Unlock a deeper bond by mastering how your dog communicates
With training, positive reinforcement, and patience, you can help your dog learn dozens of useful words using talking buttons—simple devices that respond when your dog presses them.
According to Christina Hunger, speech-language pathologist and New York Times bestselling author of How Stella Learned to Talk, “The best talking pet buttons set your dog up for success. Choose buttons that your pet can easily press, fit well in your home, and come with expert guidance to help you teach new words.”
Start by experimenting with different buttons to find what works best for your furry friend.
When shopping, consider functionality, materials, and durability. Our top pick is the FluentPet Talking Dog Button Tester Kit—compact, tough, and expandable for ongoing learning.
Top Talking Button Kits for Dogs
- Best Overall: FluentPet Dog Talking Button Tester Kit — Amazon, $80 (on sale)
- Best Starter Kit: Hunger for Words Talking Pet Starter Set — Amazon, $16 (on sale)
- Best for Big Dogs: Learning Resources Recordable Answer Buzzers — Amazon, $23
- Best Budget: Clizkytoonow Dog Buttons for Communication — Amazon
- Best Potty Button: Mighty Paw Smart Bell 2.0 — Amazon, $40
- Best for Small Dogs: Mewoofun Dog Buttons for Communication — Amazon, $33
- Bonus: Hunger For Words Talking Pet Doorbell — Amazon, $7 (on sale)
Best Overall
FluentPet Dog Talking Button Tester Kit
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Love
- Simple to record and easy for dogs to press
- Compact, durable design that fits well in any space
- Multiple kit options to suit beginners and advanced users
- Efficient use of space with stackable “Hextiles”
- Expandable system with extra buttons and accessories available
What Could Improve
- Sound quality isn’t the clearest
The FluentPet Tester Kit comes with two talking buttons and colorful foam “Hextiles” that hold buttons securely, letting you build custom soundboards with different words. It’s perfect for teaching your dog essential commands like “outside” and “potty.”
If you want to dive deeper, the FluentPet Get Started Kit offers six buttons to broaden your dog’s vocabulary. One of FluentPet’s biggest perks is the ability to expand your setup—kits are available with 12 or even 32 buttons, covering a full introductory word list. Plus, you can buy extra buttons and Hextiles individually as your dog learns.
Each kit includes 67 picture-word stickers to label your buttons and even comes with batteries. Getting started is easy: just record your voice, add a sticker, slot the button into a Hextile, and your dog will soon learn to associate pressing the button with the corresponding word.
Button Size: 1.9 inches | Programmable: Yes | Extras: Starter guide, stickers, foam mats
Best Starter Kit
Hunger for Words Talking Pet Starter Set
CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love It
- Super beginner-friendly and simple to use
- Comes with a helpful quick-start training guide
- Designed by Christina Hunger, a leader in canine communication
What Could Be Better
- Some users report issues with sound clarity
- Buttons may not be as durable as higher-end options
The Hunger for Words Talking Pet Starter Set was created by Christina Hunger, a speech-language pathologist and the mind behind the viral success of Stella—the first dog to “talk” using buttons. Drawing on her expertise in human speech therapy and animal communication, Hunger designed this kit specifically for pet parents looking to introduce speech buttons to their dogs.
This kit is perfect for beginners, offering step-by-step instructions and a simple setup so you and your pup can start learning right away. Whether you want to teach basic words like “outside” or “play,” or build a full communication system over time, this kit sets a strong foundation.
Ideal For: Beginners and first-time dog button users | Programmable: Yes | Extras: Step-by-step teaching guide
Each button in the Hunger for Words Talking Pet Starter Set runs on AAA batteries (sold separately). The included activity guide walks you through how to observe and build on your dog’s existing communication cues, helping you teach them how to “speak” more clearly with buttons.
The starter set comes with four programmable buttons—perfect for introducing basic words. As your dog progresses, you can expand their vocabulary with add-ons like the Next Words sets (focused on names and locations) or the Essential Words set, which comes pre-recorded. To keep track of your pup’s progress, consider adding the magnetic Goal Tracker or the Talking Pet Mat for better button placement.
Button Size: 3.5 inches | Programmable: Yes | Extras: Training guide, optional accessories for progress tracking and expansion
Best for Big Dogs
Learning Resources Recordable Answer Buzzers
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Like
✔️ Simple recording function
✔️ Highly rated by users
✔️ Available in four vibrant colors
What We Don’t Like
❌ Batteries not included
❌ No accessories or guide
Although these recordable answer buzzers aren’t marketed for dogs, they’re a solid choice for pet communication training—especially for larger breeds. Each button allows for up to seven seconds of recorded audio using a side red button. Just be mindful that the recording button is exposed, so curious paws may occasionally erase the message.
These buttons are bigger than most dog-specific options, which makes them easier for large dogs to press. However, the size may be a bit much for smaller pups and will take up more room on your floor. Batteries (two AAA per button) aren’t included, and there’s no guide or foam mat, so you’ll need to get creative with your setup.
Button Size: 3.5 inches | Programmable: Yes | Extras: None
Best Budget
Clizkytoonow Dog Buttons for Communication
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Like
✔️ Easy for most dogs to press
✔️ Records up to 30 seconds of audio
✔️ Rubber feet keep buttons from sliding
What We Don’t Like
❌ No labeling stickers included
The Clizkytoonnow Dog Communication Buttons offer a fun and affordable way to start teaching your dog to “speak.” This set includes four colorful, durable plastic buttons that are easy for most dogs to use. Each button holds up to 30 seconds of recorded audio—perfect for simple cues like “outside,” “play,” or “treat.”
