Everything you need to know about GPS dog collars

There are times; unfortunately, when our dogs find ways to "escape" (they are so smart). Sometimes a gate may be left open or, sadly, someone could even steal them. Thanks to today's technology, keeping track of your dog is easy if you get a collar that has a Global Positioning System chip. This collar uses batteries, is not heavy and is water resistant. After is it activated, it starts to transmit signals. You can have the signals go to your cell phone as text messages or to the internet where you can keep track of your dog on specified websites.

A lot of these collars give you the option of setting up a "virtual fence" that specifies where your dog can roam. You simply state what the boundary is and an address. If your dog goes out of this area, you are notified right away. You can have different "virtual fences" that can be turned off and on at specified times.

With a GPS collar, you can set alerts to tell you if the battery is low or if it is turned off or on. It can also let you know if the temperature outside has gotten either too cold or too hot for your dog to stay out. You can receive updates telling you where your dog is every couple of minutes. It can keep track of your dog's movements as well for one week. When you take your dog for a walk, you can have a "walking alert" set up so that you can find your dog if it goes too far from you. You can get alerted either by email or text or you can go on the company's website to get the information; there's usually a toll free number you can call too.

The price for a GPS dog collar really depends on what kind it is, the range, the way the signal will be transmitted and if a monthly fee for service is included. When you decide to purchase one, be sure you have checked into all the features and benefits so that you can be sure you are getting what you want.