Best Pet Toys For Kids 2018
20 Toys That Will Make Your Kids More Responsible With Their Pets
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"I can't wait to pick up my dog's poop!" said no child ever. As cute and lovable as pets can be, it's no surprise that kids can have a hard time when it comes to taking on the responsibility of caring for them. The unglamorous side of pet care (read: scooping poop and trips to the vet) can be especially tough for kids to grasp, but some can even struggle with walking their dog on a daily basis (first thing in the morning, kids!) and grooming their fluffy friends.
Parents who are still on the fence about getting their child a new pet — or the ones who are looking to increase their child's current level of responsibility — should considering investing in any of these interactive and educational toys that are guaranteed to turn young kids into dependable pet owners.
1 Pomsies
When Pomsies ($28) feel tired, hungry, or cold, they let their owner know with cute sounds and flashing eyes, so kids can cater to their every adorable need.
2 VTech Care For Me Learning Carrier
Infants and toddlers can get a jump start on puppy duty with the VTech Care For Me Learning Carrier ($25). The interactive carrier allows them to bring their plush dog everywhere, and comes with accessories for grooming, feeding, and play.
3 Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital Care Cart
If the only doctor your child wants to see is Doc McStuffins, the Doc McStuffins Toy Hospital Care Cart ($40, originally $50) is the perfect way to encourage pretend veterinarian play.
4 Manhattan Toy Nursing Nina Cat
Best for children ages three and up, the Manhattan Toy Nursing Nina Cat ($15, originally $26) teaches children about nurturing animals and encourages caring play.
5 Just Play Puppy Surprise Misty
There could be three, four, or five puppies that Just Play Puppy Surprise Misty ($44) is carrying. The sweet pocket-sized pups make the perfect teaching tools for children who have a dog or cat expecting a litter of their own.
6 Georgie the Interactive Plush Electronic Puppy
Georgie the Interactive Plush Electronic Puppy ($61) does almost everything a real dog would. He can respond to his owner's voice commands, give a high five, and has over 100 types of other puppy-related behaviours.
7 Barbie Newborn Pups Doll and Pets
The Barbie Newborn Pups Doll and Pets ($19) allows doll lovers to mimic the behaviours of caring for newborn puppies.
8 furReal Chatty Charlie, The Barkin’ Beagle
A collar translates furReal Chatty Charlie, The Barkin' Beagle's ($30, originally $50) barks into easy-to-understand phrases that kids can follow in order to care for him.
9 Barbie Pet Care Centre
Kids can become comfortable with the idea of taking their own pet to the vet with the Barbie Pet Care Centre ($35, originally $43). A puppy, cat, kitten, and hamster are all included, and can be X-rayed and examined at four different stations.
10 Fisher-Price Little People Caring For Animals Farm
Farmers in training get a feel for what it takes to manage a farm when they play with the Fisher-Price Little People Caring For Animals Farm ($40).
11 Little Live Pets Surprise Chick House
After responsible kids keep a chicken egg safe and sound inside the Little Live Pets Surprise Chick House ($22, originally $25), a colourful chick (which also sings and chirps) will hatch as their reward.
12 Little Live Pets Snuggles My Dream Puppy
Children easily learn cause and effect by caring for Little Live Pets Snuggles My Dream Puppy ($45, originally $58). The realistic pup responds to belly rubs, can be fed with a bottle, and will even fall asleep in his new owner's arms after being cuddled.
13 Lakeshore Pet Vet Centre
Bandages, a stethoscope, and other realistic vet tools inside the Lakeshore Pet Vet Centre ($35) will prepare children for what to expect when they take their furry friends to the vet.
14 Melissa & Doug Feeding and Grooming Pet Care Set
Kids will look forward to grooming their pets after playing with the Melissa & Doug Feeding and Grooming Pet Care Set ($18, originally $30).
15 furReal Kami, My Poopin’ Kitty
Scooping poop is probably the most undesirable pet chore of all time. Luckily for parents, the furReal Kami, My Poopin' Kitty ($22, originally $25) makes the task seem a bit more enjoyable.
16 Rescue Runts
Rescue Runts ($20) teach children how to care for and love a rescue dog. These adorable plushes arrive with messy hair and fleas, with tools for their new owner to transform them into happy, healthy companions.
17 Dentist Pet Clinic
Toddlers and young children can practice brushing their pet's teeth with the Dentist Pet Clinic app (free download).
18 Hatchimals
Hatchimals ($60) arrive inside a colourful, speckled egg, which kids must care for and pay attention to in order to make it hatch. Kids can provide even more TLC as the Hatchimal ages.
19 Zoomer Show Pony
The Zoomer Show Pony ($35-$77) is interactive in almost every way possible. Kids will love the way she responds with sound and movement.
20 Fisher-Price Little People Animal Rescue Play Set
The Fisher-Price Little People Animal Rescue Play Set ($40) introduces little ones to the concept (and importance of) keeping animals safe in the community.
