Waterproof GPS Collars for Swimming Dogs: Top Picks for 2025

There’s nothing quite like watching your dog bound into the water with pure, tail-wagging joy. Whether it’s lake days, beach trips, or poolside playtime, swimming can be an incredible source of exercise and happiness for dogs. But for pet parents, those adventures also come with a little anxiety—especially when your pup loves to wander or explore beyond the splash zone.

Enter waterproof GPS collars—a game-changer for tracking your dog in real time, even when they’re making waves. These devices combine advanced location technology with rugged waterproof design to help you monitor your dog's whereabouts, whether they're swimming, hiking, or just exploring your backyard.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll break down the top waterproof GPS collars for swimming dogs, what to look for when choosing one, and how to get the most out of your investment. We’ll also link to related articles like our comprehensive best GPS trackers of 2025 and how to choose the right GPS tracker for your dog to give you the full picture.

Why Waterproof GPS Collars Matter for Swimming Dogs

Let’s face it—not all GPS dog collars are created equal. A lot of them claim to be “water-resistant,” but that doesn’t always mean they’re suited for swimming. If your dog is frequently in the water, you need a tracker that’s IP67 or IP68 rated—meaning it can handle full immersion without missing a beat (or a bark).

Here’s what a great waterproof GPS collar should offer:

✅ Reliable real-time tracking (with low latency)
✅ Waterproof rating of IP67 or higher
✅ Durability for active, outdoorsy dogs
✅ Long battery life
✅ Compatibility with your smartphone or smart home
✅ Subscription options that fit your budget

And if your dog is more of an off-leash adventurer, you’ll also want to look at our roundup of subscription-free pet GPS trackers.

Top Waterproof GPS Collars for Swimming Dogs (2025 Picks)

Let’s dive into the best choices available this year.

1. Fi Smart Collar Series 3

Waterproof Rating: IP68
Battery Life: Up to 3 months
Key Feature: Smart activity monitoring + GPS tracking
Why We Love It: Rugged, sleek, and packed with features, Fi Series 3 is built for active dogs and swimming adventures. With LTE-M connectivity and powerful GPS accuracy, you’ll always know where your dog is—even mid-paddle.

This one’s ideal for tech-savvy pet parents who want GPS + fitness tracking in one stylish package.

2. Whistle GO Explore 2.0

Waterproof Rating: IPX8
Battery Life: Up to 20 days
Key Feature: Health & location tracking
Why We Love It: If your dog’s wellness is just as important as their whereabouts, the Whistle GO Explore gives you both. It even monitors behaviors like scratching and licking—great for dogs with allergies or sensitive skin. Check out our post on itchy skin care for pets if that sounds like your pup.

3. Tractive GPS Dog Tracker

Waterproof Rating: IPX7
Battery Life: 7 days average
Key Feature: Real-time GPS + worldwide coverage
Why We Love It: Lightweight, affordable, and reliable, Tractive is perfect for swimmers who also travel. With unlimited range and virtual fence features, it’s also great for beach runs and lake trips.

4. Garmin Alpha 200i with TT 15 Collar

Waterproof Rating: IPX7
Battery Life: 20–40 hours
Key Feature: Advanced tracking + training
Why We Love It: Serious adventurers, meet your match. This combo is designed for off-grid exploration. If you and your dog love wilderness trails and remote swims, the Garmin system delivers premium performance—even when cell service doesn’t.

Bonus: It doubles as a training collar for high-energy pups.

5. Pawfit 3 GPS Tracker

Waterproof Rating: IP68
Battery Life: 6 days
Key Feature: Voice command + real-time GPS
Why We Love It: The Pawfit 3 stands out with features like voice recall and temperature alerts. It’s smart, compact, and holds up well during long swim sessions or heavy rain.

It’s also a budget-friendly pick with essential features for daily use.

Features to Look For in a Waterproof GPS Collar

Every dog is different. Some splash gently. Others cannonball into the water like Olympic athletes. Here’s what you should consider before buying:

🐾 Waterproof Rating

Look for IP67 or IP68 to ensure the device can handle full immersion. “Water-resistant” just won’t cut it for swimmers.

🐾 Battery Life

Longer battery life means fewer recharges, which is a big plus for camping trips or hikes.

🐾 Live Tracking

Real-time updates (as opposed to 5-10 minute intervals) are essential for safety and peace of mind.

🐾 App Compatibility

Most GPS collars sync with smartphone apps. Make sure the app is user-friendly and compatible with your device.

🐾 Virtual Fence or Safe Zone

This feature alerts you if your dog leaves a designated area—super useful for off-leash dogs near water.

If you’re new to GPS tracking, read our complete GPS tracker guide to understand the tech behind it.

Safety Tips for Dogs That Swim with GPS Collars

Even with waterproof GPS collars, it’s important to swim smart:

Dry thoroughly after each swim to prevent skin irritation.
Regularly check the collar and device for signs of wear or damage.
Test the tracking app before trips to make sure it’s working in your chosen area.
Monitor battery life—especially on longer adventures.

Also, make sure your dog’s supplemental care supports joint health if they’re swimming often. You’ll find great options in our article on joint supplements for dogs.

Integrating GPS Collars into a Holistic Pet Care Routine

Waterproof GPS collars are just one part of a complete, modern pet parenting toolkit. Combine it with:

A balanced diet (check out our grain-free puppy food recipes)
Supplements for wellness (like natural calming supplements for anxious dogs)
Grooming kits (see beginner grooming kits for pets)
Coverage with a good pet insurance plan

All these elements work together to keep your pup healthy, happy, and safe.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

For dogs that live for the water, a waterproof GPS collar is more than a luxury—it’s peace of mind. With the right tracker, you can let your pup swim, splash, and explore without worrying about them getting lost or straying too far.

In 2025, GPS collars have become smarter, more durable, and more accessible than ever. Whether you're heading to the beach, lake, or backyard sprinkler, choosing the right waterproof tracker helps ensure your dog’s safety and gives you the freedom to enjoy the moment.

Want to explore more options? Check out our full guide on the best waterproof GPS trackers for dogs and our 2025 GPS tracker roundup for a deeper dive.

Here’s to happy trails, wet paws, and safe returns.