Best Waterproof Dog GPS Trackers: Top Picks for 2026
- Colton C
- Dec 5, 2025
- 12 min read
If your dog loves charging into waves or splashing through muddy creeks, a GPS that quits when wet is useless. The best waterproof dog trackers do more than survive a swim. They deliver reliable live location, fast alerts when your pup wanders, and batteries that keep up with busy days.
This guide reviews eight waterproof or water‑ready options across budgets and sizes, from full smart collars with virtual fencing to tiny tags that disappear under a bandana. You’ll find clear pros and cons, real‑world use notes, and who each device suits best.
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Product | Waterproofing | Connection | Battery life | Buy now |
Halo Collar 5 GPS Dog Collar + Wireless Dog Fence | IP67, swim and saltwater tested (per manufacturer) | GPS + LTE, GNSS, app‑based virtual fences | Up to ~48 hours per charge | |
Tractive XL Smart Dog GPS Tracker | IP68, fully waterproof (per Tractive) | GPS + LTE (Cat M1) + 2G | Up to ~30 days on XL in saving mode; ~7–14 days on Dog 6 | |
Petivity Smart GPS and Activity Pet Tracker for Dogs | Waterproof rating listed on product page | GPS + cellular (per listing) | Multi‑day use, varies by settings | |
Molly & Cody Bluetooth GPS Pet Tracker | Water resistant (per listing), check rating | Bluetooth locator | Months on a coin cell (typical for Bluetooth tags) | |
Tracki Real‑Time Dog GPS Tracker | Water‑ready with optional waterproof case (check listing) | GPS + cellular | Multi‑day to weekly, depends on update rate | |
PetLink GPS Dog Tracker with Virtual Fence | Waterproof rating listed on product page | GPS + cellular (per listing) | Multi‑day use, varies | |
New Fi Series 3+ Smart Dog Tracker Collar | IP68/IP66K, submersion‑proof case | LTE‑M nationwide, GPS, Wi‑Fi/BLE assist | Up to ~3 months per charge | |
Pawfit 3 GPS Pet Tracker | Fully waterproof housing (IP‑rated) | 4G/LTE GPS | ~3–5 days typical |
Our Overall Picks
Best Overall: Halo Collar 5 GPS Dog Collar + Wireless Dog Fence
Best Affordable Choice: Tractive XL Smart Dog GPS Tracker
Best Features: New Fi Series 3+ Smart Dog Tracker Collar
How We Chose the Best Waterproof Dog GPS Trackers
Level of Waterproofing
Waterproofing that holds up in real life comes first. We prioritized devices with a documented IP67 or IP68 rating, or clear manufacturer claims of full submersion testing. Swimming, rain, and snow should not interrupt tracking.
Location Reliability
Devices that combine GPS with LTE for long‑range tracking, and supplement with Wi‑Fi or Bluetooth for faster fixes around home, consistently perform better in mixed terrain and indoors. Real‑time updates, ideally at a few seconds or faster, are another differentiator.
Battery Life
A tracker that quits mid‑hike isn’t helpful. We balanced raw longevity with performance features, since ultra‑fast updates demand more power. Collars like Fi that stretch to weeks are excellent for low‑maintenance use, while virtual‑fence systems like Halo trade some battery for advanced training.
Comfort and Fit
Tiny dogs and seniors often need a lightweight device, while working dogs can carry a heavier all‑in‑one collar. We noted how each device attaches, minimum dog sizes, and whether it fits standard collars.
App Experience & Alerts
Fast notifications for fence escapes, low battery, and location changes, plus intuitive maps and easy sharing with family, were highly valued. We looked for reliable apps backed by ongoing updates.
Value & Support
Finally, we considered total ownership cost across device and subscription, warranty length, and support responsiveness. Brands that publish clear coverage maps and policies win points. If you rely on a device to safeguard a dog that swims, hikes, and roams, dependable support is not optional.
Our Top 8 Waterproof Dog GPS Trackers
Halo Collar 5 GPS Dog Collar + Wireless Dog Fence
Pros | Cons |
Integrated GPS fence and training in one collar | Shorter battery life than simple trackers |
IP67 waterproof, tested for swim and saltwater | Requires subscription for full features |
Ultra‑fast location updates and escape alerts | Bulkier than clip‑on trackers |
Robust app with training content | Higher upfront cost |
Halo Collar 5 earns our top pick because it pairs GPS tracking with a true virtual fence and training system. You can draw precise boundaries in the app, get instant alerts if your dog breaches, and use collar cues to help your dog return. Halo lists an IP67 rating and confirms swim and saltwater testing, which is vital for dogs that love lakes and beaches.
