How big is your Littlest Pet Shop? (2005–2012) Little Pets, BIG Personalities! (2012-2014) Who's in Your Littlest Pet Shop? (2014–2017) Unleash the Bobble! (2023-)
Littlest Pet Shop (LPS) is a toy franchise and cartoon series owned by Hasbro, originally conceptualized by Kenner Products in 1992, and currently under license with Basic Fun!. Originally a line of animal figurines with magnets or movable parts, the line was relaunched as a line of chibi-esquebobbleheads in 2005, with over 3,000 different pet figurines produced since its relaunch. The franchise is highly successful and has seen numerous iterations.
Several spin-off media works have been developed based on the toyline, including three animated television series, a series of video games for the Nintendo DS and Wii consoles, and two distinct online world games. The first cartoon was produced by Sunbow Entertainment and aired for 40 episodes in 1995, the second by Hasbro Studios for The Hub in 2012, and the third in 2018.
The line was considered one of Hasbro's top-selling brands in 2007 and they were considered by publications such as USA Today to be one of the biggest Christmas toys of the time. A large collector community exists surrounding the 2000s incarnation of the brand, with some toys selling for high prices on second-hand online markets. A YouTube community also formed around the toys, known as "LPSTube", where fans create skits and web series using the toys as "actors".
History
Kenner/Tonka toys (1992-1997)
Introduced in 1992[1] and produced by Kenner[2] for children who weren't able to have real life pets,[3] the original incarnation of the toys consist of plastic animal figurines sold in playsets, which each came with a gimmick such as a magnet or a moving part (e.g. flapping wings).[4] The starter set was a suitcase-like plastic container with shelves and compartments, intended to simulate a pet shop.[5] Various kinds of licensed merchandise were produced.[6] A few lines of figures were produced between 1995 and 1996 based on the television show, but otherwise the two were largely connected only by name.[7] This line is also sometimes known by fans and collectors as "Generation 1", as it was the first iteration of the toy line to be released. Toys produced in the final years of production are marked Tonka, Kenner's parent company. The line ceased production in 1997, and Hasbro closed the Kenner offices in 2000. [8]
1992–1994
Li'l Paw Prints Pets – Yellow cat or grey and white dog, on a molded plastic base hiding a rolling stamp with paw print pattern. Either of the stamp ink colors could come in red and purple. [9][10]
Ready to Go Pets
Happy Puppy – A Dalmatian and a purple pet carrier, an ID tag, a newspaper, a food dish, and a magnetized red brush that, when moved in front of its stomach, causes its tail to wag (the 1993 version had a black and tan dog with a green brush)
Hurrying Hamsters – Two hamsters that come with a clear container with a yellow lid, an ID tag, a water bottle, a bag of paper litter, and a clear pink wheel. The curved hamster has a little weight in its belly — when placed in the wheel and when the handle is turned, the hamster would move as if it were running in the wheel (the 1993 version had patched hamsters).
Ticklish Toucan – A magenta toucan with green feet, a light turquoise cage with lavender bars, an ID tag, a perch, a newspaper, and a food dish. Touching the toucan's head would cause her wings to flap (the 1993 version had a red toucan).
Color Change Chameleon – A green temperature-sensitive chameleon and a pink container with a blue lid, an ID tag, a water bottle, and a desert background (the 1993 version had an orange chameleon).
Bashful Bunny – A white rabbit and a light turquoise basket, an ID tag, a bunch of carrots, a bag of litter paper, and a food dish (green food). If the user pressed down on the rabbit's tail, her ears would twitch (the 1993 version had a brown-patched rabbit)
Frisky Kitty – A black/grey cat and a pink carrier, an ID tag, a newspaper, a food dish, and a ball of wool with a magnet[9][11](the 1993 version had a cream cat).
Pet Presents
Cutesy Kittens – Two kittens (one golden and one grey-white, and brown and calico respectively in the 1993 version) that come with a cat house (with a built-in litter box on the base), a food dish, a scratching post, and a magnetic toy mouse on a string. The golden kitten's head had a magnet in it and would bobble its head when the mouse was dangled in front of it. Pressing the gray-white kitten's tail would cause the arms to move up and down in a scratching motion.
Marching Mice – Three mice (two of which contained magnets, grey or white in the 1992 version, black-and-white with patches in the 1993 version) that come with a terrarium with a landscape insert, a lid that could be flipped over to become a maze, magnetic cheese, a water bottle and a food dish.
Toddling Turtles – Two turtles that come with a terrarium (green with blue shells in 1992, yellow with purple and pink shells in 1993), a water dispenser, a landscape with a palm tree, and a food dish. One turtle moves its head when moved and the other turtle walks when pushed along a flat surface.
Playful Puppies – Two puppies (a white fluffy dog, a brown and white mutt; a grey-white splotched fluffy dog and a pure brown mutt in the 1993 version) that comes with a large basket, a newspaper, a dog bone, a fire hydrant, and a food dish. The fluffy dog wags tail when head is pushed forward and the mutt has a magnet, so it plays with the bone. [9]
Cozy Home Pets
Puppy Trio – A poodle, a collie, and a black-and-white spaniel that comes with a doghouse with a fenced-in green grass base, a food dish, mailbox, and a newspaper with a magnet. Pressing the poodle's tail would make her scratch her ear, pressing the collie's tail would make him shake his paw and the spaniel's bobble-head has a magnet to play tug of war with the paper and bone (The 1993 version had a beige poodle, tricolor collie and brown and white spaniel).
Gerbils – Four gerbils that come with two yellow transparent plastic enclosures, connecting pipes, an exercise wheel, a food dish, a water dispenser, and a magnetic wand to move the gerbils through pipes (The 1993 version had clear plastic enclosures).
Fish – A tank with colorful floating fish and seahorse that come with temperature, aqua coral, a brown treasure chest with an opening lid and yellow treasure inside and a shell hand-pump attached to the aquarium with a transparent tube. When the tank is filled with water and the hand-pump is pressed, bubbles emerge from the treasure chest (The 1993 version had goldfish).
