My family got a dog when I was about eight, a blue terrier we named Cleary. Already big when we got him, he was an energetic puppy, and only became more so as he reached his teenage years (which for him was at about nine months). We had a decently sized back yard, full of stuff for him to sniff and dig around in, but he still jumped our chain link fence one afternoon as easy as a horse jumping a hedge.
Back then, the only option was to run after him. Once he’d disappeared into the woods on the other side of our little cul-de-sac, we got in the car and circled the neighborhood, calling his name, and growing more and more sure we’d seen the last of him. Four days later, someone found Cleary and drove him back home.
We were very lucky.
A Better Way to Keep Tabs on Your Dog
Today, dog owners have better tools for keeping their pets safe: electronic tracking devices. Whether you’re worried about a backyard escape or just want some peace of mind on a walk or hike, there’s likely a solution for you. The hardest part may be choosing the right one.
Here are two types of trackers we’re considering:
The Easiest Route: Bluetooth Trackers like AirTags
If you’re looking for a simple way to keep tabs on your dog, an AirTag (or similar Bluetooth device) might do the trick. They’re small, lightweight, and easy to use. Plenty of pet-specific collars and charms are designed to hold them securely.
Setup is intuitive and quick, usually via your phone’s Bluetooth connection. The battery lasts about a year and can be replaced when it runs out.
AirTags don’t have GPS—they rely on nearby Apple devices to ping their location, which your phone can then access. In cities or densely populated areas, this works surprisingly well. But in more remote locations—think hiking trails, rural areas, or even large city parks—you might find yourself out of luck.
So while it’s a great option for close-to-home adventures, it’s not foolproof.
More Work, Better Results*: GPS and Cellular-Enabled Devices
A more universal option for dedicated pet location are devices that combine GPS and cellular tracking. Of the recommended devices, two stand out. Wirecutter recommends The Whistle Go Explore, as does Consumer Reports. People Magazine, on the other hand, prefers the Jiobit Smart Tag (which is technically marketed for parents with small children). Both of these lightweight devices offer precise tracking, both on the town and in the country, which gives you the added reassurance you’ll be able to locate a lost pet, wherever they are. The main drawback to both of these devices is that they have considerably more limited battery life, and require recharging every few days.
There’s Still Room to Grow
When our dog returned to us, it was thanks to a vigilant neighbor. It was a different kind of network, I guess, one no more or less optimized than an electronic device.
As of this writing, we are still looking for an ideal solution, one that will keep your pet close, your mind at ease, and that also matches your sense of style. So far, no single unit does everything perfectly as a dog-loving neighbor.
