Dog parents worry about the health of their dogs. We all want our faithful friends to be around a long time. Here’s my advice: Get the best dog activity monitor for Fido! Why? Keeping track of your dog’s activity is essential for ensuring he is healthy and happy. As I myself have experienced, using these tools have made me avoid health problems, figure out what my dogs need, and more!
Dog collars have come a long way over the years. Just like smartwatches, which can track so many aspects of our daily lives, dog collars now offer owners and vets the same extensive information.
These collar devices provide information on the level of activity your dog has each day and his vital signs. Some of these collars monitor all levels of activity, including a dog’s sleep patterns. These are also the best GPS dog trackers as well as the best wireless dog fence systems in the market.
Dog activity monitors are like having an assistant that keeps you up to date on how your dog is doing each day. These tools make it easier for dog owners to ensure their faithful friends are healthy and happy.
The Best Dog Activity Monitor of 2022
If you have never used a dog activity monitor, finding the best one on the market is essential. Some have more features than others and are more intuitive. With careful research, we have put together this list of the best dog activity monitors for 2022.
Out of those we have surveyed, the Fi Series 2 Smart Dog Collar is the best, for many reasons, which we will discuss. Having a dynamic dog activity monitor will give you peace of mind in knowing the health and fitness level of your pooch at all times.
1. Our Favorite: Fi Series 2 Smart Dog Collar
Pros:
- This collar uses GPS technology for accurate location tracking 24/7.
- The Fi Series 2 offers up to 300 pounds of pulling power.
- With this collar, you can set up virtual boundaries. If your dog goes beyond them, you receive an instant alert.
- Dog parents can use this collar to compare their dog’s activity level to other dogs of the same age and breed.
- This dog collar has three-month battery life.
Cons:
- You must pay for a subscription to get the most from this collar.
If you begin shopping for a dog activity monitor, you are going to find a lot of good options, but the Fi Smart Series 2 is our top pick for many reasons. This dog collar is one of the toughest on the market. It is chew-proof, water-proof, and generally, dog-proof.
Losing your dog brings on panic fast. With the rapid alert system, you will know if your dog goes beyond his boundaries, and you can respond quickly.
With Wi-Fi support, the life of the battery is greatly extended. One charge will last you about three months, so you don’t have to worry about frequent charging. This collar is meant to be worn by dogs who are ten pounds and larger.
The Fi Smart Series 2 is available in four beautiful colors. You can easily switch out collar bands whenever you choose. This dog collar is also available in four sizes. The small adjusts from 11.5 to 13.5 inches. Medium adjusts from 13 to 16.5 inches. The large collar adjusts from 16 to 22.5 inches. There is also an extra-large size that adjusts from 22 to 34.5 inches.
With the Fi Smart Series 2, you can keep track of your dog’s steps and even view his sleeping patterns to determine his health [1]. With the software, you can see how your dog compares to others. Will he rank the highest?
View how long your dog sleeps at night, his nap times, and his steps walked. Keep up with his activity, hourly, daily, and weekly.
2. Best Price: Whistle Fit Smart Device
Pros:
- This collar tracks both daily and monthly statistics.
- The Whistle Fit Smart Device also provides information on your dog’s scratching and licking habits.
- This collar offers a long battery life of about two weeks per charge.
- This device tracks sleeping, drinking, and eating.
Cons:
- This collar does not use GPS technology.
- You will need a subscription to use this dog collar to track your dog.
If you are looking for an affordable activity monitor that monitors many aspects of your dog, including eating, drinking, scratching, and sleeping, then this collar is one you are going to want to learn about right away. The Whistle Fit Smart Device can be used on both cats and dogs, unlike some monitors. This device attaches to your dog’s collar for ease of use.
Discover your dog’s distance walked, his rest times, and the calories burned. The easy-to-use app lets you set goals for your pooch. Many dog collars do not monitor scratching and licking. When these behaviors become obsessive, the device alerts you so you can take action.
This activity dog collar is for owners who are only interested in tracking their dog’s activity. The Whistle Fit Smart Device will not alert you if your dog is lost [2] and does not have GPS technology to track your dog’s location.
The main purpose of this dog collar is to ensure dog health. This collar helps you discover issues early on when problems can easily be reversed.
With the Whistle app, you can easily view a timeline of your dog’s activity levels. This app includes a handy food portion calculator so you can be sure your dog is eating the right amount of food each day. If you are concerned about your pet’s health, you can chat with a vet via the app.
