When you’re out hunting with your dog, you like to know where it is at all times and ensure it stays safe and out of trouble. Having a reliable GPS collar makes these tasks so much easier to achieve.
With so many GPS tracking collars on the market, it’s not always easy to choose the one best for your dog. The best way to find a suitable GPS collar for your hunting dog is by researching the one that fits your specific needs. If you use a dog to hunt, you’ll want the most suitable one to add to your hunting equipment.
Visit hunting supply stores to get a hands-on look at the different GPS collars and GPS dog trackers available. It’s essential to consider your dog’s size and breed of your dog, and the hunting terrain. Also, establish the most important features you want in GPS tracking collars before you visit.
When you’ve tracked down the best GPS collar for hunting dogs, in your opinion, you can rest easy. You’ll be able to track your hunting dog, and the animal will be safe while doing its job. I will help you choose by running through some of your best options.
- Best Overall GPS dog tracking collar: Garmin Alpha 200 with TT 15X Dog Collar Bundle
- Most Affordable GPS dog tracking collar: Tractive Pet GPS Tracker
- Runner-up Overall GPS dog tracking collar: Fi Smart Collar Series 3
- Best Handheld GPS dog tracking controller and collar: Garmin Astro 430 Handheld and T 5X Dog Device
- Best Value-for-Money GPS dog tracker: Findster Duo+ GPS Pet Tracker and Pet Activity Monitor
- Best Remote Training GPS dog tracking and training system: Dogtra Pathfinder2 Dog Tracking & Training System e-Collar
Which GPS Dog Collar Do You Need for Your Hunting Dog?
When you choose a GPS dog collar for your hunting dog, you should consider several factors. The first of these is the range of the collar. Selecting a collar with a wide range is necessary to keep track of your dog, even when it has gotten far away from you. The range varies between collars, with some offering an unlimited range as long as there is cell service.
The second factor to think about is the collar’s accuracy. A collar with a high accuracy level ensures that you know your dog’s exact location at all times. The third factor to consider is the collar’s durability. Hunting dogs can be hard on equipment, so always choose a collar that will withstand the rigors of the hunt.
Another factor worth considering is the number of dogs you want to track. You’ll also want to make sure the GPS dog tracker you have won’t create problems while you’re hunting. You’ll likely want a handheld device that operates on cell service or via a two-way radio link. The best GPS dog trackers and tracking collars are designed with this in mind.
Ultimately, the best GPS collar for your hunting dog depends on your specific needs and budget. If you research and compare the features of different collars, you’re sure to find one that works best for you and your dog. Let me run you through some of my favorites, and you can see what you think.
The Best GPS Collars and Trackers for Hunting Dogs
Best Overall GPS dog tracking collar: Garmin Alpha 200 with TT 15X Dog Collar Bundle
What I love about it
Pretty much everything. With a 9-mile range and the capability of tracking up to 20 dogs, it’s everything a hunter needs. Its battery life is around 20 hours too, so there’s no chance of running out of charge before you can find your dog.
Specs
- Dimensions: 6.4 inches in height, 2.7 inches in width, 1.3 inches in depth, and weighing 9.9 oz (with batteries)
- Communication range: Up to 9 miles with the included TT 15X collar
- Accuracy and precision: Location update speed of 2.5 seconds and an accuracy of up to 12 feet
- Battery life: 20 hours with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Waterproof rating: IPX7 for the handheld locator and 1 ATM for the collar
- Mapping: Preloaded with TopoActive maps and the option to download direct-to-device BirdsEye Satellite Imagery, and the ability to add additional maps
- Geofencing: Real-time geofencing alerts
- User Interface and Memory: Touchscreen display, ability to synchronize with the Garmin Explore app, and a maximum storage capacity of 16GB
- Minimum dog neck size: 9.5 inches
- Other:
- Integrated vibration, tones, and beacon lights on the collar.
- Ability to track up to 20 dogs and save the contacts of 250 dogs.
- High-sensitivity receiver and barometer altimeter.
- Tilt-compensated 3-axis compass with 10,000 waypoints.
