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10 Fi Dog Collar Alternatives in 2026: Are They Better?

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dog collar with GPS tracker

Having a GPS collar, like the Fi Dog Collar, can be extremely helpful and lifesaving if you have an adventurous pup that likes to go off exploring on its own. When it comes to finding a GPS collar, it is important to find one that works best for you because your dog’s safety can depend on it.

Whether it’s price, availability, or another variable that is pushing you to look for an alternative brand, we have a list of several GPS dog collar options of different sizes, shapes, and materials from a variety of brands. Take a look at each of our reviews to get a better picture of which GPS collar would be the right option for your dog.
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A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites of 2026

Rating Image Product Details
Winner
Dogtra Pathfinder2 Collar System Dogtra Pathfinder2 Collar System
  • Tracks 21 dogs
  • Waterproof with LED light
  • Doesn’t rely on cellular data
  • Second place
    Pawscout GPS V2.5 Smarter Dog Tag Pawscout GPS V2.5 Smarter Dog Tag
  • Great value
  • App with social component
  • Area alerts for missing dogs
  • Third place
    PetSafe Guardian GPS + Tracking Wireless Fence Collar PetSafe Guardian GPS + Tracking Wireless Fence Collar
  • Flexible and portable
  • User-friendly app
  • Creates up to 20 custom virtual fences
  • The 10 Fi Dog Collar Alternatives Compared:

    1. Dogtra Pathfinder2 GPS & Dog Training Collar System

    Dogtra Pathfinder2 GPS & Dog Training Collar System

    The Dogtra Pathfinder2 Dog Collar is one of the most reliable and capable options you’ll find on the market. It has an impressive 9-mile tracking range, and it can keep track of up to 21 dogs on the free app without the need for a subscription.

    From the app, you can control the e-collar commands, sleep mode, fence modes, and the GPS connector locator that doesn’t rely on cellular data, so that you can get accurate and current information on the location of your dog.

    This tracker is excellent for dogs that enjoy hunting or going on off-leash hikes with their owners. It is completely waterproof and has an LED light. One drawback is the bulkier design compared to other GPD collars, which might not be ideal for smaller dogs.


    2. Pawscout GPS V2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Enabled Dog Tag vs Fi Dog Collar

    Pawscout Version 2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Enabled Dog & Cat Tag vs Fi Dog Collar

    You don’t always have to pay a fortune for GPS trackers. The Pawscout GPS V2.5 Smarter Bluetooth Enabled Dog Tag is a great Fi Dog Collar alternative for the money you pay. It does have limited features, but it gets the job done fairly well.

    The Pawscout GPS tag pairs with a phone app. The app has a very social component that connects you to a community of other Pawscout users in your community. Once you build a profile for your pets, you can send out an alert if they get lost.

    The alert will go out to other Pawscout users in the area so that you can have more eyes out for your pet. This feature is important because the GPS tag itself doesn’t provide the exact location of your pet and has a range of 300 feet. So, if your pet steps out of that range, it will be extremely helpful to have other people aware that your dog is missing.


    3. PetSafe Guardian GPS + Tracking Wireless Fence Dog Collar

    PetSafe Guardian GPS + Tracking Wireless Fence Dog Collar

    The PetSafe Guardian GPS & Tracking Dog Fence Collar is a great Fi Dog Collar alternative because of its easy set-up and ability to create up to 20 custom virtual fences, which is great for people who regularly travel or have multiple properties. It offers a flexible solution for pet containment, especially for those who need portability and customization.

    It pairs with the user-friendly My PetSafe App so you can stay updated on your dog’s location in real time, by way of GPS data, together with movement detection.  The tracker clips on easily to most dog collars, and the battery life lasts for 48 hours. The collar is waterproof, which is great for dogs that enjoy water activities.

    To make use of the real-time tracking functionality, you would need to sign up for one of their subscription plans. Some users reported occasional inconsistencies with coverage and connection in certain areas where the LTE cell signal is weak. The GPS fence is recommended for spaces over 3–4 acres.


    4. Cube Real Time GPS Dog & Cat Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    Cube Real Time GPS Dog & Cat Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    The Cube Real Time GPS Dog & Cat Tracker is one of the most reliable GPS trackers and provides real-time, accurate information on a dog’s location. The battery life is also very impressive and can last from 10 to 60 days between charges.

    This tracker connects to an app, and you can set up geofences through the app so that you know when your dog steps out of safe boundaries. It also contains a SIM card so that it can consistently connect to cellular networks. It’s one of the most secure systems to keep your puppy safe.

    The one setback with this tracker is that it requires cellular data and a monthly or annual paid subscription for you to use it.


    5. SportDOG TEK Series 1.5 GPS Dog Tracking & Training System & Collar vs Fi Dog Collar

    SportDOG TEK Series 1.5 GPS Dog Tracking & Training System & Collar vs Fi Dog Collar

    The SportDOG Tek Series GPS Dog Tracking & Training System & Collar is another heavy-duty collar for high-performance and athletic dogs. It performs exceptionally well for dogs that like to engage in watersports. It’s waterproof, and the tracker is traceable for up to 5 feet when submerged.

    You can store up to 12 dogs in the tracking system, and the tracker can keep a dog’s location for up to 7 miles. One drawback is that similar to the Dogtra PATHFINDER TRX GPS Tracking Collar, this collar is pretty heavy. So, it’s not the greatest option for small dog breeds.

    If you have an outdoorsy dog, this might be the tracker for you. It has a great range and is waterproof, but it will cost you quite a bit more than the Fi.


    6. Tractive Dog & Cat GPS Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    Tractive Dog & Cat GPS Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    The Tractive Dog GPS Tracker is another subscription-based tracking service. So, costs can add up quickly, but it has several key features that make it an exceptional GPS tracker. It pairs with an app, and you can set up safe zones and receive alerts whenever your dog steps out of them.

