Tracking Down the Best GPS Collars by Dogtra

This article was updated on December 4, 2024.

A study in the US revealed that 14% out of 10,948,000 dogs go missing at least once in their lifetime. Of that number, 7% were never reunited with their owners. That translates to 766,360 lost dogs, which is quite a number.

GPS tracking collars are reliable tools for outdoor adventures with your canines. Say goodbye to the days of anxiously finding your lost pets and asking the neighborhood or shelters with a slim chance of ever locating your pet.

What is a GPS collar?

A Global Positioning System (GPS) is a network of satellites that determines the location coordinates of virtually any point on Earth. GPS works with receivers and GPS control and monitoring stations. GPS receivers provide accurate location and time. Hence, they make the best tool when it comes to tracking.

A GPS collar is a shock collar that operates with GPS technology. With a GPS collar, you can keep tabs on your dog’s location, activity, and more.

Some GPS collars come with e-collar functions that allow you to track and train using one GPS tracking system.

In this blog, let’s discuss the best GPS dog collars to-date developed by the industry-leading e-collar brand - Dogtra.

Who is Dogtra?

Dogtra is a popular name in the e-collar business. They're among the industry leaders in producing top-of-the-line e-collar products, such as no bark collars, remote training collars, e-fences, and GPS collars.

For over 30 years, they have been trusted by professional dog trainers, hunters, and pet owners for their reliable, durable, and intuitive dog training tools. Dogtra is the Official GPS Collar Partner of the United Kennel Club.

The Pathfinder2 Series: GPS Tracking and Training Made Easy

The Dogtra Pathfinder family of GPS tracking collars includes the Pathfinder and Pathfinder2 series. The Pathfinder series comprised the first Dogtra GPS collars marketed and included the Pathfinder, Pathfinder TRX, and Pathfinder Mini models.

With the release of the Pathfinder2 series, Dogtra has phased out the original Pathfinder series. The new Pathfinder2 series offers new hardware and technology with excellent tracking features and high accuracy.

With hunting dogs and K-9 in mind, Dogtra GPS collars allow you to track up to 21 dogs with a range of up to 9 miles. Whether you have training exercises, hunting schedules, and competitive events, a Dogtra tracking collar is your go-to partner for dog location tracing and training.

The Dogtra GPS collars currently available in the market are:

• Pathfinder 2 - features GPS and e-collar functionalities
• Pathfinder 2 Mini - the compact version of the Pathfinder 2
• Pathfinder 2 TRX - a tracking only system without e-collar functions (comes in blue and orange variants)
• Pathfinder 2 Mini TRX - a smaller version of the Pathfinder 2 TRX (available in blue and orange)

Pathfinder 2 - Complete GPS Tracking and Training System

Dogtra GPS collars never lag behind technological developments; they tag along. The Dogtra Pathfinder 2 is the upgraded version of the original Pathfinder model. It has complete tracking and training functions featuring a FREE real-time tracking and training app.

With the integrated smartwatch app, you can quickly access your dog’s location and status with only a glance at your smartwatch. This Dogtra e-collar introduces the new tactile E-Collar Function button on your GPS Connector (transmitter), which provides access to your last-used correction setting.

Unlike other GPS collars that require monthly fees, the new Pathfinder 2 works with a FREE app-based tracking system with no monthly subscriptions. Up your game without limits for only a one-time purchase. Using your smartphone, navigate with no signal required with the up-to-date offline maps powered by MapBox technology.

Go further with your adventures using this dog tracking collar, expandable for up to 21 dogs with a 9-mile range. The new Pathfinder 2 features alternative stimulation types, such as the non-stimulating Pager vibration and audible tone. For better visibility while in the field, a LED Locator Light is also added.

This hunting dog collar is a step ahead of other GPS e-collars. And it couldn’t get any better with the new addition of enhanced GPS fence modes, allowing you to customize an e-fence boundary for your dog. Once your dog crosses the boundary, the system automatically sends a one-time correction as a warning.

Are you going for a hunt anytime soon? You can never go wrong with the new Pathfinder2 - made easy for you, now loaded with new app features and a system’s hardware upgrade. If you’re looking for a tracking-only system, the Pathfinder2 TRX should work best for you.

Dogtra Pathfinder2 Feature Summary

• 12"+ Neck Size
• 9-Mile Range
• Rheostat/Volume Dial with Stimulation Levels 0-100
• Nick and Constant Stimulation
• Non-Stimulating Pager Vibration
• Audible Tone
• 2-Second Update Rate
• Geo-fence Option
• Offline Maps
• New Custom Maps
• Precise and Up-to-date Maps
• Tracking-Only Mode
• Fully Waterproof Receiver
• Expandable to 21 Dogs and Hunters
• For Dogs as Small as 35 lbs

Pathfinder 2 Mini - Enhanced GPS Tracking System Now in a Compact Package

The Dogtra Pathfinder 2 Mini delivers GPS and e-collar technology to your smartphone, with industry-leading accuracy and training capability designed for smaller dogs. Similar to the Pathfinder 2, this GPS collar provides tracking functionality and, at the same time, allows you to issue corrections on your small dogs like beagles.

