Best Products for GPS & Tracking Collars for Hunting Dogs

There’s a feeling every hunter with a dog knows all too well: the sudden, heart-stopping moment when you can't see your dog. One second, they're working a thick patch of cover, and the next, they've vanished. Is that a bird on point? Are they on a long chase after a rabbit? Or are they, heaven forbid, lost, injured, or in a bad spot? That brief moment of uncertainty can feel like an eternity, and it's a feeling that every serious hunter has to contend with. I’ve seen it countless times in my three decades on the front lines of the hunting supply world. A hunter comes in with a look of frantic desperation, recounting a story of a dog that ran off and a few stressful hours of searching. Inevitably, the conversation turns to GPS and tracking collars, because in today’s hunting world, this piece of gear isn't a luxury—it's an absolute necessity.

Think of a GPS collar as your dog's personal satellite. It's a two-way radio that constantly communicates your dog’s exact location, a digital leash that extends for miles and works in places where your cell phone signal has long since given up. It’s the ultimate peace of mind, an insurance policy that allows you to let your dog run freely, knowing that you can pinpoint their location at any moment. But not all GPS collars are created equal. Some are designed for casual walks in the park, while others are built for the rugged, no-excuses world of hunting. A flimsy, low-range collar is a liability, not an asset.

This guide is designed to be your comprehensive playbook for choosing the best GPS and tracking collars for your hunting dog. We’ll delve into the nuances of what makes a great hunting GPS system, from the crucial difference between a satellite-based system and a cell-based system to the importance of a long-range, durable collar. We'll talk about the key features you should look for, like a fast update rate, a reliable battery, and training capabilities. We'll cut through the marketing jargon and get to the heart of what matters most: keeping your hunting partner safe and on-track. And finally, we'll review some of the best products on the market today that have earned a reputation for their ability to track, train, and protect your dog in any terrain. So, let’s get ready to get a little technical and find the perfect GPS system for your next hunt.

The Technology:
Understanding How GPS Collars Work

Before you can choose the right collar, you need to understand the different types of technology at play. There are two primary categories of GPS dog collars: satellite-based systems and cell-based systems.

• Satellite-Based Systems:
  These are the systems that are purpose-built for hunting. They consist of a GPS collar that sends a radio signal (VHF or UHF) to a handheld receiver. The collar’s GPS chip determines its location using a network of satellites, and then the collar transmits that location to your handheld device. This system is a game-changer because it doesn't rely on cellular service, which means you can track your dog in the deepest, most remote wilderness where a cell signal is non-existent.
  
  

• Cell-Based Systems:
  These collars use cellular networks to transmit your dog's location to a smartphone app. They are great for a dog that is running around the neighborhood or a park, as they are often more affordable and have a low monthly subscription fee. However, they are completely useless in the backcountry where a cell signal is not available. For a serious hunter, a cell-based system is not a viable option.

Key Features to Look For:
What Separates the Best Collars

Once you've decided on a satellite-based system, you need to look at the specific features that separate a good system from a great one.

• Range:
  The range of a GPS system is its most important feature. For a serious hunter, a range of at least 5-9 miles is a non-negotiable. The advertised range is often a "line of sight" range, which means it's the maximum range in perfect conditions. In the real world, with trees, hills, and other obstacles, the actual range will be much less, so a system with a long advertised range is a good place to start.
  
  

• Update Rate:
  A fast update rate is crucial for tracking a fast-moving dog. A system that updates every 2.5 seconds will give you a much more accurate picture of your dog's movements than a system that updates every 5 or 10 seconds.
  
  

• Training Capabilities:
  Many GPS collars also have training capabilities, which allows you to use them as an e-collar. Look for a system that has a variety of stimulation, tone, and vibration settings, and that is easy to use with one hand.
  
  

• Battery Life:
  A long-lasting battery is a non-negotiable. A good collar should have a battery that can last for at least 20-40 hours on a single charge, especially on a multi-day hunt.
  
  

• Durability:
  Your dog is going to put their collar through a lot of abuse. Look for a collar that is waterproof, durable, and has a strong, reliable construction.
  