- Improved training features with vibrations and sounds of 18 levels of correction.
Pros
- Tracking accuracy: The Alpha 200 utilizes GPS and GLONASS satellites for maximum accuracy. This provides you with your dog’s position every 2.5 seconds.
- Multiple dog tracking: The Alpha 200 allows you to track up to 20 dogs simultaneously.
- Customizable training: The Alpha 200 comes with Tri-Tronics technology. This allows you to train and control your dog using tone commands. You can also use vibration, with 18 continuous and momentary stimulation levels available.
- Mapping and Geofencing: The Alpha 200 comes preloaded with TopoActive maps. It has the option to download direct-to-device BirdsEye Satellite Imagery. It also has real-time geofencing alerts.
- User interface and memory: The Alpha 200 has a touchscreen display and the ability to synchronize with the Garmin Explore app. It also has a maximum storage capacity of 16GB, which is four times higher than the Astro 430.
- Durable and Waterproof: The Alpha 200 has an IPX7 waterproof rating, which is more than enough for a hunting tracker. The collar is 1 ATM waterproof rated.
- Long battery life: The Alpha 200 has a battery life of up to 20 hours.
- Compact and lightweight: The Alpha 200 is easy to carry around.
- Different collar options: The package includes the TT 15X collar, but you can buy other compatible collars.
Cons
- Cost: the Garmin Alpha 200 with TT 15X Dog Collar Bundle is a high-end product. It might be considered expensive for some hunters.
- Range: 9 miles is the maximum range, which might not be enough for some hunters in certain terrains.
- Weather conditions: Although the device is water resistant, it is not entirely waterproof. It is not recommended for use in extreme weather conditions.
- Touchscreen display: It might be difficult to use with gloves or if wet.
- Training features: These are not included in the package.
Full review
The Garmin Alpha 200 with TT 15X Dog Collar Bundle is a top-notch GPS tracking and training system for hunting dogs. It includes the Alpha 200 handheld device and one TT 15X dog collar in the bundle.
With the Garmin Alpha 200, you can track your dog’s position in real-time and view it on a map using the color display. The “Hunt Metrics” feature tracks your dog’s movements and hunting patterns. Through this, you can analyze the hunting dog’s performance and improve it. You can also set up geofences and be alerted if your dog leaves a zone.
The TT 15X collar allows you to train your dog with vibration and tone stimulation. It also has a “Rescue Mode” feature that will enable you to track your dog’s location if they get lost. The collar is rugged and designed to withstand harsh hunting conditions. The Garmin Alpha 200 with TT 15X Dog Collar Bundle is a little pricy but worth it for the serious hunter.
Most Affordable GPS dog tracker: Tractive Pet GPS Tracker
What I love about it
Although not a collar itself, the Tractive GPS tracker is so lightweight and compact that it’s easy to attach to your dog’s collar. It’ll connect to practically any collar, and it works well. I love the peace of mind I get when using it. Your dog won’t get lost, and it’s super convenient to use too. And super-economical! A small monthly subscription gets you the complete set of features.
Specs
- Dimensions: Its length is 2.13 inches, its width is 1.3 inches, and its height is 0.59 inches. Its weight is 1.06 oz (including the battery).
- Communication range: Unlimited
- Accuracy: Up to 10 feet.
- Battery life: Up to 5 days on a single charge, depending on usage.
- Waterproof rating: Up to a one-meter depth for 30 minutes, according to the IPX7 standard.
- Mapping and geofencing: Available on subscription with a minimum geofence of 100 feet.
Pros
- Real-time tracking: Via the smartphone app.
- “Safe Zone” feature: This allows for setting virtual boundaries.
- Lightweight and compact design: This means it’s easy to attach the Tractive GPS Tracker to a hunting dog’s collar.
- Tracking: You can conduct live monitoring and historical access tracking.
- Languages: The Tractive GPS system is available in different languages.
- Multiple device management: You can manage several devices from the app simultaneously.
- Notifications: You can customize notifications to suit your needs.
