Robotic dogs have been around for since the introduction of the Aibo in 1999. I can’t say it’s a booming industry, but robotics have come a long way since the demise of the first robotic canine in 2006.

If you missed the opportunity to grab an Aibo, here’s your chance to have your very own robotic, furless dog, and I’m not talking about those bald Mexican dogs. The Omnibot I-SODOG mixes all the aspects of actual dog ownership with digital recreation in the Tamagotchi form. You will have to wait till Spring 2013, though, so start saving.

The I-SODOG can respond to more than 50 voice commands. You can feed it from your smartphone or tablet, and will even play guard dog over whatever you place it on, barking wildly if someone tries to take your private journal. If only it did one better and attacked. Hey, at least it dances. Can’t say any of my dogs could dance, not that I’ve particularly wanted them to.

The Tamagotchi function allows you to transfer it to your smartphone so you can take it everywhere with you. The interaction you had with it during the day can be transferred back to it when you see your precious again, changing its personality. A Takara Tomy rep is adamant that this is not a toy, but a real robot, to replace real dogs I suppose. So if you are sick of your disobedient dog tearing up your garden, and don’t have a dog whisperer lying around, spend your hard-earned US$400 on one of these and choose your dog’s personality.

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