The Best Dog Cameras To Monitor Your Pup Reviewed

Written by Anthony Dewitt

There’s no denying that dogs make our lives better. They are constant companions who want nothing more than to spend time with us and make us happy. The only bad thing about having a dog is honestly that they can’t be with you all the time. When you’re separated from your pooch, it’s natural that you’d want to make sure that you can check in on them from time to time to make sure they don’t make a mess, that they are safe in their crate (even if you’ve chosen the best one for your dog), or just to make sure they’re not barking and disturbing neighbors. If you can’t have someone do it physically, the next best thing is to check in with a dog camera.

The best dog camera on the market is the one that has the right combination of features for your needs. The best way to find that is through research – and that’s why we’ve done it for you. This list will tell you a little about the best dog cameras on the market today as well as where you’ll be able to buy them. 

Best Dog Cameras in 2021

It’s always important to remember that no one product is perfect for every consumer. If you’re looking to find a great camera so you can keep an eye your dog, it’s vital that you find the device that best fits your needs. Fortunately, we’ve put together a list that has something for everyone. 

Furbo Dog Camera

As a pet owner, it makes sense that you want to ensure that your dog is well taken care of even when you are not around. Though you might not be able to play with your pup quite as much as you like when you’re gone, there are still things that you can do to comfort him or her. If your goal is to keep your dog happy, you’ll definitely want to take a look at this excellent Furbo Dog Camera, which gets our vote for today’s best pet camera.

If you’ve seen this pet camera before, you’ve probably been enchanted by its main selling feature. Unlike most alternatives on the market, this pet camera allows you to interact with your dog not only via two-way audio, but also by throwing him or her a treat. This isn’t a simple dispenser, either – there’s an element of play here that will allow you to throw your dog a treat with your phone. It’s a little touch that goes a very long way towards helping you feel a little closer to your dog even when you are far away. 

Even if you aren’t that interested in the treat dispenser function, there’s still a good bit to recommend this product. It has a wide-angle of view and the 1080p video camera with night vision will help you to see your dog as clearly as possible in real-time. The camera even has a unique bark sensor that will alert you when your dog is barking, giving you a chance to throw him or her a treat or just to figure out what’s going on without bothering the neighbors. The Furbo does it all and it’s definitely worth a look, which is why we’ve selected it as the best pet camera you can find today. 

Petcube Play 2 Wi-Fi Pet Camera

One of the best parts of being a dog owner is the fact that you get to play with your dog. Unfortunately, that’s not something that’s possible when you are out of the house – or at least, that’s the case most of the time. This unique Play 2 camera from Petcube is the runner up for today’s best pet camera. It gives you the chance to not only keep an eye your dog when you are out of the house but to play with him or her at the same time.

If you set aside the play feature, you’ll note that the Play 2 pet camera checks all of the usual boxes. It has a 1080p high definition video camera that allows for a crystal clear view, a built-in Alexa assistant that allows you to control the device remotely via wi-fi, and an ultra-wide field of view that helps you to keep track of your pet in real-time. It even features night vision so you can monitor in low- to no-light conditions. It’s an ideal camera even if you are looking at the basics.

At the same time, though, the Play 2 pet camera feels a lot more fun than most of those on the market. The included laser toy allows you to play around with your pet even when you are not at home, a great feature for both dogs and cats. The toy is safe for pets but gives you a little bit of control over what your dog is doing when you aren’t around. If you are looking for a camera that is a little more interactive, this might be the best fit for you. 

VSTARCAM Dog Camera

Most pet owners get the feeling that their pets miss them when they are not around. While your dog might have a rich life of his or her own when you are gone, the truth is that he or she really does miss interacting with you. While there are many cameras that allow users to watch their dogs, it’s nice to note that a few – like this one from VSTARCAM – allow dog owners a chance to reassure their dogs that they are going t come back home as soon as they can. 

