Introduce GPS Collars
GPS collars are devices worn around a dog’s neck that use Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to track a dog’s location (source). They work by connecting to orbiting satellites that provide location data that is transmitted back to the GPS collar. This allows the collar to pinpoint the exact latitude and longitude coordinates of a dog’s location and relay that data back to the owner through a paired smartphone app or handheld device.
There are several key benefits of using a GPS collar for dogs:
- Allows real-time location tracking of dogs for safety and peace of mind
- Helps owners find lost dogs quickly if they wander off or escape
- Provides location history to identify favorite spots and walking routes
- Allows setting a geo-fence boundary that will alert owners if the dog leaves a designated safe zone
By leveraging GPS technology, these collars give owners the ability to monitor their dog’s location and make sure they remain safe without escaping designated boundaries.
Determine If It’s Right for Your Dog
Before investing in a GPS collar, consider if it’s the right choice for your particular dog and situation. Here are some key factors to consider:
Consider your dog’s size, age, and temperament. Larger, more active dogs that spend time outdoors off-leash may benefit more than smaller dogs or puppies. Also ensure your dog’s temperament is suited for wearing a collar. Nervous or anxious dogs may find it stressful.
Make sure your dog can handle wearing a collar. Look for a lightweight, comfortable design if your dog will wear it for extended periods. Consider your dog’s fur type as well so the collar contacts the skin. Practice having your dog wear a regular collar first if needed.
Decide if your lifestyle and needs warrant a GPS collar. These collars work best for dogs with access to large, unfenced outdoor areas or that participate in outdoor activities like hiking or hunting. Also consider if you travel frequently with your dog or want the security of GPS tracking.
Overall, GPS collars offer great benefits but work best for certain dogs and situations. Consider your specific needs to decide if investing in one could give you useful peace of mind.
Choose the Right GPS Collar
There are many brands and models of GPS collars to choose from. Do your research to pick the right one for your dog’s size, personality, and your training goals. Some key factors to consider:
Battery Life – Collars with longer battery life will need recharging less often. Look for 10-20 days of battery life. Rechargeable batteries are standard.
Range – Maximum range varies, from just a few blocks to several miles. Consider your needs, but longer range gives you more flexibility. Urban areas may have shorter ranges due to interference.
Accuracy – GPS accuracy can be within a few feet to up to 30 feet. Higher accuracy helps reinforce boundaries.
Size/Weight – The collar should be appropriately sized for your dog and comfortable for all-day wear. Heavier collars can be fatiguing.
Correction Type – Collars use tones, vibration, or shock correction. Make sure the level is appropriate for your dog’s temperament.
Top recommended GPS collars include the Garmin Astro 430, Whistle GO Explore[1], and the Fi Series collars[2]. Choose a feature-packed collar within your budget that suits your dog.
[2] https://www.outdoorlife.com/gear/best-gps-dog-collars/
Set Up the Collar and App
Before you can use the GPS collar to set boundaries for your dog, you’ll need to set up the collar and sync it with the accompanying app. Here are the main steps:
First, charge the collar fully according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most GPS collars need to be charged for 2-3 hours initially to reach full battery capacity. Insert the provided charging cable into the port on the collar and plug it into a power source.
Next, install the app on your preferred smartphone or tablet device. You should be able to find the app by searching the name of your collar brand and model in your device’s app store. Download and install the app.
Finally, sync the collar to the app via Bluetooth. Turn on the collar and open the app on your phone. Follow the in-app pairing instructions to connect the collar and app. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and that the collar and phone are within close range for this process. Most apps will walk you through the pairing and show when a successful connection is made.[1]
Once the app and collar are paired, you’ll be ready to configure the boundary settings and introduce your dog to the GPS collar.
Determine Boundary Areas
Determining where to set geo-fence boundaries is an important step when using a GPS dog collar. Here are some tips on deciding where to set virtual boundaries for your dog:
Decide where you want to set geo-fences. Think about which areas you want to restrict your dog’s access to. This may include your backyard, front yard, or entire property.
Consider your backyard. Most people want to prevent their dog from leaving the backyard, so setting a geo-fence around the perimeter is recommended. Make sure to include the entire yard within the boundary.
Consider your front yard. You may want your dog to have free access to your front yard but not wander beyond. Set the geo-fence to include the front yard up to the sidewalk or street.
Consider your entire property. For larger properties, you may want your dog to roam within your full property lines. Set the boundary around the edge of your land.
