You might have thought about using an AirTag on your dog to always keep track of its location and find it in case it gets lost: it’s an understandable act of love, as losing your four-legged friend is a true tragedy.
However, this might not prove to be the best solution due to the device’s operating methods. In fact, Apple’s AirTags communicate by sending a Bluetooth signal to other iOS devices, as long as they are within a defined coverage range.
Furthermore, this technology is designed to be connected to inanimate personal items – like laptops, house keys, bags, and wallets – in order to locate them if they are lost.
Their function, therefore, is neither to monitor children nor to track domestic animals like cats and dogs.
It’s much better to use a proper GPS tracker for dogs like Kippy EVO.
Why not use AirTags on dogs
Using AirTags on dogs is not recommended for several reasons.
First of all, it should be noted that the functions of these devices are too limited to satisfy the needs of a dog or cat owner, as their range is limited and they only work if there are other nearby Apple devices.
Furthermore, it has been observed that using AirTags on dogs for tracking purposes is increasingly leading to a dangerous event for the four-legged friend: the ingestion of the device. In such cases, to prevent harm, surgical removal is necessary.
Finally, in many countries, there are regulations governing the use of tracking devices on four-legged friends, and it wouldn’t be surprising if the use of Apple’s AirTags on pets is banned in the near future.
Are GPS trackers the true alternative to AirTags on dogs?
An alternative to using AirTags on dogs exists and consists of using specific devices – like GPS trackers – that are designed specifically for monitoring the location of pets.
These solutions can be worn like a collar safely and securely and allow you to track the exact position of the animal in real-time through the smartphone application connected to them.
FAQs – Answered by Kippy
Can I use an Apple AirTag to track my dog?
Technically, you can attach an AirTag to your dog’s collar, but it is not recommended. AirTags are designed to locate personal objects like keys or bags, not living beings. They rely on Bluetooth signals from nearby Apple devices, so if your dog is lost in an area with no nearby iPhones or iPads, the AirTag won’t help you find them in real time.
What are the limitations of using an AirTag on a dog?
AirTags do not provide real-time GPS tracking. They depend entirely on the presence of nearby Apple devices to update their location. If your dog runs into a remote area or somewhere with few or no Apple users, the tracker becomes useless. Additionally, AirTags don’t offer safety alerts, virtual fences, activity monitoring, or any pet-specific features that GPS trackers provide.
Is it dangerous for dogs to wear AirTags?
Yes, there are real risks. Some cases have reported dogs chewing on or swallowing AirTags, which can lead to serious internal injuries or require surgical removal. Unlike dedicated pet trackers, AirTags are not designed to be safely worn by animals and can pose a health hazard if not properly secured or if the pet becomes curious and tries to remove or eat it.
Why are GPS trackers safer and more effective than AirTags for pets?
GPS trackers like Kippy EVO are specifically made for dogs and cats. They provide real-time tracking via GPS satellites and mobile networks, meaning you can locate your pet instantly, anywhere there’s coverage. They’re securely attached to collars, include features like virtual fences and health monitoring, and are designed to be both safe and comfortable for animals.
Do GPS trackers work without needing other people’s devices nearby?
Yes. Unlike AirTags, GPS pet trackers do not rely on other users’ phones. They have their own SIM cards and connect to mobile networks, giving you direct access to your pet’s location through a dedicated app. This makes them much more reliable, especially in emergencies or remote areas.
Is using an AirTag on a pet legal?
In some regions, there are increasing concerns about the improper use of consumer tracking devices like AirTags on animals. While not universally banned yet, regulations may tighten in the future. Since AirTags weren’t created for animal use, their long-term use on pets could fall outside recommended or legal guidelines depending on your country or state.
Can AirTags be used for cats or smaller animals?
It’s even riskier. AirTags are relatively large for small pets and pose a choking or ingestion risk, especially for cats and small-breed dogs. They also lack any kind of specialized tracking interface for pets. If your cat gets lost, an AirTag won’t give you the continuous location updates that a GPS pet tracker can.
What’s the best way to track my dog if they get lost?
The safest and most effective method is using a pet-specific GPS tracker like Kippy EVO. These devices give you real-time location updates, allow you to set safe zones (virtual fences), and can even monitor your dog’s activity levels. Most importantly, they’re designed with pet safety in mind — both in how they attach and how they function.