Monkeys – A trio of monkeys, one scratching, one crouching and one standing, that come with a tree, two platforms, a tire-swing, a food and water bowl, and two bunches of bananas. When the scratching monkey's head is pressed it scratches its stomach, and crouching monkey has a magnet to play with the bananas. The standing monkey can cling to the tree branches and tire-swing (The 1993 version had tan monkeys). [9]
Mommy and Babies
Each set came with 5 babies and a mother. Two of the babies had magnets inside and would suckle the mother and play with toys. Each set seems to have used multiple variations in colour.
Mommy and Baby Puppies – A Sheepdog mother and pups that come with a bed, a newspaper, a food and water bowl, a bone and a fire hydrant.
Mommy and Baby Kitties – A grey-or-white mother cat and three kittens (one yellow, one grey and one white) that come with a platform with a litter box, a scratching post, a food and water bowl, a basket and yarn.
Mommy and Baby Bunnies – A white or brown mother rabbit and three baby rabbits (one brown, one white and one grey) that come with a cardboard vegetable garden, a grassy terrain with a hole, a basket, a bunch of carrots, lettuce, and a food and water bowl. [9]
Playsets
Pet Shop – It came with a variety of accessories and two caged lovebirds that kiss when the lever is moved (the 1992 version is aqua, while the 1993 version is coral).
Care Center – A veterinarian play set with a dog, a kitten, and numerous veterinarian pieces. It came with a white bed with an adjustable pillow angle, an aqua weighing table (with a removable meter and two drawers), a magenta x-ray machine with a blue "scanner" (which was a handle that turns the battery 'on' and 'off'), a white cast for the dog's arm, yellow tweezers, an aqua tray, a white-and-aqua syringe, white scissors, a square aqua canister, a yellow thermometer, a round yellow canister, an aqua bottle, an aqua blanket, x-rays (one for the cat, two for the dog) that are illuminated by an x-ray machine, a check-up list, and 5 Band-Aid stickers cut out. When the kitten is placed in warm water, the fleas disappear. The dog's arm is moveable, and the cast can be put on it.
Kennel Playcase (1994) – A re-purposed pet shop play set, this set uses the same overall mold, but comes with different accessories and a differently shaped counter. [9]
Beethoven's 2nd
Based upon the movie series, there were a number of playsets featuring the infamous St. Bernard dogs, with Beethoven and Missy with Tchaikovsky, Chubby, Dolly and Mo.
Tug 'n Play Beethoven – Beethoven with a wagon and a turkey leg. Beethoven has a magnet to play with the turkey leg.
Nuzzletime Nursery – Missy, Tchaikovsky, Chubby, Dolly and Mo, with a piano, a crib, a slipper and an overflowing extended food dish. Chubby and Mo have magnets to play with the slipper and nurse from Missy.
Puppy Pool – Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Chubby, Dolly and Mo, with a yellow pool with a fish that squirts water, a snorkel, a starfish, two towels, dog shampoo, a brush and an inner tube. Beethoven squirts water when squeezed, Tchaikovsky shakes head when moved, Mo floats in inner tube and Chubby moves paws to splash when tail is pushed.
Backyard Kennel – Beethoven and Mo, with a doghouse kennel, a skateboard, a frisbee with a bite-mark, a double food dish and a green leash and collar. Beethoven wags his tail when moved and pulls Mo on the skateboard, and Mo can fit the leash in his mouth and can be pulled on the skateboard by Beethoven and can also play with the frisbee. [9]
Pal Around Pups
Splash Happy Puppies – Four dogs (a poodle, a white dog, a Golden Retriever and a Pug) that come with a bath tub, a bathroom counter and bathroom accessories. The poodle shakes its head when its tail is pressed, the Golden Retriever's mud spots disappear when in hot water and the Pug squirts water when squeezed.
Prize Winning Pups – Four dogs (a Scottish terrier, a Shih Tzu, a beagle and a husky) that come with an awards stage, a carrier, and accessories. The beagle lifts its ear off its eye when its tail is pressed, the Shih Tzu wags its tail when pushed forward and the husky plays with the bone. [9]
1994
Splashtime Pets
Swimming Ducklings – A mother duck with two ducklings, all containing magnets, that come with a bowl of food, and a pond. The ducks could be made to move in the pond by a magnetic wand.
Deepsea Divers – A small tank with two separated sides that both have coral, one side is blue and the other is red with yellow coral. Hot water is supposed to go in the red side and cold water on the blue side to make the seahorse change colors. There is an octopus that squirts water, a snail that moves with the magnetic wand, a seahorse that sticks to the coral, a magnetic wand and a box of fish food.
Jump 'n Splash Frogs – Three frogs on lily pads that come with a tank with a catapult, a jar of frog food, and a frog jumping contest mat. [9]
Chatter Pets
Chirpy Tree Friends – A skunk, a raccoon and a squirrel that come with a tree, grass with butterflies, and a hanging food dish. the skunk has a sweet scent, the squirrel has a posable tail, perches on food dish and squeaks by pressing the squeak button on tree base and the raccoon bats its paws when tail is pressed.
Chirpy Birds – Four birds (yellow cockatoo, two pink cockatoos, and lavender cockatoo) that come with a clear aviary with a swing hanging from the top and a feeder. The mother cockatoo has a magnet so she "feeds" the baby, the yellow cockatoo balances on the swing and the lavender cockatoo perches on the feeder. There was also a button on the top of the aviary that would chirp when pressed.
Purry Kittens – Three cats (one calico, one yellow and one grey) that come with a mouse, a kitty condo, dish of spilled milk, and a box that squeaks. The calico cat chases the mouse, the yellow cat chases its tail when spun around and the gray cat climbs up the condo. [9]
My Real Pets
Playful Persian – A Persian cat that comes with a tunnel bed, a purple food dish with food, an aqua brush, a pink ball of yarn and a gold trophy. It plays with the yarn ball.
