Do GPS trackers need a subscription?

Real-time cellular trackers do, because they use a mobile network. Budget for the plan, not just the device.

Will one work for cats?

Yes, but weight matters. Smaller, lighter trackers suit cats and toy breeds better.

The Best GPS Pet Trackers

We weighed effectiveness, reliability, ease of use, app quality, build, and total cost of ownership. Here is what we would actually buy.

The Lab's Verdict

Best overall

Tractive Smart Dog GPS Tracker

The tracker we point most dog owners to. Unlimited real-time range, genuinely good battery, and the best app in the category. You pay a subscription, but nothing else matches the live tracking.

Lab Score

Check price on Amazon

Best overall

Lab Score

Tractive

Tractive GPS

The tracker we point most dog owners to. Unlimited real-time range, genuinely good battery, and the best app in the category. You pay a subscription, but nothing else matches the live tracking.

Check price on Amazon Review

Best for Tile and Life360 households

Lab Score

Life360

Life360 Pet GPS

The tracker formerly known as Jiobit, now folded into Life360 and Tile. Tiny, light, and great if your family already lives in the Life360 app. Subscription required, like all live trackers.

View at Life360 Review

Full comparison

Product	Lab Score	Best for	Type	Battery	Water resistance	Range	Best for	Buy
Tractive GPS Tractive	92	Best overall	LTE + GPS, live tracking	Up to ~7 days	Waterproof	Unlimited (cellular)	—	Amazon
Life360 Pet GPS Life360	84	Best for Tile and Life360 households	LTE + GPS + Tile finding	Multi-day	—	—	Small pets, Life360 families	Life360

Why each made the list

Best overall

Tractive Smart Dog GPS Tracker

The tracker we point most dog owners to. Unlimited real-time range, genuinely good battery, and the best app in the category. You pay a subscription, but nothing else matches the live tracking.

Lab Score

Check price on Amazon

Best for Tile and Life360 households

Life360 Pet GPS Tracker

The tracker formerly known as Jiobit, now folded into Life360 and Tile. Tiny, light, and great if your family already lives in the Life360 app. Subscription required, like all live trackers.

Lab Score

View at Life360

Frequently asked

Do GPS trackers need a subscription?: Real-time cellular trackers do, because they use a mobile network. Budget for the plan, not just the device.
Will one work for cats?: Yes, but weight matters. Smaller, lighter trackers suit cats and toy breeds better.

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