Whether your pet struggles with separation anxiety or just likes to trash the place like Keith Moon in a hotel room, it can be stressful for pet owners to leave their skittish dogs and mischievous cats at home alone. The good news is that the growth of the pet camera industry in recent years has led to more market competition and, with that, more improvements in technology and affordability.
So, pet cameras are not just for dog and cat owners with big problems and bigger budgets. Rather, they are an accessible option for any pet owner looking to purchase a little more peace of mind. Below, we’ll explore the technology to look for and round up the best pet cameras available.
What to consider when buying a pet camera
“Pet cameras are another great way that technology improvements benefit owners and their pets,” says veterinarian Paola Cuevas. As an animal behaviorist and consultant at Pet Keen, Cuevas has found that pet cameras can help calm nervous pets, monitor health or behavioral issues or even provide remote training like practicing commands. “Since everyone has a smartphone nowadays, owners can check on their pets from anywhere they are,” she says.
Pet cameras can cost anywhere from $30 to over $200, depending on their features and overall quality. Since there is such a wide range of prices and products, the best camera for you depends on your pet and what type of surveillance you’re looking for.
According to Elaine Smith, the director of product for home security at Amazon, “A good pet camera will have live view and two-way talk, high-quality video resolution, motion detection and night vision, so you can monitor and engage with your pet at any time, from anywhere. Bonus features include a full 360-degree view to see if your pet is sleeping soundly in the corner or running around making a mess.”
Video quality
Video quality is crucial to seeing what kind of trash your dog gets into when you’re out. Although some pet cameras have lower video quality, many options on the market are high-definition or 1080p. Other pet cameras advertised as 2K resolution can have over three million pixels and even sharper images, especially when you zoom in. Some cameras default to a lower pixel count when your pet sleeps, so it is important to know what you’re getting.
View
Your pet can move around throughout your home, so you need a camera to do the same. That means pet owners should look for a lens with a wide field of view — at least 120 degrees. Also, make sure the camera can rotate up to 360 degrees. That said, some cameras with a wider lens only have to rotate up to 270 degrees to capture 360 views. So, double-check your geometry before buying a pet camera to keep your dog or cat in sight.
Lens
Along with a wide field of view and pixels, the lens will impact the quality of the pet camera. While telephoto lenses tend to be better at focusing in and zooming in on one thing, most pet cameras have a wide-angle lens to give pet owners more expansive coverage of their homes. Lens material is also important — glass lenses are more durable, scratch-resistant and produce better image quality than plastic lenses or glass-plastic polymers. Several pet cameras do not disclose the material they use for their lenses, so if long-term image quality is important, pick a camera that specifies the use of glass.
Motion and sound detection
Many pet cameras default to sleep mode to conserve battery when pets are snoozing. Sound and motion detection features reactive alerts that let people know their pets are on the move again. Sound detection can also alert pet owners if their animals are in distress, so they can use interactive features to calm them down.
Two-way audio and other interactive features
Two-way audio pet cameras can be great for nervous pets who are calmed by their owner’s voice and little rascals who need an audio reprimand to stop eating the curtains. Many pet cameras also have other interactive features, like laser pointers and treat dispensers, that can help keep cats entertained and reward good behavior.
Recording and storage options
It doesn’t have to be a viral Instagram moment for your pet to do something adorable enough to want to capture on video. Pet cameras have recording and storage features that make this possible. Most pet cameras provide local storage through an SD card, which is not typically included with a camera purchase. Many pet cameras also offer cloud storage options, which require a subscription. Either way, it will cost you if you want to save footage of your pet — perhaps to track behavioral patterns over time.
Ease of setup
Unless you have a higher-than-average technical aptitude, look for a pet camera with a simple setup process that does not take many steps. Most pet cameras are accompanied by an app that allows pet owners to view their pets from their phones. It’s important to pick a product with an app and an interface that’s easy to use.
