Robotic dogs for elderly people
Robotic companion pups for seniors and people with dementia: models sold in Australia, prices, the Tombot waitlist and choosing between a dog and a cat.
For someone who always had a dog, a robotic pup can feel more familiar than a cat. The pups sold in Australia bark softly when spoken to, have a simulated heartbeat, and turn their head in response to touch.
Options available now
| Dog | Price in Australia | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Joy for All style companion pup | $269 to $315 | Golden or freckled coat, bark-back, heartbeat, 4 C batteries |
| MetaDog | Price on request | Rechargeable, voice response, sold by dementia retailers |
Tombot Jennie
Tombot is a United States company that designed a lifelike Labrador puppy called Jennie with the Jim Henson Creature Shop. At September 2026 the company reports its first release sold out and runs a waitlist. No Australian retailer sells it and no Australian price has been published. We will update this page when an Australian channel opens.
Dog or cat
- A pup suits people who talk to it; the bark-back feature rewards conversation.
- A cat suits people who like to stroke and hold; the purr is calming.
- Some homes keep one of each in a shared lounge and watch which one each resident chooses.
Care and safety
Keep batteries in a secure compartment and check the screw is tight. Wipe the coat with a damp cloth as the maker directs, and never soak it. A pup left on a bed or chair edge can fall, so use it where it can rest securely.
Request pup quotes or compare robotic cats.