At the top of every Hot Toys List is Hasbro’s new FurReal Friends Biscuit Lovin Pup. As a real dog lover and owner, I was intrigued and wanted to learn more….

The FurReal Biscuit Lovin pup is one member of Hasbro’s FurReal product line with about 60 models. Starting with a FurReal cat in 2002, Hasbro went on to make an entire zoo including Horses, Monkeys, Parrots, Lions and Lambs. They also added a “newborn” product line extension. Per Hasbro, “The Biscuit Lovin Pup is the most realistic pet to ever join the FurReal Friends family.”

The FurReal Friends Biscuit Lovin Pup looks like a small yellow lab and weighs about 12 pounds. It responds to six voice recognition commands including “Sit”, “Give me a paw” and “Lie Down”. It also has nine different sensors that react to sound, light and touch.

For example, if you pat the dog’s head it responds by wagging it’s tail and making dog like yelping noises. If you feed him his bone, he’ll sniff it before chomping on it. His responses include various dog-like sounds; whimpers, low growls, and barks, depending on what kind of interaction you're having.

If you stop playing with Biscuit, after a few moments he moves into “hangout” mode. In this mode, he will move his head a little, whine, or bark to grab your attention. After a few minutes in hangout mode, he'll lay down, go to sleep and emit dog snores. The darker the room, the quicker he falls asleep. You can wake him up easily by clapping twice or waving your hand over his forehead.

Hasbro has a very cool section on their website where you can learn more about their FurReal line including videos, 360 degree views and what was most fun- real live product demos where you control the actions. I first tried playing with Biscuit and I was impressed with how the dog’s sounds and motions were very “life like”. While I was playing online, my own dog heard the barking in the next room and barked back. Even real dogs can’t tell the difference! I also went on to play with Squawkers the McCaw and Smores the Pony, both equally as impressive. Try it yourself here: http://www.hasbro.com/furreal/default.cfm?page=Entertainment/Demos

Biscuit is recommended for children 5 - 8 years old and purchasing one will set you back about $160, almost as much as a real dog. Due to the pup’s popularity, all of the toy buying websites recommend making your purchase early before the big holiday rush. If you want to buy online, the Hot Toys 2008 website, provides easy to use links to purchase all of the hottest toys comparing prices among different suppliers, from Target to Walmart to Amazon. http://www.hottoys2008.com/

Other Important Info:

• Biscuit comes with a collar, tag, brush, dog “bone” and adoption certificate.

• Similar to webkins, you can register your pet online

• He requires 6 “D” batteries which are not included. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, in order to insert them. The battery compartment is neatly hidden behind a Velcro closure on the pup's stomach.

Every parent has heard their child say “I want a puppy!”. Here is your chance to buy one that is much lower maintenance. No worries of allergies, pet hair, walking and chewing up your favorite pair of shoes. Also, great for families who rent when “no dogs are allowed”.

A special Biscuit My Loving Pup website has been created for consumers to share experiences and exchange product reviews. Check it out before you buy.

http://furrealfriendsbiscuit.com/