Say goodbye to the fear of your dog running out of the yard or playfully jumping your neighbor’s fences; activity trackers for dogs are what all dog owners need. Although they might sound like a luxurious accessory to have, they’re quite simple, unobtrusive devices. Be it for your dog’s location, health, or other stats; these trackers have you covered!
Dog activity trackers are similar to what humans use to track their pulses, steps, and other health information. These tracker devices do just that; keep track of your doggo’s nutritional, medical, and daily information to help you stay up to date. Not to mention, this information will make your vet’s work way easier and help her take better care of your furry friend.
10 Best Dog Activity Trackers
Now we can finally reveal the top 7 activity trackers for dogs. Let’s not keep you waiting and dive right in. Here are the best dog activity trackers:
1. FitBark 2 Dog Activity Monitor
If you’re a fitness freak and want to track your dog’s activity levels at all times, the FitBark 2 is your fitness partner. The activity monitor packs a punch with a durable, waterproof, and rugged material. Want to team up with your pup? The dog tracker even allows you to link your own FitBit or other smartwatches to keep track of the activity levels together. Apart from the main features, the design of the tracker mimics a bone that will help keep your pup’s attire stylish at all times.
One of the best things about the FitBark monitor is its ability to fit dogs of all sizes. The monitor can be gently tied around the dog’s neck and shouldn’t bother them at all. Be it water, grass, or anywhere else, the FitBark hasn’t disappointed owners as its waterproofing and durability have no match. To add to this, the FitBark app also allows you to get in touch with fellow users, dog owners, and vets to help maintain your dog’s health. Some dog owners had trouble getting their FitBark to work with its app. Though that doesn’t affect the quality of the monitor as it’s an add-on feature.
Pros
- It monitors your dog’s activity, sleep quality, calorie balance, and overall health 24/7.
- Its battery can last for a long time (up to 6 months)
- It can detect early signs of health problems or discomforts with the FitBark Health Index and Sleep Score.
Cons
- It might not be applicable for extremely active dogs because it can easily fall off.
- It can be hard to set up or navigate.
2. WhistleGo Health and Location Tracker
Do you not feel comfortable leaving your pooch behind at home? Well, with the WhistleGo GPS dog collar, you’re in good hands. The tracker offers both convenience and accuracy when it comes to locating your dog, pinpointing the location, and keeping track of its activity levels. Still, if your dog managed to sneak out, the tracker has real-time update functionalities to keep you updated with emails, texts, and in-app notifications. Its battery life supports a rough and tough usage of over 7 days before it needs a charge. It’s also water-resistant to the extent that it covers 3 feet for up to 30 minutes which is optimal for all dogs that love to swim.
Moreover, the tracker has managed to stay on top for quite a long time, being an all-time favorite for many pet owners. It’s a bit pricey but offers several different features which make it worthwhile. One small issue which bothered a few owners was its updating mechanism. It stopped working after a few months of being used.
Pros
- It has proactive alerts and notifies pet owners through the app, email, or text when their pet leaves home
- Its nationwide location tracking helps you pinpoint your pet’s locations
- It also monitors your pet’s health and activities
- It is waterproof and durable
Cons
- The GPS tracker can be inaccurate
- Overall function is inconsistent
3. Petfon GPS Tracker
Don’t want subscription packages to track your pets? Petfon‘s got you covered! With their GPS-enabled tracking system, you can locate your pet at all times. Since it’s designed to be used for walks and outdoor tracking, it’s both rainproof and waterproof. The total standby battery life is of 8-16 hours and the charging case allows you to recharge the device quickly. As for added features, it has geofencing, color-based alarms, and voice texts which can help you track your pup in the nighttime or whenever your pup goes outside.
Moreover, pet owners love the tracking functionality of this device by Petfon. Since no cellular signals are required, tracking is much easier with this product. The dog GPS tracker also received good remarks in terms of battery life, with the controllers requiring a charge every 2 hours or so, and the tracker being charged after a day or two.
Pros
- It monitors your pet all-day
- Has a long-distance location tracking
- Lightweight and comfortable for dogs
- Long standby battery and can withstand rains
Cons
- Battery life is not as advertised
- There are times when location tracking is not working or not accurate.
4. Pawscout Smarter Pet Tag
Pawscout has released yet another version of its pet tag with way more features. It’s a Bluetooth-based pet tag that sends out a beacon signal to update you on your pet’s location. Not only is it optimal for dogs but it can also fit cats of all sizes. Mind you, the tag isn’t a location tracker but only keeps you updated with your pet’s location within the 300 feet radius. Its social media platform also soars with fellow pet owners allowing you to track lost pets, and share digital profiles, records and whatnot.
