Best Dog Cameras 2023

It’s never easy leaving your dog at home alone.

While some dogs may suffer from separation anxiety, many pet owners struggle with the same emotions.

For those who don’t have the luxury of working from home, there is the constant stress of worrying that your dog could be in trouble.

The number one concern is your dog is safe given they are just as important as any other family member.

There is also the added worry of a potential break in or unforeseen escape that adds an extra layer of stress.

However, a number of companies have successfully launched dog cameras to give anxious pet parents some much-needed reassurance.

Not only that, but it is now possible to communicate with your dog and reward well-behaved pooches with treats.

We’ve taken a look at the best dog cameras available on the market right now.

We have also taken into account customer reviews to get a better idea of which products are doing a good job.

So without further ado, let’s break down your ultimate guide to the best dog cameras on sale at the moment.

Current Top Rated Dog Cameras

How We Picked The Best Dog Cameras

In our search for the best dog camera, we have taken a look at the features that matter most to dog owners.

There are so many options available on Amazon and elsewhere online, it can be difficult to settle on the best one for you.

As a result, we have considered nine key features that these dog cameras need to have to help pet parents get the best out of this technology.

• Treat dispenser
• Two-way speaker
• Barking detection
• Motion detection
• Night vision
• Ease of use
• Reliability
• Design and size
• Price

Without further ado, let’s take a look at our top picks in the dog camera market.

1) Petcube Bites 2

To buy: petcube.com

Main Points

Petcube Bites 2 is an all-in-one Wi-Fi pet camera with built-in treat dispenser that lets you train and reward your pet remotely.

So when you can’t be with your faithful friend, Petcube Bites 2 can help to comfort your dog.

It has a built-in two-way speaker and microphone so pet parents can hear and talk to their precious pooches wherever they may be.

Using their app, you are able to reward your dog for good behaviour or provide a welcome distraction by flinging a treat.

In fact, you can throw the treat varying distances depending on your movement of the animated treat.

Most dogs can have a mischievous side, which is why Petcube Bites 2 have motion and sound alerts to allow pet parents to keep tabs on their pup.

As their name suggests, Petcube Bites 2 isn’t limited to just dogs – owners of cats can also find this equipment beneficial.

Treat Dispenser

This feature is important for dog owners who have pooches that need some stimulation during periods of separation.

It also allows for well-behaved dogs to get a treat or even to show off their obedience on camera.

You are also able to schedule treat times, which could help to build a routine if you leave your dog alone at similar times every day.

Petcube Bites 2 use a container to store their treats which is dishwasher safe but can also be washed by hand.

They have also teamed up with Amazon Dash so when your treat supply runs low in your treat cam, Amazon can automatically reorder and ship treats directly to your home.

Two-Way Speaker

Petcube Bites 2 comes with two ways of audio interaction: default push-to-talk that works much like a walkie-talkie and optional simultaneous two-way audio.

This facilitates dog owners to communicate with their dogs, especially for those who have particularly anxious pets that require some reassurance when home alone.

Barking Detectiona

Petcube Bites 2 does have audio detection to alert dog owners if their pooch is making a noise.

Their app can send push notifications to your smartphone when it detects a sound such as barking.

Motion Detection

It has a motion sensor – too. So if your dog is on the move, you can keep tabs to make sure everything is fine.

For those who opt for Petcube Care, the Petcube App will record videos triggered by motion (as well as sound).

Night Vision

Petcube Bites 2 has an infrared sensor capable of streaming clear black and white video in pitch dark.

So you will be able to clearly see your dog whether it is daw, day, dusk or night.

When the sensor detects a low level of ambient light, your Petcube camera will automatically activate the Night Vision mode.

You are able to toggle with night vision by accessing settings in your Petcube App.

Ease Of Use

For those who aren’t savvy when it comes to technology, Petcube Bites 2 is easy to use so don’t stress!

It is really quick to get started with an easy process. You have to download the app and sign up.

Once you’ve opened the app using your details, you can add your PetCube Bites camera and turn on your device.

From there, the app will take you through the simple steps required to set up the device – wifi is required.