The Whistle dog collar is safe in depths of water up to three feet. The company recommends leaving the collar out to dry after each swim. This collar has an easy setup process. When charging, the light turns green when finished.
Learn about another version of this brand through our full review of Whistle Go Explore Dog GPS Tracker.
3. Best Training: Wagz Freedom Smart Dog Collar
Pros:
- This collar is a GPS locator, training device, and activity monitor all in one.
- The Wagz Freedom Smart Dog Collar works on all sizes of dogs, including small, medium, and large.
- This training and activity collar allows you to set boundaries for a virtual leash for your dog.
- This Wagz collar offers a humane sonic vibration that helps train your dog.
Cons:
- You must purchase a subscription to get the most out of the dog collar.
This shock-free training and wellness monitor is one of those all-in-one devices pet owners often wonder how they lived without. The Wagz Freedom Smart Dog Collar offers continuous GPS tracking, so you always know the location of your furry friend.
Using this collar system allows you to set up an invisible fence so your dog can roam freely. With automatic and real-time corrections, your pooch is more likely to stay within the confined area.
Receive a health and happiness score for your faithful friend. Learn about the amount of sleep your dog is getting, his nap times, and how many steps he takes a day. Compare the results to other dogs of the same breed and age to see how your pup stacks up against them.
You can use the helpful app to track your dog’s next walking route and see how far both of you can go today. If your dog gets lost, you can pinpoint his exact location within ten feet.
This dog collar system works best in properties that are at least an acre. You need room to set up the perimeter away from the road. You also need to live in an area with sufficient cellular service.
With the Wagz app, you can manage multiple geofences and set up “Keep Out Areas” for numerous dogs. With the automatic training response, your dog will learn to stay within his assigned areas so you have peace of mind.
Get all the details about this device on our extensive Wagz Freedom Smart Dog Collar review.
4. Best Battery Life: FitBark 2 Dog Activity Monitor
Pros:
- This dog collar monitors all activities, including walking and sleeping.
- Sync this dog collar with your Apple Watch or Fitbit.
- This dog collar system comes with multiple free apps that make caring for your dog’s health much easier.
- The FitBark 2 has the longest battery life, at up to six months.
Cons:
- This collar does not provide information on your dog’s location.
The FitBark 2 is meant to be worn 24/7 because it is so small. For the highest level of comfort, FitBark recommends you pair this device with a soft collar that fits your dog well.
This collar works with dogs of all sizes. The FitBark 2 Activity Monitor is lightweight, rugged, and waterproof. Best of all, there is no monthly fee for using this dog collar. Use Bluetooth to share your dog’s activity information with other family members, friends, and your vet.
The FitBark 2 Activity Monitor alerts you to changes in your dog’s behavior. You can even monitor his anxiety and stress levels. If your dog starts scratching and licking frequently, the collar will tell you. With a single app, you can monitor multiple dogs.
This collar also allows you to set goals for your pooch. Set his activity goals based on his breed, age, and weight. You will receive a weekly health report to see how your dog is doing.
The FitBark 2 has a black cover that shields the device from any damage. Your dog can play hard and even take a dip in the pool, and this device will not become damaged.
For Apple Watch or FitBit owners, you can sync your dog’s collar and get information at a glance. You can even add multiple family members, friends, or even your vet.
This collar comes with a limited one-year warranty and a thirty-day money-back guarantee. FitBark will change the way you think about your dog’s health. You will be armed with the information you need to make necessary changes to protect your dog.
5. Best Safety: Halo Collar
Pros:
- This collar offers training, a GPS locator, and activity tracking.
- Learn where your dog is at all times, even if he goes outside of the virtual fence.
- This collar is completely wireless because it uses satellite technology. There is no need for Wi-Fi.
- You can easily create up to twenty virtual fences on your phone.
Cons:
- This dog collar is not meant to be worn 24/7. It needs to be removed when your dog is inside or while sleeping.
This all-in-one dog collar offers everything you need to monitor your dog’s activity level. The Halo Collar comes with Cesar Millan’s expert training advice to guide you in helping your dog stay safe.
This collar comes in three sizes, small, medium, and large. It also comes in two colors, black and white. The Halo collar is rugged and can be worn in any weather. Your pup can even go swimming while wearing this collar.
Because the Halo collar does not need cellular towers or Wi-Fi, you can rest assured it is fully wireless. All you need to do to set up the collar is download the app.
