Toy Dogs For Kids Who Desperately Want A Puppy (But You're Like, "Hell No")

If you can’t get your kid a real dog, the next best thing (aside from a cat) is a robotic dog. This smart dog can be programmed to walk, dance, blink, look around, and interact. It isn’t cuddly or soft, but it’s super engaging and can keep kids occupied for a long time, which is very ideal.

This cute puppy with black spots and a pink bandana has been trained well. It can flip over and walk on carpet and hard surfaces. And according to the company, it’s hypoallergenic, which is a weird selling point considering it’s a toy, but it made us laugh.

Harry is a smart electronic pet dog that responds to touch. It can walk, bark, sing, dance, and play chase. According to reviews, Harry is sturdy enough to live in a house full of kids who may or may not understand the concept of being gentle.

There’s no question that this cute little white puppy belongs to Barbie. She’s wearing a pink tutu, after all. She comes with fun accessories, and when her leash is pulled, she barks, walks, and wags her tail.

This adorable fluff ball walks and wags its tail like a real dog. Of course, it can’t walk as fast as a real dog, so it’ll likely get dragged around the house a bit, but what toy doesn’t? It comes with a remote control leash, and you can choose from a white, brown, or black dog.

When you get a new puppy, you have to get all the puppy essentials. This little guy comes with everything—a leash, carrier, food bowl, dog bone, dog bed, tennis ball, and brush—all things you’d need for the real deal. FYI, this pup is on the smaller side (6.5 by 7 inches) and would make an adorable “pet” for your kid’s favorite doll.

This sweet Goldendoodle is ready to be adopted into his forever home. His name is Max, and he comes with a leash, carrying bag, toys, a name tag, and an adoption paper ready to be filled out. This seals the deal that your kid’s found a “fur-ever” friend!

Pretend poop is way more fun than real poop—at least for parents. This little furry friend makes sounds when it needs to go. It comes with a detachable leash, treats, and a cleanup bag—which is a great way to teach your kids how to be responsible pet owners. Consider this a teaching toy if you’re planning on adding a real-life pooch to the family!

This educational and interactive toy from VTech is a great introduction to caring for a pet. The set comes with a plush puppy, bowl, ball, comb, and a bottle to encourage role play. Light up buttons on the carrier teach letters, shapes, pet care, songs, and sounds. The songs will likely drive you crazy, but your baby will love them.

Violet isn’t just a toy dog, she also helps babies learn first words, feelings and emotions, and colors and numbers. She comes equipped with over 40 songs and lullabies, over 15 personalized activities, and over 5,000 Amazon reviews with a nearly-perfect rating, overall.

The classic Pound Puppies from the ’80s are back and basically the same as you remember them. They even come in the same Pound Puppy box with an adoption paper. Each puppy also comes with a sheet of stickers and a serious dose of nostalgia. While it’s excellent for teaching kids the joy of adopting a shelter pup, let’s be honest: This one’s really for you.