Dog Gadgets Worth Buying: Cameras, GPS Trackers and DNA Tests
Pet cameras, GPS trackers and DNA tests can be brilliant — or money wasted. What each one does, the ongoing costs, and who should buy them.
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Dog tech has come a long way. Some gadgets genuinely make life safer and easier; others are novelties. Here's an honest look at the three most popular categories.
Dog cameras: see, talk and treat
A pet camera lets you check in from your phone, hear barking and talk to your dog. Treat-tossing cameras add a fun way to reward calm behaviour.
Worth it if: your dog is home alone for long stretches, you're working on separation anxiety, or you simply worry.
Watch out for: subscriptions. Many cameras need a monthly plan for recordings and smart alerts. Check what works for free.
GPS trackers: find your dog fast
A GPS tracker on the collar shows your dog's live location and can alert you the moment they leave a "safe zone" like your garden.
Worth it if: your dog has escaped before, you hike off lead, or you've just adopted a rescue that doesn't know the area.
Watch out for: all live GPS trackers need a mobile subscription, and they need charging. A tracker is also not a replacement for an ID tag and microchip.
Dog DNA tests: breed and health insights
A cheek swab can reveal your mixed-breed dog's ancestry and screen for inherited health risks.
Worth it if: you have a mixed-breed or rescue dog and want to understand their traits, or you'd like early warning of genetic risks to discuss with your vet.
Watch out for: a DNA result shows risk, not diagnosis. Talk to your vet before acting on health findings.
Feeding gadgets: slow it down
Not every useful gadget is electronic. Treat-dispensing toys turn meals into games and slow down fast eaters.
At a glance
| Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|
| Furbo 360° Dog Camera with Treat Tossing Treat cam | Checking in on your dog and tossing treats while you're out | View on Amazon |
| Tractive GPS Dog Tracker GPS tracker | Escape artists and off-lead adventure dogs | View on Amazon |
| Embark Breed & Health Dog DNA Test DNA test | Mixed-breed owners curious about ancestry and genetic health | View on Amazon |
| KONG Wobbler Treat-Dispensing Dog Toy, Large Food puzzle | Fast eaters and dogs that need mental exercise | View on Amazon |
Our verdict
If you'll use it every week, a camera or tracker can be worth every penny. If you're buying on impulse, start with low-tech enrichment — a KONG or puzzle toy — and see whether your dog really needs more.