Are you considering using an Apple AirTag to keep track of your furry friend? With a good AirTag dog collar, this compact Bluetooth tracker can be a convenient and affordable way to monitor your pup.
However, AirTags are not designed specifically for pet tracking. So before you choose one, it’s important to understand how they work, their limitations, and how to pick the right accessories to attach them securely to your dog’s collar.
Plus plenty of pros, cons and expert recommendations to help you decide if an AirTag is right for your canine companion!
Can I Use An AirTag to Track My Dog?
The short answer is yes, you can use an AirTag to monitor your dog’s location.
The coin-sized Bluetooth tracker is affordable, has impressive battery life and leverages Apple’s massive Find My network. Millions of iPhones worldwide can detect your AirTag if your pup wanders off.
However, Apple does not recommend AirTags for pet tracking. They are designed to find lost items, not living beings.
AirTags also have some limitations compared to GPS pet trackers. Read on for a full comparison.
The bottom line is that an AirTag can be a handy backup tracker for your dog. But it should not replace a real-time GPS tracker designed specifically for pets.
How Do AirTags Work For Tracking Pets?
AirTags use Bluetooth and Apple’s Find My network to locate lost items. Here’s a quick rundown of how they work:
- AirTags emit a secure Bluetooth signal that your iPhone can detect if your pup is nearby.
- When out of Bluetooth range, AirTags leverage any nearby iPhones to update their location. Over 1 billion active devices globally can relay signals.
- You can check your dog’s last seen location in the Find My app. Updates depend on AirTag coming near iPhones.
- If found, someone can scan the AirTag to display your contact info to call you.
- AirTags have user-replaceable batteries that last over a year on average.
So in summary, AirTags offer approximate location tracking anywhere in the world where there are enough iPhones. But they do not provide real-time GPS tracking like pet-specific devices.
AirTag vs GPS Dog Tracker Comparison
How do AirTags stack up against real GPS trackers designed for pets? Here’s a handy comparison of the key differences:
| AirTag | GPS Pet Tracker | |
|---|---|---|
| Real-Time Tracking | ❌ | ✅ |
| Accuracy | Approximate location | Within several feet |
| Reliability In Remote Areas | 👎 | 👍 |
| Monthly Fee | None | $3-$15 on average |
| Water Resistant | IP67 rating | Varies, many are waterproof |
| Battery Life | 1+ years | Varies, typically days to weeks |
| Designed For Pets | ❌ | ✅ |
| Live Location Sharing | ❌ | ✅ |
| Virtual Fences | ❌ | ✅ |
| Price | $29 for 1 AirTag | $100-$500 for device |
As you can see, there are some key differences between AirTags and dedicated GPS pet trackers. For an in-depth look at how they compare, check out this guide on AirTag vs GPS tracker.
Key Advantages of AirTags
- Affordable upfront cost
- Long battery life means less charging
- Leverages huge Find My network of iPhones
- No monthly fees
Key Disadvantages of AirTags
- Not designed for live pet tracking
- No real-time location updates
- Unreliable in remote areas without iPhones
- No virtual fences or escape alerts
- Not waterproof without case
- Apple not responsible if AirTag fails to locate pet
The bottom line?
- AirTags can provide helpful backup tracking in populated areas. But they lack key features of real GPS pet trackers.
- For most reliable tracking, virtual fences and peace of mind, invest in a dedicated dog GPS tracker.
Next, let’s explore how to pick the right AirTag accessories to attach one to your pup’s collar securely.
Tips For Picking the Best AirTag Dog Collar
Since AirTags are not designed for pets, Apple does not make 1st party cases or collars for dogs.
You’ll need to choose a 3rd party AirTag accessory to hold the tracker firmly on your dog’s collar. Here are tips for picking a good one:
Look for dual attachment points – The AirTag holder should attach securely at both the top and bottom of the collar so it can’t swing loose or fall off.
Avoid dangling devices – Pick an AirTag collar accessory that sits flat and snug against the collar. Don’t choose dangling keychain-type holders as these can annoy your dog and even get caught. For more tips on safely using AirTags with pets, see this post on the best AirTag collars for cats.
Consider water protection – Look for a water-resistant silicone or leather case to protect the AirTag if your dog swims or plays in the rain.
Match sizing – Make sure to pick the right size AirTag collar accessory for your dog’s collar width. Measure first to ensure proper fit.
Go for a custom collar – For the most secure and integrated solution, choose a collar designed specifically to hold an AirTag.
