When you’re out in the field with your hunting dog, the last thing you want is to lose sight of them. Whether tracking prey or navigating thick terrain, keeping tabs on your dog is essential for both their safety and your success. Thankfully, GPS trackers are here to help, offering a reliable way to monitor your dog’s location in real time.

These devices not only help you stay on track during hunting trips but also ensure that your dog remains safe even in the most rugged environments. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best GPS trackers for hunting dogs.

Garmin TT15X

The Garmin TT15X is a powerful GPS collar designed for serious hunters. Offering excellent tracking accuracy, it allows you to keep up with your dog’s every move, even at distances up to 9 miles. The collar’s 80-hour battery life is impressive, and it’s built to handle tough environments with its waterproof rating of up to 10 meters.

Not just for tracking, the TT15X also serves as a training tool with 18 levels of stimulation, vibration, and tone. It also includes a remotely controlled LED beacon light, perfect for spotting your dog in low-light conditions.

However, it’s not the smallest collar out there, so if you have a small dog or are looking for something more lightweight, this might not be your best option. Plus, it requires a separate handheld device, which adds to the overall cost and gear you’ll need to carry.

In summary, the Garmin TT15X is a top choice for hunters looking for reliable, high-performance tracking and training features in one rugged collar.

Pros and Cons

Garmin TT25 + Alpha 200i

The Garmin TT25 + Alpha 200i is a top-notch GPS tracking system designed for those who need more than just the basics. Whether you’re tracking a single dog or managing a pack, this system offers unparalleled reliability with its 9-mile range. It also pairs well with the Alpha 200i handheld device, providing advanced features like geofencing, tracking multiple dogs, and offering real-time location data.

The system also includes 18 levels of stimulation, tone, and vibration, allowing you to train your dog while tracking. The battery life is solid, lasting up to 68 hours, but with all the features and functionalities, you will need to charge the system regularly, especially during long trips. The biggest drawback is its bulk and high price tag. This system is not for casual users or those on a budget, as it’s built for serious hunters who need reliable and extensive tracking and training.

Overall, Garmin TT25 + Alpha 200i delivers the most robust features in the tracking and training category, making it the best option for dedicated hunters.

Pros and Cons

SportDog Tek 1.5 LT

The SportDog Tek 1.5 LT is a straightforward, no-nonsense GPS collar designed for hunters who need effective tracking and training in a simple package. With a 7-mile range, it’s ideal for tracking dogs over shorter distances, making it perfect for upland bird hunters or smaller areas.

One of its standout features is the 99 levels of stimulation, offering a wide range of intensity to reinforce commands or call your dog back. The collar is durable, with a waterproof rating that allows it to be submerged up to 25 feet, so it can easily withstand the elements. Battery life lasts for a full 24 hours, which is reasonable for most hunting trips.

However, the SportDog Tek 1.5 LT lacks the advanced mapping features and higher range found in more expensive models like the Garmin TT15X. The system is also limited to a 7-mile range, which might not be sufficient for hunters working with large hunting dogs or in open spaces. While it doesn’t have a beacon light, it’s a great option for hunters who prioritize simplicity and efficiency.

If you’re looking for a reliable, no-frills GPS collar with training capabilities, the SportDog Tek 1.5 LT offers great value without overwhelming you with unnecessary extras.

Pros and Cons

Fi Series 3 Smart Dog Collar

The Fi Series 3 is a sleek, modern GPS collar ideal for everyday use, offering an excellent solution for dog owners who need reliable tracking and activity monitoring. This collar is lightweight and built to endure daily wear and tear, offering up to 1 to 2 months of battery life under normal use, which is impressive compared to many GPS trackers. However, the battery drains much faster in areas with poor connectivity or when using lost dog mode, which provides real-time tracking by updating the dog’s location every minute.

The collar relies on LTE coverage (AT&T network) to track your dog’s location, so it’s limited to areas with strong cellular service. While it does offer a beacon light, it’s not the brightest option and might not be ideal for very low visibility conditions. The collar syncs with the Fi smartphone app, offering convenient features like tracking your dog’s steps, sleep, and strain, making it a great option for fitness-focused owners.

While Fi Series 3 is a great tracker for everyday pet owners, its reliance on LTE coverage and its poor tracking capabilities in rural or remote areas limit its suitability for hunting or long-range activities.

Pros and Cons

Garmin Astro 430 T 5X Dog Tracking Bundle

The Garmin Astro 430 T 5X Dog Tracking Bundle is a premium solution designed for serious hunters who need reliable tracking and training capabilities. The system includes a handheld device and a collar that provides real-time tracking with 9 miles of range. One of the highlights of the Astro 430 is its ability to track up to 20 dogs simultaneously, making it perfect for hunters with large packs.