Petcube Bites 2 provides a feature that allows you to find friends so you can keep tabs on your canine pals – too.

Reliability

It is a pretty reliable piece of equipment. Petcube Bites 2 can also be paired with Amazon Alexa.

Design And Size

Petcube Bites 2 is one of the largest dog cameras available on the market right now. It is around 33cm tall which is quite large.

The design is modern and sleek and you can choose from three different colours: matte silver, carbon black and snow white.

Price

PetCube Bites 2 is only available to buy for $199 (USA) on Amazon.

What Customers Are Saying About It

One customer called Dan discussed how the device helped his dogs who suffer from separation anxiety:

Another consumer felt the price was worth the investment:

Finally, a customer named Johnny opened up about how his pet has come to love Petcube Bites 2:

Any Negatives?

While some dog owners may have an issue with the size, the contemporary design should complement your home.

The fact that you can choose from three different colours means there should be a design to please everyone.

Conclusion

For those who want the comfort of knowing that their dog is happy and safe when they are away from home, Petcube Bites 2 is a good option.

They have all the key features that make up a good dog camera, including a treat-tossing function, two-way speaker system and audio and motion sensors.

Petcube Bites 2 offers a lot of variety when it comes to rewarding your dog, providing a range of distances that you can propel some well-earned treats.

Not only that, but they provide a lot of space within the container to ensure you never run out of treats.

We love the modern design of PetCube Bites 2.

2) PetChatz

Product website: www.amazon.com

Main Points

PetChatz is a “greet and treat” videophone that provides the opportunity to interact and keep pets entertained when home alone.

Described as a digital daycare for dogs, PetChatz vow to provide a five-star service.

One of the biggest selling points of this dog camera is the two-way video feature.

So not only can you see your dog, but your dog can also see you!

When it’s time to check in on your precious pooch, a special ringtone will let your pet know that you’re calling.

It also has a scent release so you can use their PetChatz Scentz essential oil drops to relax dogs who suffer from separation anxiety.

With someone who has two anxious dogs at home, this is a very thoughtful feature that can help to soothe my distressed pups.

Treat Dispenser

It has a manual treat release once you’ve downloaded the PetChatz App. You use the bone animation to disperse a treat for your pup.

They provide a month’s supply of treats inside the box, which we feel is a nice touch.

There are more available to purchase on their website should your dog take a particular shine to these treats.

Two-Way Speaker

PetChatz has a two-way speaker but it goes on step further with two-way video too.

So not only can you speak to your dog to ease any anxiety or nervousness, your pet can see your face to add an extra level of comfort.

This is what sets is apart from some of the other competitors on the market right now.

Most dog cameras will have two-way audio and one-way video.

So the two-way video is certainly a unique selling point for PetChatz.

Barking Detection

PetChatz will send push notifications if there is a sound near the device. This allows pet parents to check up on their pooch if they are barking or whining.

Motion Detection

As well as a sound sensor, PetChatz will alert dog owners if their pet is on the move near the unit.

It includes a smart motion-and-sound triggered video recording PetChatz feature that automatically records the last 30 funny, cute, and naughty moments (6-30 seconds long) of your fur baby.

Night Vision

Given the technology used in PetChatz, it is no surprise that it does include night vision. So whatever time of day it is, you can check up on your pooch.

Ease Of Use

To set-up PetChatz, pet parents connect their device to their home Wi-Fi network. The PetChatz can be mounted over any electrical outlet in your home or use an optional PetChatz Stand accessory.

To connect to your PetChatz unit, you can remotely log onto PetChatz.com and/or download the PetChatz app on your smartphone or tablet.

Reliability

You can check up on your pet on your smart phone. But if you’re having an issue accessing the app or your phone for an unforeseen reason, you can log in on your computer to check up on your pet. This is another unique aspect to the product.

Design And Size

PetChatz does need to be place over an electrical outlet, which does limit the number of places that you can set up this device.

Price

The device is priced at $399.99 (USD) on Amazon.com.

What Customers Are Saying About It

PetChatz has a four star rating on Amazon.

One customer called Holly described the positive impact it has had on her life:

Another consumer named JSS had no issue with the price of the device:

One negative review by Kevin suggested the unit was not suitable for use with large dogs:

Any Negatives?