Budget
Some pet cameras have apps that charge a subscription fee, while others are paired with free apps. Subscriptions and other special features like treat dispensers raise the overall price point. To better understand which camera is best for you, rank the aforementioned features in order of importance. That will help you determine what to prioritize based on how much you’re willing to spend.
Our top picks for best pet cameras
Best affordable camera: AOSU 2K Indoor Security Camera
AOSU 2K Indoor Security Camera
The AOSU 2K camera is more of a security camera than a traditional pet camera. The most notable difference between the two is that pet cameras tend to have interactive features, like treat dispensers. The only real interactive feature that the AOSU Camera has to offer is two-way audio, which can help you calm or reprimand pets. The image quality and motion detection may be enough for pet monitoring if pet owners are willing to forgo other features, Cuevas says.
Specifications
- View: 360 degrees.
- Lens: Wide angle, glass lens.
- Subscription: No.
- Apps: Yes.
- Storage: Cloud and local.
- Resolution: 2K.
- Price on publish: $32.99.
What we like:
- Clear image for a low price.
- Sensitive motion detection.
- Compatible with Alexa.
What we don’t Like:
- No interactive features.
- Lower sound quality.
- Potential connectivity issues.
The AP Buyline takeaway
Although the AOSU 2K camera may not have the same interactive features as other pet cameras, the image quality and motion detection are worth the low price.
Get here: AOSU 2K Indoor Security Camera
Best pet camera with treat dispenser: Owlet Pet Camera with Treat Dispenser
Owlet Pet Camera with Treat Dispenser
For a pet camera with more interactive features, the Owlet Pet Camera is a favorite of certified professional dog trainers like Darris Cooper. As Petco’s National Dog Training Manager, Cooper loves that “you can toss them a treat via the app or by using Alexa Voice Control,” he says. “This allows pet parents to create a positive experience for pets and reward them while they’re away from home.” Pet owners can even pre-record their voice to praise their cat or dog when they’re not home.
Specifications
- View: 165 degrees.
- Lens: Wide angle, lens material not specified.
- Subscription: No.
- Apps: Yes.
- Storage: Cloud and local.
- Resolution: 1080p.
- Price on publish: $123.59.
What we like:
- Treat dispenser can be paired with an Alexa for audio commands.
- Easy to set up and use.
- Great video and picture quality.
What we don’t Like:
- Not the best audio quality for hearing your pets.
- Some complaints about the app freezing.
- Potential connectivity issues.
Best pet camera without subscription: Eufy Security Pet Camera for Dogs and Cats
Eufy Security Pet Camera for Dogs and Cats
Pet parents who want to monitor their animals without a subscription should look no further than the Eufy Security Pet Camera. Eufy makes good on their pledge that “love should be subscription-free,” with unique storage options. While many pet cameras charge subscription fees for cloud storage, Eufy offers customers 60 days of local storage, so you don’t have to choose between subscribing and saving footage of your pet.
Specifications
- View: 170 degrees.
- Lens: Wide-angle, lens material not specified.
- Subscription: No.
- Apps: Yes.
- Storage: Cloud and local.
- Resolution: 1080p.
- Price on publish: $129.99.
What we like:
- Advanced AI updates and “doggy diary” do not require a subscription.
- More local storage compared to other cameras.
- Treat dispenser is specially designed to avoid clogging.
What we don’t Like:
- More expensive compared to competitors.
- Potential connectivity issues.
- Some complaints about sound quality.
The AP Buyline takeaway
For pet owners who want all the features of a quality pet camera without the subscription fees, the Eufy Security Pet Camera for dogs and cats is a solid choice.
Get here: Eufy Security Pet Camera for Dogs and Cats
Best camera for pet photography: PARIS RHÔNE 2K Pet Camera
PARIS RHÔNE 2K Pet Camera
The PARIS RHÔNE 2K Pet Camera has many great features like other pet cameras on the market, such as interactive two-way audio and treat-tossing capabilities. But it also allows pet owners to capture pictures and videos when they’re not home without paying an extra subscription fee, Cuevas points out. The camera also has a wide-angle lens and a 2K Ultra HD resolution, which gives pet owners crystal-clear images that are perfect for pet photography.
