What is an AirTag?
An AirTag is a small Bluetooth tracking device developed by Apple that helps users locate lost items. AirTags leverage Apple’s massive Find My network and use Bluetooth wireless technology to enable precise location tracking (Apple, 2021).
Each AirTag is a small, round device that is about 1.26 inches wide and 0.31 inches thick. AirTags have a stainless steel body and weigh about 11 grams. Users can engrave their AirTag with custom text or emojis for easy identification. AirTags are designed to be attached to keychains, backpacks, purses, luggage, and other personal belongings (Apple Newsroom, 2021).
When paired with an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch running iOS 14.5 or later, AirTags leverage Bluetooth LE (Low Energy) connections to transmit their location information. The Find My app on the iOS device can then locate the AirTag on a map. If the AirTag is outside Bluetooth range, the massive Find My network comprising hundreds of millions of Apple devices can help detect the AirTag’s location and relay the information back to the owner securely and anonymously (Safewise).
Potential Issues with AirTags on Dogs
While AirTags may seem like a convenient way to track your dog’s location, there are some potential issues to consider before attaching one to your pup’s collar:
One concern is that if your dog’s collar breaks or comes off, the AirTag can quickly become separated and lost. As this article points out, a lost AirTag defeats the purpose of trying to track your dog’s location.
Additionally, AirTags contain button batteries which could potentially leak and cause injury or sickness if chewed or ingested. As noted in this report, battery acid leaks can lead to significant health risks if the AirTag breaks open inside a dog.
Putting an AirTag directly on a dog’s collar can also cause skin irritation or rashes for some dogs, especially if worn for extended periods. The metal and plastic can rub and cause discomfort.
Finally, dogs are prone to chewing or ingesting foreign objects, so an AirTag on a collar is at high risk of being chewed, swallowed, or otherwise damaged. As outlined in this review, AirTags are not designed to withstand dog bites or the environment inside a dog’s digestive tract.
For these reasons, attaching an AirTag directly to your dog’s collar has some potentially dangerous drawbacks to consider before using one for dog tracking purposes.
Better Alternatives for Dog Tracking
Instead of using an AirTag, there are some other options that are better suited for safely and ethically tracking dogs. Three main alternatives are GPS dog collars, microchipping, and smart dog tags.
GPS dog collars like the Garmin Astro 430 use GPS and cellular networks to provide real-time location tracking. They allow owners to set up virtual fences and get alerts if a dog leaves a designated area. GPS collars are more accurate and reliable for tracking than AirTags.
Microchipping implants provide permanent identification but don’t actively track a dog’s location. If a lost dog is found, shelters can scan the microchip ID and contact the registered owner. Studies show microchipping is safe and doesn’t cause long-term health issues in dogs.
Smart dog tags like the FINDSTER Duo+ use Bluetooth and a proprietary long-range wireless network to track pets. They offer similar functionality as AirTags without security and privacy risks. The tags are lightweight and attach to a dog’s collar.
When AirTags Can Be Useful for Dogs
AirTags can be a useful dog tracking tool in some limited cases when used properly. According to Rover’s review of AirTags for dogs, AirTags may work for supervised outings or trips where the dog will be within Bluetooth range. For example, an AirTag could help locate a dog who gets loose on a camping trip or at the dog park, as long as the owner is nearby to detect the tag’s signal.
AirTags can also work for dogs who don’t tend to chew on their collars, according to AppleInsider. Avoid AirTags for aggressive chewers or dogs left alone, as they may damage or swallow the device. Additionally, AirTags should only be used as a redundant layer of protection in addition to other identification tags and microchips. Relying solely on an AirTag’s tracking abilities is not recommended.
Tips for Using AirTags Safely
If you do choose to use an AirTag with your dog, there are some tips to follow to try to minimize the risks:
Check collar tightness frequently. AirTags add extra weight to collars, so it’s important to check that your dog’s collar is not too tight. Use the “two finger” rule to make sure you can comfortably slip two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. Check the fit multiple times per day.
Use breathable collar materials. Nylon or leather collars are better options than metal or plastic collars when using AirTags. Breathable materials reduce irritation and rubbing.
Frequently check skin under collar. Keep an eye out for any redness, sores, or irritation where the collar sits on your dog’s neck. These can be signs of issues from the AirTag or collar fit.