So, how does this pet camera help with interactivity? One of the big features is the inclusion of the ability to allow for both music and voice playback. This allows you to send messages to your dog to calm down or come eat, a must if you’re looking to keep your dog happy when you’re gone. This is especially helpful for those pups with separation anxiety. The camera also includes an excellent laser pointer toy that will give your dog something to play with – a bit of interactivity that really does mean a lot to your dog if you can’t make it home on time. 

The base camera functions are, of course, also excellent. The 1080p video camera has a full range of motion and night vision so you’ll never miss what your dog is doing. You can also record pictures and videos, allowing you to see what your dog gets up to when you are gone. Taken as a whole, this pet camera is a great device for any dog owner who wants to play with his or her pet even from a distance. 

Conico 1080P HD Baby Monitor

It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your dog even when you can’t be at home. Not only will this help to keep your dog safe, but it will also help you to ensure that your dog isn’t getting into any trouble when you are gone. Though it’s certainly better for both you and your dog to be at home, this pet camera from Conico really feels like the next best thing. 

This is a 1080p camera with a 350-degree pan – allowing you not only to see exactly where your dog is when you leave but to move around the camera to find out where he or she is going during the day. The device also includes a great two-way audio communication feature, which allows you to hear your dog and for your dog to hear from you in real time. If you’re looking for a way to stay in contact with your dog via two-way audio on the go, this camera will work for you.

This camera is also a great choice if you’re looking to keep track of your dog over time. You can offload the video or still pictures to the cloud storage or store them in an SD card. Whether at home or on the road, you’ll be able to see what your dog has gotten up to. This is a fantastic piece of technology that can help you to feel closer to your dog no matter where you happen to be. 

KAMTRON Security Camera 1080P WiFi Dog Pet Camera

Not every dog owner needs to constantly monitor their dogs. Some, in fact, just need to know when their dogs are going places where they are not meant to be. If you trust your dog most of the time but still need to know if they are safe, you might be better off with something that doesn’t just monitor your dog but that detects when they are moving around. Fortunately, this KAMTRON camera can do just that. 

Smart AI is at the core of this camera. It utilizes various sensors to figure out if your dog is moving around and sends an alert directly to your phone when that happens. If you choose to set up the video camera in an area where your dog isn’t allowed, you’ll be able to see exactly where they are the moment that they come into range. This feature is an absolute lifesaver for those who keep up with their dogs’ movements throughout the day. 

On top of the motion detection, this camera also allows for something that many other cameras don’t have – a 360 field of view. You can set the device to your preferred point of view and stay sure that you’ll be able to catch anything that’s going on. If you are curious about finding out what your dogs have done after the fact, you can also check the footage later thanks to both cloud storage and an onboard SD card. If your goal is to check in on your dog, this camera’s got everything you need. 

NetVue 1080P Dog Camera

Sometimes the best dog cameras are the simplest. Instead of looking for play features, some dog owners just want a camera that’s going to allow them to check on their dogs when necessary. The extras are good, of course, but it is the core features that matter the most. If you’re looking for an excellent camera that does its primary job well, you’ll definitely want to take a look at this model from NetVue.

If you’re looking at the basics, you have to start with the camera quality. Like the other great cameras on this list, this one has a 1080p resolution. Unlike some of the others, though, it has multiple available viewpoints that allow for better coverage of your recorded area. The device even stores its footage in the cloud for up to 30 days, allowing you to look over it at your leisure.

Though this camera’s main selling point is its utility, that doesn’t mean that it does not have some cool extra features. The product also uses Smart AI for motion detection, turning it on only when something the size of your dog moves into frame. The device also makes use of Alexa, allowing you to have two-way audio communication through the device so that your dog can hear your voice and so that you can hear exactly what your dog gets up to when they are home alone. This is one device where the extras really enhance an already great product. 

