Fi Dog Tracker Review: Your Complete Guide In 2026

Keeping your furry friend safe has never been more important. Whether your dog loves to explore or simply enjoys backyard time, a GPS tracker gives you peace of mind.

The Fi dog tracker stands out as one of the most popular choices among pet parents. This comprehensive review explores everything you need to know about Fi collars and the best alternatives available on Amazon.

This review examines the Fi Series 3 and Fi Series 3+ models in detail. We also explore top competitors you can purchase on Amazon today.

Key Takeaways

• Fi trackers use advanced GPS and LTE-M technology to provide accurate location tracking with up to 30% better coverage than standard LTE collars, making them ideal for dogs who love outdoor adventures
• Battery life reaches up to 3 months on a single charge for home based dogs, while active dogs get around 3 weeks of use, significantly outlasting most competitor devices
• Subscription plans are required and start at $19 monthly with a 6 month minimum commitment, plus a one time $20 activation fee
• The Fi Series 3+ offers improved features including faster location updates, enhanced waterproofing with IP68 and IP66K ratings, and customizable LED lights for better visibility
• Activity and sleep tracking features help monitor your dog’s health patterns, steps, and daily exercise goals, with breed specific comparisons available in the app
• Multiple size options accommodate all breeds from small dogs (11.5-13.5 inches) to extra large breeds (22-34.5 inches), ensuring a proper fit for every pup

What Makes Fi Dog Tracker Special

The Fi smart collar represents a breakthrough in pet safety technology. This device combines GPS satellites, cellular networks, and Bluetooth connectivity. The system tracks your dog’s location with remarkable accuracy. Fi was the first brand to bring LTE-M network technology to pet tracking. This innovation provides coverage in areas where other trackers fail.

The collar unit attaches securely to a replaceable band. You can choose from several colors including grey, yellow, blue, and pink. The device features a reinforced stainless steel frame that withstands pulling and rough play. An IP68 waterproof rating means your dog can swim, play in rain, or roll in mud without damaging the tracker.

Real time tracking gives you constant updates on your dog’s whereabouts. The Fi app shows your pet’s location on an interactive map. You can set up custom safe zones around your home, park, or other locations. Escape alerts notify you immediately when your dog crosses these boundaries. Lost dog mode activates tracking with rapid location pings that last up to 2 days on battery.

Activity monitoring tracks steps, distance, and exercise patterns throughout the day. Sleep tracking reveals your dog’s rest quality and patterns. These health insights help you spot changes that might indicate medical issues. The app lets you compare your dog’s activity levels with other dogs of the same breed.

Fi Series 3 Smart Dog Collar

The Fi Series 3 revolutionized the GPS dog collar market when it launched. This model brought significant improvements over the Series 2. The device is 50% smaller than competing trackers while maintaining excellent performance. Size reduction makes the collar comfortable for dogs of all breeds.

GPS tracking accuracy reaches approximately 7 feet under clear sky conditions. The collar connects to up to three satellites simultaneously for precise positioning. Updates refresh every 2 to 5 minutes during normal use. Battery consumption remains low thanks to intelligent power management. The collar switches between GPS, cellular, and WiFi connections based on your dog’s location.

The Series 3 works seamlessly with the Fi base station you place in your home. This base acts as the primary reference point for tracking. Your dog’s collar automatically connects when at home to conserve battery. The system recognizes when your pet leaves the safe zone and increases tracking frequency.

Activity goals can be customized based on your dog’s breed, age, and fitness level. The app provides daily, weekly, and monthly activity reports. You can share access with family members, dog walkers, or pet sitters. Everyone stays informed about your dog’s location and activity. The social features let you connect with other Fi users in your area.

Fi Series 3+ Advanced Features

The Fi Series 3+ takes everything great about Series 3 and improves it. GPS performance doubled with 2x faster location updates. This enhancement means you see your dog’s position in near real time. The improved antennae system maintains stronger connections in challenging environments.

Enhanced durability comes from the upgraded stainless steel construction. The frame resists bending and breaking even with strong pullers. Waterproofing improved to IP66K rating alongside the existing IP68 certification. Your dog can face high pressure water jets without affecting the device. Ocean swimming, lake diving, and heavy rain pose no problems.

Customizable LED lights add a new safety dimension. You can change light colors directly through the app. Bright colors improve visibility during evening walks or early morning outings. The lights help you spot your dog in low light conditions. This feature also adds a fun personalization element.

The Series 3+ integrates more smoothly with the Fi platform. App performance feels snappier and more responsive. Location history loads faster for reviewing your dog’s movements. Health tracking algorithms received updates for better accuracy. Sleep pattern detection improved to provide more reliable insights.

