You’ve invested in a GPS tracker to keep tabs on your dog—now what about their crate? The truth is, even the most high-tech tracking system works best when paired with the right gear. That includes a crate that not only keeps your dog secure but also supports the GPS device's performance without interference or discomfort.
At Impact Dog Crates, we’ve worked with thousands of dog owners who use GPS collars for everything from hiking to home security. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right crate that plays well with GPS technology—and why pairing a tough aluminum crate with your tracker gives your dog the ultimate safety net.
Why Crate Choice Matters for GPS Tracking
Not all crates are created equal, especially when you’re using a GPS tracking collar. The materials, layout, and airflow of a crate can all impact how well your tracker performs. Here’s what we’ve seen:
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Signal interference: Some plastic or fully enclosed crates may block or distort GPS signals, especially if they have limited ventilation or are stored in tight areas like vehicle cargo zones. Aluminum crates, when properly vented, allow GPS signals to pass through with minimal disruption.
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Battery efficiency: A tracker forced to work harder to maintain its signal—because it’s surrounded by heavy materials or stored deep inside a poorly ventilated crate—can drain battery life faster.
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Dog comfort: A poorly fitted crate can cause your dog to shift in ways that loosen the tracker or block its antenna. The right crate size and layout help your dog stay in a natural posture, which keeps the GPS collar positioned correctly.
That’s why it’s essential to choose a crate designed with smart airflow, accessibility, and durable materials that won’t compromise your tracker’s performance.
Top Features to Look For
When pairing a crate with a GPS collar, keep an eye out for the following features:
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Ventilation & antenna placement
Look for crates with large side vents or door panels to ensure that the tracker has a clear path to transmit signals. -
Durable materials that allow signal penetration
Aluminum crates with properly spaced ventilation offer a secure structure while still allowing GPS communication, unlike fully enclosed plastic models that can block signals. -
Ease of access for charging or checking the tracker
You’ll want a crate with quick-latch doors or removable panels so you can easily access the collar for charging or repairing your device.
Our Recommended Crates
We’ve designed a lineup of aluminum crates that are GPS-friendly by design, offering durability, comfort, and visibility. Here are our top three choices depending on your setup:
Collapsible Dog Crate
Our Collapsible Dog Crate is ideal for owners who travel frequently or store their crates between uses. The crate’s vented aluminum side panels and lightweight frame allow GPS signals to transmit easily, whether you're in a hotel room or a vehicle. It folds down in seconds and sets up just as fast, making it great for handlers who need both convenience and safety.
Plus, its open layout helps keep your tracker’s antenna exposed, ensuring constant connection even in new environments. This crate is a favorite among folks who hike, camp, or move between cities with their dogs.
High Anxiety Dog Crate
For dogs prone to panic or escape attempts, the High Anxiety Dog Crate offers unmatched strength and peace of mind. GPS users love this crate for its sturdy, escape-proof design—but what’s just as important is the airflow design. Despite its heavy-duty structure, this crate includes large ventilation holes that allow GPS signals to escape and be picked up quickly.
And with a front door that’s easy to open and close securely, you can check or remove your GPS tracker as needed without stressing your pup.
Stationary Crate
Our Stationary Crate is a versatile option for everyday use—perfect for homes, kennels, or long-distance transport. It offers balanced airflow from all sides, helping maintain GPS connectivity no matter where the crate is placed. This model is often used by owners whose dogs stay crated during the workday or overnight, making reliable GPS tracking even more essential.
Because it's crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, this crate won’t warp or interfere with your dog’s collar signal—and it stands up to years of wear with ease.
Real-World Pairings & Tips
One of our customers, a field trainer in the Midwest, shared how his GPS-collared pointer stayed safe and trackable even during a long-haul drive to a hunting trial. He used the Collapsible Dog Crate in his SUV, and thanks to the open vents and elevated design, the tracker maintained full signal, allowing him to monitor battery life and locate the crate the entire trip.
To optimize your GPS setup with your crate, here are a few simple tips:
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Use a crate fan attachment to keep airflow moving and prevent your GPS unit from overheating.
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Ensure your crate isn’t backed tightly against a solid wall or metal divider—give that tracker room to “breathe.”
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If your dog wears a rechargeable GPS unit, consider a crate with quick-access latches so you can check battery levels easily without removing your dog.
A GPS collar gives you peace of mind, but pairing it with a crate that supports its function takes that peace of mind to the next level. When you combine reliable tracking with an aluminum crate that protects both your dog and the device, you’re giving your pup the safest setup possible.
Explore our full crate lineup and find your perfect match—because a tracked dog is only as safe as the crate they travel in.
