factory. we offer you a worry 12-month and professional customer service. if you encounter any problems, please feel to contact us.
7
GPS Tracker for Dogs No Subscription, GPS Location Without Cell Network, Suitable for Open Areas with Poor Network Signals No Monthly Fee IP67 Waterproof (Tracker 2)

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

GPS Tracker for Dogs No Subscription, GPS Location Without Cell Network, Suitable for Open Areas with Poor Network Signals No Monthly Fee IP67 Waterproof (Tracker 2)

  • Aorkuler Pet Tracker is a tracker that does not require membership fees, subscription fees or monthly fees. When you purchase the tracker, it's completely yours and you can use it as you wish without worrying about your device being restricted.
  • Real-time tracking: You can get real-time direction and distance at any time without phone and cellular network, and the tracking distance can reach 3.5 miles. The device is suitable for use in areas without cellular networks and open areas. Complex buildings will affect GPS signal search
  • Light & Durable: Light enough, the weight of 0.066Lb means it is suitable for all dogs and will not affect their daily activities. Durable enough, meaning even big dogs will not lose and damage our dog tracker.IP67 waterproof
  • The controller has a battery capacity of 1000mAh, and the tracker has a battery capacity of 600mAh. After incorporating an intelligent power-saving program, it takes approximately 2-3 hours to fully charge. The tracker lasts up to 15 days + if you only use it during daily dog ​​walks.
8
Vebiso GPS Tracker for Dogs, Mini GPS Cat Tracker, Smart Pet Activity Tracker (iOS Only), No Monthly Fee, Compatible with Apple Find My, Anti-Lost, Finder Tag for Vehicles/Pets/Kids/Items

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Vebiso GPS Tracker for Dogs, Mini GPS Cat Tracker, Smart Pet Activity Tracker (iOS Only), No Monthly Fee, Compatible with Apple Find My, Anti-Lost, Finder Tag for Vehicles/Pets/Kids/Items

  • 𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐖𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓, 𝐋𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐁𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐘 𝐋𝐈𝐅𝐄 -- The dog gps tracker is a compact and reliable device. Solid and Resistance. The dog GPS tracker is powered by CR2032 button battery with super long standby time over 12 months and can be replaceable easily for long-term use.
  • 𝐅𝐈𝐓 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐃𝐎𝐆𝐒 𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐒 -- This mini GPS tracker for dogs can be used on dog cat collars, clipped to school bags,waist bags,backpacks and any items that fits its size.You don’t have to worry about losing your pets or bags anymore. Provide good protection for our pets, kids and parents.
9
for Airtag Dog Collar Holder, DLENP Air Tag Protective Cat Airtag Dog Collar,Silicone AirTags GPS Tracking Accessories,Air Tags with Bone Pattern (1 Pack(Black))

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

for Airtag Dog Collar Holder, DLENP Air Tag Protective Cat Airtag Dog Collar,Silicone AirTags GPS Tracking Accessories,Air Tags with Bone Pattern (1 Pack(Black))

  • 【Sweat Air tag Holder Design for Pets】The DLENP airtag cover is specially designed for pets like our dogs and cats. So it is more comfortable for wearing bcs it will not shake when the AirTag is hanging under the pet’s collars.
  • 【Easy to Install】Put the AirTag device to dog airtag holder and then connect this airtag case silicone to dog/cat collars or schoolbags etc. Fast installation within 30 seconds.


What is the warranty period for dog GPS trackers?

The warranty period for dog GPS trackers can vary depending on the manufacturer and model. Generally, you can expect a warranty period ranging from 1 to 2 years. However, it's important to check the specific terms provided by the manufacturer or seller, as these can differ. Some companies might offer extended warranties or additional protection plans. Always read the warranty details carefully to understand what is covered, such as defects in materials or workmanship, and any exclusions or conditions that apply.


What is the return policy for most dog GPS trackers?

Return policies for dog GPS trackers can vary significantly depending on the retailer or manufacturer from which you purchase the device. However, there are some common elements you might expect to find:

  1. Time Frame: Most retailers offer a return policy that ranges from 14 to 30 days from the date of purchase. Some manufacturers may offer extended return periods, particularly during holiday seasons.
  2. Condition of the Item: Generally, the GPS tracker must be returned in its original condition, which means no damage, with all accessories and packaging intact. Items not in their original condition might be subject to restocking fees or may be ineligible for return.
  3. Receipt or Proof of Purchase: You'll usually need the original receipt or proof of purchase to process a return.
  4. Refund Method: Refunds are typically issued in the original form of payment. If you used a credit card, the refund would be credited back to that card.
  5. Warranty and Satisfaction Guarantees: Some manufacturers may offer a satisfaction guarantee or a limited warranty beyond the retailer’s return policy period. This is particularly true for electronic devices like GPS trackers.
  6. Exclusions: Customized items, open software, or products that have been registered may not be returnable.


Always check the specific return policy of the retailer or manufacturer before purchasing a dog GPS tracker, as details can vary widely. Also, be aware of any specific steps you need to follow, such as completing a return authorization form.


What is the average accuracy of dog GPS trackers?

The average accuracy of dog GPS trackers generally ranges between 5 to 10 meters under optimal conditions. This can vary based on several factors, such as the terrain, presence of obstructions (like buildings or thick forests), the quality of the GPS chip in the device, and the availability of satellite signals. Some high-end models may offer even better accuracy, sometimes as precise as 2 to 3 meters. However, it’s important to consider that real-world conditions can affect these numbers, potentially causing variations in accuracy.


What is the top-rated GPS tracker for large dogs?

As of the latest data, one of the top-rated GPS trackers for large dogs is the Fi Smart Dog Collar. It is highly regarded for its durability, long battery life, and reliable GPS tracking capabilities. It also offers features such as escape alerts, activity monitoring, and integration with apps for pet owners. Another popular option is the Whistle GO Explore, which provides health and fitness tracking alongside GPS location services. When choosing a GPS tracker, consider factors like battery life, coverage area, additional features, and subscription costs to find the best fit for your needs. Always check the latest reviews and updates to ensure you're getting the most current information.

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