PetChatz is one of more premium options in the dog camera market at the moment.

It is quite a bit more expensive than the other options listed in this article.

However, it does come with some unique features that sets it apart from its competitors.

Conclusion

There is no doubt that PetChatz is a bit on the pricey side.

However, the two-way video is something that is unique to this product.

Not only that, but their aromatherapy is a thoughtful addition to help dogs with separation anxiety.

The unit itself needs to be placed over an electrical unit, which is rather limiting.

For those who can afford to splash out on their dog, the two-way video could be enough to convince it is worth the price.

3) PetCube Play 2

Product website: www.petcube.com

Main Points

PetCube Play 2 is the updated offering from Petcube for pet parents.

Whether you have a cat or a dog, this camera will give you the opportunity to keep an eye on your beloved companion.

Petcube write on the website that peace of mind is priceless – and anyone with a pet can attest to this.

They promise that their pet cam will provide added security to both you and you pet at home.

You can enjoy features such as a laser toy, two-way audio and a wide-angle view.

They’ve also got video history, smart alerts and pet care perks to cover all the bases.

Laser Toy

Unlike the other dog cameras that we’ve already taken a look at, Petcube Play 2 doesn’t have a treat dispenser.

However, this device caters to dog owners who might have a canine that’s uninterested in food when left home alone. In my case, my Alaskan Klee Kai can be quite picky.

Petcube Play 2 does have a laser toy – so you can play a game of chase in real time with your dog. It’s super precise and smooth – and you can access the feature via their app.

Two-Way Speaker

It’s vital that a dog camera has two-way audio so you can hear your dog if they’re excessively barking or scratching relentlessly at the door.

Similarly, you want to have the ability to be able to speak to your pooch to reassure them that everything is ok with the sound of your voice.

Petcube Play 2’s website says that the camera has full duplex sound, with 4-microphone array and a speaker bar. Petcube claim it’ll be like speaking to your pet on the phone.

Barking Detection

Some dog cameras don’t have barking detection but Petcube Play 2 does.

This is a key feature because if you work a 9-6 job, you can’t be on your phone all the time checking in on your pet.

PetCube Play 2 has audio recognition so you’ll receive a smart alert if your dog is barking up a storm.

Motion Detection

Dog cameras can also serve a function as security cameras. Your pooch is likely one of your prized possessions.

While you don’t want to know every time your dog moves, Petcube Play 2 is smart enough to tell the difference between humans and pets.

Night Vision

It’s not possible to be at home at all times. Sometimes you may have to work late and you’re dog is left in the dark (literally).

With Petcube Play 2, you can avail of their night vision so you can access a clear visual of your dog no matter the time of the day.

Ease Of Use

Petcube Play 2 allows pet owners to access built-in Alexa. This should make life a little bit easier for dog owners.

The set up is straightforward. You download the app and create an account or log in using your Facebook account. Once in the app, you tap “Connect Petcube device” and select Petcube Play.

You will need to plug one end of the USB cable into the device and connect the other end of the USB cable to the adaptor and plug into an electrical outlet.

Reliability

Petcube Play 2 is one of the most reliable products on the market.

Petcube Care is an optional membership for pet parents. If you decide to subscribe to the plan, you’ll get multi-day cloud video history, pet and human detection, meow and bark alerts, easy to download video clips and member-only pet savings.

Design And Size

Their website claims Petcube Play 2 has “unparalleled beauty”. This is quite the statement. We do have to admit that the device is elegant so it should fit into most homes without being an eyesore. Crucially, it’s pet proof!

Price

Petcube Play 2 is priced at $199 on online retailer Amazon for our US readers.

If you want the comprehensive Petcube package, you can buy PetCube Play 2, PetCube Bites 2 and Petcube Care, it’ll set you back $495 on Amazon.

What Customers Are Saying About It

Petcube Play 2 gets 4.7 out of 5 stars based upon 67 customers reviews on Amazon. That’s extremely impressive.

