INNOVATIVE PET TECH THAT MAKES LIFE WITH DOGS EASIER AND MORE FUN
This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Dog Magazine
BY: SASSAFRAS LOWREY | January 25, 2024
From practical tools to playful innovations, modern pet tech helps owners understand their dogs better, improve daily routines, and add more fun to life together. Smart dog gadgets now include everything from wearable cameras and GPS trackers to automated feeders and communication buttons. Below are highly rated devices designed for dogs and the people who love them, selected for usefulness, ease of use, and real-world benefits.
1. Talking Buttons
Fluent Pet Classic Tester Kit; $40, fluent.pet
Fluent Pet offers programmable buttons that let dogs press recorded words to express needs like “walk,” “food,” or “outside.” The buttons sit in a stable foam base, feature removable stickers to label cues, and come with a training guide. Many owners use these soundboards to teach dogs to sequence words and communicate more clearly; anecdotal examples include dogs indicating pain or asking questions. Training takes time and consistency, but the system can open a new channel of communication between you and your dog.
2. Smart Dog Collar
PetPace Smart Collar; $299 + subscription, petpace.com
Vet-developed and backed by years of research, the PetPace smart collar continuously monitors multiple health metrics to give owners deeper insights into their dog’s wellbeing. It tracks temperature, pulse, respiration, activity, sleep, posture, stress indicators (HRV), and more. The system sends alerts for emergencies and potential health issues, helps manage chronic conditions, and includes GPS tracking. For dogs with medical concerns or for owners who want real-time health data, this collar provides more comprehensive biometric monitoring than typical fitness trackers.
3. Camera
Furbo 360 Dog Camera; $210, furbo.com
The Furbo 360 is a dog-focused security camera that offers a full rotating view, two-way audio, and treat dispensing via a smartphone app. Real-time barking alerts help owners intervene during separation anxiety or excessive barking episodes. Use the camera to monitor your dog’s behavior, speak to them when you’re away, and reward calm actions remotely with treats. The 360-degree rotation minimizes blind spots so you can keep a close eye on your pet throughout the room.
4. Remote Treat Dispenser
PetSafe Treat & Train Remote Reward Dog Trainer; $150, petsafe.com
The PetSafe Treat & Train uses a remote to dispense treats up to 100 feet away, making it a handy aid for reinforcing good behavior from a distance. Ideal for training around distractions—like visitors or mealtime—the device relies on positive reinforcement and includes a training guide. The instant reward capability helps reinforce commands and calm behaviors in real time.
5. Smart Dog Door
Sure Petcare SureFlap Microchip Pet Door Connect; from $285, surepetcare.com
The SureFlap door uses your dog’s microchip—or an included collar tag—to unlock only for your pet, keeping out intruders like neighborhood cats or wildlife. A companion app logs entries and exits, lets you lock or unlock the door remotely, and offers a curfew mode to schedule access times. This smart pet door is an excellent option for homes with secure yards and owners who want controlled freedom for their dogs.
6. Smart Feeder
Instachew PureChew Sight Smart Pet Feeder; $90, instachew.com
For strict feeding schedules or long workdays, the Instachew PureChew Sight automates mealtimes, controls portions, and gives remote access through an app. An integrated HD camera with night vision and two-way audio lets you check on and speak to your dog while they eat. Schedule meals in advance or deliver one on demand when you’re away to maintain consistent nutrition and routine.
7. Cool Laser Therapy Coat
LASERwrap Dog Coat; $250 – $300, spectratherapy.com
Cold laser therapy promotes cell regeneration and circulation, which can reduce pain and support healing for conditions like arthritis or soft tissue injuries. A laser therapy coat brings this modality into the home so owners can provide more frequent, convenient treatments. While at-home devices don’t replace veterinary-grade equipment, these coats are increasingly popular for sports dogs and pets with chronic pain who benefit from regular laser sessions.
8. GPS Collar
Tractive; $40 + $13 monthly subscription fee, tractive.com
Tractive’s GPS tracker gives real-time location updates over cellular networks, so you can find your dog anywhere with coverage. The app offers live tracking, escape alerts, activity and sleep monitoring, and notifications when your dog leaves a designated area. This device is especially helpful for off-leash dogs, escapes, or when you want peace of mind during walks and outings.
9. Smart Ball Thrower
iFetch Too Ball Thrower; $230, goifetch.com
The iFetch Too relieves owners who have energetic fetch-loving dogs by automatically launching tennis balls 10, 25, or 40 feet. Dogs soon learn to reload the device, and modes like random distance keep games fresh. With a rechargeable battery, it’s portable for parks and travel, helping dogs get the exercise they need even when you can’t throw endlessly yourself.
10. DNA Testing
Basepaws; $149, basepaws.com
A breed and health DNA test can reveal the genetic makeup of a mixed-breed dog and screen for hereditary conditions. Basepaws uses a saliva sample to generate a detailed breed breakdown and checks for hundreds of genetic health markers. The results can help you tailor diet, exercise, and preventative care to your dog’s specific risks and traits.
11. Wearable Camera
Mr Petcam; $70, mrpetcam.com
A collar-mounted camera like Mr Petcam captures your dog’s point of view in HD video with audio and night vision. Lightweight and waterproof, it clips on easily and records when your dog moves, conserving battery life. The footage is entertaining for owners and useful for seeing what your dog encounters on walks or in the yard.
12. Robot Vacuum
iRobot Roomba; $1399, irobot.com
Robot vacuums are a daily time-saver for pet owners, tackling hair, dander, and tracked-in dirt automatically. The Roomba Combo j9+ vacuums and mops, avoids obstacles, switches floor modes, and can prioritize messier rooms. With automatic emptying and return-to-dock recharging, it simplifies home maintenance so you spend more time enjoying your dog and less time cleaning.
This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Dog magazine.