Top 3 Alternatives for Fi Dog Tracker

Garmin GPS Dog Collar Systems

Garmin brings decades of GPS expertise to pet tracking. Their systems work without requiring cellular service or monthly fees. This makes them ideal for rural areas and wilderness adventures. The handheld device communicates directly with collar units.

Tracking range extends up to 9 miles depending on terrain. Multiple dogs can be tracked simultaneously on one handheld unit. Battery life reaches 20+ hours on collar units. The rugged construction withstands extreme conditions better than most competitors.

Training features include vibration and tone corrections. Location updates happen every 2.5 seconds during tracking mode. The system costs more upfront but eliminates subscription fees. Garmin appeals to hunters, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Apple AirTag with Pet Collar Holder

Apple AirTags offer a budget friendly tracking option. These small devices use Bluetooth and the Find My network for location updates. You need a special collar holder to attach an AirTag securely.

The biggest advantage is the low $29 price with no subscription fees. Battery lasts about one year before needing replacement. Location updates depend on nearby iPhone users. This works well in urban areas but poorly in rural locations.

AirTags lack real time GPS tracking and activity monitoring. They work best as a backup option or for budget conscious owners. The Find My app shows approximate locations rather than precise coordinates. This solution fits cats and small dogs who stay close to home.

Battery Life and Charging Details

Battery performance sets Fi apart from competitors. The rechargeable battery delivers exceptional longevity compared to similar devices. Actual battery life varies based on several factors including your dog’s activity level and location.

For dogs who spend most time at home, the battery lasts up to 3 months. The collar connects to your home WiFi and base station to minimize power usage. Dogs who take daily walks average about 2 months between charges. Active outdoor dogs get approximately 3 weeks when GPS updates every few minutes.

Lost dog mode prioritizes rapid location updates over battery conservation. This emergency mode provides 2 full days of intensive tracking. The system sends updates every minute to help you locate your missing pet quickly. This feature could save your dog’s life in a critical situation.

Charging takes about 2 to 3 hours using the included magnetic charging base. The collar displays battery status through LED indicators. The Fi app sends low battery notifications well before the charge runs out. You can track charging progress directly in the app.

The USB charging cable connects to any standard adapter. Portable power banks work great for charging while traveling. Smart power management extends battery life automatically. The collar reduces update frequency when your dog stays within safe zones.

Subscription Plans and Costs

Fi requires a subscription for GPS tracking functionality. You cannot use the collar without an active membership. The subscription covers cellular data costs for location tracking. This business model keeps the collar hardware price lower while ensuring ongoing service.

Current Fi subscription options include several tiers. The month to month plan costs $19 monthly with a 6 month minimum commitment. Six month prepaid plans cost $102 total ($17 per month). Annual prepaid subscriptions run $192 ($16 per month). The best value comes from the 2 year prepaid plan at $336 ($14 per month).

All plans include a mandatory $20 one time activation fee when you first set up your collar. If you cancel and later reactivate service, Fi charges another $20 reactivation fee. The collar comes with a 30 day free trial to test the service. This trial period lets you evaluate whether Fi meets your needs.

Subscription benefits include unlimited GPS tracking with no range limits. You get access to all activity and sleep tracking features. Health history remains available for review at any time. Series 3 users receive upgrade eligibility when new hardware versions release. Software updates and new features roll out automatically to active subscribers.

Compared to competitors, Fi sits in the mid to upper price range. Tractive offers lower monthly costs starting around $5. Garmin eliminates subscriptions entirely but costs more upfront. The value depends on which features matter most for your situation.

Size Options and Fit Guide

Proper collar fit ensures accurate tracking and your dog’s comfort. Fi offers four distinct size options to accommodate dogs from tiny to giant breeds. Measuring your dog’s neck correctly prevents ordering the wrong size.

The Small collar fits necks from 11.5 to 13.5 inches. This size works for Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, and Pugs. Small breeds need the compact unit to avoid excessive weight. The collar should fit snugly without restricting breathing or movement.

Medium sizing accommodates 13 to 16.5 inch necks. Beagles, Corgis, and Bulldogs typically wear this size. Many mixed breeds fall into the medium category. This remains the most popular size across all dog owners.

Large collars handle 15 to 22.5 inch neck measurements. Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, and similar breeds need this size. The overlap with medium sizing lets you choose based on your dog’s exact measurements. Always measure rather than guessing based on breed alone.

