Finding the Best AirTag Dog Collar to Help You Track Your Pup

Losing a pet is devastating; unfortunately, many are never reunited with their family. But the good news is, there are more ways than ever to keep track of your dog. The latest tech, like an Apple AirTag dog collar, can help find missing pets, especially when combined with tried-and-true ID tags and microchips.

AirTags are affordable, easy-to-use trackers that pair with Apple devices. In the same way you use one to find missing keys, you can locate your dog if they run off. 

In this article, you’ll discover how AirTags work for tracking pets and how to find the best AirTag dog collars and holders.

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How AirTags Work for Dog Tracking

A dog collar with an AirTag lets you track your pet’s location so you can bring them home safely.

In three steps, you can start using an AirTag to keep an eye on your dog:

1. Set up your AirTag by connecting it to your iPhone.  
2. Place it in an AirTag holder on your dog’s collar. 
3. Confirm that you can track the device by opening the Find My app and seeing its location. 

AirTags aren’t GPS trackers and aren’t designed for real-time tracking. When your dog wears an AirTag, Bluetooth will send its location to your iPhone. If you’re within range of the Bluetooth signal, your phone will pick up on it. You must rely on other people’s Apple devices if you’re out of range.

An AirTag only works if there are Apple devices in the area. When it sees an iPhone, it will use that device to relay information about the AirTag’s location to your Find My app. This may not be a problem in urban and suburban areas because many people have iPhones. But in rural or more remote areas, an AirTag may be unable to grab your pet’s location.

Although they can be helpful, AirTags aren’t always reliable or effective. Therefore, they aren’t meant to be the only tool for finding your pet.

What to Look for in an AirTag Dog Collar or Holder

When shopping for air tags for dogs, narrow your options by these features:

Secure Fit

Select a product that will securely hold the AirTag so it won’t fall off your dog’s collar and get lost—those designed for AirTags are best. It should also prevent your dog from getting hold of this tiny device, which can cause a medical emergency if it’s chewed or swallowed. 

Durability

Your pooch will wear their AirTag while exploring the great outdoors, playing at the park, lounging in the yard, and everything in between. So, choose a durable holder or collar. Many are also waterproof or water-resistant to provide extra protection from the elements. 

Comfort

An AirTag is tiny and lightweight, but if you put it in a collar or holder that’s too bulky or heavy, it can be uncomfortable for your dog. Look for products that won’t be irritating or interfere with your pet’s ability to move, eat, drink, and play. 

Visibility

Some collars have reflective materials or bright colors for safety. When your dog is easier to see at night, it can reduce the odds of them getting hurt, especially if they wander into unknown territory.  

Placement

You can choose from various designs, such as slide-on and screw-on options, to place on your dog’s existing collar. You can also buy a new collar with a built-in AirTag holder. Consider the pros and cons of each to determine what would work best for your pet. 

Size options

Ensure your dog’s collar fits snugly anHere are three products made for holding AirTags for dogs:d appropriately for their breed and neck size. Generally, it’s a good fit if you can fit two fingers between the collar and the dog’s neck. If an AirTag holder comes in multiple sizes, select the one that will fit correctly on your dog’s collar.  

AirTag Dog Collars and Holders To Consider

Here are three products made for holding AirTags for dogs:

1. CollarDirect AirTag Dog Collar

Rather than adding a holder to your dog’s collar, you can switch to the CollarDirect AirTag Dog Collar, which has a built-in holder.

Key features:

Why It’s Suitable

This collar is made for all breeds. It’s designed specifically to hold AirTags for dogs, has a zinc alloy leash ring, and is adjustable in size.

Highlights

• Reflective stitching
• Lightweight
• Available in multiple colors

Things to Consider

The AirTag is slightly exposed to the elements because it isn’t completely covered.

2. CollarDirect Waterproof AirTag Dog Collar Holder

If you want to continue using your dog’s current collar, you can add an AirTag to it with the CollarDirect Waterproof AirTag Dog Collar Holder, which screws into place.

Key features:

Why It’s Suitable

Once attached to your dog’s collar, this AirTag holder won’t shift. It completely covers your AirTag in a waterproof case. If you switch collars, you can unscrew it and place it on the new collar.

Highlights

• Easy to install
• Lightweight
• Protects AirTag from water, dust, and debris

Things to Consider

Only comes in one size and might be too bulky for some dogs.

3. GoTags AirTag Dog Collar Holder with Design, Personalized 

For an AirTag holder that’s easy to take on and off, there’s the GoTags AirTag Dog Collar Holder. It can be engraved with your pet’s information and doubles as an ID tag.

Key features:

Why It’s Suitable

This durable AirTag holder slides onto your dog’s collar. It protects your AirTag and keeps it in place without adding much bulk.

Highlights

• Multiple colorful designs
• Easy to use
• Personalized with your dog’s name and phone number

Things to Consider

It doesn’t completely cover the AirTag and might shift around, so you need to choose the right size based on the thickness of your dog’s collar.

Safety Tips for Using AirTags with Dogs

When using an AirTag on your dog’s collar, keep the following in mind:

• Ensure the AirTag collar or holder fits properly, and check it regularly to see if it needs to be replaced.
• Buy a collar or holder of safe, long-lasting materials to withstand your dog’s activities and the elements.
• Choose a holder that will prevent your dog from accidentally ingesting the AirTag. 
• Stick with AirTag holders designed specifically for dogs, not just keychains.

Remember, AirTags for dogs don’t replace supervision, microchips, and ID tags with contact details. You can’t rely on AirTags in areas where few to no Apple devices are available. They’re best used as a backup to find a missing pet.

What to Avoid in AirTag Dog Collars

Though you might find many AirTag holders for pets, they aren’t all created equal. Avoid low-quality, ineffective designs, such as:

• Loose, flimsy holders that fall off easily or don’t hold your AirTag tightly
• Collars or holders that dangle and can get snagged 
• Collars with poor stitching and materials that break easily
• Collars without size flexibility 

Note: AirTags are Apple products that only work with the Apple network, so avoid knockoffs that won’t be compatible.

Final Thoughts on AirTag Dog Collars

AirTag dog collars and holders provide another layer of protection, especially when combined with good training and supervision. They make it possible to track your dog if they get lost, whether you’re close to home or traveling with your companion.

Photo credit: Pixabay