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Dogtra GPS Fence Virtual Fence Collar vs Dogtra PATHFINDER2 MINI COMPASS GPS Tracking and E-Collar Set

These are side-by-side facts taken from each product guide: published specifications, strengths and caveats as their sources state them. This page is not a test, a ranking or a verdict about which model is better.

Check Dogtra GPS Fence Virtual Fence Collar on AmazonCheck Dogtra PATHFINDER2 MINI COMPASS GPS Tracking and E-Collar Set on Amazon

Dogtra GPS Fence Virtual Fence Collar

Owners of open outdoor properties of at least 3/4 acre who want containment without a subscription

The Dogtra GPS Fence is a virtual containment collar: you draw up to 30 boundaries in the app, and the collar enforces a warning zone, a primary fence and two backup fences without a phone connection or monthly fee. It needs at least 3/4 acre outdoors and has no live tracking. Dogtra gives both 15 and 10 pounds as the minimum dog weight.

Published specifications

  • Maker: warning zone, primary fence and two backup fences; up to 30 fences
  • Maker: 3/4 acre minimum; outdoor use only; remove collar indoors
  • Maker: circular fence 13 yd to 2.5 mi across; custom fence up to 25 posts
  • Maker: 7 x 1.63 x 1.42 in, 6.9 oz; 3/4 x 32 in strap; 10 in minimum neck
  • Maker: lithium polymer battery; 2-hour first charge; IPX9K
  • Maker: iOS 14 or Android 7.0 with Bluetooth 5.0; 1-year warranty

Strengths

  • No monthly fee, and the collar works without a phone after setup
  • Layered warning zone plus two backup fences beyond the main boundary
  • Custom-shaped or circular fences, up to 30 saved

Caveats

  • No live tracking or notifications; containment only
  • Needs at least 3/4 acre with a clear view of the sky
  • Dogtra states the minimum dog weight as 15 lb and as 10 lb

Check this model on Amazon

Read the full Dogtra GPS Fence Virtual Fence Collar guide

Dogtra PATHFINDER2 MINI COMPASS GPS Tracking and E-Collar Set

Hunters who want GPS tracking and e-collar control on a dedicated handheld rather than a phone

The PATHFINDER2 MINI Compass set pairs a PT21U handheld with a 2-inch screen and built-in compass to a 5.3 ounce PM20U receiver for dogs of 25 pounds and up. It tracks up to 4 miles line of sight with 2-second updates, runs without a phone or fees after setup, and adds maps and fences through the free PF2 app.

Published specifications

  • Maker: PT21U handheld with 2 in LCD and compass; PM20U receiver
  • Maker: up to 4 mi line of sight; 2-second GPS updates; 21 dogs
  • Maker: handheld 2.125 x 4.8 x 1.5 in, 6.4 oz; receiver 5.3 oz
  • Maker: 1-100 level dial; nick, constant, tone, pager, LED light
  • Maker: IPX9K; USB-C; 3-hour rapid charge
  • Maker: 1 year plus 1 year warranty via authorized dealers

Strengths

  • Handheld works without a phone after setup, with its own screen and compass
  • Shows up to four dogs at once with distance and direction
  • No subscription or cell signal needed, per Dogtra

Caveats

  • Maps and fences need the PF2 app on a compatible phone
  • Range is up to 4 miles line of sight; steel structures reduce it, per the manual
  • Manual says remove the receiver after 8 hours of use

Check this model on Amazon

Read the full Dogtra PATHFINDER2 MINI COMPASS GPS Tracking and E-Collar Set guide

How to choose between them

Choose the Dogtra GPS Fence Virtual Fence Collar if your situation matches: Owners of open outdoor properties of at least 3/4 acre who want containment without a subscription. Its main caveat: No live tracking or notifications; containment only.

Choose the Dogtra PATHFINDER2 MINI COMPASS GPS Tracking and E-Collar Set if your situation matches: Hunters who want GPS tracking and e-collar control on a dedicated handheld rather than a phone. Its main caveat: Maps and fences need the PF2 app on a compatible phone.

Both entries repeat what each guide records. Confirm the model, included parts and availability on the current listing before ordering.

Primary sources

  1. Dogtra product page for the DOGTRA GPS FENCE Source for Dogtra GPS Fence Virtual Fence Collar
  2. Dogtra GPS Fence Owner's Manual supplied with the listing Source for Dogtra GPS Fence Virtual Fence Collar
  3. Dogtra product page for the PATHFINDER2 MINI COMPASS Source for Dogtra PATHFINDER2 MINI COMPASS GPS Tracking and E-Collar Set
  4. Dogtra PATHFINDER2 MINI COMPASS Owner's Manual supplied with the listing Source for Dogtra PATHFINDER2 MINI COMPASS GPS Tracking and E-Collar Set

Primary sources checked .