Extra Large fits necks from 22 to 34.5 inches. Great Danes, Mastiffs, Bloodhounds, and giant breeds require XL sizing. The robust construction supports the weight and strength of large dogs. The collar band includes reinforced stitching for added durability.

To measure correctly, use a flexible tape measure around your dog’s neck. Add two fingers of space for comfortable fit. The collar should sit snugly without choking. Check fit regularly as puppies grow and adult dogs gain or lose weight.

Waterproof Rating and Durability

Dogs encounter water daily through various activities. The Fi collar handles complete submersion without damage. The IP68 waterproof rating means the device survives underwater at depths up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. Your dog can swim in pools, lakes, rivers, and oceans safely.

The Series 3+ adds IP66K certification for high pressure water resistance. This rating protects against strong water jets from garden hoses or pressure washers. Dogs who love playing in sprinklers won’t damage their tracker. Heavy rainstorms and muddy puddles pose no threat to functionality.

Durability extends beyond water resistance. The reinforced stainless steel frame withstands impacts and pulling. Dogs who tug hard on leashes or play rough won’t break the collar easily. The band material resists tearing and fraying through extended use.

Temperature extremes don’t affect the collar’s operation. Hot summer days and cold winter weather fall within operating specifications. The device continues tracking in temperatures from freezing to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Snow and ice don’t impair GPS signal reception.

Real world testing by thousands of users confirms the collar’s toughness. Dogs who dig, roll, and explore challenging terrain keep their trackers intact. The sealed construction prevents dirt and debris from entering. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water maintains appearance without affecting function.

Activity and Sleep Tracking Features

Fi goes beyond simple location tracking to monitor overall health. Activity tracking records every step your dog takes throughout the day. The system calculates total distance traveled and active time. This information helps ensure your dog gets adequate exercise for their breed and age.

You can set customized daily activity goals based on veterinarian recommendations. The app shows progress toward these goals in real time. Achieving goals unlocks badges and milestones for motivation. Comparing your dog’s activity to breed averages reveals whether they’re under or over exercising.

Sleep tracking monitors rest patterns and sleep quality. The collar detects when your dog falls asleep and wakes up. Total sleep time, interrupted sleep, and restless periods all get recorded. Changes in sleep patterns often indicate health problems before other symptoms appear.

Deep sleep versus light sleep breakdowns show rest quality. Dogs need adequate deep sleep for physical recovery and mental health. Sudden changes warrant discussion with your veterinarian. The historical data helps identify patterns over weeks and months.

Activity and sleep data syncs automatically with the Fi app. You can view reports by day, week, or month. Sharing this information with your vet provides valuable health insights. The data-driven approach replaces guesswork about your dog’s exercise and rest.

Weekly summaries show trends and changes over time. You’ll notice if your dog becomes less active or sleeps more than usual. These subtle shifts might indicate joint pain, illness, or aging effects. Early detection leads to faster treatment and better outcomes.

Fi App Features and Interface

The Fi smartphone app serves as your control center for all collar functions. The intuitive interface makes navigation simple even for non tech-savvy users. The home screen displays your dog’s current location on an interactive map. Real time position updates show exactly where your pet is at any moment.

Safe zone creation takes just seconds through the app. You can draw custom boundaries around your home, yard, dog park, or friend’s house. Multiple safe zones can be set up for different locations you visit regularly. The collar automatically recognizes which zone your dog enters or exits.

Live tracking mode provides the most frequent location updates. This mode drains battery faster but gives second by second positioning. Use live tracking when actively searching for a lost dog or monitoring an escape. The map shows your dog’s path and movement direction.

Activity dashboard presents daily statistics in easy to read charts. Steps, distance, and active minutes display prominently. You can switch between different time periods to see trends. The streak counter shows how many consecutive days your dog met activity goals.

Multiple users can access the same collar through family sharing. Add your spouse, kids, dog walker, or pet sitter to the account. Everyone sees the same real time information without needing separate subscriptions. Permission levels let you control what each user can change.

The community features connect you with nearby Fi users. You can see how your dog ranks compared to others in your area. Leaderboards show top performers for steps, distance, and activity streaks. This social element adds fun competition to daily walks.

Fi Collar Comparison with Competitors

Choosing between Fi and alternative trackers depends on your specific needs. Fi excels in battery life and sleek design. The 3 month battery duration for home based dogs beats nearly every competitor. Active dog owners still get 3 weeks between charges.

Tractive offers lower subscription costs starting around $5 monthly. However, battery life only reaches 5 to 7 days maximum. You’ll charge Tractive units much more frequently than Fi collars. The trade-off between price and convenience matters based on your lifestyle.

