Which is Best: GPS Microchips or Collars for Dogs?

Dogs tend to get out and escape despite having fences, doors or other boundaries that are put in place. Today a growing number of dog owners are so concerned about their pet's safety, GPS microchips or collars are their only option, to keep their dog safe and secure. This article outlines the differences from the GPS Microchip and Collars for dogs.

What is a GPS Microchip?

A GPS Microchip is a small grain sized transponder that can be implanted in your dog for a small fee at most veterinarian offices. Each chip is programmed with all of the owner's information along with an identification number for the dog. The microchip works by radio frequency identification technology to help with the tracking of the animal. In a case where your dog is lost and then found, a chip scanner is passed over your pet and decodes its identity.

Pro's & Con's of the GPS Microchip

The major advantage's of the GPS Microchip is that it's permanently implanted and cannot get lost. The insertion process is fast, causes very little pain and usually comes with a lifetime guarantee. A few of the major disadvantages of the microchip is the animal needs to be located in order to be tracked and returned. In some cases the microchip can cause inflammation which may require it to be removed.

What is a Collar?

A Collar is similar to the GPS microchip except the transponder is implanted directly in the collar. For the device to work, the dog needs to be wearing its collar so the location can be tracked. A compatible handheld receiver can get updates from the collar via email, SMS or phone, assuming the dog has not traveled outside the transmission area.

Pro's & Con's of the Collar

The major advantage's of the Collar is that there's no procedure for the dog to go through and it helps in locating your dog. Some of the major disadvantages of the Collar is the price tends to be costly with usually a monthly subscription that you pay. With the collar you also have to replace the battery periodically.

It can be emotionally exhausting locating a lost pet. Regardless, if you prefer the GPS Microchip or Collar make sure you select one or both of these choices to limit the risk of your pet being gone forever.