Sleek Siamese – A Siamese cat that comes with a litter box, a scratching post, a bucket of spilled milk, a pink and lavender ball of yarn and a silver and blue trophy. It chases its tail when spun around.
Clever Collie – A collie that comes with a plaid cushion, a glittery leash and collar, a newspaper, a pink food dish and a green or aqua trophy. It shakes its paw when tail is pressed.
Fancy Poodle – A brown poodle that comes with a blue cushion, a glittery pink leash, a gold food and water dish, a pink bow and a silver trophy. It scratches its ear when tail is pressed.
Lively Shih Tzu – A Shih Tzu that comes with a bright pink basket with yellow cushion, a glittery aqua leash and collar, a gold fire hydrant, a round food dish with food spilling out and a magenta trophy. When it is pushed forward, its tail wags.
Brave German Shepherd – A German Shepherd that comes with a glittery red dog crate with a blue door, a newspaper sticker lining the bottom of the carrier, a glittery black leash, a detachable collar, a food and water dish with food, a bone and a green trophy. It has a magnet so it can play with the bone. [9]
Littlest Pet Shop Zoo (1993–1994)
Keep Me Safe Pets
Jungle Bunch – An elephant, a panda, a leopard and a parrot, that come with a zoo enclosure, a bowl of food, a coconut, and a branch of brown bamboo. The elephant squirts water out of its trunk when squeezed, the panda holds bamboo and raises it toward its head to "eat" when said head is pushed, the leopard bats the coconut when its head is pushed and the parrot flaps its wings when its head is pressed.
Polar Pets – A polar bear, two penguins, and a seal, that come with an ice cave, a bucket of fish, and a fishing rod— the polar bear has a magnet in its head, and chases fish. The penguins have ball bearings on the bottom allowing them to "slide" down the iceberg and the seal flaps its flippers when the snowball on its nose is turned.
Nursery Pets
Baby Tiger – A tiger cub and a cockatoo chick that come with a zoo enclosure, a food bowl, and a ball-on-string. The tiger shares a mold and gimmick with the Jungle Bunch leopard.
Baby Chimp – A baby chimpanzee that comes with a zoo enclosure with a hammock, a baby bottle, nappies, a doll, a blanket and a bunch of bananas— the chimp wets itself.
Baby Zebra – A zebra foal and a baby yellow mouse that come with a zoo enclosure, a brush, and a bale of hay— the zebra has a gear hidden in its mane, which when turned causes one hoof to kick.
Playful Ponies
Arabian Prancers – Two Arabian horses (one black rearing and one standing gray dappled) that come with lavender fence pieces that attach together, a bucket of hay, a bale of hay, a blue brush and comb, a pink saddle blanket and a brown saddle. The black Arabian can be posed on its hind legs and the gray Arabian bobs its tail when head is petted.
Shy Shetlands – Two Shetland ponies, a mother and baby, that come with four pale pink fence pieces that attach to each other, a bucket of hay, a bale of hay, a brush and comb, a bottle and two saddle blankets. Both the mother and baby have magnets in their heads so they nuzzle each other.
Indian Ponies – Two ponies (one palomino, one appaloosa) that come with an apple, a bale of hay, a purple brush and comb, a western-style saddle and a red saddle blanket. The palomino has a magnet in its head so it eats the apple and the appaloosa moves front leg when gear in mane is pressed.
Wilderness Pets
Baby Bobcat – A bobcat cub that comes with a cave, a food bowl, and a toy mouse on a pink string— Like the pet shop standing kitties, the bobcat has a magnet in the head and will follow the mouse.
Desert Parakeet – A parakeet that comes with a purple bowl of grey food and a desert terrain in an enclosure with a blue lid— the parakeet flaps its wings.
Fearless Falcon – A tan falcon, with the same accessories as the Desert Parakeet— like the parakeet, the falcon flaps its wings when head is pushed.
Honey Bear – A black bear that comes with a cave, an orange bowl of purple food, and a mug of honey that the bear can hold— like the panda, the bear raises the honey mug to "eat".
Playful Sea Lion – A sea lion with a starfish on its nose, that comes with an ocean platform with an island and a palm tree and bucket of fish. When the starfish is turned, the sea lion 'claps'.
Keep Me Safe Pets (94 release)
Lion Family – Father lion, mother lion, cub and macaw, that come with a cave and tree, yellow and magenta foliage, yellow fruit that hangs from three tree and a steak. The cub nuzzles the mother and perches on tree, the father lion opens his mouth when his tail is pressed and the macaw perches on the cave or the tree.
Play With Me Pets
Mommy Hen – A hen with chicks in eggs with removable eggshell tops in her nest, that chirp when pressed, and also comes with a coop and a food/water dish.
Baby Calf – A cowcalf that comes with a red corral, a bale of hay and a bell. Its tail swishes when its head is petted.
Baby Lamb – A lamb that comes with a yellow corral, a feeder, a removable woolly coat and a flower wreath. Its woolly coat can be removed and one part of the corral can be used a jumping fence.
Zoo Playset
Playset – A beige carrying case that folds open with two internal trees, two bright green leaf canopies; one fits on top of each tree trunk, a purple chest, accessories in yellow, aqua, or bright pink: two sacks, a small bale of hay, a bag of peanuts, a bucket of fruit, a bamboo stick, a bunch of bananas, and two fish.
Sparkling Ponies (1994-1995)
Pinto Pony – A black and white pinto pony that comes with a light peach fence piece, a blue star-shaped hair decoration, an aqua saddle blanket, a silver bucket of hay and a pink brush. It can rear up on its hind legs.
Crystal Pony – A lavender pony that comes with a green fence piece, blue hair decoration, a blue and pink saddle blanket, a silver bucket of green hay and a pink comb. It has a gear hidden in its mane, which, when turned, makes its front leg move.
Sky Blaze Pony – An orange pony that comes with blue fence piece, a glittery star-shaped hair decoration, a purple saddle with a silver trim, a silver bucket of green hay and a red apple. It has a magnet so it can reach the apple.
