Yes, you can AirTag your pet—but whether you should comes down to understanding the benefits, the limits, and safer alternatives. While Apple’s AirTags were built for keys and wallets (like your favourite airtag wallet), more pet owners are experimenting with attaching them to collars. It’s easy, cheap, and offers peace of mind—but is it actually reliable enough for tracking a wandering dog or an escape-artist cat?
Let’s unpack everything you need to know before you clip one on your furry mate.
What’s an AirTag, and Can It Track Pets?
AirTags are small Bluetooth-powered tracking devices designed to help locate misplaced personal items. Most commonly used in an airtag wallet or luggage, they work via Apple’s “Find My” network—leveraging millions of iPhones to ping your tag’s last known location.
Technically, you can use them on pets, especially dogs or indoor cats. But Apple is clear about one thing: AirTags are not built for live tracking or as a pet-tracking solution. And that’s where things get a bit tricky.
Is an AirTag Accurate Enough for My Pet?
Here’s what you can realistically expect from an AirTag on your pet’s collar:
- Urban/Suburban Areas: Pretty good tracking. If your dog slips out of the gate and your neighbours use iPhones, you’ll likely see updated locations in near real-time.
- Rural/Bushland Areas: Not ideal. If there are few or no nearby Apple devices, the AirTag won’t update until one comes into range.
- Real-time movement: You won’t get it. Unlike GPS collars, AirTags don’t provide continuous tracking or route history.
So while they’re useful as a “last known location” tool, they’re not a true GPS replacement.
What Are the Pros of Using an AirTag for Pets?
There’s a reason this idea has caught on. For certain situations, using an AirTag on a pet can be helpful.
- Affordable peace of mind: AirTags are far cheaper than GPS collars or subscription trackers.
- Lightweight and unobtrusive: They don’t weigh your pet down or cause discomfort.
- Lost Mode is powerful: If someone finds your pet and taps the tag with their phone, they can see your contact info—if you’ve enabled it.
- Battery lasts about a year: No weekly charging drama.
And because they’re part of Apple’s ecosystem, AirTags benefit from Australia’s high iPhone usage, especially in urban areas.
What Are the Risks of Using an AirTag on a Pet?
Apple themselves advise against using AirTags to track people or pets. And it’s not just legal speak—there are genuine limitations and risks.
- No constant location updates: If your dog runs into bushland or an area without phones, it’s effectively invisible.
- No geo-fencing alerts: You won’t be notified when your pet leaves a specific zone.
- Not waterproof: While they’re splash resistant, AirTags can be damaged by extended exposure to water—something dogs excel at.
- Potential for false confidence: Thinking your pet is trackable can delay your response time if they go missing.
If your pet is prone to running away, you might want to invest in a dedicated pet GPS collar that offers real-time updates and fencing alerts.
What Are Safer Alternatives for Pet Tracking?
If you’re after reliable pet tracking, especially in low-density areas or for peace of mind while travelling, you’ve got stronger options than an AirTag.
1. GPS Collars (like Tractive or Fi):
These devices use cellular networks for live tracking and often come with features like activity monitoring and safe zones. Some charge a monthly fee, but the accuracy is worth it.
2. Microchipping:
While not a tracker, microchipping is a legal requirement in most Aussie states and is essential for identification at shelters or vet clinics.
3. Bluetooth Pet Tags (with alerts):
Some Bluetooth-based trackers (like Tile) offer a slightly wider range than AirTags and more robust water protection.
For urban pets with a low escape risk, an AirTag might suffice. But for bushwalkers, beachgoers, or boundary-jumping dogs, go GPS.
How Do I Attach an AirTag to My Pet Safely?
If you decide to go ahead, make sure you mount the AirTag securely and comfortably.
- Use a silicone collar case: Avoid metal keychains or dangling attachments—they’re uncomfortable and unsafe.
- Position it away from the throat: It should sit on the side or back of the collar.
- Check regularly: Ensure it’s still working, hasn’t been chewed, and hasn’t fallen off.
Also, activate Lost Mode in the Find My app and include your phone number so anyone who finds your pet can call you immediately.
Should You Use an AirTag for Your Pet?
If you live in a metro area, have a pet that rarely runs off, and want a backup to their microchip—a well-secured AirTag is a handy addition. Just understand its limits.
For high-risk or rural pets, GPS trackers remain the smarter option.
By understanding where AirTags shine (and where they fall short), you can make the safest call for your pet.
FAQs
Are AirTags safe for pets to wear?
Yes, as long as they’re secured properly and not accessible for chewing. Silicone cases designed for pet collars are best. Avoid sharp edges or hanging attachments.
Do AirTags work in real-time?
No. AirTags provide location updates only when another Apple device is nearby. In dense areas, this can seem close to real-time—but it’s not live GPS.
Will an AirTag still work if my dog goes into the bush?
Unlikely. If there are no iPhones nearby to relay the signal, you won’t get location updates until someone passes within range.
In short, AirTags are designed for objects like a backpack or airtag wallet, not live animals. But if you’re aware of their limitations and use them as a supplement rather than a sole solution, they can be a helpful tool in your pet-safety toolkit. For those who prefer to track belongings more reliably, AirTags still shine when used as intended.
And if you want to dive deeper into Apple’s official take on tracking tools, here’s what Apple recommends for AirTag usage.