Microchips are things of the past. Moreover, pet owners love how accessible it is to keep track of their dog and find him easily. When it comes to the social media platform by Pawscout, owners without a pet tag can also join in. Luckily, all users of the application can capture the beacon’s signals. Moreover, it can help you find your lost pup in the area. Furthermore, some owners didn’t appreciate the battery life and accuracy of the results from the tag.
Pros
- It allows you to connect and interact with other pet owners
- Assists you in keeping tabs on your pet’s location and health
- It helps lost and found pets
Cons
- The GPS location tracking can be inaccurate sometimes
- Some also complained about it can only track within small distances
5. PitPat Dog Activity and Fitness Monitor (no GPS)
PitPat’s easy-to-use dog activity tracker is designed by veterinarians. With this product, you can easily measure your dog’s daily exercise, resting time, current distance, and calorie count. Thus, helping dogs that need weight management, And of course, it monitors their location. Additionally, this PitPat tracker is lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof. It also has a long-life battery that can last more than a year.
However, the downside of this product is its GPS location tracking can be inaccurate sometimes. Plus, some pet owners also complained about the product’s inconsistent functionality after a short period of time. And lastly, some find the product a bit expensive. Moreover, if you are on a tight budget, this product might not be your top choice.
Pros
- It is developed by veterinarians.
- It can track your dog’s basic activities like location, exercise, sleeping, and diet.
- Comfortable and waterproof
Cons
- It can be too pricey
- The GPS tracker can be inaccurate
- Inconsistent quality
6. Whistle GO Explore GPS + Health + Fitness Dog Tracker
This Whistle GO Explore quickly tracks your pet’s location. With its $8.25/mo subscription plan, you can use the GPS tracker, health and fitness monitoring, receive proactive notifications, and other important alerts. Another plus point of this product is through their application, you can also chat with a licensed veterinarian to acquire professional and medical advice.
In addition, you can get food recommendations according to your dog’s activity, age, breed, and weight. Moreover, it also has long battery life. It takes 20 days before you will need to charge it again.
On the other hand, similar to our previous products, pet owners also encountered inconsistent and inaccurate GPS tracking. Lastly, customers also complained about its slow tracking notifications. And lastly, this product is also not fully water resistant.
Pros
- It monitors your dog’s activity levels and health
- It provides a personalized food recommendation
- Gives you proactive notifications and important alerts
- You can chat with a licensed veterinarian
Cons
- Location tracking can be inconsistent and inaccurate
- Slow tracking updates
- Not 100% waterproof
7. PETKIT ‘FIT’ Smart Activity and Mood Monitoring Tracker Monitor
With a built-in calorie expenditure indication in the PetKit application, the PetKit P2 Smart Pet Activity Tracking Device keeps tabs on and records movements, emotions, and health problems in addition to short and deep sleep intervals. In addition, its small and lightweight material makes it very comfortable for your dog. It is also compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
But, some pet owners complained about how the product is hard to connect to their respective devices. To add to that, some also experience trouble setting up the device.
Pros
- It records your dog’s activities, movements, emotions, and possible health problems
- Lightweight and comfortable for your dog
- It is also compatible with both iOS and Android devices
- Long battery life (6 months)
Cons
- It can be hard to connect with your devices
- Can be complicated to set-up
8. Tractive GPS Dog Tracker – Location & Activity
Moving forward to our next product, the Tractive GPS dog tracker provides live tracking and location history for pet owners who want to track their dog’s whereabouts. Furthermore, it also comes with a “virtual fence” where you can set a safe area, and you will receive a notification once your dog leaves that area. And lastly, this Tractive tracker also monitors your dog’s fitness and health.
On the other hand, many pet owners stated that they encountered problems trying to connect with the device – especially in certain places like rural areas. Moreover, some also experienced issues with the product’s battery life.
Pros
- It provides a live tracking and location history
- It also monitor your dog’s health and fitness
- Comes with a virtual fence to identify if your dog leaves their safe area
Cons
- It can be hard to connect to the device
- Inefficient battery life
- It can also be too expensive
9. Whistle GPS + Health + Fitness – Smart Dog Collar
This another product from Whistle is a smart tracking collar that tracks your dog’s location and behavior. It also monitors their health and fitness. Moreover, the Whistle app gives you a glimpse into your dogs’ daily routines. Also, with Whistle Switch, you get two swappable power packs that you can use to follow your pet’s location, health, and exercise activities at all times without missing a beat. Furthermore, this product is applicable to all dogs
However, like the other tracking devices, this product sometimes provides an inaccurate dog location. Furthermore, some pet owners complained about the product’s functionality after a long period of use.