Wyze Cam Pan 1080p Pan/Tilt/Zoom Wi-Fi Indoor Smart Home Camera

Need to keep full tabs on your pooch at all times? The new Wyze Cam Pan 1080p Pan/Tilt/Zoom Wi-Fi Indoor Smart Home Camera is one of the best dog monitoring cameras on the market. This sweet new dog camera comes with a two-way audio and night vision to ensure complete surveillance throughout the day and night. 

When it comes to watching dog action, this is the security camera to buy. This wide-angle pet camera comes with a real-time wi fi connection that lets you keep an eye on your furry friend at all times. Enjoy peace of mind as you watch them play, eat, sleep, and generally amuse themselves. If they misbehave, you’ll know.

Pet owners will appreciate the two-way audio feature that lets you communicate immediately with your pet. You can use this two-way audio function to reassure them and let them know they are the best pet in your life. The two-way video comes with 1080p HD in the ultimate high definition. It will give you peace of mind concerning your pet. 

The device comes complete with full motion detection to observe any movement your pet or an unauthorized intruder may make in your home. You can use it to shine a video on dog activity as well as enhance the security of your property. Cloud storage for the video feed is one of its many excellent security features. 

You can ease the separation anxiety of your pet by communicating directly with them on HD video. This way, you can keep watchful eyes on them even when they are home alone. This particular model tops our list of best doggie cameras because of its easy portability and ease of installation. It’s also extremely cost-effective. 

Owlet Home Pet Cameras with Treat Dispenser

The new Owlet Home Pet Cameras with Treat Dispenser is a classy new model that is well worth its inclusion on our present list. It comes loaded with a wide range of features that guarantee its usefulness as one of the best new cameras for dog surveillance. 

When it comes to choosing cameras, many pet owners have been looking for something new and innovative. Owlet has answered the call with an amazing new treat dispenser video cam. Not only does this product feature two-way audio and video with HD and full activation, but it also does something fresh and new that has pet lovers celebrating its release. 

The new Owlet treat cam comes with a special treat dispenser that lets you reward your furry friend for their devotion and good behavior. This classy new treat dispenser camera has 2-way audio voice activation that lets you send a signal to have the unit dispense a tasty treat for your pet to enjoy. It’s the ultimate way to show them you care. 

Installation and set up for this treat dispenser cam are easier than ever. All you will need to do is unpack it from the box, plug it into a handy power outlet, download the included app, add the device, and connect it to your wi-fi. The operation takes only a few minutes and is very easy to master. You will need a strong wireless signal. 

The Owlet camera comes with a 720P HD camera that features a full range of auto night vision. This will enable you to observe your pet’s actions in daylight as well as night conditions. HD video streaming lets monitor your pet and dispense them a tasty treat to ease any separation or loneliness issues that they may be experiencing. 

TOOGE Pet Dog Camera Wireless Home Security Camera

Keeping track of your dog while you are away from home doesn’t have to because of anxiety. You don’t have to hire a costly pet sitter. Neither will you have to worry about your beloved pet suffering separation issues. Thanks to this handy new camera, you can ease both of your worries with full HD camera surveillance on a 24/7 basis.

The new TOOGE Pet Dog Camera Wireless Home Security Camera is a worthy addition to our list of top pet cam models. This handy new dog camera comes equipped with a very impressive list of features. These include a full two way sound and video interaction and night vision.

All you need is a fast 2.4G wifi connection, It sets up via a mobile app on all of your iPhone or Android smartphones or tablets. The only drawback is that there is no MAC compatibility at this time. Once the app is active, you can use it to monitor your pet in all conditions and also record the footage for reference. 

The device also comes with complete motion detection sensor tech. This will allow you to keep tabs on all movements made by your pet. It can issue you alerts when your pet is out of their accustomed area or barking too much or too long. It will also let you know if there are movements by any unauthorized individuals in your home. 

The present unit is also equipped with a full Pan/Tilt/Zoom function. This allows for full surveillance from a wide variety of viewpoints all over your property. The wifi camera will give you a complete horizontal 350° and vertical 80° rotation. This feature also includes a 4x digital zoom function that will afford you complete coverage. 