Mystic Pony – A black pony that comes with a yellow fence piece, a magenta hair decoration, a white saddle, a silver bucket of teal hay and a teal brush. When its head is petted, its tail bobs.
Lil' Saddle Filly – A baby black pony that comes with a stall on a green grassy base, a pink hair decoration, a saddle, with a pink trim, a purple brush and a mint green bottle. It kick its front leg when its back leg is pushed.
Lil' Wash 'n Pretty Filly – A baby yellow pony that comes with a corral on a green grassy base, a teal hair decoration, a teal saddle blanket with a pink trim, a pink sponge brush, a teal bottle, and a teal bucket. Can be used with any soap and the pony bobs when head is pushed.
Lil' Brush 'n Grow Filly – A baby pink pony that comes with a pink corral on a green grassy base, a yellow blanket with a pink trim, a fancy purple brush, a fancy light blue bottle, two bright pink ribbons, and a pink hair decoration. Its hair grows.
Lil' Magic Drinkin' Filly – A baby grey and pink pony that comes with a blue house on a yellow base, a pink, teal and yellow blanket, a fancy light blue brush, a fancy light blue bottle, a bottle with pink top with a teal bow and a purple bow. When its head is lifted, the milk the bottle disappears.
Sparkling Pony Pairs
Prancing Parade Ponies – Two ponies (one brown and one orange) with accessories. When the ponies are petted, their heads bob.
Champion Ponies – Two ponies (one grey and one peach) that come with two jumping hurdles and other accessories. The peach pony can be posed on its hind legs and the grey pony has a gear hidden in its mane, which, when turned, causes one hoof to kick.
Sweetheart Ponies – Two ponies (one grey and one white) with accessories. The ponies nuzzle.
Royal Carriage Ponies – Two ponies (one black and one brown) and a terrier, that come with a carriage, a harness, a saddle and accessories. The black pony bows when pressed, the brown pony pulls the carriage when the harness is attached and the terrier rides in carriage.
Ice Palace Ponies – Two ponies (one grey and one white) and a cardinal, that come with an ice castle and accessories. The white pony kicks its front hooves when its tail is pressed.
Sparkling Pets (1994-1995)
Fluffy Persian Kitty – A Persian cat that comes with a bed, a gold food dish and a glittery pink brush and comb. It flips its tail when its head is turned.
Royal Bombay – A Bombay cat that comes with a throne, a gold tray, a food cup with food, and silver crown with a red jewel. It licks its lips when its tail is moved.
Proud Crested Cockatiel – A cockatiel that comes with a gold cage, a pink food container and a lavender perch. It raises crest when its tail is pushed.
Silly Yorkie – A Yorkshire Terrier that comes with a bed with a green cushion, a purple detachable mirror and a glittery pink brush, comb and hair bow. Its hair and tail can be pulled to be longer or shorter.
Needin' Feedin' Puppies – Two puppies (a poodle and a brown puppy) that come with a green bed, a box of food and a treat dispenser. When the puppies are pushed against the treat dispenser, the food drops down.
Hungry Kitties – Two cats (one white and one yellow) that come with a blue cushion, a butterfly toy stand and a pink food and water dish. When the cats are pressed against the food dish, the food disappears and the lever can be pulled to make it reappear.
Suppertime Guppies – Three fish (one purple and blue, one yellow and orange, and one orange and pink) that come with a fishbowl with a yellow castle and a box of fish food. The purple and blue fish is magnetic so it can go for the fish food.
Thirsty Guinea Pigs – Two guinea pigs (one grey and one brown and white) that come with a glittery terrarium with a removable peach lid, a water dispenser with gold hook that latches onto the cage, a glittery refill water bottle and carrots. When the guinea pigs are pressed against the water dispenser, the water level lowers.
1995–1996
Kenner also produced sets in 1995 and 1996 ranging from "Shimmering Mer Pets" to plush "Dazzling Hair Pets", diverging further from their original pet shop sets.
McDonald's Happy Meal – Included fantasy creatures, such as a unicorn and dragon.
Television Series – Featuring the characters from the animated Littlest Pet Shop TV series.
Mini Surprise Families – Polly Pocket-style sets of anthropomorphic animal families, 'Teeny Weeny Families' were made by Vivid Imagination for the UK and Australian markets and rebranded by Kenner as 'Mini Surprise Families' for the US market in 1996.
Star Styles Pet Salon – A dog and mouse that come with a salon and accessories. When the dog is placed on the runway and the magnetic wand is moved underneath the runway, the dog "walks".
Sea World Stars
Featuring several SeaWorld stars, such as Baby Shamu, this set also includes O.P. Otter.
Pete & Penny Penguin with Icy Igloo – Pete and Penny Penguin, that come with a hat, a scarf, an igloo, and a bucket of fish. Pete and Penny contain magnets so they can attach to "kiss".
Baby Shamu with Seashell Cradle – Baby Shamu and a starfish, that come with a sandy platform with a blue wave, a seashell cradle and a bucket of fish. Baby Shamu flips his tail when his fin is pushed.
Sir Winston Walrus on Rocky Coast – Sir Winston Walrus and a crab, that come with a rocky platform and a carton of fish. Sir Winston Walrus bobs his head when pushed forward.
Dolly Dolphin on Her Dancing Wave – Dolly Dolphin and a snail, that comes with a blue wave on top of a pink platform with a pink handle and peg and a carton of fish. Dolly Dolphin twirls when placed on the peg and the pink handle is moved from left to right and squirts water when squeezed.
The Shamu Family Playset – Mama Shamu, Papa Shamu, Baby Shamu and a squid, that come with a rocky base with a flat transparent top, a pool with a diving wheel in the back base with a light up base, a transparent blue wave-slide and a carton of fish. Mama Shamu squirts water when squeezed, Papa Shamu opens his mouth when his dorsal fin is pushed and Baby Shamu and the family can be attached to the spinning wheel to "dive" into the water.
Pets on the Move!