Specifications
- View: 360 degrees.
- Lens: Wide angle, lens material not specified.
- Subscription: No.
- Apps: Yes.
- Storage: Cloud and local.
- Resolution: 2K.
- Price on publish: $95.99.
What we like:
- Easy to use and set up, with a reliable app.
- 2k Ultra HD resolution gives a clearer image for photos.
- The bark detection feature lets dog owners know when their pup is noisy or distressed.
What we don’t Like:
- Less affordable.
- The treat dispenser can get jammed.
- Larger and bulkier than other cameras.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you want to monitor your pet and snap a clear picture of them playing, the PARIS RHÔNE 2K Pet Camera meets those needs.
Get here: PARIS RHÔNE 2K Pet Camera
Best pet camera for dogs: Furbo 360° Dog Camera
The unmatched variety of “dog nanny” features make the Furbo 360° Dog Camera one of our favorites for dog owners. You can check on your pup while you’re out, while the sensitive auto-tracking technology will follow your pet around your home. Cuevas likes the camera because of its remote training capabilities. “The treat dispensing and two-way communication features are great tools that enable you to reinforce desired behavior you wish to see repeated in the future,” she says. “You can also let your dog know you’re watching if they get on an off-limits sofa when they think no one is around.” The only downside is that these features will cost pet owners a monthly subscription fee of $6.99. With the same price point as most streaming services, consider it Netflix but with your pet as the only show.
Specifications
- View: 360 degrees.
- Lens: Wide angle, glass lens.
- Subscription: Yes.
- Apps: Yes.
- Storage: Cloud storage only.
- Resolution: 1080p
- Price on publish: $69.
What we like:
- Unique “dog nanny” features help pet owners redirect and reward their dogs.
- Also functions as a smoke and carbon monoxide detector.
- Can detect broken glass and human faces to protect from intruders.
What we don’t Like:
- No local storage options — you have to download footage or save it to the cloud.
- Subscription is required.
- Potential connectivity issues.
The AP Buyline takeaway
For dog owners who want the best video coverage and interactive features, the Furbo 360° Dog Camera is worth the subscription for your precious pup.
Get here: Furbo 360° Dog Camera
Best pet camera for cats: Furbo 360° Cat Camera
Many pet cameras target cats, dogs and occasionally, a chatty exotic bird. However, the Furbo 360° Cat Camera is special because it’s specifically tailored to cats. With all the great qualities of the company’s dog camera, the Furbo 360° Cat Camera has motion and meowing detection, treat dispensing capabilities and other interactive features. “This camera includes a feathered wand toy that allows pet parents to motivate their kitty to move around and play hunt,” Cuevas says. So this camera won’t just keep an eye on your kitty, it’ll ensure they’re entertained and not eating all your plants. (It’s also a good idea to invest in some of the best pet-friendly plants).
Specifications
- View: 360.
- Lens: Wide angle, glass lens.
- Subscription: Yes.
- Apps: Yes.
- Storage: Cloud storage only.
- Resolution: 1080p.
- Price on publish: $69.
What we like:
- Interactive features specifically designed for cats.
- Sensitive motion and meowing detection.
- Easy to set up.
What we don’t Like:
- No local storage options.
- The app can be glitchy.
- Some customers complain that it’s not worth the cost.
The AP Buyline takeaway
Cat owners who want a pet camera for their feline friend should look no further than the feather-wand-waving Furbo 360° Cat Camera.
Get here: Furbo 360° Cat Camera
Best pet camera for remote commands: Youpet Dog and Cat Camera
Youpet Dog and Cat Camera
Although most pet cameras respond to remote commands, the Youpet Dog and Cat Camera is one of Cuevas’ favorite products for this. “What I love about the Youpet camera is that it gives pet parents the ability to follow their pets around the house,” she says. It works like a remote-controlled car that you can drive around the house. With the impressive 15-day battery, remote treat dispenser and laser pointer, Cuevas’ only concern with the Youpet camera is that pet parents may rely too much on the remote technology. “Quality playtime with their owners is still necessary for their health and welfare,” she notes. You can also make sure your dog or cat can breathe easy with one of the best air purifiers for pets.
