Dogs are known for their love of exploration, often wandering out of sight, causing concerns for their owners. The solution to this common issue lies in the advancements of technology – dog GPS trackers. These devices have become essential tools for pet owners, providing a reliable means to keep their dogs safe and within reach.
For those with hunting dogs, a GPS tracker is particularly crucial. It ensures that these specially trained dogs, often used in challenging terrains, can be easily located, eliminating the worry of losing them during hunting expeditions. Here, we introduce some of the best hunting dog GPS trackers available, offering peace of mind to pet owners and hunters alike.
Top pick
Garmin Astro 430
Editor’s choice
Findster Duo+
Best value
Garmin Alpha 100
Investing in a high-quality GPS tracker not only enhances the safety of dogs but also strengthens the bond between pets and their owners. With these advanced tracking devices, the days of anxiety over a lost dog are replaced with confidence in their secure and traceable whereabouts.
1. Garmin Astro 430
Garmin has consistently demonstrated remarkable advancements in dog tracking technology, with the Garmin Astro 430/T standing out as the top choice among dog trackers. Boasting the utilization of both GPS and GLONASS, this tracker ensures precise tracking in diverse terrains. The dual satellite feature enhances reliability, providing continuous reception even if one signal is lost—an innovation that has resonated well with users.
One standout feature propelling the Astro 430/T to the forefront is its capacity to track up to 20 dogs within an impressive 9-mile range. This expansive coverage, coupled with a rapid refresh feature every 2.5 seconds, enables real-time tracking even for swiftly moving dogs. The device goes beyond basic location monitoring, offering insights into the distance covered, the dog’s status, and a detailed trail of their travels.
The inclusion of a preloaded topographical map, complimentary for the first year, adds substantial value. It enriches the user experience by providing a visual representation of the dog’s journeys. The Garmin Astro 430/T is equipped with a robust, rechargeable battery, offering an impressive 20-hour runtime. Additionally, users have the flexibility to use AA batteries, ensuring uninterrupted tracking. With its comprehensive feature set, the Astro 430/T emerges as an indispensable tool for dog owners seeking top-tier tracking capabilities.
2. Findster Duo+
The Findster Duo+ earns its high ranking due to its multifunctionality, combining a GPS locator and an activity tracker in one compact device. This dual functionality allows pet owners to not only stay informed about their dog’s location but also monitor its fitness levels simultaneously.
A standout feature of the Findster Duo+ is its subscription-free usage, eliminating the need for a monthly plan. Operating globally without relying on cellular service, it remains functional even in off-the-grid locations. Despite having a tracking range limited to a 3.5-mile radius, the device compensates with an impressive 16-30 hours of battery life, subject to usage and temperature variations.
Designed to withstand various conditions, the Findster Duo+ is shockproof and waterproof up to 3 feet. The inclusion of a history feature facilitates the review of previous walks, providing valuable insights into the dog’s activities. Easy to use, the device securely attaches to the pet collar, offering real-time notifications and comprehensive fitness metrics such as steps taken, distance covered, wakefulness time, and rest duration. Overall, the Findster Duo+ stands out as a versatile and user-friendly GPS and activity tracking solution for pet owners.
3. Garmin Alpha 100
Similar to the Astro 430, the Alpha 100 excels in tracking up to 20 dogs concurrently, making it ideal for sporting and hunting pursuits. Utilizing both GLONASS and GPS satellites enhances its tracking capabilities, ensuring precision in monitoring your dogs’ locations. What sets the Alpha 100 apart is its additional functionality, allowing users to train and control hunting dogs effectively.
Equipped with stimulation levels based on tone and vibration, the device enables separate communication with each dog, ensuring safety and preventing unwanted wandering. The outstanding battery life of up to 40 hours enhances its reliability during extended use. LED beacon lights and a crisis-focused rescue mode prioritize safety, making it a well-rounded solution.
The Alpha 100 handheld device features a 3-inch glove-friendly color touchscreen, providing ease of use. Its capacity to track and train multiple devices simultaneously from a considerable distance of up to 9 miles is a remarkable feature. Preloaded TOPO U.S. 100K mapping offers comprehensive terrain details, and the device supports optional map data, including TOPO U.S. 24K, BirdsEye Satellite Imagery, autorouting with City Navigator, and Garmin Custom Maps. Additionally, the built-in 3-axis electronic compass and barometric altimeter enhance its functionality for outdoor activities.
4. Whistle Tagg GPS
The Tagg tracker, a seasoned player in the field, has earned numerous accolades for its outstanding performance. Boasting excellent free apps, it goes beyond mere tracking, sending timely text messages and emails when your dog ventures outside designated boundaries. Doubling as an activity tracker, the Tagg seamlessly attaches to almost any dog collar, simplifying the setup process.
Designed for dogs above 10 lbs, this award-winning GPS pet tracker not only ensures your pet’s safety but also monitors daily exercise levels, contributing to a healthy and happy pet. The free, acclaimed apps cater to both iPhone and Android users, providing a user-friendly experience. The tracker’s interactive map feature facilitates locating your pet, offering directions for a prompt reunion.
Easy to attach to your pet’s existing collar, the Tagg tracker is a reliable companion for pet owners, offering peace of mind and efficient tracking capabilities.
5. Garmin Delta Upland XC Bundle
The Garmin Delta Upland XC Bundle is a comprehensive solution designed for upland hunters, combining a beeper and training collars for effective bird dog tracking and training.
This bundle comprises a dog device collar and a 3-button handheld transmitter, establishing clear communication with your bird dog within a range of ¾-mile. Offering 36 momentary and 18 continuous stimulation levels, along with tone and vibration featuring 5 correction configurations, this system provides versatile training options. For those with multiple dogs, additional collars can be purchased, allowing you to train up to 3 dogs simultaneously.
The Upland Beeper, a standout feature, incorporates 4 hunt sounds (including silent) and 2 point sounds (including hawk scream). This beeper aids in locating your dog and provides insights into their activity—whether they are on the move or on point in the field. To curb unnecessary barking, the built-in BarkLimiter, equipped with Advanced Bark Correction Technology, ensures accurate detection and correction.
The bundle also includes long and short interchangeable contact points, accommodating dogs of varying coat lengths for a comfortable and effective training experience.
Benefits of Hunting Dog Tracking Systems
Utilizing hunting dog tracking systems offers a multitude of benefits for avid hunters and gundog owners. The primary advantage is the ability to swiftly pinpoint the precise location of your hunting dog during expeditions.
Advanced GPS collars provide additional insights into your dog’s hunting style, behavior, and activities, indicating whether they are in motion, at a standstill, on a tree, or engaged in barking.
Moreover, these tracking devices are often expandable, allowing you to synchronize the remote with extra collars for monitoring multiple dogs simultaneously. Some tracking systems go a step further by incorporating a built-in e-collar functionality, facilitating training and communication with bird dogs across extensive distances.
A notable advantage of GPS collars is their silent operation, devoid of any disruptive beeping sounds, ensuring that they do not startle or disturb the birds during hunts.
Conclusion
Embarking on outdoor adventures or trips with your dog has never been more worry-free, thanks to the assurance provided by dog GPS trackers. Despite the potential cost, investing in these trackers proves to be invaluable, offering you the peace of mind that your canine companion is always within reach and won’t be easily lost.
With a dog GPS tracker, you can confidently explore various locations, knowing that the device has your back and ensures the safety and security of your beloved pet.
The benefits of these trackers far outweigh the initial expense, making them a worthwhile and indispensable tool for pet owners who prioritize their dog’s well-being during outdoor excursions.
Leave a Reply