Cons
- It may require a monthly or yearly subscription fee.
- It can be lost or damaged if not properly attached to your dog’s collar.
- It may be unable to track pets in remote or rural areas.
- There may be privacy concerns.
Full review
Tractive Pet GPS Tracker allows pet owners or hunters to locate their animals in real time. It uses GPS technology to track your dog’s location of your pet in real time. This means you’ll always know where your dog is during a hunt a be able to ensure its safety. Tractive GPS Tracker works in more than 150 countries, which is helpful if you live outside of the US.
You can set up activity tracking and monitor your dog’s movement during the hunt. This allows you to identify behavior and activity patterns. You can set up safe zones and receive alerts if your dog leaves the designated area.
Tractive GPS Tracker is one of the GPS pet trackers which works well for hunting, not just in domestic environments. It is splashproof and waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about damaging it if your dog gets wet. With its long battery life, you needn’t worry about constant charging. Importantly, your dog won’t even notice it’s wearing it!
Tractive GPS pet trackers are very user-friendly. You only need to download the free mobile app from the App Store or Google Play. You’ll need a paid subscription to access many of the features, though. The device is highly affordable, making it a good option for most hunters.
Runner-up Overall GPS dog tracking collar: Fi Smart Collar Series 3
What I love about it
Fi Smart Collar Series 3 is definitely a step up from its Series 2 predecessor. I love the sensitivity of its signal that will locate your dog even in extremely remote parts of a hunt site. It uses as many as 40 percent more GPS satellites to zone in on your dog within a six-foot radius of its actual location. With its other features, there’s not much not to love!
Specs
- Dimensions: 11.5 to 34.5-inch collar sizes
- Communication range: GPS signal dependent on cell phone coverage.
- Accuracy: Up to 6 feet.
- Battery life: up to 3 months before recharging.
- Waterproof rating: Conforms to the IP68 and IP66K underwater standards.
- Mapping & Geofencing: Unlimited mapping and geofencing with cell service.
- User Interface and Memory: Compatible with smartphone technology.
- Available colors: 4 core colors – blue, gray, yellow, and pink. Other designs and colors are available on order.
Pros
- LTE-M GPS tracking and location sharing.
- Activity tracking.
- All-weather waterproof design.
- Long battery life.
- Remote control to activate a built-in light, sound, and vibration via the Fi app.
- Customizable safe zones.
- Compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
- Lightweight design.
- Customizable behavioral alerts.
- Additional collars addition option.
- Temperature and humidity level gauging at dog location.
- Integration with other dog-related apps for access to vet records and medication reminders.
- 3000 lbs pull-resistance.
Cons
- Monthly subscriptions can work out to be expensive.
Full review
The Fi Smart Collar Series 3 is a series of LTE-M GPS-enabled dog tracking collars. The series provides activity monitoring and real-time location tracking. There are also several other features to keep pets and hunting dogs healthy and safe.
Fi Smart GPS dog collars use up to three satellite constellations to supply your dog’s location coordinates. GPS and cellular technologies deliver accurate location information, around which you can create safe zones. This means you can set up and receive an alert if your dog leaves the designated safe area.
The collar is splashproof and waterproof, so it won’t be damaged if your dog enters a river or marshy area. These Fi GPS tracking collars are durable and capable of withstanding 400 lbs of static force. With batteries that can last for weeks or even months on a single charge, you needn’t worry about the Fi Collar going flat on a hunt.
Fi dog tracking collars also have training modes and vibrate or make beeping sounds to guide a dog back to its owner if it’s out of range. A new Fi sleep tracking feature is part of the app for Series 3, allowing you to monitor your dog’s sleeping habits.
Fi dog GPS trackers offer this and all other features as part of its different subscription options. Hunters can save up to 5% on the 2-year plan and 16% on the 3-year plan. It can also add other dogs with Fi collars to the app, which means you can monitor multiple dogs simultaneously.
In summary, the Fi Smart Collar Series 3 is a feature-rich and powerful GPS dog-tracking collar that is lightweight and ideal for hunting dogs. I believe it’s an obvious choice for hunters needing to stay connected to their dogs during a hunt.
