Lost Dog Playbook
A step-by-step guide to help you act fast and reunite with your pup.
🚨 Hopefully you’ll never need this—but if it happens, being prepared gives you the best shot at a safe reunion.
In a moment of panic, fear clouds judgment. Having a plan already thought out makes all the difference. Here’s what to do immediately—and how to prepare in advance.
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Open your GPS app (Fi, Whistle, etc.) and begin tracking immediately.
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Enable Lost Dog Mode if your system supports it.
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AirTags may offer general location, but they are not real-time trackers.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t chase your dog. Stand still or run the opposite direction—turn it into a game. They may follow.
If your dog was lost near home, go there or send someone else. Dogs often return to familiar ground once the adrenaline wears off.
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Walk or drive the equivalent of a 2–3 block radius, using a calm voice.
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Look under porches, behind fences, in stairwells or alleys.
Where would they go if not home?
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Park, daycare, or groomer
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A familiar friend’s house or favorite store
💡 Pro Tip: Call ahead to any businesses. Send someone to check in person if you can.
Where would they go if not home?
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One person posts online:
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Local Facebook lost pet groups
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Craigslist (lost & found)
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One person calls shelters, animal control, and local vets.
💡 Pro Tip: Solo? Search first, then loop home. Post online and notify shelters after both.
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GPS tracker (Fi, Whistle)
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ID tag with your phone number
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Microchip with up-to-date contact info
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Recent photo saved on your phone
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Local shelter and emergency vet contacts
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Lost Dog flyer template printed
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Emergency leash + treat pouch in your car
💡 Pro Tip: Keep extras in your car—you might help someone else’s dog too.
Not sure which dog fits your life and family? Head over to our Meet the Breeds page to explore the most popular and beloved breeds. 