Pick a stylish design – Many AirTag cases and collars come in fun colors and designs. Pick one that looks good with your dog’s personality!
By keeping these tips in mind, you can find the ideal AirTag accessory to keep the tracker firmly secured to your pup’s collar.
Next let’s look at some of the best options currently available.
The 7 Best AirTag Holders & Collars for Dogs
1. FollowPaw Vegan Leather AirTag Collar
Best For: Eco-friendly choice
- Sustainable cork “leather” material
- Fidlock magnetic buckle for security
- AirTag slots in securely
- Fashionable collar with fun color options
Collar Width: 1.4 inches
2. Keepaws Tactical Leather AirTag Collar
Best For: Luxury leather collar
- Top grain leather construction
- Padded & layered for comfort
- AirTag pockets are reinforced
- Durable & attractive design
Collar Width: Up to 1.5 inches
3. KONITY Reflective AirTag Collar
Best For: Night time visibility
- Reflective edges for visibility
- Durable nylon fabric
- Integrated AirTag silicone holder
- Fully adjustable sizing
Collar Width: Up to 1 inch
4. Pup Culture AirTag Collar Holder
Best For: Rugged protection
- Durable silicone construction
- Impact & water resistant
- Designed not to dangle
- Fun color options
- Universal collar fit
Collar Width: Up to 1.5 inches
5. Belkin Secure Holder With Key Ring
Best For: Basic keychain design
- Simple & affordable
- Keyring attaches easily
- Raised outer edge protects AirTag
- Available in multiple colors
Collar Width: Fits most
6. Case-Mate AirTag Silicone Case
Best For: Glows in the dark
- Durable silicone material
- Glow in the dark style available
- Fun color and pattern options
- Designed not to dangle
Collar Width: Up to 1 inch
7. Nomad Rugged AirTag Keychain
Best For: Rugged protection
- Ultra durable composite body
- IP67 water & dust resistance
- Easy twist on/off design
- Fun color options
- Keychain attachment
Collar Width: Fits most
FAQs About Using AirTags With Pets
Are AirTags safe for dogs?
Apple doesn’t recommend AirTags for pet use as they’re not explicitly designed for it. Make sure your dog can’t reach and swallow the AirTag. Closely monitor your pup at first to ensure they don’t try chewing it, like you would when using an AirTag with elderly relatives.
How accurate are AirTags for tracking dogs?
Accuracy depends on proximity to iPhones. AirTags provide an approximate location that gets updated periodically. They don’t offer real-time live tracking. In remote areas with sparse iPhones, they may be unreliable.
Can AirTags get wet or be used for dogs that swim?
AirTags have an IP67 water resistance rating meaning they can be submerged 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. However, it’s best to use a waterproof collar holder for swimming dogs.
How long does an AirTag battery last?
The user-replaceable CR2032 coin cell battery in AirTags lasts over a year on average. Battery life depends on how frequently the AirTag is triggered to update location.
Do I need an iPhone to use AirTags?
Yes, you need an iPhone or other Apple device to set up, monitor and locate AirTags. The Find My app is not available on Android. iPhones also power the device-finding network.
Can I track multiple dogs with one iPhone?
Yes, you can use a single iPhone to pair with and monitor multiple AirTags. The Find My app identifies each AirTag separately by the name you assign.
Key Takeaways
- AirTags can be used to track dogs but have limitations compared to GPS pet trackers. Do your research before choosing one.
- In populated areas, AirTags leverage nearby iPhones to relay location. But they are less reliable in remote regions.
- AirTags don’t provide real-time tracking like GPS trackers. Location updates depend on proximity to Apple devices.
- Pick a quality AirTag holder or collar that attaches the tracker securely to avoid losing it.
- For peace of mind, escape alerts and detailed tracking data, invest in a dedicated GPS dog collar.
- Monitor your pup closely at first when using an AirTag to ensure safety and proper fit.
- While handy as a backup, AirTags lack key features of trackers designed expressly for pets.
The Bottom Line
AirTags offer an affordable and user-friendly tracking option for dogs versus expensive GPS collars.
However, their location accuracy is limited, especially in areas without iPhones. And Apple doesn’t stand behind using them to monitor pets.
If you understand the compromises and use a well-designed holder, AirTags can provide helpful peace of mind in populated locales. But serious tracking requires a real-time GPS pet tracker designed expressly for the purpose.
Hopefully this guide gave you all the pros and cons to decide if an AirTag dog collar is right for your pup! Let me know if you have any other questions.
