GPS dog collars have grown more popular over the last decade and are here to stay.
Not only do they help you keep track of your dog, but some provide useful features like activity monitoring and LED lights for nighttime walks.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some GPS dog collar pros and cons so you can make an informed decision about whether they’re right for you and your furry friend!
GPS Dog Collar Pros and Cons

GPS dog collars offer several advantages, however, GPS dog collars also have some potential drawbacks that you should be aware of before making a purchase.
Here are their pros and cons.
Pros Of GPS Dog Collars
1. You will always know where your dog is. If your dog gets lost, you can use the GPS tracking system to find them quickly.
2. You can keep track of your dog’s activity levels (with some models). This can be helpful if you’re trying to make sure they’re getting enough exercise.
3. You can set “safe zones” or create a virtual dog fence and receive alerts if your dog leaves these areas. This feature can be useful if you live near a busy road or other hazards.
4. Some GPS dog collars come equipped with built-in lights, so you can easily find your dog at night.
5. GPS dog collars can help you train your dog more effectively i.e. use the tracking data to identify areas where your dog needs more practice with obedience commands.
6. You can monitor your dog’s health more closely. Many GPS dog collars include fitness tracking features so you can keep an eye on their heart rate and calorie burn.
7. Some GPS dog collars come with features that allow you to monitor your dog’s social interactions with other dogs.
This information can be helpful if you are concerned about aggression or socialization issues.
8. Many GPS dog collars have subscription-based monthly plans that provide additional features, such as live tracking, weather alerts, and 24/7 customer support.
Before moving on to the cons of GPS dog collars, watch this video to see how well a GPS dog collar can find your missing dog:
Read our related article on the Best Dog Tracker Without Subscription. If you’re not interested in a fee, these are the best options!
Cons Of GPS Dog Collars
1. The cost of a GPS dog collar can be expensive, both to purchase and to maintain.
2. The battery life of a GPS dog collar can be short, depending on how active your dog is, meaning you may have to recharge it frequently.
3. If the GPS tracking system fails, you may not be able to track your dog.
4. If the GPS tracking system is not properly calibrated, it may give you inaccurate information about your dog’s location.
5. A GPS dog collar may not be able to track your dog if he or she goes into a building or underground.
6. A GPS dog collar may interfere with other electronic devices, such as phones or computers.
Read our related article, Can GPS Dog Collars Make Dogs Sick? for more potential problems.
Choosing a GPS Collar for Your Dog

To pick the best collar for your dog, consider the following:
1. Choose a collar that is comfortable for your dog. A well-fitting collar will be comfortable for your dog to wear and won’t rub their skin.
2. Make sure the collar is durable. A good GPS dog collar should be able to withstand bumps and scratches.
3. Pick a GPS tracker that is accurate and up-to-date. You do not want your dog to get lost, so make sure the tracker is reliable.
4. Choose a collar with long battery life. You don’t want the tracker running out of juice in the middle of a hike.
5. Select a waterproof GPS dog collar. Waterproofing is essential in case your dog goes for a swim or gets caught in the rain.
6. Look for a GPS dog collar with features that are important to you before making your purchase.
Some collars come with built-in lights or reflective strips for safety, while others come with bonus storage pouches for carrying treats or waste bags.
7. Compare prices and reviews before choosing a GPS dog collar. Be sure to read reviews from other pet parents to find what collars are the best bang for your buck.
Whatever decision you make, following these considerations will help ensure that you end up with a quality product that works well.
Read More: Halo Collar VS Wagz. Find out which activity tracker is right for you and your dog!
Bottom Line
Before investing in a GPS dog collar, it is important to first weigh the numerous benefits as well as any potential drawbacks associated with using one.
In the end, the question of whether or not a GPS dog collar is appropriate for you will come down to the specific requirements and preferences that you have.