The battery life lasts up to 20 hours, which is decent, but it may require more frequent charging on long hunting trips. The system also comes with TopoActive maps, ensuring you have the best navigation and geographical data to track your dogs across different terrains. The 1.5-meter waterproof rating ensures the device performs reliably, even in harsh conditions.

As for the training capabilities, the Astro 430 allows you to use vibration, tone, or shock to communicate with your dogs, giving you effective control while tracking. However, the bundle does require you to purchase the handheld device separately, which adds to the cost. Also, the 9-mile range is suitable for most hunting scenarios, but larger areas or long-distance tracking may require additional systems.

Overall, Garmin Astro 430 T 5X is an excellent choice for hunters looking for an all-in-one, durable, and effective tracking system that provides high accuracy and functionality in the field.

Pros and Cons

SportDog TEK 1.5 GPS + E-Collar

The SportDog TEK 1.5 GPS + E-Collar is designed for hunters who need a straightforward and reliable GPS tracking system with integrated training capabilities. With the ability to track up to 21 dogs, this system is perfect for those with multiple dogs in the field. The 7-mile range ensures that you can keep tabs on your dogs even in vast hunting areas.

The battery life is quite impressive for both the collar and the handheld, with the collar lasting up to 24 hours and the handheld lasting about 20 hours. While it might not have the longest battery life compared to others, it’s solid for day-long trips.

The TEK 1.5 is designed to be user-friendly, with the handheld device offering basic tracking capabilities without the need for complex mapping. It does not come with advanced mapping features, but it tracks your dog’s location with clear indications of distance and movement speed. The training features are simple but effective, with 99 stimulation levels to help control and recall your dogs when needed.

While the SportDog TEK 1.5 is effective in its basic tracking and training features, it lacks advanced mapping features and is less suited for long-range hunts compared to premium models like the Garmin Astro or Alpha series. However, its simple interface and the no-subscription model make it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable system without ongoing fees.

Pros and Cons

Dogtra Pathfinder 2 GPS Dog Tracker + E-Collar

The Dogtra Pathfinder 2 GPS Dog Tracker + E-Collar is a solid choice for hunters looking for a feature-packed, reliable GPS collar without the high subscription costs of some other models. With a 9-mile range, the Pathfinder 2 allows you to track up to 21 dogs simultaneously, making it a great option for multi-dog hunts.

The Pathfinder 2 stands out for its mobile app integration, allowing you to track your dogs via your smartphone, making it incredibly convenient. However, the downside is that it requires cellular service, so areas with poor signal may limit its functionality. The collar offers a range of training options with 127 stimulation levels, ensuring that you can tailor the level of correction for your dog’s behavior.

The battery life is decent, lasting up to 20 hours, but for longer hunts, it might require recharging. Another benefit is the waterproof rating (IPX9K), ensuring the device holds up well in harsh weather conditions. Overall, the Dogtra Pathfinder 2 offers a great balance between cost and functionality, though it is not as comprehensive as some higher-end models in terms of features and mapping options.

Pros and Cons

Garmin Astro 900 Dog Tracking Bundle

The Garmin Astro 900 is a reliable GPS dog tracking system that features real-time tracking and excellent coverage for hunting dogs. With a 9-mile range, it’s ideal for tracking dogs across vast terrains. The Astro 900 is designed for serious hunters who need dependable performance in the field.

The Astro 900 is equipped with Topo maps and BirdsEye Satellite imagery, helping you navigate unfamiliar terrains while tracking your dogs. The collar comes with an IPX7 waterproof rating, making it suitable for harsh weather conditions, while the handheld device is also durable and submersible.

Its battery life lasts up to 20 hours, but for extended hunts, recharging might be necessary. Although it doesn’t have the advanced features of other Garmin models, it still offers 18 levels of stimulation, tone, and vibration for training. It’s also easy to use, with a straightforward interface and minimal setup.

Pros and Cons

Garmin Pro 550 Plus/TT 15 Mini Bundle

The Garmin Pro 550 Plus/TT 15 Mini Bundle is designed for hunters with smaller breeds or those needing a compact yet efficient tracking and training system. This bundle includes the TT 15 Mini collar, which is ideal for dogs in the 15-50 lb range, providing up to 4 miles of range for tracking. It also allows you to train up to 3 dogs, making it perfect for hunters with a smaller pack.