Designed with stability in mind, each button features rubber feet to help prevent slipping during use. At 3.5 inches wide, these are slightly larger than some alternatives, which is great for bigger paws but may be a bit much for very small breeds. While the kit doesn’t include stickers for labeling the buttons, you can easily create your own labels to personalize each one.
Button Size: 3.5 inches | Programmable: Yes | Extras: Training guide
Best Potty Button
Mighty Paw Smart Bell 2.0
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Like
✔️ 90-day money-back guarantee
✔️ Quick and easy to install
✔️ Durable and weather-resistant
What We Don’t Like
❌ No on/off switch
The Mighty Paw Smart Bell 2.0 is a great option for pet parents looking to teach their dog (or even cat) to let them know when it’s time to go outside. Unlike traditional training buttons, this smart bell is completely wireless and doesn’t require batteries. Simply mount the button near your door using the included 3M adhesive strip—no tools needed, and no wall damage.
The button communicates with a receiver that plugs into any standard outlet and works within a 1,000-foot range. You can customize the sound by selecting from 38 ring tones and four volume levels to suit your home and preferences. Its water-resistant design also makes it ideal for indoor or outdoor use.
The touch-sensitive button is easy for pets of all sizes to press, making it ideal for small dogs or even multi-pet households. You can also purchase a version with two activators for multiple doorways.
Button Size: 2.75 inches | Programmable: Yes | Extras: Adhesive backing, customizable ringtones
Best for Small Dogs
Mewoofun Dog Buttons for Communication
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Like
✔️ Includes a non-slip mat and Velcro for easy setup
✔️ Simple recording process
✔️ Comes with labeling stickers
What We Don’t Like
❌ Buttons may be difficult to press for some dogs
The Mewoofun Dog Buttons for Communication are a thoughtful option—especially for small dogs or pets new to button training. These square, color-coded buttons are available in standard and mini sizes, so you can choose the best fit based on your pup’s paw size.
Each set comes with a sturdy non-slip mat and hook-and-loop (Velcro) strips to keep the buttons in place, reducing frustration during training. The set also includes color-coded buttons (blue, yellow, orange, gray) that can help dogs differentiate between words, along with stickers for clear labeling.
Recording a message is simple: press and hold the button until you hear a beep, speak your word or phrase (up to 20 seconds), and release the button when you hear the second beep. You’re all set!
The buttons are sold in packs ranging from two to nine, so you can expand as your dog’s vocabulary grows.
Button Size: 3.3 x 3.3 x 1.5 inches (mini size also available)
Programmable: Yes
Extras: Non-skid mat, stickers, Velcro strips, mini screwdriver
Hunger For Words Talking Pet Doorbell
CREDIT: AMAZON
What We Like
✔️ Can play a bell sound or a custom voice recording
✔️ Includes a mounting strip for secure placement
✔️ Expert-written guide included for easy training
What We Don’t Like
❌ Requires two AAA batteries (not included)
The Hunger For Words Talking Pet Doorbell is a simple yet effective communication tool designed to help your dog let you know when they want to go in or out. Created by Christina Hunger, the speech therapist behind the talking dog movement, this button makes a great entry-level option for teaching canine communication.
It offers two sound options: you can either record your own voice or stick with a classic doorbell sound. The button can sit on the floor or be mounted on the wall using the included adhesive strip—ideal for placing right next to your door so your dog learns the association quickly.
While you’ll need to supply your own AAA batteries, the included instruction guide walks you through setup and training, making it easy for first-time users.
Button Size: 7.5 x 4 x 1.4 inches
Programmable: Yes
Extras: Mounting strip, training guide
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for the best dog talking buttons, we highly recommend the FluentPet Talking Button Kits. They’re compact, durable, easy for dogs to press, and available in a range of kits to match your dog’s learning pace. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to expand your pup’s vocabulary, FluentPet makes it easy.
For potty training, the Mighty Paw Smart Bell 2.0 stands out. It’s a battery-free, touch-sensitive option that mounts easily by any door—perfect for teaching your dog to “ask” to go outside and helping reduce accidents along the way.
What to Look for in Dog Talking Buttons
When choosing dog communication buttons, it’s important to prioritize durability, ease of use, and clear sound quality. Look for buttons made from sturdy, easy-to-clean plastic, but keep in mind that most aren’t water-resistant—so indoor use is best.
If you’re not into DIY setups, look for kits that come with foam mats or Velcro systems to keep the buttons in place. For beginners, select a starter kit that includes a training guide, as it can really help when teaching core words like “play,” “outside,” or “water.”
FAQ: Dog Talking Buttons
How do you teach a dog to use talking buttons?
Teaching your dog to “talk” is easier than it sounds. According to Christina Hunger, here are the steps:
- Choose simple, motivating words your dog hears often (like “walk” or “treat”)
- Keep each button in a consistent location
- Use the buttons as you talk to your dog
- Respond naturally when your dog presses a button
Avoid using treats as a reward when your dog presses a button. Instead, respond appropriately—if your dog says “play,” grab a toy and start playing. This reinforces the word’s true meaning. Also, avoid training your dog to press a button on command, as that turns it into a trick rather than real communication.
Can dogs really talk with buttons?
Yes—when taught properly, dogs can use buttons to express a variety of thoughts. Hunger says dogs are capable of:
- Using words in the right context, spontaneously and unprompted
- Applying learned words across different people and places
- Communicating for more than just requests—like labeling, asking questions, or making comments
- Combining multiple words to create meaningful phrases (e.g., “want walk,” “dad outside”)