Plenty of children ask for a puppy long before the family is ready for one. This is the practice version: a soft, fluffy toy dog that walks along the floor and barks, but never needs a walk in the rain.

It is a proper plush toy, with long soft fur, floppy or pointed ears, a round black nose, shiny eyes and a fluffy tail, so it is as nice to cuddle as it is to watch. Switch it on and it trots forward; press its paw and it barks, which usually sends a small child into fits of laughter.

Several breeds are made in this range: a grey and white husky with pointed ears, a curly caramel poodle, a white fluffy bichon, a golden puppy, a brown and white spaniel and a tan corgi-style pup. The price is for one puppy, and designs depend on current stock.

Toy pets like this are a gentle way for young children to practise caring for an animal — feeding it pretend food, taking it for a walk, putting it to bed — and they make a comforting bedtime companion once they are switched off.

The walking and barking run on batteries. Spot-clean the fur with a damp cloth; do not put it in the washing machine because of the electronics inside.

The Safencia price is Rs. 995 for one puppy, with Cash on Delivery across Pakistan including Karachi, Lahore and Faisalabad. Tell us your favourite design on WhatsApp and we confirm what is in stock, your city and delivery charge before dispatch.

Why this product is worth considering