There are a lot of smart dog collars out there in 2024, giving you plenty to choose from. I’ve put in a lot of time checking out the top ones with my Dobermans, Athena, and Ares!
Today, we’re looking at two big names in dog tracking: Tractive vs Halo. We want to find out which one gives you the most value. We’ll compare everything from their design and toughness to how well they monitor your dog’s health and track their location. This will help you quickly figure out which one is the right choice for your dog and your wallet.
Below, you’ll find a thorough review video to make things easier for you, along with a quick summary of the key points given below.
We’re comparing the Tractive and the Halo 3rd generation collars to help you pick the best one for your pet.
Quick Overview
This overview is perfect if you’re short on time. It starts with a quick comparison of the main features of each collar. For a more detailed understanding, consider exploring the individual, in-depth reviews of the Halo collar and the Tractive dog collar.
Physical Design

First off, the Tractive is bulkier but can fit any collar due to its design, making it versatile for medium to large dogs. The Halo collar, with its sleek cover and precise fitting tools, is more suited for dogs with necks larger than 11 inches.

Subscription Plans

Both collars require subscriptions to function. Tractive offers a range of plans, from monthly to 5-year subscriptions, emphasizing flexibility. Halo, however, provides tiers from bronze to gold, catering to different needs but at a higher cost.

Real-World Testing
We tested both collars out with my Dobermans, Aries and Athena. The Tractive excels in tracking with features like Bluetooth radar for close-range pinpointing and a night light for evening searches. The Halo collar, while offering precise GPS tracking, also focuses on containment with feedback and correction warnings, alongside health and activity monitoring.
App Features
Both apps are packed with features, but the Halo app includes training guides and social networking alongside standard tracking and health metrics. Tractive’s app is simpler but offers in-depth activity and location tracking.
Choosing the right collar really depends on what you need and how much you’re willing to spend. The Halo Collar 3 offers a lot more features than Tractive, but it also costs more.
The choice between Halo and Tractive boils down to your needs and budget. If you’re looking for comprehensive pet management with containment features, the Halo collar is unbeatable. For those needing reliable tracking on a budget, the Tractive is an excellent choice.