How to Choose the Right GPS Dog Tracking System

At Double U Hunting Supply, we’re passionate about helping hound hunters, bird hunters, dog trainers, and outdoor enthusiasts find the perfect dog tracking system. Whether you’re tracking hounds on a bear hunt, following bird dogs through quail cover, or training your pack, our team offers unmatched customer service to guide you to the right solution. With top brands like Garmin, Dogtra, and SportDOG, we’ll ensure you track your dogs with confidence. Below, we outline key factors to consider when choosing a system, including our top recommendations like the robust Garmin Alpha 300. Need personalized advice? Call our experts at 855-384-8687 or contact us today!

Key Factors to Consider

• Hunting Style: Your tracking system should align with your hunting approach. Hound hunters tracking big game (e.g., bear, bobcat) over long distances need GPS systems like the Garmin Alpha XL, ideal for truck-based hunting with up to 9 miles line-of-sight range (1–3 miles real-world). Pair it with a truck antenna (see our Long Range Antenna options) for maximum range. For hiking to the tree, the Garmin Alpha 300 Bundles  are one of the best, offering portability and mapping for rugged terrain. Bird hunters tracking pointing dogs or flushers in upland fields (e.g., pheasant, quail) benefit from lightweight systems like the Garmin Pro 550 Plus or the affordable Dogtra Pathfinder TRX (1–5 miles). Traditionalists can opt for Wildlife Materials telemetry collars for short-range tracking (1–3 miles).
• Number of Dogs: Multi-dog hunts require systems that support your pack. The Garmin Alpha 300, a top choice, tracks up to 20 dogs with robust training features, perfect for hound hunters or bird hunters managing multiple pointers. The Dogtra Pathfinder TRX, a budget option, also supports up to 21 dogs, ideal for competitive bird dog trials, though less popular than Garmin.
• Terrain: Challenging terrains demand specialized systems. Hound hunters in rugged mountains or forests rely on the Garmin Alpha 300 for its detailed topo maps and satellite imagery. Bird hunters in open fields can use the Garmin Pro 550 Plus for clear tracking visuals. Boost range in tough areas with a long-range antenna—check our Antenna Comparison Chart.
• Training Needs: For training and tracking, systems like the Garmin Alpha 300 offer stimulation and tone for in-field corrections, ideal for hound hunters or bird dog trainers refining pointing or flushing skills. The Garmin Pro 550 Plus is great for bird hunters needing reliable training features. For tracking-only, the Dogtra Pathfinder TRX is cost-effective and UKC event-approved.
• Vehicle vs. Handheld Tracking: Hound hunters often use vehicle-mounted systems like the Garmin Alpha XL with truck antennas (e.g., Garmin extended Range Magnetic Truck Mount) for long-range tracking from a truck. When hiking to the tree, the portable Garmin Alpha 300 excels. Bird hunters prefer lightweight handhelds like the Garmin Pro 550 Plus for mobility in fields. Our team can recommend hybrid setups for versatility.
• Cost and Resale Value: Budget matters. The Dogtra Pathfinder is a lower-cost alternative to Garmin, appealing to budget-conscious hunters, but it’s less popular and has lower resale or trade-in value. Garmin systems like the Alpha 300 and Alpha XL offer higher resale value due to their popularity, durability, and robust features, making them a long-term investment.

Top Recommendations

Here’s a comparison of our top tracking systems to help you choose. Our customer service team is ready to ensure you find the best system for tracking your dogs!

Need Expert Advice? At Double U Hunting Supply, we pride ourselves on helping hunters and trainers find the ideal tracking system. Whether you’re a hound hunter tracking from a truck, a bird hunter in the field, or training multiple dogs, we’ll take the time to understand your needs. Call us at 855-384-8687 or contact us today!