How to Set Up an AirTag on Your Dog's Collar: Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up an Apple AirTag on your dog's collar is one of the easiest and most effective things you can do for your pet's safety. In under 10 minutes, you can have your dog trackable via the Find My app — no subscription, no complicated setup, no ongoing costs. Here's exactly how to do it.

What You'll Need

• An Apple AirTag (single or 4-pack)
• An iPhone running iOS 14.5 or later
• A waterproof AirTag holder (like the FETCH holder)
• Your dog's collar

Step 1: Unbox and Activate Your AirTag

Pull the plastic tab from the AirTag to activate the battery. You'll hear a sound confirming it's on. Make sure your iPhone's Bluetooth is enabled and you're signed into your Apple ID.

Step 2: Pair the AirTag with Your iPhone

Hold the AirTag close to your iPhone. A setup animation will automatically appear on your screen — tap "Connect". If it doesn't appear automatically, open the Find My app, tap the "Items" tab, and tap the "+" button to add a new item.

Step 3: Name Your AirTag

Choose a name for your AirTag. You can select from preset options or create a custom name — we recommend naming it after your dog (e.g. "Buddy" or "Luna's Tag") so it's easy to identify in the Find My app.

Step 4: Register to Your Apple ID

The AirTag will register to your Apple ID. This is important — it means only you can see its location, and it's protected against being used to track you without your knowledge.

Step 5: Place the AirTag in a Waterproof Holder

This is the most important step for dog use. Never attach a bare AirTag directly to a collar — it can fall off, get damaged, or become a hazard. Instead, place it in a purpose-built holder.

The FETCH waterproof AirTag holder is designed specifically for dogs. It's fully waterproof, secure, and available in 14 colours. Simply slide the AirTag into the holder and it clicks into place — no tools required.

Step 6: Attach the Holder to Your Dog's Collar

Clip the FETCH holder onto your dog's collar using the secure attachment clip. Make sure it sits flat against the collar and doesn't dangle or swing — this prevents it from snagging on anything and keeps your dog comfortable.

Step 7: Test It in the Find My App

Open the Find My app on your iPhone and tap "Items". You should see your dog's AirTag listed with its current location. Tap "Play Sound" to confirm the AirTag is working — you'll hear a chime from the tag on your dog's collar.

If you have an iPhone 11 or later, you can also use Precision Finding — tap "Find" in the app and your phone will use Ultra Wideband technology to guide you directly to the AirTag with arrows and distance readings.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Dog's AirTag

• Keep the Find My app updated — Apple regularly improves AirTag functionality
• Enable Lost Mode — if your dog goes missing, activate Lost Mode in the Find My app. Anyone who finds your dog and scans the AirTag with any NFC-enabled phone will see your contact details
• Check the battery occasionally — AirTag batteries last about a year. You'll get a notification in the Find My app when it's running low. The battery is a standard CR2032 coin cell, available at any supermarket or hardware store
• Rinse the holder after beach trips — the FETCH holder is waterproof, but a quick rinse with fresh water keeps it looking great

Ready to Get Started?

Setting up an AirTag for your dog takes less than 10 minutes and gives you genuine peace of mind. Pair it with the FETCH waterproof AirTag holder and your dog is protected, trackable, and ready for any adventure.