We all wonder how our pets pass the time when we’re not around. Whether you just took the plunge and got a new pet, want to interact with your beloved cat or dog while you are at work, or simply curious as to what your pet does when left alone, a pet camera could be a viable purchase for you.
There are so many options out there, making it hard to choose just one. But fear not, pet owners: to save you time and to make your choice easier, I’ve reviewed five different cameras for your doc, each one with its own price listing, rating, and description.
Here are favorite cameras to watch pets.
Pet Surveillance Cameras Our Top Picks
Petcube interactive wifI
Best Ease of Use
No products found.
- HD Quality
- Connects to smartphone
- Sleak design
Rated by: Debbie
PetChatz HD Greet & Treat
Best Rated Pet Camera
No products found.
- Two-way HD video and audio
- Sound and motion detection
- Cord free
Rated by: Debbie
Dropcam pro
Best Video Quality
- Night vision
- Works on mobile and desktop
- Stores video for 30 days
Rated by: Debbie
PetChatz HD Greet & Treat
Quick Summary
No products found.
Rated by: Debbie
The PetChatz HD Greet & Treat is a videophone that is Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled. PetChatz.com describes its product as “more than a treat cam. More than a treat dispenser. PetChatz is the only patented system that gives full multi-sensory interaction with your pet while away.”
This has the best of both worlds: two-way HD video and a treat dispenser!
Interestingly enough, this product comes with calming scents to soothe your pet. In addition to 10 scent pads, PetChatz includes a bottle of Calming Essential Oils. The idea of using aromatherapy on pets is not something I’ve ever heard of before. While your pet may not respond to it, it’s a pretty cool feature nonetheless!
PROS
- Two-way HD video and audio
- Sound and motion detection
- Compatible with PetChatz Paw Call, so your pet can call you
CONS
- The mobile app is only available on iOS
- No mention of social sharing directly from the app
Petcube Interactive Wi-Fi Pet Camera
Quick Summary
No products found.
Rated by: Debbie
The Petcube is an interactive Wi-Fi pet camera with a wide angle lens, allowing users to view live video in HD. This product boasts a sleek design. There is a front-facing black screen equipped with a wide angle camera lens on the top and a LED status indicator on the bottom.
True to its name, the Petcube is about as interactive as it gets. With a quick download of the Petcube Mobile App, you can link your iPhone or Android up to the camera.
I was definitely impressed with the app’s user interface. It is aesthetically pleasing, user-friendly, and easy to navigate. When coupled with the fact that it is free of charge, it is well worth the download
Once I created my account, there were five icons at the bottom of my screen: the Home button, which allows you to see your Recently Played videos and Favorites, a Play button, which allows you to view others’ public Petcube footage, a Feed button, which allows you to post photos and find friends to follow, an Explore button, which allows you to view others’ pet photos, and a Profile button, which allows you to connect your camera to the app and check out your followers.
PROS
- HD video quality
- Two way audio
- Sleek design
CONS
- No video recording when laser is in use, only photo
- Does not dispense treats
- No night vision
Dropcam Pro Wi-Fi Wireless Video Monitoring Security Camera
Quick Summary
Rated by: Debbie
The Dropcam is a wireless video monitoring security camera, and judging by the nearly 2,500 reviews on Amazon, it is extremely popular. With its sleek, black, rounded off design and 60-second setup, this camera has been given a solid 4 stars by customers
With an 8x zoom, 130-degree field of view, and excellent night vision, this product doubles as a camera for pets and a security camera.
You can connect your computer, mobile, or iOS device to the Dropcam, and the Amazon page mentions a 60-second setup
With motion detection abilities and two-way talk, this camera seems to pick up the slack where other dog cameras lack. If you decided against the previous two cameras based on your desire to have those features, the Dropcam may be a viable option for you — as long as you are willing to spend a bit more to get exactly what you are looking for.
PROS
- Night vision
- Links to mobile devices and computers
- Cloud Video Recording allows 30 days of footage
CONS
- Little pricey
- Potential streaming delays
- Monthly recording service fee
Pawbo Wi-Fi Pet Camera
Quick Summary
No products found.
Rated by: Debbie
Pawbo is an interactive, wireless dog camera and treat dispenser. Don’t be deceived by the pictures — while it may look a little on the larger side, in person, it is actually quite small
If you are looking to share your pet’s cuteness with the world, you can instantly share videos on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram via the Pawbo app
With just the touch of a button, you can dispense treats to your dog or cat. The Pawbo also has a built-in laser toy, which allows you to play with your pet from afar.
