Dogs are sweet, friendly, and loving additions to our families, but they’re a lot of work for which to care. Luckily, there are plenty of tech options that make it easier to be a responsible pet owner, so you’ve got more time to enjoy your pup. Some products are smart devices, while others are just smart purchases to add to your pet supply stash. Let’s take a look at some of the best options.
LED Collars
Every responsible dog owner equips their dog with a well-fitting collar complete with tags in case he gets lost. LED collars take things one step further, so you can take your pet on walks at dawn and dusk without worrying about visibility. These collars have different light modes that include flashing patterns, so you can walk your dog safely when it’s dark. Many options are weather-resistant, and can often be recharged so they’re ready to go.
LED Leashes
Much like LED collars, these leashes light up for better visibility when it’s dark outside. They’re especially nice for dogs who prefer a certain collar or vest, since they can attach to most pet accessories. For extra visibility, clip your LED leash to your dog’s LED collar, and you’ll be glowing so bright, the whole neighborhood will see you coming.
GPS Tracker
Aside from a collar and leash, a GPS tracker is one of the best things you can purchase for your dog. These devices usually come attached to a collar, and they continuously send a radio signal to your smartphone. According to the American Humane Association, one out of three pets will get lost at some point in their lifetime, and it’s important to be proactive for your curious pup.
Impressively, some GPS trackers can even track your dog’s health and fitness, so you can ensure that they’re happy and healthy.
Hands-Free Leashes
Although hands-free leashes aren’t a tech accessory, they’re certainly a smart purchase for pet owners. These leashes differ from traditional ones by fitting around your waist like a belt. That way, your hands are free to text, run, or push a stroller, and they’re usually more durable than traditional leashes.
Furbo Pet Camera
Much like home monitors, the Furbo Pet Camera sends you a real-time video stream, so you can see what your pet’s up to at any time. Even better than traditional cameras, this device only notifies you if your dog is barking or acting erratically, and it lets you reward your pet with treats when they’re being good. This camera also works with Alexa, so you can ask it to toss a treat to your pet at hourly intervals or at a certain time.
Automatic Ball Launcher
The automatic ball launcher makes playing fetch a breeze. It comes with a training guide to teach your pet how to use it, and once he’s got it figured out, the ball launcher will throw the ball whenever your pet wants to play. Your dog will simply place the ball on the launcher and then it will toss the ball at a pre-programmed distance every time.
Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
Most dogs inhale their food when it’s mealtime, and it’s not healthy for them at all. Slow feeders dispense food over a period of time, like 15 minutes, so your dog doesn’t eat too fast. This helps with digestion and overall health. Some feeders even have options for different food quantities and feeding intervals throughout the day, so you can set up a feeding schedule for your pup.
Dog Doorbell
Dog doorbells are the perfect solution to potty training issues. They’re placed near your door so your dog can ring the bell when he needs to go outside. Since dogs can’t talk, it’s an easy way for them to communicate that they need to do their business, preventing accidents inside. They come in a variety of formats, from basic hanging doorbells to wireless electronic ones much like the popular Ring doorbells.
Robot Vacuum
Although it won’t assist your pet, a robot vacuum will make your life much easier. These devices map out your home and vacuum on a schedule of your choosing. Simply create a schedule on your smartphone and let your robot vacuum take care of all the pet hair and dander that ends up on your floor.
Pet tech has come a long way in recent years, and it’s hard to keep up with the newest and latest products. Your dog doesn’t need much besides food, water, shelter and love, but adding a few smart devices to your repertoire certainly makes it easier to be a pet owner. If you’d like advice on any products, just ask your vet. Our experts at Pine Creek Veterinary Hospital would be happy to help. Contact us today!