Dog apps and games seem to be everywhere these days – but which ones are worth a closer look? We’ve rounded up some of the most practical app tools for pet owners, along with some light-hearted doggy diversions! Bear in mind that with any free dog app, you usually get a certain amount of content included – but if you want more, you might have to pay.
Great for training your dog: Puppr
Need a hand with getting your pup to sit, wait, and generally behave himself? Dog training app Puppr has easy-to-follow video guides and a built-in clicker tool to let your dog know when he’s getting it right. The 70+ training lessons range from basic obedience to advanced tricks.
Puppr for iOS; Puppr for Android
Great for finding dog walkers, boarders and sitters: Rover – Dog Boarding & Walking
Dog walking apps and boarding apps that connect pet owners with strangers should always be approached with care. But Rover is one of the best established, and all of its dog walkers, boarders and sitters have been verified before making it into the app’s directory. It’s free to browse providers in your area (although naturally you’ll have to pay if you hire anyone). Your chosen dog walker or sitter can send regular updates and photos through the app, letting you touch base with your beloved pet while you’re apart.
Rover for iOS; Rover for Android
Great for dubbing your dog: My Talking Pet
This quirky app maps your pet’s features from a photo, allowing you to animate their face and make them ‘talk’. Once you’re happy with your dog’s expression, you can record a message on their behalf, or use one of the app’s existing library of funny phrases.
My Talking Pet for iOS; My Talking Pet for Android
Great for identifying the dog of your dreams: Dog Scanner
Don’t know your Cockapoos from your Labradoodles? If you’ve seen a pooch that you want to know more about, Dog Scanner can analyse their photo and identify the breed. With info on more than 370 canine breeds, it’s particularly useful if you’re thinking of getting another dog. There’s even a little in-built game that gives you virtual rewards for all the breeds you spot.
Dog Scanner for iOS; Dog Scanner for Android
Great for pretending to speak dog: Dog Translator/Human-to-Dog Translator
If you’ve ever wondered what you’d sound like as a dog, a number of ‘dog translator’ apps for iOS and Android will convert your words into woofs! Most let you record messages for ‘translation’ and play back various dog barks. Just don’t count on your dog not being baffled by the results…
Dog Translator for iOS; Human-to-Dog Translator for Android
Great for budding veterinarians: Pet Vet Doctor Dogs
This dog game is a hit with children – and grownups may well learn a thing or two, as well! Players try to work out what’s wrong with their dog by using tech tools such as X-ray machines to diagnose surprisingly realistic health issues. The free app includes a couple of breeds, and you can upgrade if you want to treat more dogs.
Great for exploring dog dating apps: Dig
A dating app for dog people, Dig helps unattached pet owners connect with others who love animals just as much as they do. It’s free to join, swipe through compatible singles in your area and start messaging. But if you want to read your private messages, you’ll need to pay a fee, or wait for one of their occasional ‘yappy hours’.