WOpet Smart Pet Camera and Dog Treat Dispenser

The brand new WOpet Smart Pet Camera and Dog Treat Dispenser is a sight for sore eyes as well as a sweet treat for doggy stomachs. It will keep your pet completely under surveillance while also easing any anxiety issues they may have while you are out of the house. 

The two-way audio feature is a true state of the art delight. The handy microphone and speaker system allow for clear two-way audio communication. This will allow you to listen in, talk to your pet, and reward them with a delicious doggy snack, which is particularly helpful for pets with separation anxiety. It will help you remind them that you are still in their lives and caring for them.

Meanwhile, the full HD camera surveillance feature will let you keep tabs on your pet as well as your home. You can use the product in any area of your home at any time of the day or night. The night vision feature will give you a clear picture of what is going on. You can also use the handy record feature to keep a record of all events. 

Goowls 1080P HD WiFi Camera Baby Camera 

The new Goowls 1080P HD WiFi Camera Baby Camera is designed to do double duty as a pet or baby camera. It performs all of its required functions with total aplomb and complete efficiency. It comes with all of the features that buyers have come to deserve and expect. 

The unit is fully equipped with a 355° pan and 110° tilt rotation in true 1080 HD with IR night vision. The included 110° wide-angle lens is designed to give you 360° panoramic surveillance with no blind spots. The unit can be fully rotated in less than three seconds. This is the ultimate level of security for your dog or baby. 

You can use the camera to capture sound and video and record it for monitoring at any time of the day or night. The night vision feature captures images up to 32 feet away in even the darkest areas. This is the perfect device to keep tabs on your pet or baby when you are away from the home. Installation is a quick and very easy process. 

Petcube Cam Pet Monitoring Camera

The new Petcube Cam Pet Monitoring Camera is a handy new total dog surveillance unit. It comes with an amazing new feature called Vet Chat that allows you to alert a professional vet if you think your pet is experiencing any issues that need attention.

In addition to the new Vet Chat option, this handy camera comes with a full 1080 HD night vision. This lets you observe and report any suspicious activity that may occur up to 30 feet away in even the darkest areas of your home. The unit will send out a series of instant sound and motion alerts if this should prove to be the case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best dog camera to buy?

As you can imagine, figuring out the best dog camera to buy is really a matter of figuring out the features that you need and what you’re going to get out of being able to watch your dog. What’s great for one person isn’t necessarily going to be as good for another, so make sure that you take some time to think about what’s best for you. Look at some of the top-selling models, see what makes them so popular, and then figure out how to get exactly what you need from the product that you choose to buy. 

What are the best pet cameras?

The best pet cameras tend to come from the more popular pet-focused brands and also tend to have some deep connections to the better consumer models of webcams and surveillance systems. Most of the better pet cameras are very small and very easy to use, but still, have a fairly wide range of vision. Some even have special features that allow you to communicate with your dog. There’s no single brand that’s going to be perfect for everyone, so it is recommended that you do some research to figure out which cameras are going to be right for your home. 

How can I spy on my dog?

The easiest way to spy on your dog is to set up a camera where he or she can’t get access. It’s not so much about hiding the camera from your pet as it is about making sure that your camera isn’t in a place where your dog might decide that the device is actually a toy. Once you have the camera set up, you’ll be surprised to find that your dog probably doesn’t care if it activates. The dog might take a moment to look around if it has a light or sound, but most dogs will go about their normal business even if the camera is on. 

Are dog cameras worth it?

A pet camera is definitely worthwhile if you are the kind of person who gets nervous about leaving your dog on his or her own, or if you know your dogs is suffering from separation anxiety. These cameras can also be useful if you want to check in on your dog throughout the day to see if he or she is well-fed or safely in their playpen. They are not, however, going to be as helpful as some two-way means of communication because there’s not much you can do with the information you get beyond knowing that you need to go home. 