Best Handheld GPS dog tracking controller and collar: Garmin Astro 430 Handheld and T 5X Dog Device
What I love about it
I love the Garmin Astro 430 Handheld and T 5X Dog Device. I think its ease of access, customizable alerts, and training mode feature set it apart from most opposition. You can track multiple dogs within a nine-mile range at once, so you can keep track of your hunting pack. It’s a tremendous handheld tool for the modern hunter!
Specs
- Dimensions: The Garmin Astro 430 Handheld is 2.4 inches wide, 6.3 inches high, and 1.4 inches deep. It weighs approximately 9.7 oz (including its battery). The T 5X Dog Device is 3.5 inches wide, 1.7 inches high, and 1.8 inches deep, weighing in at around 6.6 oz with two AA batteries or NiMH pack.
- Communication range: Up to 9 miles in open terrain with the included T 5X collar.
- Accuracy and precision: Location update speed of 2-2.5 seconds and an accuracy of up to 12 feet.
- Battery life: Up to 20 hours with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Waterproof rating: The Garmin Astro 430 handheld has an IPX7 rating (1.5 m submersible). The T 5X collar has a 1 ATM rating (10m submersible).
- Mapping: TopoActive maps, including a base map. Garmin-supported maps can be added.
- Geofencing: Real-time geofencing alerts.
- User Interface and Memory: TFT 65-K color display (2.15 inches x 1.43 inches), 4GB memory card storage. The T 5X collar has LED light beacons visible up to 12 feet.
Pros
- Multiple dog tracking: The Garmin Astro 430 Handheld can track up to 20 dogs simultaneously.
- Ease-of-use: These GPS dog trackers are easy to use, compact, and easily navigable.
- Long-range communication: The Astro 430 has a 9-mile communication capability.
- Location updates: The dog tracking solution includes real-time location updates.
- Durable and waterproof: The Garmin Astro 430 has a rugged, waterproof design.
- Training customization: Custom training vibration and tone settings are included.
- Virtual boundary settings: You can set up virtual boundaries and alerts.
- Waypoints: The Astro 430 incorporates a storage and saving facility for 100 waypoints.
- Mapping: Preloaded topographical maps are a standard feature.
Cons
- Cost: The Garmin Astro 430 Handheld and T 5X Dog Device is quite an expensive option.
- Battery life: Some reports indicate the device’s battery life deteriorates after multiple charges, meaning more frequent recharging.
- Ease of use: The small buttons and screens make this GPS tracker difficult for some hunters.
- Durability: There have been reports of the Garmin Astro 430 Handheld breaking or malfunctioning.
- Compatibility: Garmin dog GPS trackers are sometimes incompatible with certain collars.
Full review
The Garmin Astro 430 Handheld and T 5X Dog Device is high-tech, with a GPS tracking system specially designed for hunting dogs.
The collar-mounted T 5X device, coupled with Garmin Astro 430 Handheld receiver, can track up to 20 dogs within a 9-mile range. This means you can monitor all dogs on a hunt to establish their locations, monitor their activity, and even train them remotely. It certainly makes more sense than using individual devices!
Monitoring your dog’s activity levels is a handy way to watch your hunting dogs’ health and fitness levels. The training mode allows you to remotely train your dog with vibration, stimulation, or beeping. These are all excellent methods of correcting a dog’s behavior.
The Garmin Astro 430 device is water-resistant, meaning you can hunt in extreme weather and rough terrain without being overly concerned about your hounds. The T 5X device is lightweight and compact, so your animals won’t experience undue discomfort when wearing it.
The price of the Garmin Astro 430 Handheld and T 5X Dog Device is something of a pitfall for many hunters. It is close to the top end of the price spectrum for GPS dog tracking collars. Connectivity issues have been reported, and the device is incompatible with specific dog collars. However, it is a powerful GPS tracking system offering many benefits for hunters.