The latest gen boosts responsiveness with very frequent location updates and supports activity data. Expect around two days of battery life in typical use, with rapid USB‑C charging to get back on the trail quickly. This is an all‑in‑one solution aimed at owners who want prevention and tracking, not just after‑the‑fact location.
Why it Made Our List
Before the features list, a note: Halo is built to prevent escapes as much as to recover them.
Waterproof rating: IP67 with swim and saltwater tests, suited for swimmers
Virtual fences: App‑defined boundaries with alerting and training cues
Update speed: Very frequent location refresh for near‑instant positioning
Training content: App‑guided programs and customizable prompts
Support: Robust help options and satisfaction policy
Best for: Owners who want a waterproof tracking collar that also helps actively contain and train escape‑prone dogs, especially medium to large breeds.
Tractive XL Smart Dog GPS Tracker
Pros | Cons |
IP68 waterproofing for worry‑free swims | Requires subscription for live GPS |
Unlimited range with LTE tracking | XL size best fits medium and large dogs |
Activity and sleep monitoring | Battery life varies with update rate |
International coverage and sharing | Clip‑on can snag if not secured well |
Tractive’s current Dog 6 and Dog XL deliver a strong blend of durability, live tracking, and health features. The IP68 rating means full submersion protection, and the XL variant stretches battery life through saving modes that extend time between charges. For daily use, live tracking toggles on when you need it, then shifts back to conserve power.
The app remains one of the most approachable, with easy geofences, community sharing, and detailed activity and sleep trends. Newer models have added features like bark data and health insights under development. Tractive’s subscription is competitively priced, which helps keep long‑term costs reasonable.
Why it Made Our List
A quick overview of standouts, focused on practical daily use.
IP68 waterproof for swimming
Live tracking with unlimited range
Activity and sleep insights
Flexible plans and global coverage
Best for: Budget‑minded buyers who want a waterproof, proven GPS tracker with unlimited range and polished health features.
New Fi Series 3+ Smart Dog Tracker Collar
Pros | Cons |
IP68/IP66K case stands up to water and dust | Requires membership for full GPS features |
Exceptional battery life, up to ~3 months | Works best when sized correctly, collar fit matters |
Health insights with activity and sleep | Cellular coverage must be available in your area |
Slim, durable housing | App features are richest with active subscription |
Fi’s Series 3+ blends advanced technology with rugged construction and remarkable battery endurance. With an IP68/IP66K housing, it holds up to submersion and tough weather. The collar is light for the category and comes in multiple sizes to fit small through large dogs, while the app layers in daily activity goals, sleep tracking, and health notifications that make it feel like a canine fitness wearable.
Location features include live tracking in Lost Dog mode, geofences around home and parks, and assisted fixes that help in dense areas, making it suitable for hunting trips as well. The killer feature for busy households is battery life. If you want weeks between charges yet demand a waterproof collar that can handle lakeside weekends, Fi is an excellent pick.
Why it Made Our List
A short intro first. Fi’s mix of endurance and water protection covers a lot of real life.
Waterproofing: IP68/IP66K for confident submersion and spray
Longevity: Multi‑week battery that fits busy routines
Wellness layer: Sleep and activity help track trends
Lost mode: Fast updates when it matters
Build: Slim, tough case with thoughtful materials
Best for: Owners who prioritize a waterproof, long‑lasting smart collar with strong health monitoring and minimal charging.
Pawfit 3 GPS Pet Tracker
Pros | Cons |
Fully waterproof housing for swims | 3–5 days battery in active 4G use |
Voice recall lets you talk to your dog | Requires subscription for GPS data |
Broad collar compatibility | Slightly bulkier than tiny activity tags |
Geofences and multi‑alerts | Accuracy varies in dense cover |
Pawfit 3 brings a practical toolset that suits everyday dog owners. The waterproof form factor means you can leave it on through rain and river play. The voice recall feature, which lets you send a short recorded callout to the tracker, can help when you are close but not within sight. Alerts for fence breaches and low battery are straightforward and quick.