Hop'n Hide Bunnies – Three rabbits (one black and white, one brown and one white). The black and white rabbit's tail twitches when the carrot is rubbed on its tummy, the brown rabbit hops when its back is pressed and the white rabbit slides through the tunnel and is pulled up onto a platform when the attached carrot in the garden is pulled up.
Garden Tag Pets – A Sheepdog, a cat and a bluebird. The sheepdog chases the cat and the bluebird flies around on the birdbath, perches on top of the birdbath and perches inside the nest.
Ride'n Slide Hamsters – Four hamsters (two brown and two grey). The brown hamsters can slide on the teeter-totter and ride on the merry-go-round while the grey hamsters run in the exercise ball, slide on the teeter-totter and ride on the merry-go-round.
Pup 'n Kitty Clubs
Clubhouse Kitties – Three cats (one white, one yellow and white and one gray) and two kittens that come with a light brown tree trunk with three branches, a bright pink rubber tire swing on an orange string (suspended from the branch), three lavender platforms that rest on tree branches, a bright pink yarn ball, an oval-shaped yellow food and water dish with brown food, a bright pink (or green) skateboard with green (or pink) wheels and a blue and white striped house with a blue roof. The white cat climbs up the tree, the yellow and white cat rides on the skateboard, the gray cat scratches when its tail is pushed and the kitten chases the ball of yarn.
Fearless Friends Puppy Club – Three dogs (a St. Bernard, a Dalmatian and a German Shepherd), a white puppy and black and white puppy that come with a blue awards stage, a pink doghouse with a purple roof, a bone, a red fire hydrant, a plastic blue-ribbon collar, a gold medal on a string and a purple raincoat with pockets and a medical symbol (which fits the St. Bernard). The St. Bernard wags its tail when pushed along ground, the German Shepherd chases its tail, the Dalmatian raises one ear when its tail is pressed on and the white puppy plays with the bone.
Dressed 'n Ready Pets
Kitty Goes Camping – A cat that comes with a fuzzy bright pink teepee with teal, black, and pink geometric patterns on the outside, a dark blue dish of spilled milk, a blue fish on a purple fishing pole and a pink bandana. It chases after the fish.
Tutu Fun Kitty – A grey and white cat that comes with a green grassy base, a beige gazebo with roses (that attaches to the base), a glittery pink tutu, a gold crown with a red jewel and a transparent red cup of gold food. It bows its head when its tail is pressed.
Let It Pour Pup – A puppy that comes with a blue wagon with a gray handle and wheels, a yellow sponge brush, an orange food and water dish with light brown food, a yellow hooded raincoat and a bright green bucket. The mud on the puppy's feet disappears in warm water.
Sweet Sleepy Puppy – A fuzzy puppy that comes with a pink bone-shaped sleeping bag, a blanket, a teal doll, a lavender bottle, a pink bucket and two newspapers. It wets itself.
Take Care Pup – A brown and white dog that comes with a teal bed and an adjustable pillow with a silver frame, a white syringe with a blue pusher, a blue thermometer, a transparent bottle with pink top and a light pink pull-over hospital gown with a pawprint design. The liquid in the bottle disappears when flipped over.
Country Fun Pets (1995-1996)
Mini Surprise Pets – These toys consist of carriers with a wheel that moves the pets when it is turned.
Country Garden Nursery – A mother dog, puppy, mother rabbit, baby rabbit, and mother cat and kitten with a floral scent, that come with a swing, a washtub, a bucket and a ball. When the mother dog's head is locked in the upright position and her tail is pushed forward, her head moves downward and nudges the yellow ball along a path toward the puppy, the mother rabbit pushes the baby rabbit on the swing and the mother cat squirts water onto the kitten through her paw when the washtub is filled with water poured from the bucket into the rain gutter, and the hole in the gutter lets water drip into washtub.
Perky Playful Bunnies – A yellow mother rabbit and pink, blue and purple babies, that come with a flower garden and carrots. The mother rabbit contains a magnet so she cuddles the pink baby rabbit.
Newborn Families
Puppy Mom & Dad with Magic Birthing Mommy – Mother and father dogs and two puppies with a floral scent, that come with a purple house, a food and water dish and a chew toy. When either of the puppies are placed in the mother dog's belly and her tail is pushed, the puppy pops out and the father dog plays tug of war with the puppies.
Kitty Mom & Dad with Magic Birthing Cozy – Mother and father cats and two kittens with a floral scent, that come with a pink house and multiple accessories. When either of the kittens are placed in the small lower compartment of the birthing cozy and the mother cat is pushed along a lever inside the cozy, the kitten pops out and the father cat's back legs move when he is pushed along the ground; he can carry the yellow kitten by placing the kitten's scruff in his mouth.
Mommy Deer with Frisky Fawn – A mother deer, fawn and pink butterfly that come with a grassy nest platform. When the mother deer's back leg is moved, she bobs her head to "nuzzle" her fawn. When the fawn's tail is moved, it "nuzzles" its mother, and butterfly has a magnet so it can attach to the mother deer.
Mommy Fox with Playful Pups – A mother fox, two fox cubs; one standing and one lying down and a yellow glow-in-the-dark firefly, that come with a hollow log and accessories. When the mother fox's front leg is pressed backward, her head bobs and she "licks" her baby, the standing fox cub's ears move when its tail is moved, the lying down fox cub slides down and the firefly has a magnet so it can attach to the mother fox's tail.
Mommy Swan with Snuggling Babies – A mother swan, two cygnets and a dragonfly, that come with a blue pond platform and various accessories. The mother swan moves its wings when its head is pressed, the dragonfly has a magnet so can attach to the mother swan's wing and when the magnetic wand is placed underneath the pond platform, the mother swan "swims".
Country Home Carry Case
Playset – A house carrying case, with two basket beds, two bones, two leashes, two collars, a double food dish, a double scratching post, and a wheelbarrow.