Specifications
- View: 360 degrees.
- Lens: Wide angle, lens material not specified.
- Subscription: No.
- Apps: Yes.
- Storage: Cloud storage only.
- Resolution: 1080p.
- Price on publish: $125.98.
What we like:
- The only pet camera with a laser pointer.
- Longer battery life compared to competitors.
- Variety of remote commands without a subscription.
What we don’t Like:
- No local storage advertised.
- Newer AI product that can be glitchy.
- Potential connectivity issues, especially if you change Wi-Fi networks.
The AP Buyline takeaway
The Youpet Dog and Cat Camera is one of the best products for dog and cat owners who want the best remote commands without the hassle of a subscription.
Get here: Youpet Dog and Cat Camera
Best pet camera for outdoors: WYZE Cam v3 with Color Night Vision
WYZE Cam v3 with Color Night Vision
When it comes to outdoor cameras, traditional security cameras tend to be better at holding up in the rain. The WYZE Cam v3 is a favorite among experts because it can withstand adverse weather. Plus, the image quality and the sound and motion detection allow pet parents to monitor their animals outside. While the camera does not have the same interactive features, pet owners can still talk to their animals via two-way audio. The low price point and the option to bundle your purchase with multiple cameras or a camera and monthly subscription make the Wyze Cam a great option for outdoor pet monitoring and general security.
Specifications
- View: 130 degrees.
- Lens: Wide angle.
- Subscription: No.
- Apps: Yes.
- Storage: Cloud and local storage.
- Resolution: 1080p.
- Price on publish: $30.49.
What we like:
- Waterproof and weather-resistant option.
- Good night vision and overall image quality.
- Lower price point with bundling options.
What we don’t Like:
- No interactive features like treat dispensing.
- Potential connectivity issues.
- Some negative reviews about motion detection.
The AP Buyline takeaway
The best outdoor pet camera will be waterproof and weather-resistant, and the WYZE Cam v3 covers those bases without compromising image quality.
Get here: WYZE Cam v3 with Color Night Vision
INSTACHEW Purrsight Dog and Cat Camera: Best pet camera with 360-degree view
Best pet camera with 360-degree view
For consumers looking for an affordable pet camera with 360-degree views, Cooper loves the INSTACHEW Purrsight dog and cat camera. For less than $35, pet owners can use a camera that pans 355 degrees and tilts 100 degrees. A wide-angle lens provides 360 degrees of coverage and interactive features like a treat dispenser. You must invest in an SD card to save videos to avoid subscription fees, but even with that slightly raising the price point, “pet parents get a huge value with this camera,” says Cooper.
Specifications
- View: 355 degrees.
- Lens: Wide-angle.
- Subscription: No.
- Apps: Yes.
- Storage: Cloud and local.
- Resolution: 1080p.
- Price on publish: $34.97.
What we like:
- High video quality at a low cost.
- Motion detection, bark detection and meow detection.
- Full coverage of your pet in any part of your home.
What we don’t Like:
- Can be difficult to set up.
- The app is sometimes glitchy.
- Complaints about customer service and issues returning the product.
The AP Buyline takeaway
If you want to monitor your pet anywhere in your home, the INSTACHEW Purrsight Pet Camera’s wide field of view and motion detection will make this easy.