Pros
- It tracks your dog’s location, behavior, and fitness activities,
- It comes with two swappable batteries
- Applicable to all types of dogs
Cons
- The GPS location can be inaccurate sometimes
- The quality declines after a long period of use
10. PETBIZ G1 GPS Pet Tracker, Locator & Activity Monitor
Our last product is this proactive dog finder from PetBiz. With its safe zone alert and lost dog mode, you can easily track your dog’s current location data that refreshes every 20 to 50 meters. Aside from location tracking, it also monitors your dog’s daily physical activity as distance traveled and calories burned. Plus, this device uses your dog’s data (age, breed, and weight) to provide feeding recommendations and establish exercise goals.
On the downside, several buyers reported the device’s inaccurate location tracker. In addition, some experience difficulties activating the product. Lastly, they also reported a change in product functionality after a month of using it.
Pros
- A proactive dog finder and tracks your dog’s current location
- It monitors your dog’s physical activities and fitness
- Provides personalized feeding recommendations and exercise goals
Cons
- The location tracker can be inaccurate and hard to activate
- Change in functionality after a month of usage
What are Activity Trackers for Dogs?
Usually, they’ll allow you to keep track of steps taken, calories burnt, heartbeat, and other useful stats. Simply put, dog activity trackers allow us busy (but loving) pet owners to keep track of our pet’s health information. There are hundreds of animal trackers on the market right now with different features.
Information aside, these trackers can also help you stay up to date on your dog’s whereabouts. These small tags or trackers can be hooked to your pup’s collars and can help you stay at ease.
Putting a Fitbit on a dog will make your life easier than keeping a dog-sitter. These devices are capable of storing past data so you’re always ready to show this to the vet (on the go if your pup never takes it off!) Excited to learn more about buying one? Let’s discuss some factors to consider before you make the purchase.
How to Choose the Right Dog Activity Tracker?
Many factors are at play here, out of which some can make or break the decision for you. Sturdiness, accuracy, and battery life are just a few to name. Therefore, picking up a dog activity monitor off the shelf would be an unwise choice.
We’ve compiled a shortlist of such factors for you to view. Use this list as your non-exclusive guide to buying dog trackers from anywhere.
Type
Does it operate via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS signals? Does it need subscriptions to packages from cellular service providers? These are just a few questions to search when trying to identify the correct type of activity tracker for you and your dog.
If you’re low on cash, you might want to pick a dog activity tracker that doesn’t require additional subscriptions. A benefit to these packages is that they’re always available. For WiFi or similar methods, you’ll require a device for connectivity at all times. The type you choose can make a difference in terms of money and features.
Accuracy
What good is a tracker if it doesn’t track accurately? Be it calories or your dog’s location, your dog activity tracker has to be accurate in its results. If it lags, stops, or doesn’t display accurate results, it could lead to something unexpected and concern both you and the vets.
Similarly, if you use your tracker to monitor your dog’s health, accuracy matters. If it’s actually accurate, you can present all this information to your vet for a better analysis. It can essentially double as a dog health monitor, which is why this factor remains crucial.
Sturdiness
Dogs can be playful at times; a good tracker should be sturdy enough to withstand all sorts of behavior. Be it outdoors or a swim in the water, your dog’s activity tracker shouldn’t break away easily.
Most trackers are lightweight, compact devices that are attached to dog collars. In most cases, smooth plastic is used as a cover for these devices. Now, your dog’s fluffy hair shouldn’t tangle with the straps or the body of the tracker when attached to the collar. A dog’s collar is the perfect part for attachment for trackers as it’s neither near your dog’s paws nor its mouth where there’s a greater chance of it breaking or tearing away.
Battery Life
If the battery life isn’t long enough, you’ll spend half your time charging the device rather than using it. This isn’t the most optimal solution as you’re missing important tracking data. Ideally, the device’s battery should be capable of tracking for at least a couple of days. This way, you won’t be worried about losing your dog’s activity levels.
It will also keep the information stored, allowing you to review it later on. Some trackers provide months of battery time in pursuit of giving you a calming experience. If you’ve left your dog at home and the battery dies; this can be quite concerning. With that said, get a tracker that has a higher battery life; it’s usually signified by a higher mAh value in electronic devices.
