In recent years, more pet owners have turned to technology to protect their dogs and cats. Traditional ID tags and microchips are still important, but they rely on someone else finding and scanning your pet. GPS trackers and Bluetooth devices like Apple AirTags have added another layer of security.
With 1 in 3 pets going missing at some point in their lives, according to the Animal Humane Society, the demand for reliable, affordable tracking solutions has grown. Pet parents want peace of mind, and tools like AirTags seem like a simple, low-cost way to keep pets safe. But this raises an important question: are AirTags actually safe for pets?
How Apple AirTags Work
AirTags were designed by Apple to help people track everyday items, like keys, wallets, or luggage, using the Find My app. Unlike GPS trackers, they don’t have their own cellular connection. Instead, they use Bluetooth and Apple’s vast network of iPhones to anonymously relay location data back to the owner.
Here’s how they work:
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The AirTag sends a Bluetooth signal.
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Any nearby iPhone detects the signal and securely updates the location in the owner’s Find My app.
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Owners can see their AirTag on a map, play a sound to help locate it, or use Precision Finding (if they have an iPhone 11 or newer).
For everyday objects, this system works incredibly well. It also works well for pets, but only if the AirTag is securely attached and used properly. See our detailed article on How The AirTag Helps Keep Your Pet Safe and Sound.
The Benefits of Using AirTags for Pets
Even though Apple does not market AirTags as a dedicated pet tracker, many dog and cat owners have found them useful. Some of the main benefits include:
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Affordable: At around $29, AirTags are far cheaper than GPS collars, which often require a $10-$20 monthly subscription.
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No charging needed for months: AirTags have a replaceable battery that lasts up to a year.
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Simple tracking via iPhone: If you already own an iPhone, there’s no need for another app or device.
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Helps in emergencies: If your dog slips out the front door or your cat doesn’t come home, an AirTag can quickly point you in the right direction.
Many owners use AirTags as a layer of protection, not as a replacement for ID tags or microchips. The key is ensuring the AirTag is securely attached to the collar so it doesn’t fall off.
Potential Risks and Concerns
While AirTags offer peace of mind, they do come with limitations and risks, especially when used for pets:
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Not a GPS device: AirTags don’t provide real-time continuous tracking. If your dog runs into a remote area with no iPhones nearby, you may not get frequent location updates.
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Choking hazard if misused: If attached with a flimsy holder or left dangling, an AirTag could break loose and become a risk, especially for smaller pets.
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Durability issues: AirTags are water resistant, but not waterproof. A dog who loves swimming may reduce the device’s lifespan.
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Safety disclaimers: Apple explicitly states AirTags were not designed for pet tracking, meaning it’s up to owners to weigh the risks and benefits.
This is why most veterinarians recommend using AirTags only as an extra safety layer, not as your only solution. A secure, built-in collar designed specifically around the AirTag, like our Premium Leather AirTag Collar, can help minimize risks compared to cheap holders that fall off easily.
Risks and Limitations of Using AirTags on Pets
AirTags can be a helpful tool, but they’re not perfect. Pet owners should be aware of certain risks and limitations:
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Not a GPS collar – AirTags do not provide constant live tracking. Instead, they update your pet’s location whenever they come near another Apple device.
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Possible delays – In less populated areas, it may take longer for the location to refresh if there aren’t many iPhones nearby.
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Size concerns for cats and small dogs – While an AirTag is light (0.39 ounces/11 grams), it can still feel bulky if not secured properly on smaller pets.
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Chewing or damage – Pets that chew their collars could damage the AirTag if it’s not well-protected.
For these reasons, AirTags should not be seen as a full replacement for ID tags or microchips.
What Veterinarians Say
Veterinarians often get asked whether AirTags are safe and effective for pets. While there’s no official veterinary consensus yet, many agree on a few important points:
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Safe when used correctly – AirTags do not emit harmful signals that would endanger pets. They use low-energy Bluetooth.
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Better than nothing – For urban and suburban pets, an AirTag collar is a simple and affordable way to increase the chance of recovering a lost pet.
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Use with a secure holder – Vets stress that the AirTag must be firmly attached so it doesn’t fall off or become a choking hazard.
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Still microchip your pet – AirTags are not a substitute for permanent identification. Microchips remain essential.
Alternatives and Complements to AirTags
If AirTags don’t feel like the right fit for your pet, there are other tracking options to consider:
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GPS collars – Provide real-time location tracking but often require charging and monthly subscriptions.
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Microchips – Permanent ID implanted under the skin, essential for lifetime identification but only useful when scanned.
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ID tags – The simplest, most immediate way for someone to contact you if your pet is found.
For many owners, the best approach is layering multiple tools: a microchip for permanent ID, an ID tag for immediate contact, and an AirTag collar for active tracking.
Practical Safety Tips for Pet Owners
If you decide to use an AirTag with your dog or cat, these best practices will help keep it safe and effective:
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Choose the right collar – For dogs, select a durable collar with a built-in AirTag pocket, like our leather AirTag dog collar, so it stays secure. For cats, opt for a lightweight breakaway collar designed for AirTags, like our AirTag cat collar.
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Check fit regularly – Make sure the collar is snug enough that the AirTag doesn’t dangle, but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
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Inspect for wear and tear – AirTags are durable, but holders and collars can degrade over time. Replace them if they show damage.
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Train recall with the AirTag sound – Some pets can be trained to come when they hear the AirTag chime, adding an extra safety layer. If you want to learn more about AirTag beeping, check out our in-depth article on Why AirTags Beep.
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Use alongside an ID tag – AirTags are a backup, not a replacement. Always include a tag with your phone number.
Common Myths About AirTags for Pets
Because Apple doesn’t market AirTags as pet trackers, there’s a lot of confusion online. Let’s clear up a few myths:
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Myth 1: AirTags need Wi-Fi to work.
Not true. AirTags connect via Bluetooth to nearby iPhones, which then relay the location through Apple’s Find My network. -
Myth 2: AirTags are only for finding lost keys or bags.
While Apple doesn’t promote them for pets, thousands of dog and cat owners successfully use them every day as part of their pet safety setup. -
Myth 3: AirTags replace microchips.
They don’t. A microchip is permanent identification, while an AirTag helps you actively track your pet. The two should work together, not replace one another.
See our dedicated post on other common AirTag myths.
Final Thoughts – Should You Use an AirTag on Your Pet?
AirTags are not a one-size-fits-all solution, but when used correctly, they provide peace of mind to millions of pet parents. They’re affordable, lightweight, and tap into one of the largest location networks in the world: Apple’s Find My system.
For dogs, a secure collar designed for AirTags ensures the device won’t fall off during play or walks. For cats, a lightweight breakaway collar balances safety with tracking ability. Most importantly, AirTags should be part of a layered safety strategy that includes ID tags, microchips, and good recall training.
If your biggest fear is losing your pet, then pairing an AirTag with a purpose-built collar is a smart, low-hassle step toward keeping them safe.