Track without worry as this e-collar works in areas with no cellular service and operates using the “Offline Maps” option. Unlike other GPS tracking collars, there is no need to purchase extra navigation packages or monthly subscriptions. You only need to download the FREE maps on your smartphone and access terrain and satellite map views via the Dogtra Pathfinder 2 app. The Pathfinder 2 application, however, is only compatible with the Pathfinder 2 systems.

Using your smartwatch, trace your dog’s location and activity and prepare for action. If you need to send feedback, the GPS Connector allows you to operate the latest-used correction with just a press of the e-collar function button.

Developed specifically for smaller dogs, the Pathfinder 2 Mini provides a 4-mile range and a Beacon & LED Locate Light for easy tracking of dogs. Dog training feature offers nick, constant, and audible tone for serious training and competitive situations.

The Pathfinder 2 Mini combines tracking and training all in one. Keep tabs on your dog’s whereabouts, and pair up to 21 small dogs for a level-up and exciting experience.

Dogtra Pathfinder2 Mini Feature Highlights

• 4 Mile Range
• Rheostat/Volume Dial with Stimulation Levels 0-100
• Nick and Constant Stimulation
• Audible Tone
• Fully Waterproof Receiver
• Geo-fence Option
• Offline Maps
• New Custom Maps
• Precise and Up-to-Date Maps
• Tracking-Only Mode
• Expandable to 21 Dogs and Hunters
• For Dogs as Small as 15 lbs

Pathfinder 2 TRX - GPS Tracking-Only System

Similar to the PATHFINDER2, the Pathfinder 2 TRX GPS collar offers a 9-mile tracking range, a bright LED Locate Light, and is fully waterproof. However, unlike the PATHFINDER2, the Pathfinder 2 TRX is a tracking-only collar and does not include contact points or e-collar functions. Essentially, it has all the features of the Pathfinder 2 except the training function. It will cater to users who only want to track their dogs.

This GPS tracking collar requires the PATHFINDER2 GPS Connector to operate (sold separately). It is approved for use in AKC, UKC, and PKC events. It comes with blue and orange variants.

Dogtra Pathfinder 2 TRX Feature Summary

• 12" Neck Size
• 9-Mile Range
• Tracking only Mode
• Audible Tone
• Geo-fence Option
• Offline Maps
• Precise and Up-to-date Maps
• Expandable to 21 Dogs and Hunters
• 2.5 Hour Battery
• Fully Waterproof Receiver
• For Dogs as Small as 35 lbs.

Pathfinder 2 Mini TRX - Compact GPS Tracking-Only System

The Pathfinder 2 Mini TRX is the compact version of the Pathfinder 2 TRX, designed specifically for smaller dogs. As a GPS-only alternative, this collar offers a 4-mile tracking range without e-collar functionality. It retains all the features of the Pathfinder 2 TRX in a smaller, lightweight package. This GPS tracking collar requires the PATHFINDER2 GPS Connector to operate (sold separately). It comes with blue and orange straps.

Dogtra Pathfinder2 Mini TRX Feature Highlights

• 4-Mile Tracking Range
• 22% Smaller than the PATHFINDER2 TRX
• GPS Receiver with LED Locate Light
• Receiver Lock Mode
• Sleep Mode
• GPS Connector Locate Tone

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the original Pathfinder and new Pathfinder2?

• Hardware-wise, the Pathfinder2 has a yellow GPS connector and module that provide better visibility than the Pathfinder, which are all black. The new version has an upgraded remote transmitter with the addition of the tactile e-collar button function. In the old system, correction is only limited through the smartphone app, whereas the new model provides more options, allowing you to use either the phone app or remote for correction.

Application-wise, the new upgrade separates itself from the old model with a new user interface and features that come with the app. Pathfinder 2 also offers a non-stimulating Pager vibration, which the original Pathfinder lacks.

Will an e collar hurt my dog?

• A remote trainer works by sending a signal from the transmitter to the collar on the dog’s neck. The signal then triggers the stimulation, which can be in the form of static shock. The stimulation is meant to distract the dog from doing something they’re not supposed to or mark the desired behavior. The stimulation may be unpleasant but generally harmless.

For people who prefer not to use static stimulation, the Dogtra Pathfinder2 comes with a Pager vibration system.

Are e-collars effective?

• E-collars can be invaluable training tools, but only when used correctly. If you are unsure about using one or do not know how to start, please consult with a professional trainer.

When can I use an e collar for dogs?

• PetsTEK does not recommend using an e collar for dogs younger than 6 months old. Supplement training with a remote trainer only when your dog has already learned the basic commands.

Are Dogtra collars worth it?

• Yes. Dogtra shock collars are safe and effective training devices trusted by professional dog trainers and pet owners alike.