Signs of AirTag Issues in Dogs
Dogs can exhibit several concerning signs if they have issues with an AirTag on their collar. One common sign is skin irritation or a rash where the AirTag rests against their neck. The metal and plastic casing can cause contact dermatitis in some dogs with sensitive skin (https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/downsides-of-using-airtags-for-dog-collar.2318921/).
Dogs may also start chewing at their collar excessively if the AirTag is bothering them. The AirTag’s chime alerts when separated from its owner can be distressing for dogs. They may try chewing the AirTag off to silence the sound (https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253820828).
You may notice your dog acting anxious, upset, or distressed when the AirTag chimes or beeps. Some dogs are very sensitive to certain sounds that humans barely notice. Pay attention to any behavioral changes when the AirTag makes noise (https://www.wsj.com/articles/when-your-dog-eats-your-apple-airtag-11675091820).
What to Do if Your Dog Eats an AirTag
If your dog swallows an AirTag whole, the first thing you should do is call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline immediately, according to the Wall Street Journal. An AirTag contains a lithium cell battery, which can be toxic if the casing breaks and your dog is exposed to its contents.
Your vet may recommend bringing your dog in for an examination and X-rays to see if the AirTag is causing a blockage. Signs of intestinal blockage include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and lethargy. The vet may be able to retrieve the AirTag endoscopically or recommend waiting to see if it passes in the stool.
According to Fox News, an intact AirTag can usually pass through a dog’s system without issue. However, you’ll want to monitor your dog closely for several days and watch for any signs of blockage or distress. Contact your vet immediately if you notice changes in behavior or appetite.
While most dogs pass AirTags without problem, the battery and sharp edges can potentially damage the gastrointestinal tract. Calling a vet promptly allows early detection and treatment of any complications.
Ethical Concerns of Tracking Dogs
While dog tracking technology like AirTags can provide peace of mind for pet owners, there are some ethical concerns to consider.
One major concern is the invasion of a dog’s privacy. Although we put collars and tags on dogs for identification, some argue that continuously tracking their location without consent crosses a line. It removes their ability to have freedom and space from monitoring at home. As this Apple Insider article points out, “Your dog can’t opt out of 24/7 surveillance.”
Additionally, constant tracking may enable over-monitoring and too much control over a pet. While safety is important, owners should think carefully before micromanaging a dog’s every movement. Tracking should serve a clear purpose rather than allowing obsessive watching.
Overall, pet owners should weigh the benefits of dog tracking against any potential invasion of privacy and over-monitoring. If choosing technology like AirTags, use them judiciously and respect your pet’s autonomy whenever possible.
When Tracking Dogs Can Be Beneficial
Using tracking dogs can provide many benefits for certain dogs and situations. According to https://misspursuit.com/tracking-with-dogs-the-benefits-and-how-to-get-started/, tracking dogs are highly skilled at locating missing pets even amid challenges like varied terrain and weather conditions. Tracking dogs can be especially useful for two types of dogs:
Dogs with health issues: Older dogs or dogs with medical conditions like epilepsy or dementia can become disoriented and lost more easily. Having a tracking dog find a missing senior or special needs dog quickly can literally save their life. Tracking dogs are able to follow a scent trail even if the dog wandered far away.
High escape risk dogs: Some dogs are prone to escaping yards and running off, like high energy breed dogs or dogs with separation anxiety. For chronic runaway dogs, having a tracking dog retrieve them quickly each time they escape can prevent dangerous situations. Owners have peace of mind knowing a tracking dog can find their escape artist dog if they run off.
Conclusion
In summary, while AirTags offer a convenient way to track dogs, they come with several potential risks and downsides that dog owners should seriously consider. Some key points raised in this article include:
- AirTags can present choking hazards if swallowed by dogs.
- The beeping sound AirTags emit can frighten anxious or easily startled dogs.
- Tracking a dog’s every move raises ethical concerns about privacy and trust.
- Adhesive AirTags can damage a dog’s fur or skin when removed.
- Traditional collars, tags, and microchips are less risky and just as effective for basic ID purposes.
In many cases, alternatives like GPS collars or smart dog collars are preferable and more suitable options for monitoring a dog’s location and activities. AirTags should be used cautiously, if at all, for most pet dogs. However, they may serve a purpose for working dogs, dogs with medical issues, or in specific situations. Overall, weigh the benefits and risks carefully before using an AirTag to track a furry friend.