Are AirTags Ok For Dogs? (Dog Tracking Device)

are AirTags ok for dogs

Apple AirTags allow you to easily track everyday items like your keys, wallet, purse, backpack, luggage, and more. But one popular question you might have is, are AirTags ok for dogs?

While AirTags are not designed to track dogs, it is possible. However, before you do so, there are some points you should be aware of.

For some dog owners knowing where their dog is at all times will be priceless. Many dog owners have turned to AirTags to monitor their dogs because of its inexpensive cost, lifespan, and ease-of-use.

Even without Apple’s official support, for some, AirTags can offer some assurance that if your dog does go missing, there is a chance it can be tracked and found.

are AirTags ok for dogs
According to Apple, AirTags are best used to track items like your keys, wallet, purse, backpack, and luggage.

Should I Track My Dog With An AirTag?

Apple has made it clear that they do not recommend you track your dog with an Apple AirTag, furthermore, AirTags are not designed to be attached to dogs.

Despite Apple’s recommendation, the following quote has been published. “If people do that, they just have to make sure that their moving pet gets into range of a device in the Find My network so its location can be tracked.”

Apple Inc. VP of Marketing

One point to consider is that AirTags rely heavily on other people with Apple iOS devices capable of registering their interaction with the AirTag itself.

For dog owners who live in remote areas, no one will likely interact with your lost AirTag, therefore making tracking your dog with an AirTag somewhat pointless.

Ultra Wideband capabilities for the precision finding of lost items work well. An AirTag allows you to track any lost item accurately when it’s within the normal range of around 100 feet. However, when using Ultra Wideband for tracking a dog, unless you lose your dog in your home or yard often, this function may not be that useful.

Leather AirTag Dog Collar

Dog Collar Holder

Can AirTags Hurt Dogs?

It’s unlikely that an AirTag will hurt dogs while it’s attached to a collar, additionally, AirTags themselves do not contain any sharp or rough edges that would hurt a dog.

However, it would be possible for a dog to chew on and possibly break the AirTag, which would potentially lead to sharp edges and the potential of swallowing the CR2032 coin cell battery – if your dog likes that sort of thing.

If you decide to use an AirTag to track your dog, ensure that the AirTag is correctly attached to your dog’s collar. Also, check to see if your dog is comfortable with wearing the AirTag if it isn’t, it may try to remove it.

Pack of 4 Apple AirTags

Are AirTags Too Heavy For Dogs?

Weighing in at 0.39 ounces or 11 grams, it’s unlikely that an AirTag is too heavy for dogs.

When considering an AirTag’s weight for a dog, keep in mind that 0.39 ounces is the AirTag only weight and, since AirTags are not designed to attach to dogs, you will need to factor in the AirTag dog collar’s holder weight too.

For further reading, Apple has published their AirTag technical specifications publicly.

Other Dog Tracking Options

If you’re looking for a dog tracker, then perhaps consider a specific pet GPS tracker. Below is a popular choice. For reference, a GPS tracker is about the same size as an AirTag but offers more dog-specific tracking features.

GeoZilla GPS Location Tracker

Frequently Asked Questions

Hopefully, I have answered all of your questions related to, are AirTags ok for dogs. However, you may still have other questions surrounding AirTags. If you do, below I have answered some common frequently asked questions.

Are AirTags waterproof?

AirTags are not waterproof, but they are water-resistant and have a dust and splash ingress rating of IP67.

How long do AirTags last?

AirTags have a battery life of around one year.

Do AirTags scratch easily?

The polished stainless steal side of an AirTag does scratch easily.

Final Thoughts On Are AirTags Ok For Dogs

So, in conclusion, are AirTags ok for dogs? While Apple recommends AirTag users not to track dogs, it’s technically possible to do so. Before strapping an AirTag onto your family dog, it’s important to understand the limitations that an AirTag has over dedicated GPS dog trackers.

Head on over to my other AirTag articles if you looking for some other useful AirTag ideas, or if your wondering can AirTags get wet? I answer that too.


Stay Curious.
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