The Pro 550 Plus handheld device is equipped with a color screen, providing easy access to tracking data. Battery life is solid, with the handheld lasting 24 hours and the collar lasting up to 30 hours on a full charge. The system also offers 18 levels of stimulation, including tone and vibration, giving hunters enough control to manage their dogs during a hunt.

While it has fewer features than other Garmin models, it still delivers solid performance, especially for hunters with fewer dogs and smaller breeds. The Pro 550 Plus is easy to use, but it lacks advanced features like touchscreen controls or the ability to track more dogs, limiting its appeal to those with larger hunting packs.

Pros and Cons

How to Choose the Right GPS Tracker for Your Hunting Dog

Choosing the right GPS tracker for your hunting dog comes down to how, where, and why you hunt. Each collar has different strengths, so understanding your priorities will help you get the most out of your investment.

Start with Range and Signal Type

If you hunt in dense forests, steep valleys, or wide-open fields, range matters. Look for trackers with at least a 7 to 9-mile range and strong satellite or cellular support. Systems like the Garmin Alpha 200i and Astro 900 use multiple satellite networks and topographic maps, offering consistent performance in rugged environments.

If you hunt closer to home or in smaller zones, something like the SportDog Tek 1.5 or Fi Series 3 might be enough.

Consider the Number of Dogs

Trackers vary in how many dogs they can monitor at once. Serious hunters running packs need collars that handle 10 or more dogs, like the Dogtra Pathfinder 2 or Garmin Astro 430.

For smaller setups, products like the Garmin Pro 550 Plus work well for up to three dogs.

Training Features Are a Game Changer

If you want to reinforce commands in real time, go with a collar that offers tone, vibration, and stimulation controls. Garmin and SportDog both excel here.

For more personalized control, look for devices offering multiple stimulation levels like the Dogtra Pathfinder 2 with 127 levels or the SportDog TEK 1.5 with 99.

Durability and Waterproofing Matter

Weather and terrain can change fast. Look for trackers with a waterproof rating of IPX7 or better. Also consider how well the collar resists mud, snow, and rough brush.

Lightweight options like the TT15 Mini work well for smaller dogs, but heavier collars like the Garmin TT15X offer more power and features for bigger breeds.

Battery Life Should Match Your Hunt Length

A short battery can cut your trip short. Long hunts require trackers with 20 to 80 hours of battery life. Devices like the Garmin TT15X or Alpha 200i are made for full weekends. If you’re out for just a day, simpler systems like the Fi Series 3 or SportDog Tek hold up fine.

Ease of Use and Mapping

Touchscreen handhelds like the Alpha 200i give you more control and a faster response. Some trackers like SportDog Tek 1.5 skip maps altogether for simplicity, while others like the Garmin Astro offer detailed topographical overlays.

Price and Subscriptions

Some GPS trackers come with no monthly fees. Others require subscriptions for advanced features like geofencing, satellite imagery, or cellular tracking. Know your budget, and remember that some higher-priced devices offer long-term reliability and multi-dog tracking, which can save you money over time.

In short, choose based on your hunting style, your dog’s needs, and the conditions you face. Think function over flash. A well-chosen collar keeps your hunt on track and your dog safe, no matter what the field throws at you.

FAQs

How often should I replace or upgrade a GPS dog tracker?

Most high-end GPS trackers can last for several years with proper care. However, upgrading every 3 to 5 years is smart, especially as battery life, tracking range, and mapping technologies improve. If your current device lags, loses signal often, or has poor app support, it’s time to upgrade.

Can GPS collars interfere with other electronics or hunting gear?

GPS trackers that use radio signals may sometimes overlap with other radio-frequency equipment. If you’re using walkie-talkies, two-way radios, or electronic calls, keep devices a few feet apart. Signal overlap is rare but can happen in very specific frequency ranges.

What kind of maintenance does a GPS trackers need?

Keep contact points clean, especially after wet or muddy hunts. Wipe down the tracker and collar after every use. Recharge the device fully after each trip and update firmware through the app or desktop software. Inspect the strap and fasteners regularly for wear and tear.

Can GPS trackers help prevent wildlife confrontations?

Yes, GPS collars with geofencing can alert you when your dog enters risky zones like rivers, cliffs, or known predator areas. Real-time tracking also allows you to redirect your dog before it strays too far into unsafe territory. Some collars even show patterns in your dog’s behavior that signal a possible encounter.

Bottom Line

Choosing the right GPS dog tracker depends on how you hunt, where you hunt, and what kind of control you want over your dog. Some collars shine in harsh backcountry terrain. Others are built for day-to-day security near home. Each one in this guide earned its place through real testing, not hype.