Buying Guide

Buying a camera to watch your pet is a lot more difficult than you might think. The problem isn’t that it is difficult to find a camera, but rather that it’s difficult to find the right product. Most of these products work well but not all of them work perfectly for your needs. This buying guide should help you to figure out which features are most important in common pet cameras so that you can make an informed choice when you are ready to make a purchase. 

Usage

Before you look at anything else, you’re going to have to figure out how you are going to use your camera. Are you looking for something that’s just going to be used to watch your dog, or are you going to want something that’s for whole-home security? Don’t mistake a dog camera as a device that has the same kind of utility as dedicated security cameras, especially if you’re trying to monitor a large area.

Think about exactly how this camera is going to be used, including where and how often you’ll expect to use the monitoring functions. If you can be honest about your needs, you’ll be able to strike a number of potential options from your list. Above all else, the way that you are going to use your camera is going to dictate the type of product that you need to buy. 

Viewing Area

The viewing area is one of the most important factors when it comes to choosing a camera. You need to know how much space your camera is going to cover so that you’re able to watch your dog when necessary. If you don’t have a wide enough field of view, it might be a good idea to consider picking up multiple cameras that can be networked together. If you are only watching a smaller space, though, it might be overkill to pick out a camera that’s going to be able to pick up a particularly wide area. Always try to ensure that you are able to see what you need to see when using one of these cameras. 

Connectivity

Connectivity has to do with not just how the device is set up, but also how you are going to interact with the device. To some degree, this is a matter of ease of use – how long is it going to take you to get the device connected to your network, and how reliable will that connection be when you are out of the house? Even a camera that has all of the best features loses some of its lusters when you can’t actually view your dog on the screen.

The other big connectivity issue has to do with how your device will connect with your other devices. Will you be able to view the camera with a smartphone app? Will you need to connect to a PC to view the footage? Can you share the footage with others? All of these are questions that you will need to ask yourself before you decide on which camera you’ll ultimately want to buy. Try to make sure that the camera you choose has the kind of connectivity that you need in order to ensure that the purchase actually ends up being worth your money. 

Activity Detection

Do you want a camera that’s always on, or do you want something that’s just going to pop on whenever your pet actually moves? There’s not really a right answer here, but it’s important to remember that you do have a choice when it comes to buying pet cameras. This kind of functionality does vary from model to model, so take a look at the back of the packaging to ensure that you get exactly what you want.

Most of those who want constant monitoring are those who want to be able to check in on their dogs even when they are sleeping. An always-on camera is probably going to require more power and thus will almost certainly need to be plugged in, while a camera that only activates when there is activity may run off of battery power. It’s a good idea to determine whether you need to have eyes on your dog at all times or if you just want to be alerted to whether or not your dog is getting into places where he or she does not belong before you make this choice. As a note, it’s also possible to buy products that have both functions if you’re not sure what you need. 

Interactivity

Are you looking for a passive experience with your camera or are you looking for something that will allow you to interact with your dog? As cameras evolve over time, many of the best pet cameras have started to add functionality that can give you more input on how your dog is doing. It’s common, for example, for pet cameras to transmit sound – a great feature if you’re worried about your dog’s condition. It’s also becoming common for many of these same products to offer some type of two-way audio communication that will allow your dog to hear your voice.

Interactivity can also extend to managing your dog’s diet. Some cameras allow you to dispense a treat (or several) for your dog, beckoning him or her over to the camera when you want to see your dog. Others allow you to fill up a food or water bowl while you are on the go, assuring that your dog always has enough to eat. Most of these features do cost extra, but they can be worthwhile for those pet owners who want to interact with their pets even when they are not at home. 

Extra Features

Finally, it’s a good idea to look at the extras as a way to decide between similar cameras. Features like night vision or the ability to take still photos might not matter to everyone, but they can make a difference to certain owners. These extra features don’t always have an awful lot of practical value for the average consumer but they do have a lot of value when it comes to deciding if one camera edges out another when the price points are the same. If you are stuck between two models, take a look at the extras before you make your final decision.