If you can afford it, the Garmin Astro 430 Handheld and T 5X Dog Device offers a top-rate comprehensive solution for hunting with a dog. It is definitely worth considering.
Best Value-for-Money GPS dog tracker: Findster Duo+ GPS Pet Tracker and Pet Activity Monitor
What I love about it
I think that, for its price, the Findster Duo+ GPS Pet Tracker and Pet Activity Monitor is an excellent option for short-range hunts. You don’t have to fork out monthly subscriptions, and the initial cost won’t break the bank. It offers real-time tracking with a range of up to 3 miles. There’s also an activity monitor feature with a facility to set fitness goals for your dog.
Specs
- Dimensions: The Findster Duo+ GPS Pet Tracker and Pet Activity Monitor is 1.57 inches wide, 1.57 inches high, and 0.55 inches deep.
- Weight: 0.44 oz.
- Battery Life: up to 7 days.
- Range: up to 3 miles in open terrain.
- Waterproof rating: IP67 rating waterproofing (1-meter immersion for up to 30 minutes).
- Compatible Devices: iOS, Android smartphones
Pros
- Cost-effective: The Findster Duo+ GPS Pet Tracker and Pet Activity Monitor does not require monthly fees, making it a cost-effective option for hunters.
- Communication: The Findster Duo+ uses MAZE technology, which avoids the need for cellular or wifi networks.
- Satellite support: The GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite systems all support this GPS dog tracker.
- Activity Monitor and virtual leash: The activity monitor is perfect for short-hunt scenarios of up to 3 miles. And the virtual leash will alert you if your dog goes out of a predetermined geofence range. You can also set fitness goals for your dogs.
- Multi-Pet Tracking: The Findster Duo+ GPS Pet Tracker and Pet Activity Monitor can track and monitor up to 3 pets if you include the additional modules.
Cons
- The Findster Duo+ GPS Pet Tracker and Pet Activity Monitor range is limited. The 3-mile tracking range will not be enough for many hunters. These GPS trackers are only suitable for those confined to hunting in smaller areas.
- The device may not work well in overgrown areas with many trees.
- The Findster Duo+ is not as accurate as many other dog GPS trackers but works well within its limitations.
- Compatibility may be an issue with some types of collars.
- There is no built-in light in the Findster Duo+ GPS Pet Tracker, which can make night hunting problematic. It also doesn’t have a microphone or speaker.
Full review
The Findster Duo+ GPS Pet Tracker and Pet Activity Monitor is, as the name suggests, a device primarily designed for pets. This doesn’t mean it can’t be well incorporated into specific hunting scenarios. The two-piece system includes a GPS module for the dog to wear and a companion app for the hunter’s use.
Although limited in many ways, what makes the Findster Duo+ a viable alternative is its cost and the value for money you get with the solution. This dog GPS tracker includes real-time tracking capabilities, an activity monitor feature, and a virtual fence feature.
Hence, you can track your dog within a 3-mile radius on the companion app and check up on your hound’s activity. This is useful for monitoring any activity changes that could indicate a health issue. The virtual fence feature also set up via the companion app, notifies you if your dog leaves a pre-set designated area.
The device is also waterproof and durable, with up to seven days of battery life. Overall, the Findster Duo+ GPS Pet Tracker and Pet Activity Monitor is helpful for hunters willing to work within its limitations.
The Findster Duo+ is handy if you’re only a part-time dog hunter testing the waters before expending too much on a more in-depth device. It’s undoubtedly a brilliant value-for-money option to consider!
Best Remote Training GPS dog tracking and training system: Dogtra Pathfinder2 Dog Tracking & Training System e-Collar
What I love about it
The remote training feature of the Dogtra Pathfinder2 Dog Tracking & Training System e-Collar stands out. It’s what I love most about this dog tracker. It’s designed for exactly what a hunter needs when training a new dog while on the hunt. Its BarkLimiter technology reduces false corrections, making correcting behavior and reinforcement easier.
Specs
- Dimensions: The Dogtra Pathfinder2 Dog Tracking & Training System receiver is 3.5 inches long, 1.75 inches wide, and 1.5 inches deep. The collar strap dimensions are 1 inch x 30 inches.
