What it is
I recently became the proud father of a Shetland sheepdog puppy named Coffee. My Shetland sheepdog is just one of 18 breeds of digital dogs available at the Nintendogs Kennel.

Nintendogs is the latest and possibly best game that utilizes both the DS’ touchscreen and microphone together as the means by which you interact with your dog. Using the microphone, your dog will respond when called and run up to the touchscreen where you can pet, brush and play with him or her.

Nintendogs is available in three different sets: Labrador and Friends, Dachsund and Friends and Chihuahua and Friends, depending on the size of the dog kids want to have.

Why it’s fun
Nintendogs does a great job of recreating the fun of buying and caring for a puppy. Much like a real dog, Nintendogs can learn tricks but it isn’t easy. You will need patience and must constantly reinforce what you have already taught your dog. Nintendogs also need to be walked. This is a cute and funny task that involves you setting the walk route and then taking your dog along it. If two people with Nintendogs are within the DS’ wireless range, their dogs can get together and play.

Who’s going to love it
The animations and actions of the puppies are incredibly life-like. Your dog will display different movements and characteristics that are specific to that breed.

Gamers and non-gamers of all ages will get a kick out of Nintendogs.

We found that this is particularly appropriate for "tween" girls who responded very strongly to the concept and the product and who have the patience and commitment to raising and training the dogs. The social aspect of multiple owners and pets is bound to be an appealing element of the product.

What to be aware of
Unlike other virtual pets, Nintendogs are very independent and can actually be left to play by themselves without constant attention. There is less emphasis on feeding and cleaning your pet and more on playing with and training it. As long as your dog has been fed, walked and cleaned you can put your DS down for while and let your puppy amuse himself. If you neglect your dog, it will eventually run away and depending on the level of neglect may or may not return (resetting the game will get you a new pet but you’d better take better care of it this time!).

You can always turn the game off but even when off your puppy will anxiously look forward to your return.

On your first visit to the kennel you will only find six breeds of dogs to choose from. Eventually, as you play with your dog, all 18 breeds will become available.

You can own up to three dogs at the same time but make sure the first dog doesn’t feel threatened by any new pups.