Get here: INSTACHEW Purrsight Dog and Cat Camera
Best multipurpose pet camera: Ring Stick Up Cam Battery with Pan-Tilt
Ring Stick Up Cam Battery with Pan-Tilt
The Ring Stick Up Cam is our favorite multipurpose camera for several reasons. The indoor and outdoor cameras, with a 130-degree field of view and 360-degree pan coverage, will keep eyes on your pet anywhere in your home or yard. While the Ring camera lacks some of the interactive features other pet cameras have, it has one of the most important features for pet safety: the Pet Profile. “In the Ring App, you can create a Pet Profile to add pictures and essential info any time and share it with your community if your pet goes missing,” Smith says. Although pet owners can view their animals live without a fee, you must pay the $4.99 monthly subscription fee for this added security.
Specifications
- View: 130 degrees.
- Lens: Wide angle, glass lens.
- Subscription: No.
- Apps: Yes.
- Storage: Cloud storage only.
- Resolution: 1080p.
- Price on publish: $139.99.
What we like:
- Safe for indoor and outdoor use.
- Comes with an easy-to-use mount for panning and tilting.
- Profile feature allows pet owners to alert neighbors if they go missing.
What we don’t Like:
- Requires a subscription for most worthwhile features.
- More expensive compared to other cameras.
- Potential connectivity issues.
The AP Buyline takeaway
The Ring Stick Up Cam’s indoor and outdoor capabilities, combined with unique security features to alert neighbors if animals get out, make it the best multipurpose pet camera available.
Get here: Ring Stick Up Cam Battery with Pan-Tilt
How we selected the best pet cameras
I consulted with a veterinarian, a professional dog trainer and a home security expert to select the best pet cameras on the market, getting their favorite product recommendations and advice on how to choose the right model for you. I also considered customer reviews, price points, variety of features and functionality to determine each camera’s overall value.
How do I install and set up a pet camera?
The pet camera installation process will vary depending on your chosen product, but there are some similar steps across the board:
- Download the app associated with your camera.
- Plug in your camera.
- Log into the app as a new user.
- Connect the camera to your Wi-Fi.
- Follow the app prompts to complete the setup process.
- Set up payment for any subscription fees.
What is the difference between pet cameras and home security cameras?
The difference between pet and security cameras is in their interactive features and video quality. While pet cameras tend to have a wider array of features, like treat dispensers and bark and meow detection, security cameras generally have better video quality.
Many security cameras can suffice as pet cameras because you can still talk to animals via two-way audio or set up a profile for added pet safety. However, pet cameras are not the best security cameras and should not be considered for this primary purpose.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can pet cameras help with separation anxiety in pets?
Pet cameras can be very helpful for pets who struggle with separation anxiety because they allow pet owners to talk to them, reward them with treats and give them a sense of security while their owner is away.
“When pet parents are away from home, it can be very helpful to observe the behavior that takes place while gone,” Cooper says. “This can help inform conversations with your veterinarian and separation anxiety expert.” Cooper also recommends monitoring anxious dogs in a separate room during parties and group gatherings with a camera to ensure they’re comfortable and safe. Giving them a familiar toy, blanket or comfort item before you leave can also help.
Are pet cameras secure from hacking and privacy concerns?
With any smart home device, including pet cameras, you run the security risk of being hacked. Taking certain precautions can reduce these risks, such as having a strong password, using two-factor authentication and staying on top of camera updates. If your privacy is particularly concerning, opt for a camera like Furbo, which uses bank-grade encryption for added security.
Which pet camera doesn’t require a subscription?
While Furbo pet cameras are known for charging a monthly subscription fee, many other pet cameras do not require a subscription. For instance, the INSTACHEW Purrsight pet camera is a great subscription-free option for pet owners looking for something affordable. Likewise, the PARIS RHÔNE 2K Pet Camera is a better subscription-free option for consumers who are willing to spend more money for sharper image quality.
Do you need Wi-Fi for a pet camera?
You will need a pet camera with Wi-Fi to monitor your pet through your phone in real time. For those who don’t have a stable internet connection, many products like the Owlet Pet Camera have local storage that will still record pets when they’re home alone. The only issue is that pet owners won’t be able to view the footage until they get home, or access other interactive features. This may be a big part of what pet parents invest in a camera for.
Read more: Best GPS dog collars
