Some of my favorite gifts for dogs and their people are the simplest. Ace can play with an empty toilet paper tube and won’t know the difference from an expensive toy. However, sometimes the addition of technology can make a traditional toy or tool into something amazing, or let you communicate with your dog in a whole new way. Here are some gift ideas use technology to keep your favorite dog safe, happy, or busy for hours.

1. Dropcam ($149) and Dropcam Pro ($199)

Dropcam is the ultimate video monitoring device to help you keep an eye on your pup while you’re away. You can stream video to your computer, or purchase a monthly plan for cloud-based storage you can access from your mobile phone (plans start at $9.95 per month). Dropcam includes sleek hardware with all sorts of useful features like night vision, zoom, and two-way talk.

2. Top Paw PoogoStick ($39.99)

The PoogoStick makes picking up dog poo less gross! With the squeeze of a handle, you can move the poo effortlessly from the grass, gravel, or dirt and into an open plastic bag tied around the pan. You can even use the PoogoStick on cat litter boxes. Your face stays far away from the stinky stuff. I reviewed this product for Dogster and found it to be a simple and easy way to scoop up poop from my yard.

3. FroliCat Bolt ($19.95) and Dart ($37.95)

Don’t let the name fool you –- some dogs go wild for lasers. Kick back and watch the show as Bolt or Dart creates a laser light show to entice your terrier. Bolt automatically turns off after 15 minutes of play, while Dart provides more time and laser speed options.

4. Planet Dog’s Orbee-Tuff Mazee ($16.95)

This puzzle toy will keep your dog busy while she tries to figure out how to get to the delicious kibble or treats inside the translucent ball. Made of nontoxic plastic and easy to clean.

5. Whistle Tracker ($99.95)

Are you curious about how your dog spends her time when you’re away at work or traveling? The Whistle Tracker is a device that attaches to your dog’s collar and transmits lots of useful data about her behavior to your mobile phone. This tool can help you help your dog to reach her fitness goals, or it can make you feel connected to your dog when you’re physically apart. Check out this Dogster article for more info on how well Whistle Tracker kept up with a feisty terrier named Ramona.

6. Dog-E-Glow LED Collars ($24.98) and Leashes ($29.98)

These unique accessories keep your dog safe on winter night walks but look good all day long. They come in a variety of patterns, including many college sports teams. The LED lights glow brightly and use minimal battery power. I had the opportunity to give the collar and leash set a try –- check out my Dogster product review.

7. Sleepypod Clickit Utility ($89.99 to $99.99)

This safety harness is specially designed to keep you dog as safe as possible in a car accident. The Sleepypod Clickit Utility was the only harness to pass the rigorous testing of the Center for Pet Safety 2013 Harness Study. This would make an excellent gift for dogs large and small who travel frequently by car. It is available in three colors.

8. Tick Twister ($4.99)

This little gadget removes ticks easily and efficiently from dogs and other critters, like humans. You can add it to a key chain to keep it close at hand on your next hike.

9. Blanket ID Dog Tag ($24.99 plus membership fee)

What’s the next best thing to microchipping your dog, but much more stylish? These Blanket ID tags! Each tag is stamped with a unique code. If your dog is lost, you alert the Blanket ID website through your mobile phone or computer, and information about your dog is sent to local shelters and veterinarians. When your dog is found, you can be contacted right away through the website. Blanket ID tags are beautiful and come in two sizes.

10. Dog Vacay (prices vary)

Here’s a little gift for yourself! If you can’t bring your dog with you on your holiday travels, you can send her on a staycation of her own. Dog Vacay connects dog owners with pet sitters through an easy online booking website. Pet health insurance is included in the price, and you can receive regular photo updates so you can watch over your dog from afar.

Dogster readers, share your ideas for you favorite dog gadget gifts in the comments below.

About Ace’s Mama: This East Coast transplant enjoys the bounty of San Francisco, including its micro-climates, farmers’ markets, and secret stairway walks. When she’s not walking with, talking about, or kissing the face of her Boston Terrier, Ace, she blogs about Ace’s adventures. Product reviews writer and guinea pig at Dogster.

Read more Dogster Gift Guides:

• 10 Holiday Gifts for Dogs and Dog Lovers We Found on Etsy
• Chanukkah Gifts for Jewish (er, Chewish) Dogs and Their People
• 10 Dog Causes to Lend a Paw During the Holiday Season
• 10 Outrageously Expensive Gifts for the Pampered Pooch
• 10 Holiday Gifts for the New Dog Parent
• Our 15 Favorite Dog Calendars for 2014
• 10 Gifts for Dog Lovers Who Also Love the Outdoors
• Check Out Holiday Dog Toys and Apparel at PetSmart