One of the worst feelings as a pet owner is not knowing where they are when they’re not around. They tend to wander and that can make you as an owner worried. That is why GPS pet tags are a great solution for any owners looking for something to ease their minds while their pet roams around.
This article will help you understand better what exactly pet tag GPS trackers are, how they work and where you can get one. It will also show you the best pet tag trackers based on their features and characteristics, as well as user reviews.
GPS Pet Tags Must-Know Info
What Are They?
GPS tags are devices that use the Global Positioning System as a method of locating anything you hook them to. In this case, the focus will be on pets, especially on cats. GPS uses satellites around the Earth to pinpoint a location and send signals (with the location information) to the user.
Pros Of Getting One
GPS pet tags have a wide range. You do not have to guess the location because the Global Positioning System accurately locates your pet for you. Another great feature is that the signal you receive is broadcast in real-time and most devices send location updates every few seconds.
Cons Of Getting One
Because the tag tracker is supplied with GPS, that means that the device has to do all the work and that drains the battery. You have to be careful with the battery, so you do not forget to charge it. Also, closed spaces and areas with a lot of buildings can interfere with the signal and that can make the tagless effective.
Why Should You Get One?
Most owners have their pets microchipped, but that is not always enough. Microchips are useful if your pet is found by someone who can scan and read the microchip, but if they get lost and there are no people around, GPS pet tags can help in locating them.
Other Features
Besides the main purpose, tracking your pet, most pet tracker tags include a lot of other features. Some of those are health monitoring, shock and water resistance, history of your pet’s movements, etc. They are easy to store and put on your pet as they are light and small.
5 Best Pet Tracker Tags
Best GPS Dog Tag
Findster Duo+ Pet Tracker
Tag Info
Weighing 21 g, this dog tag GPS tracker is easily attachable to your dog’s collar. It measures 1.2 x 5 x 5 cm, which makes it small enough not to interrupt your dog during their day.
Tracking Details
This dog tag tracker uses GPS technology to pinpoint your pet’s location. Real-time tracking is enabled as well, and the dog locator tag works in a 0.5-mile range in urban areas and up to a 3-mile range outdoors,
More Features
Setting up a geofence, or virtual fence is available with this device. That works as a virtual safe zone in which your pet moves around freely, and when they leave you are alerted. The tag also works as an activity tracker.
The dog tag GPS tracker does not require you to pay a subscription fee of any kind, i.e. it is completely free to use. The battery life is 12 hours to up to 3 days, depending on the usage.
- GPS tracking
- Geofence
- Wide range
Best GPS Tag For Cats
DICPHIL Mini GPS Tracker
Cat Locator Tag Info
Weighing 31 g and measuring 4 x 2 x 1 cm, this cat tag tracker fits your cat’s collar with no problems. It is made of plastic, and it is not too heavy or big to interrupt your cat during their day.
Tracking Use
The tracking system uses GPS and LBS for more precise positioning. It also allows for real-time tracking of your pet. You can use this tag not only for your cat, but also for your keys, luggage, and other valuables.
Other Features
Features included are a virtual fence, SOS alarm, and voice monitor function. The SOS can support up to 3 emergency phone numbers which are dialed in case of emergency. By entering your phone number and having the device call the number, the voice monitor is set up.
Battery Life And Subscription
The battery, when not in use, can last up to 12 days. When it is in use it can last from 4 to 6 days, and the battery is rechargeable. As for the subscription, the device and app require 2G coverage and a SIM card.
- GPS+LBS tracking
- Geofence
- SOS alarm
Best Bluetooth Tag Tracker For Pets
DOTT The Smart Dog Tag
Product Details
Even though it says it is a dog tag, in reality, this pet locator tag can be used for all pets. It weighs 45 g and measures 5 x 5 x 1 in, which makes it a bit heavier and bigger so it may not be suitable for all pets.
Tracking And App
Bluetooth technology is used to track and trace your pet. You can monitor your pet’s movements from the DOTTpet app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. You can interact with other users in-app as well.
Other Features
360 Pet Care feature enables you to keep track of alerts other people put out, such as heat, food, pet poison, and suspicious areas. Activity monitor function is also included, enabling you to keep track of their walks, food intake, and medication.
Subscription And Battery
The battery can last from 6 to 9 months, as it does not use GPS so battery consumption is not big. The locator tag and the app do not require a subscription as well.
- Bluetooth tracking
- 360 Pet Care
- Long-lasting battery
- No subscription
Best RFID Dog Tracking Tag
Loc8tor Pet Tracker
Pet Tag Tracker Info
Weighing only 5 g, it is easily one of the lightest pet tracker tags out there. It works indoors and outdoors and has a 122-m range. The durable case makes it splash-proof.
Tracking Function
The RFID technology guides you to your pet, whether they are lost or simply just to get to them. It is described as an electronic game of hot and cold which shows you in the direction of your pet. You can activate a beep on your dog’s tag which can then be used to train them to come back home.
Any Other Features?
Unlike most pet locator tags, this one does not include any additional features such as geofence, activity tracking, health monitoring, etc. But if your only concern is your pet’s location, it should suffice.
Battery And Subscription
The battery life is from 2 to 5 months, really long-lasting. No subscription is required and there is also no app you need to download in order to use the device.
- RFID tracking
- Lightweight
- No additional features
- Long-lasting battery
- No subscription and app
Best Cheap Pet Locator Tag
Pawscout Smarter Pet Tag
Product Design
The official page of the tag states that it is the size of a dollar and the weight of a quarter. Also small enough to attach to your pet’s collar and not interrupt them, it is available at a price of $17.99.
Tracking
This pet finder tag uses Bluetooth, the same as the DOTT tag. It works in a 91-m range, not really wide but enough if you’re in a park or on a walk with your pet. You can also set up a geofence for your pet.
Other Features
You can create your pet’s digital profile, which may include photos, contact info, medical data, behavioral issues, and more. Points of interest, such as veterinarians, parks, pet-friendly locations is also available.
Subscription And App
No subscription is required, and there is an app you download to your phone to keep track of your pet and the Pawscout pet tracker. You can connect with other people in the area via the app as well.
- Bluetooth tracking
- Geofence
- Points of interest
- No subscription
Conclusion: Picking The Best Pet Tag Tracker
Out of all the available options, it may be hard for some to choose. Keep in mind that pet tracker tags presented here are merely a fraction of the available options on Amazon and other sites. From the 5 pet locator tags listed above, I would recommend the DICPHIL Tracker, because it uses GPS+LBS technology for tracking your pet, as well as enabling you to set up a geofence and an SOS alarm. The other device I like is the Pawscout Tag because, besides tracking, you can see input from other users that can prove useful in unknown areas.
If this article did not provide enough information, read this article about other pet GPS trackers. If you’re a dog owner, this article on dog trackers can help you find more devices you can use with your dog. And for more information and other pet trackers you can get for your cat, this cat GPS systems article can prove useful for further decisions.