    The app has a LIVE Mode, which provides location updates every 2 to 3 seconds so that you can quickly locate a missing dog. On top of that, you can send a public link through the app to alert others to help you search for your dog.

    Along with being a GPS tracker, the Tractive Dog GPS Tracker also records calories and sets goals to keep your pup healthy. These are attractive features for owners looking to maintain their pet’s health with ease.


    7. Whistle Go Explore Dog GPS Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    Whistle Go Explore Dog GPS Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    The Whistle Go Explore Dog GPS Tracker provides real-time information on your dog’s location, so you’ll immediately know if your dog steps out of safe boundaries. The tracker is also waterproof and can keep track of your dog for up to 6 feet deep.

    It also has a long battery life that can last up to 20 days when fully charged. It comes with a built-in night light so that you can have an easier time finding your dog in the dark.

    Along with GPS tracking, this dog tag also tracks behaviors, such as scratching and licking, and can send personalized data directly to your vet.

    Overall, this tracker has a lot of useful features, so it’s not surprising that it has a rather boxy design, so it might not be the most comfortable for dogs to wear.


    8. PETFON Pet GPS Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    PETFON Pet GPS Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    The PETFON Pet GPS Tracker is durable and rainproof. It combines Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and long-range wireless technology to pinpoint your dog’s location and provide real-time updates. The tag can keep track of your dog’s location for up to 0.65 miles in densely populated areas and 3.5 miles in more open areas.

    You can also use the accompanying app to set up geofences so that you receive alerts as soon as your dog leaves safe zones. The tag also lights up so that you can have an easier time finding your dog at night.

    This GPS tracker isn’t for continuous use and should be returned to its case when not in use because its battery life is only 6 to 8 hours.


    9. Apple AirTag Bluetooth Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    Apple AirTag Bluetooth Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    Although the Apple AirTag Bluetooth Tracker isn’t specifically for dog tracking, it can be used as a GPS tracker for your beloved pet. It has a sleek and lightweight design, so it’s barely noticeable for dogs. You can also purchase compatible dog collars so that it rests securely around your dog’s neck.

    The AirTag is easy to set up with iPhones and iPads, and you can find its location with a simple tap of a button. It has a built-in speaker, so you can cause it to ring and listen for it if your dog is relatively close by.

    The battery lasts for over a year, and it’s also replaceable. The AirTag isn’t completely waterproof, but it’s water and dust-resistant. It doesn’t pair with Android phones, but it’s one of the most convenient setups for Apple users.


    10. Samsung Galaxy SmartTag Bluetooth Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    Samsung Galaxy SmartTag Bluetooth Tracker vs Fi Dog Collar

    Galaxy phones also have a tracker that doubles as a dog tracker. The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag Bluetooth Tracker has a clean design with a hole in it, so you can directly attach it to your dog’s collar with a keyring. You can also purchase a silicone case for added protection.

    The tracker uses Bluetooth and has a range of 130 yards, and you can locate the tracker without any cellular data. If you notice that your dog’s missing, you can also tap a button on your phone to emit a ringtone to help you locate your dog faster.

    Similar to the Apple AirTag, the SmartTag is only compatible with Samsung Galaxy phones. Galaxy users will find the SmartTag an extremely useful and convenient accessory for their pets.
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    Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Right Fi Dog Collar Alternative

    It’s important to keep your priorities in mind when shopping for GPS dog collars and tags because they can have so many different kinds of features. Costs can go up rather quickly if you simply look for a collar with the most features. Here are some things to keep in mind while shopping for a GPS collar to prevent spending money on features you don’t need.

    Durability

    Some GPS collars are extremely durable and can be dust-proof and waterproof. These types of collars work best for extremely athletic dogs, enjoy going on outdoor excursions, or are working dogs.

    If your dog doesn’t particularly enjoy swimming or doing extreme activities, a water-resistant collar would work just fine. Less active dogs won’t need a heavy-duty collar, so you can easily save on costs by finding a more lightweight and simpler GPS collar.

    Range

    It makes sense to buy a GPS collar that has the largest range and coverage, but if your dog isn’t a sprinter, you may not have to buy a GPS collar that has an unlimited range. You might want to focus more on buying a collar that has a good alert system that immediately lets you know if your dog steps outside of safe zones.

    dachshund dog with electronic collar
    Image Credit: Zhanna Kavaliova, Shutterstock

    Battery Life

    If you and your dog frequently go on off-leash adventures, it’s best to find a GPS collar that has a long battery life that can last up to several days. If you plan on using the collar for parts of the day, then you can save a lot of money on purchasing one with a shorter battery life.

    Also, if a GPS collar works through a phone app, check the reviews to see if any customers report the app draining their phone’s battery.

    Additional Features

    GPS collars aren’t just used for finding runaway dogs. Some collars can also track calorie intake, activity levels, and other health factors. If you have a dog that has to accomplish health goals, such as losing weight, then a GPS collar with these additional features can be useful.

    If your dog is relatively healthy, and you don’t plan on engaging it in athletic training, then you won’t need to worry so much about additional features.

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    Conclusion

    Based on our reviews, the Dogtra Pathfinder2 is our top pick for Fi Dog Collar alternative because of its impressive tracking range and free real-time tracking that requires no cellular data. The Pawscout GPS V2.5 Bluetooth dog tag is a great option for the money if you’re on a tight budget. We also like the user-friendly PetSafe Guardian GPS & Tracking Dog Fence Collar, despite the real-time tracking functionality requiring a subscription.

    GPS trackers can be a great tool that helps keep your pets safe. It doesn’t hurt to use technology for good and use a GPS tracker collar to help you take better care of your pets.

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