Who would not like to know what our dog does all day, especially when we are not there looking at him and stroking him? To those who write for sure, and watching the movie “Pets” was not enough to fill their curiosity, which is why this Pitpat 2 arrived, which is in no uncertain terms a kind of Fitbit for dogs.
A species is correct, because it doesn't do everything Fitbit does, but it comes close to it in the most important things, more or less.
Pitpat 2, the review
Food for dogs
The box is really nice, it looks like a box of treats: inside, there is the Pitpat 2 and an instruction sheet that introduces the user to the first set-up.
This is a very simple operation, just connect the device to the furry friend's collar, download the App and follow the instructions. The simplicity of the operation is such that even those who are not accustomed to the smartest procedures may be able to perform everything in total autonomy, just a smartphone and ten minutes of attention (and the patience of the dog, who perhaps will not understand what's going on and where is the master's attention).
Once everything is connected, the movement tracking takes place automatically: the sensor is not exactly small, in the sense that the dog probably realizes that it has something in the collar (together with the lace), it appeared clear to us from some unusual movement , however after a few days he no longer pays attention to it, also because every time he gets out his attention is completely different.
Around
Once connected to the collar, as mentioned, you don't need to do anything else. If the dog keeps the same collar all day, we can leave it attached, and with the App in the background, let the data passage be completely transparent.
The Pitpat 2 is resistant to water (a fundamental factor) and also to dirt, the plastic case is suitable for stresses, however if the little one “plays” with other dogs, grabbing himself by the neck, the Pitpat 2 could become an obstacle or come off, when you are in the enclosures better be careful. Power supply is not a problem, given by a replaceable battery.
App and data
The App is well done: it is simple, clean and can be seen and discovered even by those who are not used to it, as long as you lose a few minutes the first time to understand it thoroughly.
The measurements show the time of activity and the time of rest and we can also indicate the daily weight to keep track of the feeding (which can become interesting to the vet).
The part relating to medals is undoubtedly interesting: clearly made for humans (dogs are of little interest to this aspect), an extra medal can become the stimulus to go out in the evening, even if it might not be needed, or to increase the frequency or length of the outlets.
Basically, it is a simplified version of Apple Watch or Fitbit Charge or Sense, with fewer sensors but more resistant and related to the purpose: the statistics, compared with a Sense, are generous, and must be taken with a grain of salt because the technology is young. (and with a variability far greater than that of humans), however they can offer a good study plan to understand if the love we give them is enough or they need more.
Considerations
Taking the dog for a walk is not difficult, but the question often remains whether in fact the dog is doing a correct activity, or is simply a slave to our routine.
Pitpat 2 helps in this sense, because it motivates on the one hand and reports on the other and in a comparison with a veterinarian it can be an interesting help, because it provides an all-day x-ray.
Of course, technology must grow and become more precise, maybe even smaller, but already now it is an excellent gift to our favorite furry dog, to be planned under the tree.
Pro:
• An intriguing device for those who love dogs • Sufficiently motivates • Simple but well made app
Cons:
• Not very accurate • Dimensions are generous
Price:
• 49.00 Euro
Readers can order Pitpat 2 directly from this Amazon page as a Prime product.