Keeping track of your dog has never been easier or smarter. Whether your pup loves to roam or you’re just a doting pet parent who wants peace of mind, the Tractive XL GPS Dog Tracker offers advanced technology to monitor location and health in real time. With live tracking, activity monitoring, and all-day comfort, it’s one of the most complete solutions available today.
As someone who reviews hundreds of pet gear products every year at RatedByMia, I knew I had to get my hands (and paws) on this tracker. So, I spent weeks exploring its features with my dog to determine whether it’s the real deal or just another tech gadget with hype.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Tractive XL GPS Dog Tracker, from design and functionality to whether it’s worth the investment.
Who Is It For?
The Tractive XL GPS Dog Tracker is designed for pet owners who want a reliable and advanced way to track their dogs’ location and health in real time. It’s ideal for:
- Owners of medium to large dogs (18+ kg or about 40 lbs) who frequently roam in open spaces, such as farms, parks, and large neighborhoods.
- Pet parents concerned about escapes, wandering, or health monitoring.
- Outdoor enthusiasts who hike or camp with their dogs.
However, this product might not be ideal for owners of small breeds or pets under 40 lbs due to the XL-sized fit. Additionally, those looking for a purely budget-friendly option without extra features like health tracking may find something simpler to suit their needs.
Product Overview & Summary Box
Tractive XL GPS Dog Tracker
- Live GPS location tracking with unlimited range
- Health and activity monitoring
- Built for larger dogs (18+ kg / 40+ lbs)
- IPX7 waterproof design
- Up to 1-month battery life
- Works in 175+ countries
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Design & Build
Right out of the box, the device impresses with its rugged yet pet-friendly design. The Tractive XL GPS Dog Tracker is slightly larger than the standard model, making it a more balanced match for bigger breeds like Labradors, Huskies, and German Shepherds. It fits snugly onto most large dog collars and feels durable enough to handle rough-and-tumble adventures.
Weighing in lightly despite its size, the tracker is engineered for 24/7 wear. It’s completely waterproof (rated IPX7), dust-resistant, and impact-resistant. That translates to worry-free playtime, rainy-day romps, or even swims — yes, it can accompany your dog wherever they go.
Features & Functionality
This GPS dog tracker isn’t just about location — it’s also a powerful dog health monitor. Here’s a breakdown of its top tools and tech:
Live Tracking & Location History
The live mode gives you real-time updates with no delay, making it easy to follow your dog’s every move via the Tractive app. Plus, you can review historical movement data to analyze patterns or investigate escape attempts.
Virtual Fences
Easily set up “safe zones,” like your backyard or neighborhood boundaries. The app notifies you instantly if your dog leaves or enters defined areas. It’s a major plus for safety-conscious owners.
Health & Activity Monitoring
One of the standout functions is its built-in dog health monitor. You can track rest time, calories burned, and daily activity feedback — essential for keeping an eye on your dog’s wellness and fitness levels. Think of it as a Fitbit for your furry friend.
Global Coverage
The tracker works seamlessly in over 175 countries. Whether you’re traveling or visiting friends across borders, the tracker ensures continuous connectivity (with an active subscription).
Battery Life & Power Management
With a battery life of up to 1 month, the XL version outperforms most alternatives in stamina. And the battery-saving zones feature helps conserve energy even more when your pet is in a designated safe area.
Ease of Use
The initial setup is a breeze. Simply attach the tracker to your dog’s collar, download the Tractive app from your preferred app store, and pair the device. Subscription plans are required for tracking functionality, but activation is straightforward and available through the app.
The app interface is clean, intuitive, and user-friendly. Even less tech-savvy users will find that navigation and customization are simple. Switching between live tracking, activity stats, and location history takes just a few taps.
Charging is easy too — pop off the device, plug it in via USB, and you’re recharged in under 2 hours. And since the battery lasts so long, you won’t need to do this often.
Performance / Effectiveness
Performance-wise, the Tractive XL GPS Dog Tracker delivers above expectations. The GPS refreshes nearly in real-time, covering even hard-to-reach locales. It uses multiple GPS, cellular, and Bluetooth data points to pin down your dog’s whereabouts accurately.
Notifications and alerts arrive within seconds. If your dog slips out of a safe zone, you’ll know. The activity monitoring update relies on consistent data collection and promotes daily goal setting, which adds value for fitness-oriented pet owners.
During my testing period, I took my dog on hikes, off-leash runs, and neighborhood strolls to test tracking range, signal accuracy, and app responsiveness — the device passed with flying colors every time.
Value for Money
Considering everything it offers — GPS tracking, global coverage, health monitoring, and exceptional battery life — the Tractive XL GPS Dog Tracker offers excellent value for dog owners who want premium safety tech and added peace of mind.
Keep in mind that it does require a subscription to function properly, but the features and reliability you receive easily justify ongoing costs, especially if you consider this an investment in your pet’s safety and well-being.
Check the product box above for the most up-to-date pricing and subscription plan details.
Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- Excellent real-time location tracking
- Up to 1-month battery life
- Waterproof and rugged design for large dogs
- Built-in activity and health monitoring
- Works globally with over 175 countries covered
- Cons:
- Requires an active subscription
- Not suitable for small dogs or pets under 40 lbs
Alternatives & Comparisons
If you’re shopping around, one alternative to consider is the Fi Smart Dog Collar. It’s another GPS dog tracker with stylish design and activity tracking. While it’s good for urban settings and has sleek app tech, it may not offer the same global coverage or battery life as the Tractive XL GPS Dog Tracker.
Another alternative is the Whistle GO Explore. It’s compact and includes GPS and limited health tracking. It’s best suited for medium-sized dogs and offers a slightly more lightweight experience, though with shorter battery life.
If you’re looking for a premium device specifically made for larger dogs with long-lasting power and worldwide tracking, the Tractive XL remains a top-tier option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tractive XL GPS Dog Tracker waterproof?
Yes, it is IPX7 waterproof, meaning it can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes — perfect for dogs who love swimming.
Does the tracker require a subscription?
Yes, a subscription is necessary to access live GPS tracking and other features like health monitoring and global coverage.
How long does the battery last?
The XL version offers up to 1 month of battery life, depending on usage and location settings.
Can I use it for small dogs?
This model is designed for dogs that weigh over 40 lbs (18+ kg). It may be too large or bulky for smaller breeds.
Where does the tracker work?
The Tractive XL works in 175+ countries worldwide, making it perfect for international travel or rural areas with decent coverage.
Conclusion & CTA
The Tractive XL GPS Dog Tracker stands out as a dependable, full-featured device tailored especially for large dogs. Its extremely accurate location tracking, impressive battery life, and dog health monitor features make it more than just a GPS — it’s a powerful wellness companion for your pet.
If having peace of mind about your dog’s location and health is high on your priority list, this tracker is absolutely worth considering.