Setup is simple, and it fits most standard collars. Battery life tends to land in the mid‑range for cellular trackers, with a few days between charges under normal activity. If you want a waterproof clip‑on that adds a few extras like two‑way audio while keeping costs in check, Pawfit is a sensible option.
Why it Made Our List
Rather than bullets, here’s the gist. Pawfit is fully waterproof, offers the core GPS and geofence features most owners need, and adds voice recall that can help in those last few yards when you are trying to coax your dog out of a hedgerow. It balances cost and capability without a steep learning curve.
Best for: Families who want an easy, waterproof clip‑on tracker with clear alerts and handy voice recall.
Tracki Real‑Time Dog GPS Tracker
Pros | Cons |
Compact GPS tracker with global SIM | Waterproofing may require an accessory case |
Real‑time tracking and geofencing | Battery life varies widely by update rate |
Works for multiple uses, not just pets | Requires subscription for cellular data |
Good for travel and car trips | Small size needs secure mounting to collars |
Tracki is a flexible GPS locator that can double for luggage, vehicles, and pets, much like the Apple AirTag. For dogs that swim, check the listing for a waterproof case or mount to ensure full water protection. Used with a proper holder on the collar, Tracki can deliver live updates and breach alerts when your dog slips past the gate, backed by a global SIM that makes it handy for travel.
Battery life depends heavily on how often you ask for updates, which is common across standalone GPS units. Kept in a moderate refresh schedule, it generally lasts several days between charges. If you prefer a multipurpose GPS gadget you can repurpose beyond the dog park, Tracki fits that bill, but plan ahead for water exposure.
Why it Made Our List
We like Tracki for owners who want a general‑purpose GPS that can be adapted to pet use and who do not mind adding a waterproof case for serious swimmers. It is small, capable, and quick to attach, provided you choose a secure mount.
Best for: Tech‑savvy buyers who want an adaptable GPS unit and are comfortable adding water protection if their dog swims.
Petivity Smart GPS and Activity Pet Tracker for Dogs
Pros | Cons |
Combines GPS tracking and activity in one app | Check listing for exact waterproof rating |
Designed specifically for dogs | Requires subscription for live location |
Clean interface for daily goals | Battery life depends on usage patterns |
Lightweight clip‑on form factor | Coverage depends on local cellular service |
Petivity’s dog tracker pairs location updates with wellness insights in a lightweight, collar‑friendly package. The app presents activity trends and helps you keep an eye on daily goals, which is useful for weight management, seniors, and post‑surgery monitoring under your vet’s guidance. For dogs that enjoy water play, review the listing for the water rating and swimming guidance.
The tracker is straightforward to attach and remove for charging. In day‑to‑day life, geofences and push alerts keep you informed when your pup leaves a safe zone or when the battery needs attention. For owners looking to tie location to lifestyle metrics in one place, Petivity is a solid entry.
Why it Made Our List
Petivity’s appeal lies in its focus on dog‑specific activity insights paired with GPS. For many households, it delivers the right blend of water‑ready durability and simple activity data without adding complexity.
Best for: Owners who want a light, water‑ready tracker with a thoughtful activity dashboard in the same app.
PetLink GPS Dog Tracker with Virtual Fence
Pros | Cons |
Virtual fence alerts to your phone | Verify waterproof rating and swim guidance on listing |
GPS tracking via cellular network | Subscription required for GPS service |
Designed for pets, simple setup | Battery life varies with refresh intervals |
Works with collars you already own | Accuracy can be affected by dense buildings or trees |
PetLink’s GPS tracker with a virtual fence emphasizes straightforward setup and clear notifications when your dog leaves a safe area. If you already use PetLink’s microchip registry for your dog’s ID, having a branded GPS option may be appealing. The collar attachment is meant to be compatible with many standard straps, reducing the need to switch gear.
As with any cellular GPS unit, plan for a subscription and confirm coverage in your region. Before swim season, check the product page for specific waterproof details, including whether submersion is recommended or limited to splash resistance. Used thoughtfully, it adds a modern safety net to your dog’s existing ID tags and microchip.
Why it Made Our List
The PetLink name is familiar to many pet owners through microchip registration, and this tracker extends that ecosystem with real‑time location and virtual fencing. It is a practical choice if you want to keep everything in one account.
Best for: Owners who want a simple virtual fence and GPS alerts within a pet‑focused ecosystem, and who prefer using their current collar.