Shimmering Mer Pets
Kissing Sea Bunny – A mermaid rabbit and octopus that come with a pink chest, a magenta crown and an orange shell mirror. The mermaid rabbit blows a kiss.
Swingin' Star Sea Monkey – A mermaid monkey and crab that come with a transparent green star-shaped case, a bunch of bananas with seaweed, a pink shovel with a yellow seashell-shaped handle and aqua coral. When the coral is hung from the top of the case; the mermaid monkey swings on it.
Ocean Goin' Guppy Puppy – A mermaid puppy and fish that come with a boat, a life preserver and a wooden box. The mermaid puppy nods when its tail is pressed.
Mommy Mer Catfish – A mermaid cat and mermaid kitten that come with a transparent magenta shell case, a pink or white shell cradle with an attached teal blanket inside and a pink (or white) shell bottle. The mermaid cat and mermaid kitten hug.
Splash 'n Play Cat and Puppy – A mermaid cat, mermaid puppy, hermit crab and lobster, that come with a pink and aqua rocky/coral base and a sparkling pink/aqua wheel attached to the base. When the knob is turned on the back, the wheel spins and when the switch is pushed, the lobster comes out.
Prance 'n Play Seahorses – A teal mermaid pony, a white mermaid pony and a clam, that come with a purple rocky/coral base and a purple sparkling wheel attached to base. When the knob is turned on the back, the wheel spins.
Sparkling Pond Pets
Water Garden Kitties – Three cats (one brown, one grey and white and one brown and white) and a turtle, that come with a brush, a food dish and a garden base with an elevated pond and other features. The brown cat waves its tail when its head is pressed, the gray and white cat chases flowers and the turtle slides down the tunnel underneath the pond.
Twinkling Sledding Party – Three huskies (one white, one grey and one brown) and a rabbit, that come with a sled, a comb, a food dish, an igloo, a pond and a snow-covered base. The set has several battery-operated lights. The white husky pulls the sled, the gray husky spins around, the brown husky chases snowflakes and the rabbit rides in the sled and slides down on the igloo.
Dazzling Hair Pets (1995-1996)
Plush Dazzling Hair Pets – These plushes include a pink unicorn, a pink cat, a white dog, and a white leopard that come with a brush.
Tickled Pink Kitty – A magenta cat that comes with yellow lock of curly hair, an aqua crown with a pink jewel, a fancy aqua comb, three blue plastic bows, a purple plastic cushion with yellow tassels and a mirror in a yellow frame. The lock of hair can be attached.
Poof n' Pretty Skunk – A purple skunk that comes with a white throne with an aqua cushion, two pink plastic hair bows with an elastic attachment, a fancy pink comb and a yellow crown/collar with a pink jewel. The tail can be styled.
Pink Puff Puppy – A pink and white puppy that comes with a purple chest, a fancy blue brush, a lavender ribbon, a jewel sticker sheet and a pink crown/collar with a blue jewel. The stickers can be stuck to its hair and can be styled.
Fancy Curls Carousel – A bright yellow lion that comes with a carousel with a grassy base, a pink carousel base with a canopy, a blue pole in the center of the carousel, a blue pole-top, four purple seats hanging down on green rods from the canopy, four purple fence pieces that attach to the grassy base with four seats, purple combs, two with glittery heart stickers that can be attached to the canopy, two circular purple hair decorations with hearts on them that can be attached to the canopy, and two tiara-shaped purple hair decorations that can also be attached to the canopy. When the blue knob on top of the carousel's canopy is twirled, the carousel spins around.
Primpin' Guinea Pig Pals – Two guinea pigs (one teal and one lavender) that come with a terrarium with green terrain inside, a pink lid, a gold hanging water dispenser with blue disappearing water, a yellow comb and a bunch of carrots. When the guinea pigs drink the water, it disappears.
Fluffy Lil' Puppies – A yellow puppy and poodle that come with a purple basket with a molded aqua cushion, a pink bow that attaches to the basket, a fancy blue brush, and a treat dispenser. When the puppies are pushed against the treat dispenser, the food drops down.
Silky Lil' Kitties – Two cats (one purple and one pink) that come with a plastic aqua bed with a yellow trim, a mirror in a yellow frame that attaches to the bed, a blue brush and a magenta food and water dish. When the cats are pressed against the food dish, the food disappears.
Royal Palace Ponies – Two ponies (one yellow and one pink), a pink dog and a magenta bird that come with a transparent glittery blue castle, a front white carriage with purple canopy and wheels, two blue, iridescent, snowflake-shaped hair decorations (one with rounded edges and one with sharp edges), a iridescent white saddle blanket, an aqua saddle, an aqua harness with a gold trim that attaches to the carriage and a fancy lime green brush. The yellow pony can pull the carriage when harness is attached and pink pony bows when pressed.
Magic Waterfall Pets – A yellow deer, a mermaid cat and a fish that come with a waterfall with a pool on top and a hidden room behind, a fancy aqua comb, a dark pink hair plug with pale pink curly hair, an aqua hair plug with wavy magenta hair, and a magenta hair plug with curly green hair, along with pink and orange jewels with velcro on the back which change color in warm water. The deer and mermaid cat's hair can be replaced and the fish squirts water.
Curly Tail Trio – A pink cat and two butterflies that come with a hair curler, a comb and a pearlized brown tree on a green grassy base with a panel of leaves that folds down to reveal a room and a mirror in the trunk that is revealed by turning a section of the bark. Both the cat and the butterflies' hair can be curled.
Puppy Dress-Up Palace – An orange dog and lavender puppy that come with a magenta palace with a yellow top and bottom; two fold-out doors, a fancy bright green comb, a bright green barrette and a gold cape. The lavender puppy's tail grows and shortens when the crown is turned.
Generation 2
A group of generation 2 Littlest Pet Shop toys.
