Fitbark initially began with siblings Davide and Sara Rossi who wanted a way to measure their dog’s fitness levels. Using a Fitbit as a sort of prototype, they launched a Kickstarter campaign that successfully put in motion the Fitbark and a new pet product was born.
In November of 2017 a newer version, the Fitbark 2, was created. Not only is this little device incredibly useful, but it’s also downright fun. So let’s get down to the gravy here.
What exactly does this thing do?
FitBark2 is a wireless activity and sleep sensor for your dog. A tiny device shaped like a dog bone is attached to your dog’s collar, where it collects data 24/7 and feeds it to a mobile app. Activity, distance, calories burned, and overall behavior and health are just a few of the measurements it monitors. Fitbit is for any sized dog.
Here are just a few reasons this little invention might be perfect for you and your Frenchie:
Keeping Tabs on Health Issues
As any Frenchie owner knows, this breed is prone to some particular health problems that require careful monitoring. The fragile Frenchie needs extra care when it comes to exercise as they are easily overtaxed. They are predisposed to certain conditions that could substantially limit their mobility if they are over-exercised. Intervertebral Disc Disease and Hip Dysplasia are common and should be monitored for your dog’s entire life.
Also, they have a difficult time regulating their body temperature and can quickly become dangerously overheated. The Fitbark2 is an excellent tool to help make sure your Frenchie is getting the perfect balance between rest and activity. Because dogs, like humans, become less active when they are sick or in pain, monitoring changes in mobility can help to catch any health problems early enough to take care of them right away.
Trusted and Professional
Over 45 veterinary schools and research institutes have been using Fitbark to study nutrition, mobility, and a range of medical issues. You can easily add your veterinarian as a user on your dog’s profile to share information with him or her that will help ensure optimal health. Advanced technology is making a better world for pets.
A Little Nudge for Couch Potatoes
Your dog’s activity is measured in something called “bark points,” with daily points goals to help meet optimum exercise levels so you can visually see if your dog is not getting enough movement. This allows you to get active with your dog by enabling you to link your own health and fitness tracker such as the Fitbit or Google Fit, making exercise more fun and motivating for both of you.
Fitbark also helps assess caloric needs and expenditures to find out just the right amount of food your pup should be eating based on activity level. So if you or your Frenchie is a little too pudgy, this might be just the ticket to help you both lose a few pounds.
Peace of Mind
The Fitbark can put you at ease while you are working or traveling. You can easily monitor your dog’s activity when you are not at home right on your phone. For dogs with anxiety issues, you can see their activity level with hourly reports of rest or activity. Sharp increases in activity levels may indicate that your dog is experiencing distress.
Getting Social
Meet new friends by adding other dogs to your pack. The Fitbark will introduce you to dogs that are similar in age, weight, and lifestyle and help you choose canine friends and their humans residing near you. Dedicated pages across most major social media platforms, including Facebook and Twitter, allow owners from over 125 countries to connect. It’s social networking for dogs!
Top Notch Features
- There are no monthly subscription fees. You pay only for the device. The app is completely free and works with both Apple and Android Devices.
- A rugged charging port and a long-lasting rechargeable battery last up to six months.
- Dedicated customer support is available 24/7 from the app or your computer.
- Fitbark2 comes in a range of colors, is lightweight and comfortable for your pooch, attaches easily, and will stay put.
- The app allows for multiple synchronizations so you can have a device for each of your canine companions.
The Drawbacks
- You must have a mobile device with Bluetooth 4.0 running, iOS 10 and above, or Android 5.0 and above.
- The Fitbark does not have GPS capabilities, so it won’t track your dog’s location.
- The biggest customer complaint is that the covers tend to fall off. This is usually a result of the cover not being attached correctly. Replacements cost about 7 dollars each. However, the device is waterproof, and functionality is not affected.
The Fitbark2 can be purchased directly from their website here.
Will is the proud co-owner of Frankie, a Female Brindle French Bulldog, with his wife Michelle. We share our Frenchie experiences with the world to help health-conscious French Bulldog owners who want a happy, healthy, and long-living dog.