This device is considered the safest collar on the market. This is not a device that you attach to a collar. The entire apparatus is built into the collar. For this reason, you cannot leave the collar on your dog for hours at a time. If you are looking for continuous monitoring, this may not be the right activity monitor for your dog.
With this collar, you can keep your dog safe at all times. Even if he goes outside of the barrier, you will be able to pinpoint his location. You will never have to worry about where your dog is again.
See our full Halo Collar review.
6. Best For Puppies: PitPat Dog Activity and Fitness Monitor
Pros:
- This dog activity monitor is small and lightweight, so it is perfect for any dog, including puppies.
- This system comes with a free app that does not require a subscription.
- This collar offers breed-specific guidelines to help ensure your dog is getting the exercise he needs.
- The PitPat Dog Activity Collar is rugged and waterproof.
Cons:
- This activity monitor does not use GPS, so it does not offer your dog’s location information.
You can monitor all your dog’s activities with this innovative activity monitor. This is one of the smallest devices on this list, ensuring even puppies can wear it with comfort.
This device measures your dog’s exercise and rest periods. Discover the distance your dog has gone and how many calories he has burned. As your dog meets and exceeds his goals, he will earn fun badges.
This device works with any collar or harness. Because it is fully waterproof, you won’t have to worry if it starts to rain or your doggie jumps in a big puddle. In fact, he can even go swimming with this device.
You never have to worry about recharging this device. The battery life is around a year. Once it runs out of juice, you can easily replace it right away.
This dog activity monitor is meant to offer a high level of comfort. The velcro strap is soft and will never pull at your dog’s fur. This device is so tiny, that your dog will even forget it is there.
Best of all, you never have to pay any subscription fee to use the PitPat activity monitor. The setup is quick and easy. As the name implies, you will be able to aptly monitor the pitter-patter of your dog’s little feet at all times.
7. Best GPS for all Sizes: Whistle Switch Smart Collar
Pros:
- This dog collar can be worn by any dog five pounds and up.
- With this collar, you can set fitness goals for your pup to master.
- You can get free access to a vet via chat, video, email, or a call.
- With the 24-hour timeline approach, you can get a full picture of your dog’s health and activity level for the entire day.
Cons:
- This activity monitor requires a subscription to work properly.
Any dog can wear this Whistle Switch Smart Collar, even small dogs. As long as the dog weighs over five pounds, this device will fit perfectly.
The Whistle Switch Smart Collar has customizable options and access to vet telehealth services if you become concerned about your dog’s health. With GPS monitoring, you will receive instant notification warnings if your dog strays outside of the set confines.
With customization options, you can set goals for your pup to meet. You simply need to pair the device with your smartphone and subscribe. A subscription is required for the activity monitor to work properly.
With proactive alerts, you can monitor your dog’s health and catch minor concerns before they become a major health crisis. Get updates on your dog’s location every fifteen minutes. Because this device works on Wi-Fi, you do need a solid connection for it to work correctly. With the 24-hour timeline, you will have a crystal clear indication of how well your pet is doing.
8. Best GPS: PETBIZ GPS Pet Tracker
Pros:
- This collar lets you track your dog’s daily activity, down to the number of steps he has taken.
- With Safe Zone Alert, you will be notified instantly if your dog goes outside of the boundaries.
- Long battery life means no recharges for up to 30 days.
- This device tracks your dog in areas 3G options cannot.
Cons:
- This device requires a subscription, but you do get a month’s free trial to try it out.
Losing a dog is frightening! Knowing where your precious pet is at all times gives you peace of mind. With this PETBIZ GPS Pet Tracker, you will not have to worry about your dog because you will constantly know where he is at all times.
Using NB-IoT technology gives you 20 to 30% more coverage area so you do not have to worry about detection sensitivity. The exclusive movement algorithm ensures you know where your dog is and what he is doing at all times.
The LED light guarantees your dog is visible in dark or low light conditions. The rugged design prevents damage, and the device is fully submersible. Even if your dog goes for a dip in the pool, it will keep tracking his movements.
You can set goals and feeding plans based on your dog’s breed, age, and weight. This device gives your dog more freedom and more peace of mind because you will always know his location.
What Is a Dog Activity Monitor?
If you have FitBit or Apple Watch, you already know about the technology behind dog activity monitors. Pet monitors have become increasingly popular over the years because pet parents want to ensure their pets are healthy, happy, and safe.
These devices track every step your dog takes. Some even monitor your dog’s eating, drinking, and scratching habits.