Garmin systems eliminate subscriptions entirely but require significant upfront investment. The handheld device costs several hundred dollars plus collar units. Garmin works anywhere without cellular service making it ideal for remote hiking and hunting. Technical complexity exceeds Fi’s user friendly approach.

Apple AirTags provide the most budget friendly option at $29 with no fees. However, AirTags lack real GPS tracking and depend on nearby iPhone users. They work well in cities but fail in rural areas. Activity tracking and health monitoring don’t exist with AirTags.

Fi’s LTE-M network coverage surpasses standard cellular based competitors. The technology reaches 30% more areas than regular LTE networks. This advantage matters for dogs who explore beyond suburban neighborhoods. Nationwide coverage works in most locations across the United States.

Build quality and durability favor Fi over budget options. The stainless steel frame and waterproof design outlast cheaper plastic trackers. Investment in Fi pays off through longevity rather than replacing broken devices.

Common Issues and Solutions

Even the best technology encounters occasional problems. Connection issues represent the most common complaint from Fi users. The collar may lose signal in areas with poor cellular coverage. Dense forests, valleys, and remote locations reduce GPS accuracy.

Solution: Check coverage maps before relying on tracking in new areas. Keep the collar firmware updated through the app. Restart the collar by holding the power button if connection problems persist. Contact Fi support for persistent signal issues.

Battery draining faster than expected frustrates some users. Multiple factors affect battery performance including signal strength and activity level. Weak cellular signals force the collar to work harder maintaining connection.

Solution: Ensure your home WiFi connects properly to reduce cellular usage. Keep the collar within safe zones when possible. Charge the collar before it drops below 20% to maintain battery health. Extremely cold weather temporarily reduces battery performance.

Fit problems occur when collars are ordered in the wrong size. Too loose allows the collar to rotate putting the GPS unit underneath your dog’s neck. Too tight causes discomfort and skin irritation.

Solution: Remeasure your dog’s neck and reference Fi’s sizing guide. Order a different size if needed during the trial period. The two finger rule ensures proper fit without constriction.

App syncing delays occasionally prevent immediate location updates. The collar may take longer to appear on the map. This usually relates to cellular network congestion rather than device problems.

Solution: Force close and restart the Fi app. Check your phone’s internet connection. Enable location services for the Fi app in your phone’s settings. Update to the latest app version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Fi dog tracker worth the monthly subscription cost?

Yes, for most dog owners the Fi tracker justifies its subscription fee. The peace of mind from knowing your dog’s location at all times proves invaluable. Dogs who tend to escape or wander benefit enormously from instant escape alerts. The activity and health tracking add bonus value beyond location services. Compared to the cost of losing a dog or emergency vet visits, the monthly fee represents minimal investment.

Can I use Fi tracker without WiFi at home?

Yes, the Fi collar works anywhere with cellular coverage regardless of WiFi availability. However, home WiFi connection significantly extends battery life. The collar uses less power when connected to your WiFi network and base station. Dogs without home WiFi access will need more frequent charging. The cellular network handles all location tracking when away from WiFi.

How accurate is Fi GPS tracking?

Fi GPS achieves accuracy within approximately 7 feet under ideal conditions. Clear sky visibility and strong cellular signals produce the best results. Dense tree cover, tall buildings, and valleys reduce accuracy. The system uses multiple satellites and LTE-M networks for positioning. Real time tracking mode provides the most accurate and frequent updates.

What happens if my dog’s Fi collar battery dies?

The collar stops transmitting location when the battery depletes completely. You’ll receive low battery warnings through the app before this happens. The collar stores the last known location before shutdown. Most users charge their collars long before reaching critical battery levels. Emergency situations call for using live tracking mode despite faster battery drain.

Does Fi tracker work internationally?

Fi currently operates only within the United States. International travel won’t provide location tracking outside US borders. The LTE-M network requires domestic cellular infrastructure. Fi continues working on potential international expansion. Check with Fi support before traveling abroad with your dog.

Can multiple dogs share one Fi subscription?

No, each dog requires a separate collar and individual subscription. The subscription price applies per collar not per household. Families with multiple dogs need multiple accounts. Some owners find this expensive for three or more dogs. The company occasionally offers multi-dog discounts.

How long does the Fi collar last before needing replacement?

With proper care, Fi collars last several years of regular use. The rechargeable battery maintains capacity through hundreds of charge cycles. Most failures result from physical damage rather than normal wear. The company offers warranty coverage for defects. Replacement collars can be purchased if needed.