Hasbro re-launched the Littlest Pet Shop brand in 2005 with a completely overhauled look designed by Gayle Middleton.[12] This incarnation of the line, which stand at around an inch tall, have larger heads, smaller bodies, and large expressive eyes inspired by Japanese chibi designs.[13] They have bobbleheads and originally featured a round pink or blue magnet located on the bottom of their feet, which was used to activate other magnetic functions in various playsets and accessories.[7] Due to choking hazard concerns, the magnets would be removed in 2009, instead being replaced with holes to be used with pegs.[8]
This series of pets were released in single packages, in pairs, in large packs, and alongside large playsets. Pets occasionally held exclusivity to only one store, such as Costco or Toys "R" Us. In 2010, the previously Kenner-owned Blythe dolls were introduced into the brand with the "Blythe Loves Littlest Pet Shop" series.[14] Special pets were released at San Diego Comic-Con in 2009 and 2010.[15][16]
The generation 2 pets, with a large community of adult collectors, now often sell for a premium second-hand on online platforms such as EBay,[17] especially particularly rare pets such as variants, store exclusives, mail-order, prototype, and event pets.[16] In 2020, Marie Claire reported the value of the 2009 San Diego Comic-Con shorthair cat at $800.[18]
Generation 3
In generation 3, the line was revamped to coincide with the release of the 2012 TV series, with Blythe now as a central character. The style and design of the toys were changed significantly, such as removing the bobble-heads.[8] This incarnation of the brand had low sales and was overall unpopular among customers.[19] These pets had interactivity with Gameloft's mobile app using a "pet collector" token, allowing kids to play with their favorite pets on the go.[20]
Generation 4 and 5
The logo during Generation 5
Beginning in 2014, the generation 4 and 5 pets have molds that more closely resemble the style of the TV series and were given names. These toys also feature "deco bits", small plastic accessories that can be used to decorate the pets.[21] Hasbro released the Pets Pawsabilities collection during this time, and in 2016, the Pets in the City collection, which more closely resembles the pets released in generation 2. This era features the return of the bobble-headed designs.[8]
A hamster toy released during this iteration invoked a lawsuit from Fox News anchor Harris Faulkner, due to the toy sharing her name and allegedly her likeness.[22][23] The case was quickly settled after Hasbro ceased selling the pet.[24]
Generation 6
The Littlest Pet Shop toys were revamped once again in 2017, with new molds and rounded eyes similar to the second generation pets. The pets in this line come in three sizes: teensie, mini, and classic (the largest of the three).[25] This line featured several series of pets each with a distinct gimmick, such as galaxy-themed designs.[26] It was also during this time that a new show premiered on Discovery Family called Littlest Pet Shop: A World of Our Own.[27]
Generation 7
In 2022, Basic Fun! announced that they had obtained the license to the brand and would be relaunching the generation 2 style bobblehead pets,[1] which would release in 2024.[28] Each toy pack is accompanied by a collectible card and digital code.[29] Basic Fun! mostly used the original molds from generation 2, but also introduced new molds based on currently popular animals, such as the axolotl and capybara mold. The brand currently markets itself to adult collectors as much as it does to children.
Reception
Generation 2 of Littlest Pet Shop, the most well-known generation, has primarily received positive reception. In 2007, Hasbro cited the brand as one of their top sellers,[30] having sold over 60 million of the toys in just two years.[13] In 2017, the VP of Hasbro, Andrea Hopelain, told Kidscreen that fans love "the collectibility of the Littlest Pet Shop figures".[31]Playthings listed it as one of the most popular collectibles for children in 2008.[32] Because of the brand's success, it was later launched in various countries outside of the United States, such as the UK, France, Italy,[7] and Chile.[33]
The "Biggest Littlest Pet Shop" playset, released in 2006, was noted as being "basically sold out everywhere" in a TV broadcast from CNN that year. They go on to talk about the portable pets, mentioning that they "play well with the set" and that children enjoy collecting the toys.[34] In a 2024 article, USA Today listed Littlest Pet Shop as the most popular Christmas toy of 2008, alongside the Rubik's Revolution.[35] However, not all reception was positive, as Alanna Bennett wrote for The Mary Sue in 2011 that the 2005 incarnation of the pets had big heads that were "uncomfortably in your face", comparing them to Bratz dolls.[4]
The Generation 7 revival has also seen favorable reception, with a representative for the European distributor, Bandai, saying that they have been "blown away by the reception which Littlest Pet Shop has received".[36] In a review for The Toy Insider, Samantha Connell writes that the toys are "perfect for animal lovers" and that the collector cards feature "an adorable photo of the figure".[29] An article for Good Housekeeping says they are "impressed with the brand's recent relaunch", and tells readers who grew up with the toys that they can have fun playing with the new incarnation with their own kids.[37]
Community
In the 2000s, a YouTube community based around skits and web series starring the toys emerged, known as LPSTube,[38] with the first video being uploaded in 2007. Improvised and homemade props are commonly used in videos. One of the most well-known video series in the community is SophieGTV's Littlest Pet Shop: Popular, a 2010 high school drama series following a dachshund named Savannah Reed.[28] The series had amassed over 4 million views on the platform as of 2024.[8]
Other products
In 2006, Hasbro released the Littlest Pet Shop digital pet, a line of keychain attached electronic games similar to the Tamagotchi.[39][40] The digital pet is not the only electronic toy to be made based on the franchise – electronic diaries and plug-and-play games have also been produced.[13] Various plush toys based on the franchise have also been released over the years, including a launch of 6-inch and 4-inch collectible plush in 2025,[36] as well as plushes that tied into the Littlest Pet Shop VIPs and Littlest Pet Shop Online virtual worlds. In 2010, the LPSO Dancing Dog speaker was released, which would dance to music when plugged into a computer or MP3 player,[41] similar to another Hasbro product, the iDog.
Aside from just toys, various other forms of merchandise based on the IP have been produced – including but not limited to apparel, activity sets, bath soap, food products, and cellphone accessories.[7]
An animated series based on the original Kenner incarnation of the franchise that premiered in 1995, produced by Sunbow Productions and DIC Entertainment[7] in collaboration with Jean Chalopin Creativite et Developpement.[42] The series follows a group of five animal characters who reside in a pet shop on the fictional Littlest Lane.[7] It ran for a single season of 40 episodes.