  

• Handheld Device:
  The handheld device is your connection to your dog, and it needs to be easy to use, have a bright, clear screen, and be waterproof and durable.

Product Reviews:
My Top 7 Picks for Hunting Dog GPS Collars

I've personally used or recommended these GPS systems to countless hunters over the years. They are all proven performers that will get the job done.

Garmin Alpha 300i GPS Tracking & Training System

Price Range: $1,200 - $1,300

The Garmin Alpha 300i is the undisputed king of GPS tracking and training systems, and for good reason. It's a full-featured system that allows you to track up to 20 dogs at a time, with a range of up to 9 miles. The handheld device has a large, bright, and easy-to-read touchscreen that is a joy to use. It also has a built-in inReach satellite communication system, which allows you to send and receive messages and SOS alerts from anywhere in the world. It's a significant investment, but the peace of mind and the functionality are worth every penny.

SportDOG TEK 2.0 GPS Tracking System

Price Range: $600 - $700

The SportDOG TEK 2.0 is an excellent alternative to the Garmin Alpha system. It's a reliable, no-frills system that is designed to be easy to use and to get the job done. It features a range of up to 10 miles and can track up to 21 dogs at a time. The handheld device has a simple, easy-to-read screen and a voice-controlled tracking feature that is a game-changer for a hunter who needs to keep their hands free. It's a great choice for a hunter who wants a reliable GPS system without the premium price tag.

Dogtra Pathfinder2 GPS Tracking Collar

Price Range: $500 - $600

The Dogtra Pathfinder2 is a unique GPS system that uses your smartphone as the handheld device. It's a great choice for a hunter who is already carrying a smartphone and wants a simple, no-fuss GPS system. The system works without a cell signal, as it uses the GPS technology of your device via an antenna that hangs around your neck. It has a range of up to 9 miles and can track up to 21 dogs at a time. It's a great choice for a hunter who wants a cost-effective GPS system that is easy to use.

Garmin Alpha 200i GPS Tracking System

Price Range: $800 - $900

The Garmin Alpha 200i is a fantastic GPS system that is a great alternative to the Alpha 300i. It has a range of up to 9 miles and can track up to 20 dogs at a time. The handheld device has a large, bright touchscreen and a number of features that make it a joy to use. It also has a built-in inReach satellite communication system, which provides an added layer of safety in the backcountry. It's a great choice for a hunter who wants a high-quality GPS system without the premium price tag of the 300i.

Garmin Astro 900 GPS Dog Collar

Price Range: $600 - $700

The Garmin Astro 900 is a great choice for a hunter who wants a GPS system that is focused on tracking and not on training. It's a simple, reliable system that allows you to track up to 20 dogs at a time, with a range of up to 5 miles. The handheld device has a simple, easy-to-read screen and a number of features that make it a great tool for tracking. It's a great choice for a hunter who wants a simple, no-frills GPS system that will get the job done.

Garmin TT 15X Dog Device

Price Range: $350 - $400

The Garmin TT 15X is a high-quality GPS collar that can be used with a variety of Garmin handheld devices. It's a durable, waterproof collar that has a range of up to 9 miles and can be used for both tracking and training. It's a great choice for a hunter who already has a Garmin handheld device and wants to add a high-quality collar to their system.

SportDOG Brand Upland Hunter 1875

Price Range: $250 - $300

The SportDOG Brand Upland Hunter 1875 is not a GPS system in the traditional sense, but it's an excellent tool for keeping track of your dog in the field. It's a system that includes a beeper collar that you can activate from a handheld device. The beeper will help you to pinpoint your dog's location, and it's a great tool for a hunter who wants a simple, no-frills way to keep track of their dog in thick cover.

The Final Haul:
A Partner for Every Hunt

Choosing the right GPS system for your hunting dog is one of the most important decisions you will ever make as a hunter. It's the difference between a dog that is a liability and one that is a high-performance athlete. My advice? Don't fall into the trap of buying cheap gear that won't hold up to the rigors of the field. Invest in a high-quality, reliable GPS system that is specifically designed for hunting. And remember, it's not just about the gear; it's about the partnership, and the right gear is a way of honoring that partnership.