Make boundaries large enough for comfort. Give your dog adequate space to move around within the boundaries. Setting them too tight can frustrate your dog.
Test boundary areas before formal training. Walk the boundaries yourself to ensure the geo-fences fully encompass the desired areas with comfort room. Adjust as needed.
(Source: https://spotonfence.com/pages/training)
Introduce the Collar Slowly
It’s important to slowly acclimate your dog to wearing the GPS collar to avoid any discomfort or confusion. Follow these tips:
- Put the collar on for short periods at first, such as 10-15 minutes. Provide treats and praise while it’s on.
- Slowly increase the amount of time the dog wears the collar over several days or weeks. Add an extra 5-10 minutes per session until your dog seems comfortable wearing it for longer durations.
- Make sure to check the fit regularly and adjust as needed to avoid rubbing or chafing on your dog’s neck. The collar should be snug but not constricting.
- Try to have your dog wear the collar consistently during its awake hours. This will help it become a normal part of their routine.
- Reward and praise your dog while the collar is on so they associate it with positive experiences.
- Be patient during this adjustment period. It may take some dogs longer than others to get used to wearing the GPS collar.
Following these tips will help your dog become comfortable with the new sensation of wearing the GPS collar before relying on it for establishing boundaries.
Set the Boundaries
Once the GPS collar is set up, it’s time to define the boundary areas using the app. Boundaries are digital fences that alert you when your dog interacts with a specific location (1). Start by setting up just one initial boundary zone that you want your dog to stay within.
Using the app map, carefully outline the boundary area. This could be your backyard or another zone you want to contain your dog. Make the boundary large enough that your dog has space to move around. You can always adjust the boundaries later if needed.
Initially, set the correction level to be very low when your dog approaches the edge of the boundary. This allows your dog to learn the new restriction without being startled. According to SkyShepherd, introducing the collar slowly and making initial corrections subtle is crucial for acceptance (2).
Gradually increase the correction level over time as your dog learns the new boundary. But keep it low enough that your dog is not hurt or frightened. With patience and persistence, your dog will learn to stay within the designated zone.
Train Your Dog on Boundaries
Once the GPS collar is fitted and the boundaries are set in the app, you can start training your dog on the boundaries. This is the most important step to helping your dog understand where they can and cannot go when wearing the GPS collar.
To train your dog on the boundaries:
- Walk your dog up to the edge of the boundary area you have set. Keep the leash tight so you have control.
- If your dog crosses over the boundary, the collar will give a warning beep followed by a safe static correction. This will get your dog’s attention and deter them from crossing.
- Immediately give your dog praise and a reward like a treat when they retreat back into the safe zone. This positive reinforcement helps train them to stay within bounds.
- Practice this process all around the perimeter of the boundary area. Approaching from different angles helps the dog learn the edges.
With repeated practice and positive reinforcement, your dog will learn to hesitate or retreat when they near the boundary. The GPS collar provides a clear signal that crossing is undesirable. Be patient during this training process. It may take some time before your dog fully understands the boundaries.
See this training guide for more tips: GPS Fence Boundary Training for Dogs
Troubleshoot Issues
If your dog is ignoring the correction, you may need to increase the static stimulation level. Refer to the collar’s manual on how to do this safely and humanely. Start at the lowest level and work your way up as needed (source).
Make sure the collar is fitted properly on your dog according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A loose collar can result in inconsistent corrections. Tighten or loosen the collar as needed for the best fit.
Try expanding the boundary areas if your dog seems confused by the corrections near the current boundaries. Providing a larger buffer zone can make it easier for dogs to understand the limits (source). Gradually reduce the area once your dog understands the system.
Maintain Good Habits
Reliable technology and consistent reinforcement are key to maintaining good habits with a GPS dog collar. Checking the collar battery and connectivity regularly will ensure the system functions properly. Lithium-ion batteries in most collars should be charged every 2-3 days. Test the GPS range at least weekly by walking your dog beyond the set boundaries. If the warning beep sounds, praise your dog for stopping and turn around. Use the handheld remote periodically to trigger the warning tone, then reward calm behavior. Consistent use of the GPS collar along with positive praise will reinforce your dog’s understanding of the boundaries.
According to SpotOn’s training guide, “Keep training sessions quick and end on a positive note” to maintain a high level of consistency (SpotOn). Setting aside just 5-10 minutes per day to practice obedience within the GPS boundaries, with toys and treats for motivation, will go a long way. Your dog will come to reliably associate the collar’s warning tone with staying safely within their designated area.