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Last reviewed: 10 November 2025 | Reviewed by: UK Dog Care & Grooming Contributor
UK dog owners need reliable pet tech when exploring the countryside. GPS trackers, activity monitors, and portable hydration gear keep your dog safe during walks through forests, hills, and coastal paths.
Walking dogs is a national pastime here. From the New Forest to the Kent Downs, millions of owners head outdoors with their dogs every week. But countryside walks bring real risks—dogs can disappear into dense woodland, pick up ticks, or injure themselves far from help.
That's where pet tech comes in. Modern GPS trackers show you exactly where your dog is in real-time. Activity monitors track their health on the go. Portable water bottles keep them hydrated during long rambles. This gear doesn't just add convenience—it can save your dog's life.
Before heading into the countryside, make sure you have these essentials. This checklist covers the most important tech and gear for safe outdoor adventures with your dog.
For effective recall training, the ACME Dog Whistle No. 211.5 offers standardised frequency, long-range audibility, and comes with a lanyard. Ideal for countryside walks where wind and distance make voice commands less effective. Made in England with proven reliability.
More than 25,000 pets have been reported missing in the UK since 2023, according to Petlog, the UK's leading pet database.[1] While many are reunited with their owners thanks to microchips, GPS trackers take things further—they help you find your dog before they're officially "lost." For a detailed comparison of the best GPS trackers available for UK dog owners, including battery life comparisons and subscription costs, check our comprehensive guide.
Modern GPS trackers don't just tell you roughly where your dog is. They show you their exact location, updated every few seconds. This matters most when your dog bolts after a rabbit in dense woodland or disappears over a hill.
The best trackers use satellite-based GPS combined with mobile networks. Devices like the Tractive GPS Tracker work across 175+ countries[2] and provide live updates directly to your phone. You can watch your dog's movement in real-time, which means you can head straight towards them instead of searching blindly.
Understanding Coverage Requirements:
All GPS trackers need mobile signal to send data to your phone. The tracker receives location data from satellites (which works almost everywhere), but it can only send that information to your phone via mobile networks. In areas with poor mobile coverage, location updates will be delayed until your dog moves into an area with signal. Before buying any tracker, check mobile coverage in your regular walking areas using Ofcom's coverage checker.[3]
Geo-fencing lets you set up invisible boundaries on a map. If your dog crosses that line, you get an instant alert on your phone. This is brilliant for walks in unfamiliar places or areas near roads.
You can create multiple zones—one for your garden, another for your regular walking spot, and temporary ones for holiday destinations. The system notifies you the moment your dog wanders too far.
Winter walks often end in darkness. If your dog runs off at dusk, you need more than just their location coordinates. Built-in LED lights and sound features help you spot them in heavy cover or failing light.
The Tractive DOG 6 includes both light and sound functions you can trigger remotely.[4] When you're close to your dog but can't see them in thick bracken or woodland, activate the light and follow it straight to them.
Some advanced trackers now include voice communication. Devices like the Pawfit tracker let you send voice commands remotely,[5] while the GlocalMe PetPhone offers two-way audio so you can speak to your dog and hear their surroundings.[6] Explore Pawfit's range of GPS trackers or check out the GlocalMe PetPhone for advanced two-way communication features.
These features work best for recall training. If your dog knows your voice commands, being able to call them back through the tracker adds another layer of control when they're out of sight.
Apple AirTags are tempting because they're affordable and easy to use. However, they're not suitable for tracking dogs in countryside areas.
AirTags rely on nearby Apple devices to report their location. In busy urban areas with lots of iPhone users, this can work reasonably well for finding lost items. But in rural countryside, forests, or coastal paths where you might not see another person for hours, there simply aren't enough Apple devices around to relay the AirTag's location.
Dedicated GPS trackers use satellites for location and mobile networks to send updates directly to your phone. They don't depend on other people being nearby. For dogs that explore off-path or in remote areas, a proper GPS tracker is essential.
Pro Tip:
Always test your GPS tracker on your actual walking routes before relying on it in an emergency. Walk your regular paths and check how quickly updates arrive, whether signal drops in certain spots, and how accurate the location is. This helps you understand the tracker's limitations and know when to keep your dog on lead.
British weather means rain. Lots of it. Your GPS tracker needs to handle muddy puddles, river crossings, and unexpected downpours without failing.
Look for IP67 or IP68 waterproof ratings. IP67 means the device can survive being submerged in up to 1 metre of water for 30 minutes. IP68 offers even better protection. Don't settle for "water-resistant"—that's not enough for active outdoor dogs.
Battery life varies hugely between trackers. How long a charge lasts depends on how often the tracker updates your dog's location and whether you use power-saving features.
Subscription-based trackers:
These trackers need monthly or yearly subscriptions for the mobile data they use to send location updates.
No subscription option:
The PitPat Dog GPS Tracker stands out because you pay once upfront and never need a subscription. It includes a free lifetime SIM.[7] Battery life reaches up to a couple of weeks, which is among the best available.
PitPat achieves longer battery life by only checking GPS location when you start tracking a walk, rather than constantly monitoring. The tracker itself weighs 30g, so it won't bother smaller dogs. The brand is made in the UK, which means good customer support and reliable build quality. Visit PitPat's official website to learn more about their subscription-free GPS tracker.
