---
title: "How to Pick the Right Tracking Collar for Your Dog"
description: "Whether you own a dog or a cat, as a pet owner, you want nothing more for your animal friend than to be safe, wherever they are. But if your pet has a strong case of wanderlust, knowing their whereabouts can sometimes be easier said than done. Thankfully, there are many lightweight, technologically advanced collars and tags that can help you keep track of your pet. Here are a few features of some of the best models and a couple thoughts to consider before buying one."
date: "2019-08-13"
modified: "2019-08-13"
authors:
  - name: "The Editors"
    link: "https://www.outdoorlife.com/authors/the-editors/"
url: "https://www.outdoorlife.com/how-to-pick-right-tracking-collar-for-your-dog/"
categories:
  - "Gear"
  - "Hunting"
  - "Hunting Dogs"
  - "Hunting Gear"
---

# How to Pick the Right Tracking Collar for Your Dog

![A tracking collar can help you know where your animals are at all times.](<https://www.outdoorlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/13/7BGZHPNYZHWSIXP6LS5CUQ7MJM.jpg>)
*A tracking collar can help you know where your animals are at all times. Eureka Technology*

Let’s face it, some dogs are easier to own than others. Whether your pet is a rangy sporting breed or a domestic layabout with the occasional case of wanderlust, knowing where they are at all times is vital. Here’s a look at pet-tracking technology that takes advantage of modern communication networks to help keep pets safe and their owners sane.

State-of-the-art [smart collars](<https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7MWKWY/ref=as_li_ss_tl?tag=camdenxodl-20&ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&linkId=7017e06c9bf50e81b95d2c6ef08f9804&language=en_US%2F%2F>) use cellular networks and GPS in order to identify your pet's location within a specified range. When searching for the right device, take note of the distance at which the collar is effective, as well as the fact that [GPS-enabled collars](<https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FFCRQHN/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=outdoorlife03-20&linkId=85f032bfecd535831642c51939c6fea8&language=en_US/>) tend to be more power hungry.

For more independent tracking means, [self-contained units](<https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N9592RQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?tag=camdenxodl-20&ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&linkId=a1e3fc2cddf583db2da929a19310ec03&language=en_US%2F%2F>) do not rely on either GPS or cell coverage. They are bulkier but have no monthly connection or usage fees and works anywhere you and your pet are within range, up to two miles depending on conditions and environment.

If you don’t want to rely on wireless, cellular, or GPS, and prefer not to lug around a dedicated scanner, [tracking tags](<https://www.amazon.com/Pawscout-Smarter-Pet-Tag-Version/dp/B07KR1LYCK/ref=as_li_ss_tl?tag=camdenxodl-20&pd_rd_i=B07KR1LYCK&linkCode=ll1&linkId=b2575a60c5903957ea3c8efd7135ffd2&language=en_US%2F%2F>) with Bluetooth technology offer a lightweight and low-profile alternative. They work with any Android or iOS mobile device, have integrated community alerts broadcast to other users in the network, and also function as an activity monitor. On the downside, the range of Bluetooth is more limited than other devices.