A Tractive tracker helps you keep track of your pet's location and health. Whether your cat is exploring the neighborhood, your dog is on an off-leash adventure, or your goat is grazing across acres of pasture, you'll always know where they are and how they're doing.
What a tracker is
A Tractive tracker is a small, wearable device that tracks your pet's location and monitors their health and activity. It sends this information to the Tractive app on your smartphone, so you can check on your pet anytime, anywhere.
What it looks like
The tracker is a compact device designed for animals. Depending on the model, it either attaches to your pet's existing collar or harness, or comes with an integrated collar.
What it does
- Shows your pet's location on a map
- Updates their location throughout the day
- Tracks daily activity and sleep
- Sends alerts when your pet leaves safe zones
- Monitors health trends over time
How Tractive works
Location tracking
The tracker uses GPS satellites to find your pet's location, then sends that information to your phone over cellular networks (similar to how a smartphone works). This means you can track your pet anywhere there's cellular coverage, not just when you're nearby.
With Premium, you can track your pet internationally in over 175 countries.
Health and activity monitoring
The tracker measures your pet's movement throughout the day and syncs this data to your phone. Some health data syncs via Bluetooth when you're near your pet, while location tracking works anywhere with cellular coverage.
The Tractive app
All tracking happens through the free Tractive app (available for iOS and Android). The app shows your pet's location on a map and displays their health and activity data.
What you can do with Tractive
Here's how Tractive helps you and your pet:
Always know where your pet is
See your pet's location on a map anytime. The location updates automatically every few minutes, so you always know where they are, whether they're in the backyard or exploring the neighborhood.
Find them quickly if they get lost
Turn on LIVE Tracking for real-time updates every 2-3 seconds. This helps you locate your pet quickly if they wander off or get out unexpectedly.
Get alerts if they leave safe areas
Set up Virtual Fences around places like your home or yard. You'll get a notification on your phone if your pet leaves or enters these areas, so you can respond right away.
Track their health and activity
Monitor how much your pet moves each day, how well they're sleeping, and whether their activity levels are changing. This helps you spot potential health issues early and make sure they're getting enough exercise.
Share access with family and friends
Let family members track your pet too. Everyone can see your pet's location and health data in their own app.
For a complete list of features, see: What features does Tractive offer?
What you need to get started
A Tractive tracker
Choose the tracker that's right for your needs. Different models are designed for different animal sizes and activity levels.
See: Which tracker is right for my pet?
A smartphone
Download the free Tractive GPS app for iOS or Android. This is where you'll see location and activity data.
A subscription plan
Tractive trackers require a subscription to send location data over cellular networks. Your subscription includes unlimited location tracking, health and activity monitoring, and all app features.
See: Tractive subscription plans
A way to attach the tracker
Depending on the tracker model you choose:
- Some attach to an existing collar or harness with a mount
- Some come with an integrated collar included
Check your specific model to see what's included and what you'll need.
💡 Tip: If you're tracking an animal that doesn't wear a collar (like livestock or horses), the tracker can be attached to a halter, harness, or secure mount. Make sure the attachment is secure and won't come loose during normal movement.
Who can use Tractive trackers
Legal regulations for GPS tracking vary by region and purpose. It's your responsibility to ensure you comply with all local laws when tracking animals, people, or objects. Using GPS tracking devices to track people without their consent may be illegal in your area.
For cats and dogs
Tractive trackers are designed with cats and dogs in mind. Whether you have an indoor-outdoor cat, an adventurous dog who loves off-leash time, or a pet who's an escape artist, a Tractive tracker helps you keep them safe.
For other animals
Tractive trackers also work for other animals, including:
- Horses
- Livestock (cattle, goats, sheep)
- Other companion animals
Many farmers, ranchers, and animal owners use Tractive trackers to monitor animals across large properties or prevent livestock theft.
For tracking objects
You can also use a Tractive tracker to keep tabs on valuable items like cars, bicycles, or luggage. Each tracker requires its own subscription plan.
Choosing the right tracker
Different tracker models are designed for different needs. Some are lighter and more compact for smaller animals, while others have longer battery life for animals that spend extended time outdoors or across large properties.
To find the best tracker for your needs, see: Which tracker is right for my pet?