For those who work five days a week, this is a great way to ensure your pet is getting play time and exercise while you’re out of the house. It’s perfect for those that want to watch your dog while at work.
PROS
- Fast, convenient, and simple setup
- Treat dispenser and laser toy
- Two-way streaming
CONS
- No night vision
- Small treat tray
- Low quality video
Petzi Treat Cam: Wi-Fi Pet Camera & Treat Dispenser
Quick Summary
Rated by: Debbie
Co-founders David Clark & Simon Milner refer to the Petzi Treat Cam as “a ray of sunshine in your pocket.” An interactive pet camera that boasts a 720p HD wide angle lens and high quality audio, this product has a lot to offer.
Not only will your pet enjoy the camera’s presence, but as an owner, you will enjoy the ability to feed your pet remotely.
This is a really good indoor camera for pets.
The product has four main functions: See, Speak, Snap, and Treat. The “See” option allows you to view your pet via live video, while the “Speak” function allows you to speak to your pet via microphone. With the “Snap” function, you can take adorable photos of your pet playing or sleeping, and like the Petcube, you can share them via social media.
PROS
- Night vision
- Treat dispenser
- Great support team
CONS
- One-way audio
- Treats may jam in dispenser
- Delays in video
Other Popular Considerations
- 【2K Resolution & IR Night Vision & PTZ】The security camera indoor is equipped with 3.6mm 3MP camera lens, which provides 2K ultra HD resolution. The security camera supports pan&tilt through the...
- 【Motion Sensor & Alarm Notification & Smart Siren】The pet camera has motion sensor that can record alert video and send notification to the phone when detects a motion. You can set up detection...
- 【2 Way Talk & Sharing & Multi-View】The cameras house security is equipped with microphone and speaker that you can watch and communicate with your love anytime anywhere. Sharing the home security...
- 【Alexa/Google Home Compatible】The baby monitor camera supports display the live through Echo Show or Fire TV with the help of a voice assistant. The dog camera is also compatible with the RTSP...
- 【Optional Micro SD card & Cloud Storage】The indoor camera supports 24/7 continuous recording or motion videos for free if you insert a Micro SD card (up to 128GB, not included). If additional...
- No Hub Required - Works with any Wi-Fi router without the need for a separate hub.System Requirements : iOS 10+, Android 5.0+
- 3MP High Definition with Night Vision - 3MP(2304 × 1296) high definition for always on live stream and night vision up to 30ft
- Two-way Audio - With built-in microphone and speaker, you can keep in touch with your family anytime, anywhere
- Motion Detection and Activity Zones - Custom activity zones and notification will sent to your phone once motion is detected
- SD Storage - Local storage supports up to 256GB Micro SD card (SD card is not provided)
- 【2K Full HD WiFi IP Camera】With 2K full HD resolution, wansview home camera displays a crystal clear smooth live video, you can keep an eye on your home anytime anywhere. Camera works with 2.4G...
- 【Two-way Audio & Works with Alexa】Built-in microphone & speaker offers to communicate with your love when you are out. Works with Alexa, ask Alexa to show your front door, baby room, or anywhere...
- 【Smat Pan/Tilt/Zoom & Crystal Night Vision】105° wide-angle enhanced lens combined with 320° horizontal & 80° vertical rotation range create a complete 360° coverage and 4X digital zoom to...
- 【Real-time Monitoring】With sensitive motion sensor, wansview security camera supports a 10-second alert video saved on the app and a real-time app alarm notification to your phone. Just open...
- 【Security and Customer Service】Financial Encryption Technology and the highest protection of data to ensure the security of your privacy. It supports cloud storage to avoid the risk of camera...
- Monitor the inside of your home day and night with our 1080P HD indoor plug-in smart security camera with motion detection and two-way audio.
- Get alerts on your smartphone whenever motion is detected, or customise motion detection zones so you can see what matters most.
- Choose to save and share clips in the cloud with a free 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan or locally with the Sync Module 2 and USB drive (each sold separately).
- See, hear and speak to people and pets in your home from your smartphone with Blink Mini’s live view and two-way audio.
- Set up in minutes: plug in the camera, connect it to Wi-Fi, and follow the instructions in the free Blink Home Monitor app.
- 【Ultra 2K Resolution & Advanced Night Vision】 Wifi camera with 2K HD resolution provides you a clear and vivid image quality and captures more details on your home anywhere during day. This indoor...
- 【Remote Monitoring & Two-Way Audio】 Built-in microphone and speaker allows you to keep in touch with your baby, pet,family by remotely controlling Cloud APP when you are out or busy. This WiFi...