One customer was delighted that she upgraded to Petcube Play 2:

A French Bulldog owner was thrilled with the product’s performance:

Another pet owner was delighted with her upgrade from Petcube Play:

Any Negatives?

The only negative we can see is that Petcube Play 2 doesn’t have a treat dispenser.

If that’s one of the key features you want, then you may want to look at Petcube Bites 2.

However, the laser game is a great alternative if you want to be able to play with your dog when you’re not home.

Conclusion

Petcube Play 2 is a fantastic alternative to pet cameras with a treat dispenser.

Some dogs are more stimulated by movement and playtime rather than food.

Petcube’s laser game is simple and smooth to operate, so you can bond with your dog while you’re not even home.

It’s competitively priced compared to some other models on the market with less features.

Key Features To Look Out For

Treat Dispenser

If your dog is at home alone and isn’t acting out, you want to be able to reward your pet for good behaviour. Alternatively, the ability to dispense a treat can help to distract an anxious dog that could be suffering from separation anxiety. They can also help to reduce boredom and keep dogs that need regular stimulation entertained. Some dog cameras on the market include a treat dispenser, which has proven an important feature for rewarding dogs that are behaving at home alone.

Two-Way Speaker

It’s all very well being able to hear your dog but a dog camera isn’t much use if you’re unable to speak to your pet. How frustrating would it be to hear your dog barking, crying or whining but be unable to discipline or reassure your pooch. For that reason, we consider a two-way speaker a must for dog cameras. Having a number of nervous pups at home, the ability to talk to them has proven invaluable to soothe their separation anxiety.

Barking Detection

It is not practical to have your dog camera app open on your phone throughout the day. If you have to leave the house to work in an office or a warehouse, you won’t have the luxury of keeping constant tabs on your dog. Therefore, it’s important that a dog camera is able to recognise barking, whimpering or crying and send a notification to your phone. In doing so, it gives dog owners the chance to communicate with their pet. This is also a vital feature for those who live in apartment buildings or with neighbours nearby to avoid receiving complaints about your dog being disruptive.

Motion Detection

Some dog owners may prefer to crate their pets when they leave the house, or put leave them in a confined area such as a pen where they are unable to do damage to their dwelling. However, others may feel comfortable leaving their pets to roam around a specific section of the house. For dog owners who use a pen or keep their dogs in a particular room, it is crucial that a dog camera has a motion sensor. It can help pet parents to have their beloved pooches shredding a pillow or jumping on furniture.

Night Vision

While dogs may be left alone throughout the working day, others have the luxury of earning money from home. But even these fortunate people will more than likely have to leave their dog alone at some point. Whether it’s dinner with your spouse, a friend’s birthday party or a trip to the cinema, there are occasions where you may leave your pet in the evening before sunset and not return until it is dark outside. In this scenario, a night vision feature will ensure that you can still see your dog even if you forget to leave a light on.

Ease Of Use

It’s great having all these features but dog cameras aren’t much use if they’re too complicated to set up or require a lot of different accounts and apps to work.

Reliability

Again, a dog camera is pretty useless if it isn’t reliable. If you’re willing to invest in such equipment, you want your dog camera to be consistent and reliable.

Design And Size

For those who take their interior design seriously or who don’t want an eyesore in their bedroom or living room, the design and size of the dog camera is important.

Price

Price is another important consideration. These dog cameras can be quite pricey, but there are other options on the market that are much cheaper. That might be useful for those on a budget but do they represent value for money?

Anything Else To Consider?

Not every dog parent will be savvy when it comes to technology.

So it is vital that it is easy to set up and customer service is clear, concise and efficient when called upon.

Our Final Thoughts

So we’ve come to the end of our review.

We think Petcube Bites 2 is a great option for pet parents who want to a pet camera to check on their four-legged friend as well as have the ability to give them treats.

Alternatively, PetzChatz is a brilliant option for dog owners who believe their pooches will benefit from being able to see them with their two-way video, while they’re aromatherapy feature is a thoughful addition.

Finally, PetCube Play 2 is a great choice for pet owners who want to be able to play with their dogs while checking up on them.

By selecting one of the options on this list, you’re set to have a more interactive experience with your dog when you’re not at home.