Water Resistant or Not
Dogs love to go crazy outdoors and restrictive dog activity trackers won’t do you any good. So, what you need is a tracker that is water-proof to some extent and allows your dog to really explore the nature outdoors.
If, however, you don’t wish to let your pup near water or your dog doesn’t go by itself; water resistance might not be needed. It’s an added feature to most activity monitors and may present a cost in itself. You can choose a non-waterproof version if you’re short on bucks and replace the device later on. Just be aware that if you live in a rainy area, water-proof resistance may still be needed.
What Does it Track?
Although some devices may offer combined functionality, others won’t. What you can do is keep a check on the list of features you’d like. Here’s a small list of stats most devices can actually track in your pup:
- Steps taken
- Location
- Heart Rate
- Calories (and other intake stats)
- Mood
- Other health factors
Mostly, activity monitors support the well-known fitness tracker, FitBit. Trackers that make use of the technology can track most of your dog’s day, including activity, location, food intake, and weight. Not to mention, you can replay and review all that information at the touch of a button.
Activity Tracker for Dogs – FAQs
Still, have a few questions about activity trackers for dogs? Say no more. This section covers some of the most commonly asked questions by pet lovers all over the globe.
You can easily track your dog using GPS, Wi-Fi, and similar technologies. GPS dog collars are small trackers capable of sending out real-time location updates to a receiver, usually a mobile phone application. These trackers can either be attached to your dog’s collar or you may get a smart GPS-enabled collar itself.
Just to be on the safer side, you can place the GPS device away from your furry friend’s sight. Your pup may be tempted to chew the device if it can see it. However, having the device on will definitely give you a sense of calm knowing you can always tune in to what your doggo is doing.
FitBark 2 is the most acclaimed dog tracking device amongst pet owners. The monitor mimics the human-version of FitBit for dogs and packs a punch in terms of features. Long battery life, more accurate tracking, location, and sharing are just a few of its outstanding features. Apart from FitBark 2, here’s our list of the best dog tracking devices you can purchase:
– WhistleGo Health and Location Monitor
– Petfon GPS Tracker
– Bartun Pet GPS Tracker
For more information on these, have a look at our review section. We’ve compiled a larger list with extensive reviews for you to make the right choice!
Tracking devices can’t be implanted in your dog’s body. Moreover, it is not a safe option. There are many reasons why this is a bad idea; the size and battery issues are the biggest. Also, most GPS tracking devices have a battery that has to be charged every now and then. If it’s implanted, it can’t be taken out and placed back in after a charge. It would simply be cruel and painful for the pup.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to get a microchip implanted, that process is safe. Local vets can also solve your issue by planting that microchip in between the shoulders. The microchip, however, is a 15-digit code with your information that can only come into action once your lost pup is found. They’re not actual, real-time trackers and do not have the extra features of a dog activity tracker.
All dog activity trackers are completely safe. Mostly, these accessories clip with your dog’s collar, making it easy to clip them on and off. They make use of several connectivity technologies to send and receive signals to and from your application.
Since most of these are small devices, your dog won’t even feel it. If you’re worried about the rays from these signals, they’re completely harmless. Moreover, the intensity isn’t too strong, allowing the signals to pass through easily. The only concern that could exist is your dog’s fur getting caught on the clips of the device, just be aware of this.
Whistle 3 by WhistleGo is one of the smallest, most lightweight, and most affordable dog activity trackers in the lot. It has all the features you’d find in a full-fledged tracking device and still packs more. Your pup won’t let you wear it around the neck? Put it in a harness pocket or your dog’s bag.
If you’re looking for a more detailed review into the Whistle 3, take a look at our reviews section. It has all the information you’ll need to make a fully informed decision!
Accuracy is one of the biggest concerns with dog activity trackers since they are not as accurate as those made for humans. Therefore, this is a key feature they provide. Dog trackers can’t make use of the design which is implemented on us. Mostly, these devices make use of a special form of motion sensing to keep you up to date with your dog’s location, health, and other levels.
You should always pick a dog activity tracker that has received support or has extensive research. However, high-end manufacturers and vendors will often display tests to show how accurate their location tracking feature is.
Dog activity trackers are a great way to monitor your pet’s location, have recorded and easily accessible health reports, and even share Fitbit information. Make sure to compare reviews and find the tracker with the features you need to benefit you and your pup’s lifestyle.