4 Dog Tech Products We Love

The dog has remained largely the same for thousands of years  — loving, loyal and protective — a human’s best friend. Though our four-legged friends haven’t changed much, modern technology has gone gaga for them, making our interactions even more fun and practical. Here are a few of the latest dog tech products that can enhance your dog’s life and your relationship with him.

1. Pet door scanners

Microchip Pet Door Connect.

Do you know how many times your dog goes out through the doggie door every day? Ever forget to lock it on your way out or worry about a strange animal entering your home? The Microchip Pet Door Connect pet door from Sure Petcare works with your dog’s existing microchip (or an RFID collar tag) to scan him each time he comes and goes, allowing you to monitor him (and multiple dogs) via an app. The app connects to the internet via the Hub (sold separately), so you may lock and unlock the door remotely.

2. Pet cameras

PetChatz.

• There are several new and fun pet cameras on the dog tech market that allow you to keep an eye on your dog and even send him treats or allow him to see you wherever you are. The PetChatz is a two-way camera that allows you and your dog to see each other via the PetChatz app (for you) and a full-color screen on the camera unit (for your dog). It also has a “calming scent” feature, dispenses treats and offers motion and sound detection. The optional “paw call” accessory allows your dog to actually call you when he presses it. You’re going to need a pretty smart dog for that.

Petzi Treat Cam.

• The Petzi Treat Cam allows you to check in on your pup and, as it can be filled with treats, you can use the Petzi app to dispense goodies at the press of a virtual button. A tone sounds before the treats fall, which teaches your dog to stand in front of the camera when you want to see him. You can set the camera on a low shelf or mount it to the wall.

Minion Despicable Me Flexi Cam.

• The Minion Despicable Me Flexi Cam is not only cute, it allows you to talk to your dog in a Minion voice, which is sure to get his attention. It also automatically creates a “pet highlight reel” of your dog’s day and comes with free cloud storage. Multiple Minion versions are available, so you can locate them in different areas of your home and use the corresponding app to easily view out of all of them.

3. Dog DNA test

Embark’s dog DNA test.

Ever wonder about your dog’s past or his future? Embark’s dog DNA test says it is the most comprehensive test of its kind on the market today. You can learn hundreds of interesting facts about your dog, including his geographic origins and ancestry, personality tendencies and genetic disease risks. Why is his coat black or brown or red? Does he have any drug sensitivities? Might he have issues in the future with his knees or eyes? Now you can find out.

4. Play with your dog when you’re away

PupPod.

The PupPod is a red “smart toy” that connects to your smartphone and puts your pup through his paces with a variety of puzzles, starting with the easiest and growing progressively more difficult as your dog learns. Your dog can play on his own or with you. There’s an optional Bluetooth-connected treat dispenser that you can set up while you’re not home. This way, your dog will always be rewarded for his hard work — or play.

Tell us: What dog tech products do you love / use?

Thumbnail: ©Akilina Winner | Thinkstock. 

Nikki Moustaki is a dog trainer, dog rescuer and pet expert. She splits her time between New York City and Miami Beach, Florida, and is the author of the memoir The Bird Market of Paris. Visit her on Facebook, on Twitter at @nikkimoustaki and at nikkimoustaki.com. 

Editor’s note: This article appeared in Dogster magazine. Have you seen the new Dogster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting room of your vet’s office? Subscribe now to get Dogster magazine delivered straight to you! 

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