An animated series that corresponded to the 2012 reboot of the franchise, focusing on the human character Blythe working at a pet shop where the animals can talk to her. The series was produced by Hasbro Studios and DHX Media and ran for four seasons on The Hub, ending in 2016.
A screenshot of the Littlest Pet Shop VIPs online world.
Littlest Pet Shop VIPs (2007–2010)
Littlest Pet Shop VIPs (short for Virtual Interactive Pets)[44] was a toys-to-life online virtual world that launched in October 2007.[45] Similar to other sites at the time such as Webkinz, the physical VIPs plush toys came with codes on their collars[46] that could be used to unlock the pet in game.[47] These plush toys are required in order to collect virtual pets and other items.[48] The site featured numerous minigames and an in-game virtual currency named Kibble.[49] The game was made in the hopes of targeting a slightly older demographic than usual.[13] Unlike most virtual worlds, the game offered very little in the way of multiplayer interaction.[50] The game was shut down in 2010.[51]
Littlest Pet Shop Online (2009–2011)
The second virtual world based on the toyline, developed in collaboration with Electronic Arts[52] and launched in October 2009.[53] It is commonly and officially abbreviated as LPSO.[41] Unlike VIPs, a plush toy was not required in order to play,[54] though players' options would be limited without paying. Players can decorate their own houses and host parties within them, chat with other users, and play minigames. In 2010, the game was updated to add a new region, Kittywood.[53] It lasted two years until its closure in 2011.
Littlest Pet Shop on Roblox (2023–present)
In December 2023, a Littlest Pet Shop game was launched on Roblox, as a collaboration between Basic Fun!, Hasbro and Suit Up Games. Players are able to virtually collect the bobble-head animals using codes similar to the previous mobile games in the franchise.[55]
Console video games
Littlest Pet Shop Net Jet(2007)
In 2007, Hasbro released Windows PC-based game system Net Jet. Users could unlock games via plug in "game keys" (in USB form), purchased from retailers. With the Littlest Pet Shop (My Teeniest Town) key, players could enjoy the feature game which included eight mini-games.[56] The key would also allow users to choose three more games from the online game selection on the Net Jet.[57] The Net Jet was discontinued at the end of 2009, and the game is no longer functional.
Littlest Pet Shop: Biggest Adventure (2007)
A plug-and-play game for the Littlest Pet Shop franchise was released in 2007. The game could be played by plugging the included controller into a TV or VCR with AV input. The game allowed players to adopt a pet, play games, and care for the pet. Players could earn in-game currency "kibble", and use it to buy in-game items such as toys, accessories, or adopt more pets.[58]
A video game developed by Electronic Arts was released in October 2008 for Windows, Wii, and Nintendo DS.[59] The goal of the game was to build the largest collection of pets and "complete" your LPS world. Three versions of the game were released for the Nintendo DS upon original release – Jungle, Garden, and Winter.[60] A fourth version, Spring, was released for the DS in 2009.[61] Each Littlest Pet Shop title included universal and exclusive pets. The Wii version included all universal and exclusive pets from the DS versions, excluding the later released Spring version. In 2009, a stripped-down DSIWare version was released.[62][63]
Littlest Pet Shop Friends (2009)
A sequel to Littlest Pet Shop video game, Littlest Pet Shop: Friends, was released in October 2009 for Wii and Nintendo DS.[64][65] The aim of the game was to gather materials for the "Party Palace" and invite pets to add to the party’s guestlist. Like the first title, there was a singular version for the Wii and multiple versions for the Nintendo DS – Country Friends, City Friends, and Beach Friends. Each version had exclusive pets unavailable on the other DS versions.[66][67][68]
Littlest Pet Shop Biggest Stars (2010)
In 2010, Hasbro released Littlest Pet Shop Biggest Stars, the third in the trilogy of Littlest Pet Shop console games. This title was a Nintendo DS exclusive.[69] Three versions of the game were released: Pink Team, Blue Team, and Purple Team. Players need to train their pets in minigames so the pets can join the pink, blue, or purple team.[70]
Mobile games
Littlest Pet Shop (2012)
A mobile game based on the 2012 cartoon series, developed by Gameloft. It was released on November 22, 2012. Toys released during this time period came bundled with tokens that could be scanned to win in-game prizes.[71] The game has been discontinued.
Littlest Pet Shop: Your World (2014)
The second mobile game from Gameloft, released in 2014. This game attracted some criticism for its use of expensive microtransactions, with real money being used to purchase an in-game currency used to buy new pets.[72] Similar to the 2012 game's token system, the game utilized "zap codes", codes similar to QR codes which are printed on the pets themselves.[73] Players could collect and care for 150 different virtual pets based on the toys, with their world expanding as the user plays more.[74] The game has been discontinued.
↑Bradley, Eric (2015). Picker's Pocket Guide - Toys: How to Pick Antiques Like a Pro. Iola: Penguin Publishing Group. ISBN978-1-4402-4453-7. Groups of toys and accessories from the Littlest Pet Shop are starting to appear at auction with prices ranging between $80 and $125, depending on the number of pieces.
↑Allocca, Kevin (2018). Videocracy: how youtube is changing the world ... with double rainbows, singing foxes, and other trends we can't stop watching. New York: Bloomsbury. p.187. ISBN978-1-63286-674-5. You can find this type of passion in many of YouTube's ultra-niche enthusiast communities, like the channels dedicated to American Girl Stop Motion (#AGSM), intricate and often laborious short films made with the dolls, or LPS Tube, movies made with toys from the Littlest Pet Shop franchise.
↑De Mesa, Alycia (2009). Brand Avatar: Translating Virtual World Branding into Real World Success. London: Palgrave Macmillan UK. pp.145–146. ISBN978-0-230-23371-3.
↑"Beyond Webkinz". Parenting. 22 (1). 2008-02-01. ISSN0890-247X– via Gale General OneFile.
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