Molly & Cody Bluetooth GPS Pet Tracker
Pros | Cons |
Tiny, lightweight tag for small dogs | Bluetooth locating is range‑limited compared to GPS |
Long battery life on coin cell | Relies on nearby phones for crowd‑find features |
Water‑resistant design | Not a true long‑range GPS device |
Inexpensive, easy to attach | No cellular map tracking without your phone nearby |
Bluetooth trackers like this one from Molly & Cody are often billed for pets because they are compact, affordable, and simple. They can help find a dog around the house, backyard, or campsite, and crowd‑find networks sometimes assist in urban settings. For water play, confirm the exact rating on the listing to gauge whether swimming is supported or if it is limited to splash resistance.
These tags are best as a supplemental layer. They do not provide nationwide live location or independent cellular connections. If your needs center on home and local walks, and your dog is tiny or collar‑averse, a water‑resistant Bluetooth tag can be handy. For escape artists or rural outings, a cellular GPS device is the safer bet.
Why it Made Our List
This tag fills a niche: ultra‑light, simple, and budget‑friendly for close‑range locating. It is not a substitute for GPS in the wild, but it is a useful backup for quick, local searches.
Best for: Very small dogs and urban owners who want an inexpensive, water‑resistant tag for short‑range finding.
Why Every Pet Needs a Waterproof GPS Tracker
Peace of mind when your dog loves water
Rain happens, sprinklers kick on, and many dogs treat ponds as an invitation. A waterproof tracker means you do not need to pull the collar off when chaos starts. It keeps reporting location while your dog swims or charges through puddles. That continuity prevents the worst timing of all, losing signal at the exact moment you need it most.
Faster reunions in stressful situations
Dogs run for many reasons: fireworks, storms, a gate left ajar. A GPS device that stays online in bad weather helps you get moving toward your dog immediately. In the frightening case that you lose your pet, a reliable GPS tracker can make all the difference in finding them.
Better everyday habits through data
Activity and sleep data can highlight changes in health or routine. If your dog is suddenly less active, it may be time to talk to your veterinarian. Overweight dogs benefit from tracking daily goals, and high‑drive breeds like the Border Collie need far more exercise than average. A waterproof device records that data reliably, regardless of weather.
3 Things to Know Before Buying a Waterproof Dog GPS Tracker
First, confirm the water rating and what it means. IP67 covers submersion up to one meter for 30 minutes. IP68 extends that protection and duration. Marketing phrases like “water resistant” often refer to splashes only. If your dog swims, look for an explicit IP rating and any notes about saltwater use.
Second, check cellular coverage and app requirements. Many GPS trackers rely on LTE‑M for efficient updates. If you live in a fringe area, confirm the device’s coverage map and whether Wi‑Fi assist is available at home. Most apps need always‑on permissions for accurate background updates, which helps prevent gaps in history.
Third, match the device to your dog’s size and routine. Very small dogs do not tolerate bulky collars. Heavy training collars make sense for medium and large escape‑prone dogs that benefit from virtual fencing cues. If you prefer low maintenance, target longer battery life and simple charging docks to reduce weekly chores.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between IP67 and IP68 waterproof ratings?
Both ratings protect against dust and water. IP67 devices can be submerged up to one meter for 30 minutes. IP68 devices exceed those specs, often with deeper or longer submersion tolerance according to the manufacturer. For regular swimming, either rating is generally suitable if the brand confirms swim use.
Do I need a subscription for GPS tracking?
Most true GPS trackers require a subscription to pay for the built‑in SIM’s cellular data. Plans usually range from monthly to multi‑year options. Bluetooth‑only tags do not require a subscription, but they do not offer long‑range GPS tracking and rely on your phone or nearby users.
How accurate are pet GPS trackers?
In open areas, accuracy often lands within tens of feet. Dense trees, tall buildings, and indoors can reduce precision. Many devices use Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth assists to improve fixes near home. When you need the best results, switch to the device’s live or lost mode to increase update frequency.
Will a waterproof GPS tracker survive saltwater?
Many IP67 or IP68 devices are safe for saltwater swims, but salt can leave residues. Rinse the collar in fresh water and dry the charging contacts after beach days. Always check the product listing for specific saltwater guidance and any maintenance recommendations.
Should I still use a microchip and ID tags if I have a GPS tracker?
Yes. GPS helps you get to your dog quickly, while ID tags and a microchip are essential backups if the collar is removed. Microchips link your dog to you in veterinary and shelter databases.
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