3 answers
★ Best answer
The main thing is to check whether the device works without internet and cell coverage, because when you're hunting you'll end up in places where there's none of that. A lot of models require active connection to an app, which is useless in the forest, but collars with their own radio channel (the "hunter-dog" type on a specific frequency) work independently - you just see the coordinates on the receiver in your hands. If you do go with GPS that needs internet, make sure it has offline maps and long-term track data storage, otherwise you'll lose your route history if the signal is weak.
I agree about the Chinese gadgets - better to get a tried-and-tested Russian or European collar with a warranty, because if the battery dies out in the taiga, you won't be able to change it there.
Don't go for cheap Aliexpress models without a warranty service in Russia - you'll run into problems with battery replacement and repairs in remote areas. Look for tried-and-tested collars with decent signal coverage in your region, ideally with long battery life and water resistance, since your dog will be swimming and getting caked in mud while hunting.
What region do you hunt in and what game? That'll determine what coverage radius you need and how rugged the device has to be.
GPS-and-GLONASS collars are popular in hunting circles - they work more reliably in forests and hilly terrain than GPS alone. Devices with long battery life (3 - 7 days per charge, depending on the model) and moisture protection have proven themselves well. It's important that the collar be lightweight - your dog shouldn't be weighed down if you're out in the field all day.
Look at specialized hunting GPS trackers rather than just regular pet finders. They often have a built-in satellite modem (Inmarsat, Iridium) instead of relying on internet connectivity, so they pick up signal even far from civilization. The price is higher, but if you hunt in remote areas without cell coverage - that's critical. Also pay attention to how user-friendly the app interface is: tracking should be intuitive, and maps should load fast even on slow internet. Some models give you route history and let you set a geofence so you get an alert if your dog wanders outside your hunting area.
Your answer
Log into answer.