9 Best Dog Video Games That All Animal Lovers Can Appreciate

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If you’re a proud dog parent who’s also a gamer, you might seek out dog video games regularly. Something about playing as a dog or as a character who interacts with lots of dogs is both wholesome and exciting, making these games impossible to put down. Yet, with so many video games to choose from, it can be difficult to find a game about dogs that piques your interest.

So, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best dog video games, both old and new. Some are adventure games while others are peaceful options where you can care for virtual dogs. Thus, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Buyer’s Guide: Dog Video Games

You can purchase as many dog video games as you’d like, but you should consider the following aspects first.

Platform

First, the game should be on a platform you have, unless you’re willing to buy a new game system. There are a variety of dog games, so there are a few options available for every system.

Type of Game

Every person has different gaming preferences. Some people prefer adventure games while others are more interested in puzzle games or pet simulations. Consider which type sounds the most interesting to you and buy one based on that information.

Length

Do you want a game that you can quickly play through or do you want a game that you can play over and over again without a finite end? If you’re unsure how much content is in a game, look up reviews.

Multiplayer Options

Some people prefer to only play games with other people. If that’s the case for you, see if you can find multiplayer dog games.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the game. Is it within your budget and is it worth the quality you’re getting? When in doubt, read reviews to help you decide.

Best Dog Video Games

All the games in this list are available on Amazon, however, there are other great dog video games out there that are only sold on other sites.

Modern Dog Video Games

Available for: Nintendo Switch, PC

Little Friends – Puppy Island is the perfect combination of a pet simulator and an adventure game. In the game, you get to stay on an island that’s inhabited by lots of stray puppies. Whenever you find a puppy, you can take them home, clean them up, and give them a cute outfit. You can feed, walk, and play with the puppies while also exploring different areas of the island, such as the beach, gardens, and forest. It’s a heartwarming game that allows you to care for as many puppies as you want, which is something that not many people can do in real life.

Available for: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PC

My Universe: Puppies and Kittens is a pet simulator game that allows you to take care of lots of adorable puppies and kittens. You get to raise them and help them grow by feeding them, bathing them, and playing with them. You can also take your puppies for walks to explore different areas. As you socialize your pets and teach them new tricks, you can unlock rewards and accessories. It’s a peaceful game that includes a variety of breeds, allowing you to love and care for as many video game dogs as you want.

Available for: Nintendo Switch

Animal Crossing isn’t just about dogs – it’s about all animals! So, dog lovers are bound to appreciate its adorable aesthetic. In this game, you can build your own island and invite cute little animal villagers to live there. It’s a peaceful game that involves gathering supplies, building items, and decorating your island. Many dog villagers can come to your island, and some of the main characters, such as Isabelle and K.K., are also dogs. This is a newer Animal Crossing game, but there are many older ones if you don’t have a Switch.

Available for: Nintendo Switch

Little Friends: Dogs & Cats is a wholesome game that allows you to care for up to 12 pets at a time. There are six puppy breeds and three kitten breeds, all of which are sure to melt your heart. You can pet, train, play with, and care for your pets while also customizing the space they live in. You can explore different areas while walking your dog and play frisbee in the yard. Every pet has a unique personality and appearance, and you can choose from hundreds of accessories. The more you play with each pet, the more your friendship will increase.

Classic Dog Video Games

Available for: Nintendo DS

Nintendogs is a classic pet game that many animal lovers have enjoyed. You get to raise and take care of your own puppies (and kittens, depending on which version of the game you get) by feeding, training, playing with, brushing, washing, and petting them. The game even has a built-in microphone so you can talk to your virtual pets. You can keep up to three dogs in the house at a time, and up to five dogs can stay at a dog hotel. There are several different versions of the game with different dog breeds, including Lab & Friends and Dalmatian & Friends.

Available for: PlayStation 2, GameCube, Xbox

Scooby-Doo is a beloved canine character that has appeared not only on various television shows but also in some games. Scooby-Doo Night of 100 Frights is a favorite game among fans because it’s the perfect balance between fun and difficult. In this game, you get to play as Scooby-Doo as he searches around a haunted manor for the rest of the gang, who has been kidnapped. Along the way, you’ll need to dodge a variety of monsters and unlock gadgets to help you progress. Of course, there’s plenty of Scooby Snacks along the way to reward this brave pup.

Available for: Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS, PlayStation 2, PC

At first glance, this game might seem like it’s going to be another pet simulator, but it’s much different. In this game, you get to play as a dog who accidentally gives a magic hat to an evil wolf, causing the wolf to try to destroy the dog town. You get to explore various areas in an attempt to stop the villain from completing his plans. Along the way, you get to interact with lots of other dogs while also sniffing out special items and avoiding evil animals. Plus, at the start of the game, you get to customize your dog’s breed and coloring, and you can later get special outfits for them. While this game is designed for kids, adult dog lovers can also appreciate its charming story and design.

Available for: PlayStation 2

You get to be a human every day, so this game allows you to be a dog for a little while instead. In the game, you get to be a dog named Jake, whose goal is to save the dog he has a crush on from a evil lady who captured her. During the silly adventure, you can interact with and control several other dog breeds. There are multiple areas to explore, and you can earn bones for completing quests along the way. It’s the perfect way to see the world from a dog’s eyes in a fun, lighthearted way.

Available for: Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 2

The DOG Island is a very similar game to Petz Dogz 2 because it’s an adventure game where you get to play as a dog. While the graphics and gameplay are similar, the plot is slightly different. Your dog is on a mission to find an antidote to save their younger sibling from an illness. You’ll get to explore various areas and interact with other animals while also sniffing out special items. Like other dog games, you can select your dog’s breed at the start of the game and customize them with different outfits throughout the game. This game is unique because The DOG characters are known for their adorably large heads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Dogs Play Video Games?

Dogs cannot play video games in the same way humans do, as they lack the cognitive understanding and dexterity to interact with complex digital interfaces. However, there are some video games for dogs, which include concepts like tapping an animal on a screen. Those games can be great for mental stimulation.

Are There Mobile Dog Games?

Yes, there are numerous mobile games centered around dogs available on platforms like Android and iOS. These games range from pet care simulations to puzzle games with dog themes. A popular option is Old Friends Dog Game, which is based on a real-life senior dog sanctuary.

Are There Multiplayer Dog Video Games?

Yes, some dog video games can be multiplayer, but most aren’t. One example is Nintendogs, which allows you to interact with other players via local wireless connections.

Can You Customize Your Dog in Video Games?

Yes, many video games that feature dogs allow players to customize their canine companions. This can include choosing different breeds, altering fur colors and patterns, and equipping various accessories or outfits. The level of customization varies by game.

What Video Games Allow You to Play as a Dog?

Several video games allow you to play as a dog, including “Dog’s Life” and “Petz Dogz 2.” Playing as a dog is more exciting for many animal lovers because it’s something we’ll never experience in real life.

What are the Best Cat Video Games?

The most popular cat game is Stray, which is a newer game available on several platforms, including PC, PlayStation, and Xbox. Some other popular options include Night in the Woods and Cat Quest. Check out this list for more great cat video games.

Final Thoughts

There’s no limit to how many dog games you can play, so if you love a variety of game types, all of the ones mentioned in this article are worth a try. Both kids and adults can appreciate the cuteness of these games, so they can be a great opportunity for you or your family members to relax and have some fun with virtual canines. After all, dogs in video games are a great way to love more dogs without the real-life costs and time commitments.

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