Your dog shouldn't notice they're wearing a tracker. Heavy devices can irritate their neck or cause them to scratch at their collar.
Lightweight options work best for smaller breeds. The Pawfit Lite weighs just 18g and has IP68 waterproofing,[8] while the PitPat comes in at 30g. Both attach securely to standard collars or harnesses without adding bulk. View the Pawfit Lite specifications for lightweight tracking options suitable for smaller dogs.
For larger dogs, weight matters less, but secure attachment is crucial. Check that the mounting system won't slip off during vigorous activity or when your dog squeezes through hedges.
For comprehensive real-time tracking, the Tractive GPS Dog Tracker offers live location updates, escape alerts, activity monitoring, and works across the UK with excellent mobile network coverage. Features IP67 waterproofing and up to 7 days battery life.
GPS tracking is just one part of modern pet tech. Activity monitors help you understand your dog's health and fitness patterns during outdoor adventures.
These devices record how far your dog walks, how much they run, and when they rest. You can set daily activity goals based on their breed, age, and fitness level.
This data proves useful for managing weight, especially in breeds prone to obesity. If your dog isn't hitting their activity targets, you'll know they need longer or more energetic walks. If they're suddenly less active than normal, it might signal they're feeling unwell.
The newest trackers go beyond counting steps. The latest Tractive DOG 6 model monitors heart rate, respiratory rate, and even bark detection,[9] which can detect health issues early.
Unusual heart rate patterns during walks might indicate cardiac problems. Changes in breathing rate could signal respiratory issues or overheating. Catching these signs early means you can get your dog to a vet before minor problems become serious. For dogs with separation anxiety, combining health monitoring with home surveillance can help—learn how a camera with treat-tossing features complements outdoor tech for complete peace of mind.
Sleep tracking also helps. Dogs that aren't sleeping well might be in pain or stressed. The data shows exactly how much quality rest they're getting between adventures.
Most tracker apps let you export health reports. When you visit the vet, you can show them weeks or months of activity data rather than relying on memory.
This is particularly helpful for monitoring recovery from injuries or managing chronic conditions. Your vet can see exactly how active your dog has been and adjust treatment plans based on real evidence.
Dogs dehydrate quickly during long walks, especially in warm weather or on strenuous hikes. Portable water bottles with built-in bowls solve this problem without adding much weight to your pack.
Look for bottles made from stainless steel or BPA-free plastic. Silicone bowls fold flat when not in use, taking up minimal space. The best designs let you squeeze water directly into the bowl with one hand, so you're not fumbling with caps and separate containers.
Bring enough water for both you and your dog. On hot days, a medium-sized dog might need half a litre or more during a two-hour walk.
Keep your dog hydrated with the MalsiPree Portable Dog Water Bottle (550ml) - features leak-proof design, one-hand operation, built-in bowl, and BPA-free materials. Perfect for walks, hikes, and outdoor adventures.
Ticks are common in UK countryside, particularly in woodland and areas with long grass. Places like the New Forest have high tick populations, and these parasites can transmit Lyme disease.[10] During autumn walks when parasite activity peaks, vigilance becomes even more important.
Carry a tick removal tool on every walk. These small plastic hooks twist under the tick's body and lift it out cleanly without leaving the head embedded. Never pull ticks off with your fingers or tweezers—you'll likely leave parts behind, which increases infection risk.
Check your dog thoroughly after woodland walks, paying special attention to ears, armpits, and between toes. The sooner you remove a tick, the lower the chance of disease transmission.
Safely remove ticks with the O'Tom Tick Twister Remover Set - includes 2 sizes for all tick sizes, easy twist-and-lift action, and comes with storage pouch. Used by vets and proven to remove ticks completely without leaving the head embedded.
Dogs can injure themselves far from roads or car parks. A paw injury, heat exhaustion, or an adder bite (the UK's only venomous snake[11]) might leave your dog unable to walk.
A dog carrying sling or stretcher lets you transport an injured dog safely. These lightweight pieces of kit fold small enough to fit in a rucksack but can support dogs up to 30kg or more. If you regularly transport your dog to remote walking locations, investing in heavy-duty travel crates ensures they travel safely to and from your adventures.
Adder bites, while rarely fatal, cause severe pain and swelling. Dogs that step on adders basking in sunny spots may need immediate veterinary care. Being able to carry your dog out of remote areas could save their life.
Be prepared for emergencies with the COODEO Dog Carry Sling - emergency backpack-style support harness for injured or elderly dogs. Features leg support, rehabilitation assistance, and multiple size options up to 2XL for large breeds. Perfect for helping dogs with mobility issues navigate difficult terrain.
Winter afternoon walks often end in darkness. Reflective vests and LED collars make your dog visible to other walkers, cyclists, and vehicles near roads.
LED collars are better than reflective gear alone because they provide their own light source rather than just reflecting light back. You can spot your dog from much further away, which is crucial if they wander off-path.
Some GPS trackers include built-in lights, giving you both tracking and visibility in one device.