A dog activity monitor can give you information on your dog’s blood pressure, heart rate, and other health concerns, including anxiety and stress levels. Those monitors that offer GPS monitoring allow you to pinpoint your dog’s precise location, even if he steps outside of the bounds of safety.
With these monitors, you can also set fitness and activity goals for your dog. Does your pooch need to lose a few pounds? Has he become lazy? How much exercise does a dog need? With these monitors, you can plan your dog’s daily activities and even motivate yourself to join in on the fun.
It is important to remember when starting a new fitness plan of any kind to proceed slowly. If your dog has been overly sedentary, it may take him time to build his strength. When exercising your dog, use the activity monitor to ensure his heart rate is where it should be at all times.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Dog Activity Monitor?
Pet owners purchase activity monitors for a variety of reasons. First, these devices are used to help ensure your dog is getting enough exercise. Some breeds are more prone to obesity than others. Monitoring your dog’s movements and setting goals will help ensure he is healthy and strong [2].
With some activity monitors, you also have the benefit of tracking your dog’s location. Let’s say your dog gets out of the backyard. Without a monitor, you would not know where he ran. With GPS monitoring, you can pinpoint his precise location within ten feet and get to him quickly.
Using some activity monitors even allows you to monitor the behaviors of your dog. Is he napping? Is your dog suddenly becoming more anxious? Has he begun scratching a lot? These are things we need to know as pet owners so we can take action to protect our dogs.
You can even use some activity monitors as a training tool. Some of these devices send a humane vibration to correct your dog’s behavior automatically. With these devices, training is much easier and less stressful for you both.
Features to Look For in a Dog Fitness Tracker or Activity Monitor
With so many different monitors and features, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to choose. How can you know which one is best for your dog? Let’s start with the very basics.
First, you need to ensure the activity monitor is comfortable and fits your dog well. Some dog fitness trackers market their products toward larger or smaller dogs. Measure your dog’s neck to ensure you get a good fit.
Next, you need to think about what you want from dog activity trackers. Are you primarily concerned about your dog’s activity levels, or do you want more in-depth monitoring? Do you worry about your dog getting lost? These are questions you should ask before you start shopping for a new tracking collar.
If you are concerned about accuracy and want to know where your pet is at all times, you should consider a dog activity tracker with GPS technology. GPS devices are typically more accurate, though there are some precise models that use satellite technology.
You should also ensure the tracker allows you to set up boundaries for an invisible fence. Some models allow you to have multiple fences and even authorize you to monitor multiple dogs through one app. This type of device is ideal if you are the parent of more than one dog.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Activity Monitors
As a dog parent, you do everything you possibly can to keep your precious pet safe, healthy, and happy. Unfortunately, you cannot monitor your pet 24/7. Or can you?
With a dog activity monitor, you can know how your dog is doing, even when you are apart. Get active notifications on his whereabouts and how he is feeling.
If you have never used one of these monitors, you likely have a lot of questions. The following are some of the top questions dog owners have about these monitors. Allow this information to help you better understand how to use these devices to protect and even improve your dog’s health.
1. Which dog tracker is best?
Since these devices began hitting the market, we have been studying and researching to learn as much as possible. Without a doubt, we highly recommend the Fi Series 2 Smart Dog Collar as being the best available. With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, you will know where your dog is at all times.
2. Can I put a FitBit on my dog?
When FitBit came out on the market, dog owners wanted to see if these devices could monitor the health of their pets. Unfortunately, the results simply are not accurate. These devices are not meant for dogs, but there is now a wide range of devices available that do monitor your dog’s activity level much like the FitBit does for humans.
3. Are dog GPS trackers worth it?
While some of these devices can be on the expensive side, most dog owners feel they are well worth the price because of the peace of mind alone. Your dog is a member of your family. You want him healthy and secure. Knowing your dog’s location at all times gives you great peace of mind, which is priceless.
4. Can you track how far your dog walks?
Dog activity monitors work in much the same way as your FitBit or step monitor. Each step your dog takes is recorded by the device. You get the report of how many steps your dog has taken. The device then compiles the data to average how many miles your dog walks a day. You can track by the day, week, or month, to see the progress your pooch is making on his activity goals.
Protect Your Dog’s Health With an Activity Monitor
As we work to get healthier, we also want our dogs to be the same for better longevity. To ensure your dog is not becoming too sedentary or developing health concerns, you should consider purchasing one of the activity monitors above. These monitors give you great peace of mind and can even track your dog’s location, should he become lost. With these devices, you can rest assured your dog is safe and healthy.