The Smart Collar Surge: Why Pet Tech Is Booming in 2025
- Alison Marsh
- Jan 7
- 3 min read
Updated: May 28
The Smart Collar Surge: Why Pet Tech Is Booming in 2025
Ten years ago, a smart collar sounded like something out of a sci-fi film. Fast forward to 2025, and it’s becoming the norm among modern pet owners—especially in urban areas and tech-forward households. But what’s driving this surge, and why now?
Changing relationships with
pets
The biggest shift isn't technological—it's emotional. For many people, pets have evolved from companions to family members, and in some cases, even child substitutes. This is particularly true among Millennials and Gen Z, who are delaying parenthood, prioritising flexibility, and pouring more care—and cash—into their pets than any generation before them.
A recent survey by Rover found that 82% of pet owners consider their animals as family, with over half saying they would “do anything” to keep their pets safe and healthy. So it's no surprise that demand for data-driven, real-time insights into pets' wellbeing is on the rise.
What smart collars can do now
Today’s smart collars are a far cry from their early counterparts. While GPS tracking is still a central feature, many modern devices now offer:
Activity monitoring (steps, rest, playtime)
Health insights (scratching, licking, respiration patterns)
Customisable geo-fences
LED safety lighting
Environmental alerts (like overheating or cold exposure)
Brands like Whistle, Fi, Invoxia, and Halo are pushing the boundaries, introducing AI-enhanced behaviour tracking and even early illness detection. Invoxia’s smart collar, for example, uses biometric sensors and machine learning to spot irregularities in heart rate and respiratory patterns—allowing vets to intervene before symptoms become serious.
The influence of human wearables
Let’s be honest: a lot of this boom mirrors what’s already happened in the human world. Devices like the Apple Watch and Fitbit normalised the idea of personal metrics—from steps to sleep scores to stress levels. The pet world is now catching up.
In fact, many owners find it oddly comforting to see their dog’s or cat’s activity levels alongside their own, syncing health goals across species. Some smart collars even integrate with your own health apps—bringing a new meaning to the phrase walking the dog.
Rising urbanisation and anxiety
Another key driver? City life. As more people live in flats and busy urban areas, pets are getting less off-lead time and more indoor enrichment. Pet owners are now more concerned than ever about exercise levels, boredom, and separation anxiety.
Smart collars help bridge that gap. They don’t just track your pet—they reassure you. Did your dog get enough movement today? Why is she scratching more than usual? Was she pacing the flat all afternoon? These insights, even when subtle, allow owners to make better decisions and even communicate more effectively with vets.
Are there concerns?
Of course. Some people question whether tracking your dog’s every move is helpful—or a symptom of digital overreach. Others are concerned about data privacy, especially when pet profiles include owner data, locations, or shared access between family members.
There’s also the matter of cost. While basic GPS models can start around £40–£70, more advanced collars range from £120 to £300, with subscription fees on top. Still, for those who view their pets as deeply beloved family members, the expense feels more like an investment in their health and happiness.
Final thoughts
The smart collar boom isn’t just about flashy tech. It’s the result of a cultural shift: one where pets are deeply integrated into our emotional lives, and where data is seen as a tool for proactive care.
As features evolve and prices become more accessible, smart collars are likely to become just as common as microchips or ID tags - an essential part of responsible, connected pet ownership.
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