We got our paws on the Tractive GPS device for pets and we’re here to explain how it could help prevent your dog from going missing.
Unfortunately, dogs can sometimes go missing, even when their owners have been careful to keep an eye on them. Dogs aren’t always able to find their way own way home (though occasionally a remarkable story makes headlines!). Before taking a look at the Tractive GPS device, we’ll highlight a few instances that might cause dogs to run away, as well as a couple of important pieces of advice on how to prevent your dog from running away.
Why do dogs sometimes run away?
- The hunting instinct often leads dogs to chase smaller animals; squirrels are a prime example!
- Dogs want to follow their owners: this is perfectly natural – your dog wants to be around you! But sometimes dogs suffer from separation anxiety and exhibit unwanted behaviour as a result. One example could be an escape attempt when you’ve left home.
- Fear: sometimes dogs can be startled by loud noises. For example, a firework or thunder can cause the dog to bolt.
- Boredom: many dogs need regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy – sometimes dogs can run away because they haven’t been given enough playtime.
- Bitches in heat: a female dog might chase male dogs when she’s in heat. It’s nature’s way! The smell of a bitch in heat can also cause male dogs to run away.
How to prevent your dog from running away
- Microchip your dog: it’s now a legal requirement for all dogs in the UK to be microchipped and this helps rescue authorities identify missing dogs
- Train your dog to respond to your calls and commands: this is a truly crucial part of training your dog – they need to understand that you are the boss so they’ll come back to you as soon as they hear your call. Why not use some of these positive reinforcement tips to help build up a training routine with your dog?
- Secure your garden: you may find holes appearing in your garden around fences and hedges, especially if your dog is a Terrier breed; these dogs are prone to dig – it’s in their blood.
- Use a GPS device that allows you to know where your dog is at all times.
Gilberto’s review of the Tractive Pet GPS tracker
We had the Tractive GPS trialled and tested by Gilberto, one of the DogBuddy office dogs. Gilberto, who’s a rescue dog, probably has some hunting dog in his blood – he tends to run away to explore the world with his nose.
The Tractive GPS device, which you can easily and securely attach to the dog’s collar, allows you to track your dog wherever and whenever you want. Enrico, Gilberto’s owner, told us that when he was tracking Gilberto with GPS Tractive’s smartphone application he could see the location of his dog in real time – really handy when out for dog walks.
Of course, many dog owners are happy to let their dogs off leash whilst out for a walk, and some even have large gardens for their dogs to roam. Tractive’s smartphone app even has a ‘safe zone’ feature that you can set, so if you’re dog strays too far away from you on a walk or leaves the zone set to your garden at home, you’ll get a notification on your phone.
(Remember, if you’re walking or sitting someone else’s dog, we recommend that you keep your guest dog on-leash.)
The GPS device is durable, 100% waterproof (perfect for dogs who like swimming!). The device only needs charging every two-to-five days – so if the unthinkable happens and your dog goes missing, you’ll have plenty of battery life left to track them down.
Enrico told us he definitely has a lot more peace of mind now that he can monitor Gilberto’s movements, knowing exactly where he is at any time. Gilberto enjoys following his nose and sometimes wanders further than he’s allowed, so Enrico is comforted by knowing he if anything happened, he could find his dog in a matter of minutes.
Get more information about Tractive® GPS here. You can also get an exclusive 30%* off a Tracive GPS with code BUDDY.
Have you used a GPS tracker for your dog? Tell us about your experiences and stories in the comments below.
*Offer valid in the Tractive online shop on every purchase from the 14th to the 21st of November 2017