GPS Dog Collars

With the introduction of GPS dog collars, you no longer have to worry about losing your dog on long walks, during hunts, or simply in your neighborhood. Technology now allows you to monitor your dog's location.

Global positioning systems (GPS) are continuing to gain popularity for a variety of reasons. Many people now rely on a GPS to help them find particular destinations. Others use a GPS for fun, enjoying the popular hobby of geocaching with the help of a portable GPS. Parents are also buying into the idea of monitoring their children's activities by accessing GPS features on cell phones. However, one of the newest uses for a global positioning system is to monitor a dog's location.

How does this work? Basically, there are two main components: the GPS dog collar receiver and a special GPS collar that the dog wears. The collar continuously transmits information regarding the dog's location back to the receiver, and the pet owner can access this information from an LCD screen on his or her receiver. It's that simple!

While most of these tracking systems are easy to use (simply turn on the system, and you're ready to go), you may need to pay a monthly fee for some services. In most cases, you can pay more upfront for a high-tech collar and skip the monthly fee, or you can purchase a cheaper brand that may require a monthly fee to access any necessary features.

There are several points to keep in mind regarding GPS dog collars. Most of these pertain to general information, but be aware that your GPS may not have all of these features, or the information may not be applicable to the system you select.

• Range - Pay attention to the maximum tracking range on your GPS. In many cases, the system is capable of tracking your dog for up to one mile, although some systems may be able to track even farther. In most instances, once a dog has moved out of range, the GPS will continue to pinpoint the last location. If the dog comes back into range, the system usually picks up his location again. Keep in mind that terrain, buildings, obstructions, etc. can all factor into the performance of the tracking system.
• Customer service - With some monthly fees, you have the option of communicating with tracking specialists who can work with you to find your dog.

• Home zones - Most systems allow you to create a "home zone"; this is basically an imaginary fenced-in yard. You program the perimeters. If your dog roams outside of the perimeters you have created, an audible sound will notify you. Many systems allow you to program in several zones. For example, you may want to set a zone for your home, one for a park you and your canine friend frequent, a friend's house and more.
• Multiple pet monitoring - If you have more than one dog, you may want to purchase a system that allows you to monitor several pets at once.
• Website monitoring - Other systems offer you the option of monitoring your dog online, particularly if he roams outside of the designated home zone. In many cases, you can contact the company through email or a text message for more assistance in locating your missing pet.
• Low battery warning - You should purchase a system that provides you the option of recharging your batteries. Since battery life can be limited to 8 to 12 hours, you'll need to be able to swap out batteries as you charge your replacements. Many systems offer a low battery alert signal.
• Size - Unfortunately, the majority of these dog collars only fit medium to large dogs. Collars typically do not fit small dogs, and thus will not work for cats either. However, the RoamEO GPS Pet Location System pictured at the top of the page does come in size small.

As of this writing, there are several companies selling this kind of dog collar.

• REI
• Track and Training
• Countryside Pet
• Zoombak

Now that you know how a GPS collar works and where to find one, consider whether wearing one is a good choice for you pet. .

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