- Weight: The GPS connector weight is approximately 4.3 oz, and the collar weight, including the receiver, is about 10 oz.
- Range: Up to 9 miles, depending on terrain and conditions.
- Battery Life: Up to 16 hours, depending on usage.
- Waterproof rating: IPX9K waterproof rating, meaning it can withstand high temperatures and high-pressure sprays in close proximity.
Pros
- Multiple dogs: The Dogtra Pathfinder2 Dog Tracking & Training System can track up to 21 dogs simultaneously.
- Training: This dog-tracking device includes vibration and tone options and training tools such as waypoint marking and beeper control.
- Satellite tracking: It includes GPS and GLONASS satellite tracking technology.
- Mapping and geofencing: Pathfinder2 GPS dog trackers include topographic maps preloaded. Geofencing is fully customizable.
- Stimulation control: This handheld device offers remote control of stimulation levels
- False correction reduction: The BarkLimiter training and tracking technology used by the Dogtra Pathfinder2 Dog Tracking & Training System reduces the chance of false corrections.
- Interface: The Pathfinder2 interface is user-friendly and easily navigable.
Cons
- The Dogtra Pathfinder2 Dog Tracking & Training System is quite expensive compared to similar e-collar systems.
- A subscription fee is needed to access some of the Pathfinder2 features.
- The setup and configuration process can be difficult for some hunters.
- Smaller hunting dogs may find the collar a little heavy and bulky.
Full review
The Dogtra Pathfinder2 Dog Tracking & Training System e-Collar is high-tech and full of excellent features designed to simplify your dogs’ remote training. One of the primary benefits of this GPS collar is its 9-mile range, which allows more scope for training. The range also allows you to keep track of your dog when it is far away.
You can use the Pathfinder2 in all types of weather and through the most challenging terrain. It’s waterproof and exceptionally durable. The collar has vibration and tone options in addition to stimulation, allowing for more humane training methods.
The Dogtra Pathfinder2 is expandable to 21 dogs. This allows for mass tracking and training multiple dogs simultaneously.
The GPS and GLONASS satellite tracking feature in the Pathfinder2 provides accurate location information. The included geofencing and waypoint marking are customizable, allowing for more thorough training. The live tracking and location sharing feature will enable you to monitor your dogs’ location in real-time and share it with others.
These GPS dog tracking collars also have remote-controlled stimulation level features to adjust stimulation levels from range. The BarkLimiter technology reduces false corrections and allows for more efficient training processes. Several training tools are included, such as waypoint marking and beeper control. Battery life allows for 16 hours before recharging.
The Dogtra Pathfinder2 Dog Tracking & Training System e-Collar is expensive compared to many similar options. Specific features require subscriptions to access. Despite this, I believe the Pathfinder two is almost a must-have for hunters who regularly train their dogs. It makes the process far easier to navigate.
Considerations When Buying a GPS Hunting Dog Collar Solution
Durability
Durability is paramount in a GPS hunting collar because of the rough outdoor environments the hunt incorporates. A durable collar withstands the wear and tear of both terrain and weather while protecting the GPS technology inside. Without being durable, the collar might malfunction or break.
You could lose your dog through an inability to track its location. A durable collar ensures a decent hunting collar lifetime, saving you the time and cost of frequently replacing it.
Battery life
A GPS collar must have decent battery life. Hunting trips often last for several days, so a collar with a poor battery life could run out before the hunt ends. The concern is that you could lose track of your dog’s location, putting the animal at risk of getting lost. If the hound gets injured, you’d have no way of knowing. Extended battery life minimizes this risk.
Range
It’s vitally important to have a GPS range that suits the expanse of the region you’re hunting in. Hunts often occur in large, remote areas, so a collar with a limited range might not track the dog’s location well if it wanders off somewhere.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing ties in somewhat with the durability of GPS dog tracking collars. If a collar isn’t waterproof in a hunting scenario, it’ll likely need replacing sooner than later. A collar that isn’t waterproof runs a risk of malfunctioning or breaking if it gets wet. This, in turn, could lead to the inability to track the hound’s location and, ultimately, the loss of the dog.