Increase visibility with the MASBRILL Light Up Dog Collar - USB rechargeable LED collar with 3 glowing modes, waterproof design, and adjustable sizing for small to large dogs. Perfect for winter afternoon walks and early morning adventures.
For maximum visibility, try the High Visibility Reflective Dog Vest - features fluorescent yellow material with reflective strips, adjustable straps, leash hole, and suitable for all outdoor activities including walking, jogging, and training near roads.
Pet tech helps you be a better dog owner, but it doesn't replace responsible behaviour. The Countryside Code sets out rules everyone should follow when walking dogs in rural areas.
You must keep your dog in sight and close enough to respond to commands. GPS trackers help with this—they alert you immediately if your dog goes too far.
On Open Access land, dogs must be on leads around livestock. Between 1 March and 31 July, they need to be on leads even if no livestock is present. This protects ground-nesting birds during breeding season.[12]
Geo-fencing features on GPS trackers support these rules. Set up zones around sensitive areas, and you'll get warnings if your dog enters restricted zones.
Walk around field edges unless a clear path crosses the middle. This prevents crop damage and reduces disturbance to wildlife.
Activity trackers record your walking routes. Review these afterwards to ensure you're using proper footpaths and not accidentally trespassing or damaging sensitive habitats.
Tech doesn't help with this—you still need to bag waste and take it home or use designated bins. Never leave bagged waste hanging in trees or hidden in hedges. Speaking of post-walk cleanup, our muddy walk recovery guide covers essential techniques for dealing with dirty dogs after countryside adventures.
Some walkers use "Dicky Bags" (small pouches that clip to leads) to carry used poo bags until they reach a bin. Keep several spare bags in your pockets or rucksack. During winter months, protect your dog's paws from salt and grit with our comprehensive winter paw care guide.
Choose eco-friendly options with GREENER WALKER Biodegradable Dog Poo Bags (540 Count) - extra thick, 100% leak-proof, and made from plant-based materials. Each roll fits standard dispensers and breaks down naturally, reducing environmental impact on countryside walks.
After muddy countryside adventures, use the Pawdaw Luxury Dog Drying Bag - award-winning super-absorbent drying solution that keeps your car and home clean. Features unique harness hole for safe vehicle restraint and contains all debris from muddy walks.
Investing in reliable GPS trackers and activity monitors makes countryside walks safer and less stressful. You'll know where your dog is, how they're feeling, and whether they're getting enough exercise.
This gear pays for itself the first time it helps you find a lost dog or alerts you to a health problem before it becomes serious. Combined with proper outdoor equipment like portable water bottles and first aid supplies, you're prepared for whatever happens during your adventures.
Whether you're exploring the Kent Downs, walking coastal paths, or hiking through national parks, the right pet tech keeps your dog safe while you both enjoy the outdoors.
No. The tracker gets GPS coordinates from satellites (which works almost everywhere), but it sends updates to your phone using mobile networks. Without mobile signal, updates are delayed until your dog moves into an area with coverage. This is why testing your tracker on your regular walking routes is essential. Use Ofcom's coverage checker to see signal strength in your walking areas before buying.[3]
Aim for at least IP67 or IP68. IP67 means the device can survive temporary submersion in up to 1 metre of water for 30 minutes. IP68 offers even better protection against water and dust. British weather means rain, puddles, and mud, so waterproofing isn't optional—it's essential. Still avoid prolonged water exposure unless the manufacturer specifically allows it.
Not for countryside walks. AirTags rely on nearby Apple devices to report their location. They can help in busy urban areas with lots of iPhone users, but in rural countryside, forests, or coastal paths, there simply aren't enough people around to make them reliable. Dedicated GPS trackers use satellites and mobile networks to send updates directly to your phone, regardless of whether other people are nearby. For dogs that explore off-path or in remote areas, a proper GPS tracker is essential.
No. As of November 2025, PitPat includes a lifetime SIM with no subscription fees.[7] You pay once upfront and never need to worry about monthly charges. This makes it one of the most cost-effective options for long-term use. Always verify current pricing and terms on the official PitPat website, as policies can change.
Tractive advertises 2-3 second updates in Live mode.[9] However, this drains the battery much faster than normal tracking mode. Most trackers offer a balance between update frequency and battery life—you can switch to rapid updates when you need them most, but use standard mode (updates every 2-3 minutes) for everyday walks to preserve battery.
Essential items include: GPS tracker, LED collar or reflective vest for visibility, portable water bottle with bowl, tick removal tool, spare poo bags, recall whistle, and optionally a carry sling for emergencies. In winter, add paw protection balm and a towel for drying. Check our Quick Buyer's Checklist at the top of this article for detailed rationales for each item.
Protect your dog's paws from salt, ice, and rough terrain with Warren London Paw Defense Wax - creates a protective barrier against harsh winter conditions, hot pavement, and rough surfaces. Made in the USA with natural ingredients, perfect for countryside adventures year-round.
Disclaimer: All product specifications, availability, and coverage details are accurate as of 10 November 2025 and may change. Always verify current information on official manufacturer or government websites. Pet tech enhances safety but does not replace recall training and responsible countryside conduct.
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