- 【Secure Local Storage & Cloud Storage 】 24/7 continuous recording feature is open to all Galayou customers without extra fees. aidowocam indoor camera supports up to 128GB mciro SD card (not...
- 【24/7 Real-Time Motion Alert & Smart Siren】 The baby camera supports motion detection and push alert to monitor your baby/pet/elder. When your baby is climbing out of the cribs or your pet is...
- 【Excellent After-sales Service】We provide a 1-year warranty for this home security camera, and our professional technicians are available 24 hours to assist you with any questions or issues you...
- Plug-in Security Camera that lets you add protection and peace of mind almost anywhere inside your home.
- Check in on your pets from wherever you are in real-time Live View and 1080p HD Video.
- Say Hi! and let your pets know you're looking out for them with Two-Way Talk.
- Swivel the Privacy Cover to cover the camera and turn off the microphone so you stay in control of what Ring Indoor Camera (2nd Gen) sees, hears and records.
- Place Ring Indoor Camera (2nd Gen) on a flat surface or mount it to a wall with the versatile mounting bracket.
- 360° Angle Covered - The dog camera has a 100° wide-angle enhanced lens. Combined with 355° horizontal and 60° vertical rotation range. Create a complete 360° coverage. 8X digital zoom to enlarge...
- 2K/3MP Resolution & Superior Night Vision - 2K resolution displays a clear video so can care on your home 24/7. The enhanced night vision mode allows you to see clearly in the dark, up to 32ft/10m....
- Adjustable Motion Detection & Noise detection - The security camera support motion detection and noise detection(This feature needs to be turned on in the mobile app (live screen - settings - alarm...
- Clear Two-way Audio & Alexa and Google Assistant support - The P2T home security camera has a Built-in Mic and speaker. Offer you a smooth talk through the Arenti Mobile phone app. Support voice...
- 3 Month Free Cloud Storage & 180's Video recording - The home camera support 60-180 second video recording. Longer than most other cameras on the market. It's compatible with FAT32 Micro SD cards...
- [Versatile 2K Home Security Monitor] - The MUBVIEW 2K WiFi camera provides an all-in-one solution for baby monitoring, child monitoring, and indoor security needs. With crystal-clear 2K resolution,...
- [360° Coverage with Night Vision] - Our indoor camera offers complete 360° coverage, giving you a panoramic view of your space. The advanced night vision feature ensures you can keep a watchful eye...
- [Smart Motion & Sound Detection] - This security camera is equipped with cutting-edge motion and sound detection technology. Receive real-time notifications on your phone when any unexpected activity...
- [Seamless Motion Tracking & 2-Way Talk] - The camera's innovative motion tracking feature follows any moving object within its field of view, keeping you informed of any changes in your environment....
- [Flexible Storage & ONVIF Compatibility] - Choose between SD card and cloud storage options to best suit your needs, ensuring easy access and replay of your recorded footage. The camera also supports...
Factors To Consider When Buying A Pet Camera
Before you make the investment for a new camera to watch your pet, you need to determine what is important to you.
Do you require night vision? Do you want to give your pet a treat? Do you want see them and them to see you?
Reviews
I hope that I have given you enough information to make your decision. But it would not hurt to do a quick look of the reviews on the Amazon product page. Make sure to check for “Verified Purchase” since those customers actually purchased the product.
When looking at the reviews, I recommend checking out a mix of reviews. Reading comments that are all negative or all positive will make you lean that way.
Additional features
If you just want a basic camera to watch your dog, then that’s perfectly fine. But some owners will want to do more such as giving their pet a treat, or recording the video to watch it later.
Additional features do add to the cost, but some of them are incredibly worth it.
One of my favorite features is dispensing treats. It can be very useful in training your dog to come to the video camera.
Product support
This one probably shouldn’t be the biggest factor in your purchase decision. However, if you can’t set up your new camera and need help, then you want to know that you can call the support team to help.
Price
Since you’re researching for a new pet camera for your dog or cat, you probably have a budget in mind. This will be a bit of an investment.
You can easily get something that is cheap. But a cheap product won’t usually last a long time and it won’t have great additional benefits.
Expect to pay at least a couple hundred dollars for a good quality pet camera. You will be happy you didn’t cheap out.
Verdict
Hailed as the best camera for your pet in 2020, the PetChatz HD Greet & Treat camera is both affordable and effective. The base model will allow you to interact with your pet in a fun way. I definitely recommend this to all of my friends.
Overall
I hope that I was able to help you in your search for the best camera to see your dog. If there was something I could have included to make your search easier, please don’t hesitate to let me know.
Last update on 2023-12-07 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. As an Amazon Associate, I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.