Size and fit
The right size and good fit of a dog GPS tracker on a dog are essential during hunts. An ill-fitting collar can cause discomfort and even injury to the dog. A collar that is too tight could chafe the dog and restrict its movement, while a loose one could slip off or get snagged on branches or other obstacles.
A well-fitting collar means the hound will be comfortable, with its free movement meaning optimal performance during a hunt. The right-sized collar also means the GPS device will stay on the dog’s neck instead of falling off and getting lost.
Compatibility
Some GPS collars are only compatible with certain tracking devices or mapping software. It’s essential that the collar you select suits the tracking device you will use. Many dog-tracking solutions incorporate collars or suggest certain makes. It makes sense to investigate these, some of which we’ve included above.
Additional features
Specific dog-tracking solutions include additional features like remote training, boundary setting, and mapping capabilities. Consider which features you’ll need and purchase a collar that your dog can use with these.
How I Chose the Best Dog Tracking GPS Collar Solution for Me
When I found my dog’s current GPS collar and tracker, I’d already tried several options. Each one had its good and bad characteristics, which gave me a better chance to find what I was looking for. I considered the following factors when choosing:-
Portability and durability: I needed to find a handheld device that wasn’t too bulky and could easily carry in one hand. My dog and I often take part in long-range hunts, so it couldn’t be too heavy either! The handheld device needed to be durable because of the terrain we hunt in, and it would certainly need to be waterproof!
Range: The range of the GPS tracking collars I’ve used has always been important. In selecting my new device, this was no different. As mentioned, long-range hunts mean having to keep contact and track my hound over broad areas and have constant contact with it. As my dog is experienced, training wasn’t the most critical factor in my considerations.
Battery life and connectivity: With long hunts, a lack of continuous cell service and a poor battery mustn’t hamper the process. My dog is my partner on a hunt, and I’d hate anything to happen because of a failure in technology. Due to this, I investigated this part of the GPS dog tracking equipment thoroughly before buying the option best suited to my needs.
Who are GPS Dog Tracker Collars For?
I’ve been concentrating on the hunting side of GPS technology, but it’s not only hunters that find a use for dog GPS trackers. Pet owners and animal owners generally find these handy to use, especially if they have pets that tend to wander.
Some of the solutions mentioned in my list are primarily designed for pet use but still have their parts to play within the hunting fraternity.
FAQs
How do dog trackers using GPS connectivity work?
There are several types of GPS trackers available. Cellular trackers rely on cell phone towers to transfer data regarding your animal’s location to your cellular device. Older, more bulky radio trackers use a transmitter to send a radio signal of their location. Short-range Bluetooth trackers pair directly with a mobile device. Certain tracking systems use more than one type.
How accurate is GPS dog tracking?
GPS dog tracking accuracy varies with every device and the position of the dog being tracked. Some devices can zone in on a dog to within a few meters, while others could have a margin of error of many meters.
Can a dog be tracked with GPS in a remote or wilderness area?
Yes, you can track a dog in an outlying area, provided the GPS device you’re using is in range of a satellite signal, and your dog is in the designated range. The GPS device will likely not work well in thickly wooded areas or mountains.
Last Tips on Finding the Best GPS Dog Collar
I’ve chosen the Garmin Alpha 200 with TT 15X Bundle as the best GPS collar for dogs while hunting, and it’s easy to see why. The Alpha 200 has almost everything a hunter would need to conduct a hunt with his best friend properly. It has the desired range, the required durability, and the necessary battery life.
Additionally, it’s handheld, portable, waterproof, and a facility to train new dogs while on the hunt. You can also use this dog tracker to keep an eye on several hounds simultaneously. With the additional features it contains, it is, in my opinion, as close to the perfect solution a hunter could ask for. It’s the best GPS for hunting with dogs.
Yes, it’s pricy, but it is definitely worth the investment!
