From the Toysit archive
Big Scratch and Lil’ Scratch
Explore Big Scratch and Lil’ Scratch through their six-button remote, following play and Cyber Flea, with original coverage and a paper route activity.
The play at a glance
Two dogs make a small play system
Big Scratch and Lil’ Scratch turn a robot-dog performance into a partnership. The larger dog responds to its controller, while the smaller puppy follows along. A magnetic Cyber Flea gives Big Scratch something to scratch and the player a comic scene to enjoy.
The dogs, controller and tiny flea each contribute to the play. Photographed original packaging and instructions help explain their roles.
Six buttons, several kinds of play
The package back identifies six controller functions: walk forward, shake hands, sit, lie down, scratch flea and play mode. The play button selects a performance, while the other buttons name particular actions. A player can choose a greeting, a walk or a comic interruption.
The printed sheet also describes a head-touch response. Both a pat and a remote command can start an exchange with the dog, giving the player different ways to join in.
A little puppy follows along
Lil’ Scratch adds a second character to the scene. The play sheet positions the puppy directly behind Big Scratch, with a clear line of sight, so it can follow as the larger dog walks forward.
The pair suggests a story almost immediately: a little dog tagging along on a first outing, copying a bigger companion or trying to catch its attention. Keeping the dogs lined up is part of arranging that performance.
The flea steals the scene
The package describes a magnetic Cyber Flea and a scratching action on the larger dog. This small prop supplies the comic plot: the flea arrives, Big Scratch reacts, and the routine ends with the dog free of its tiny visitor.
Each piece has a role. Big Scratch performs, Lil’ Scratch follows, the controller gives the player choices, and the flea introduces a surprise. Together they make a little cast for an animal comedy.
Design a leader-and-follower route
- Draw a six-square path and two paper dogs. Put the follower one square behind the leader.
- Write a rule: when the leader moves one square, the follower moves to the square the leader left.
- Add a pause card. Both dogs wait until the next move card.
- Draw a barrier across the path. Agree on a new rule for getting around it.
- Keep three columns on paper: leader move, follower move and rule that was used. Swap the dogs and try again.
This original paper game turns following into a sequence players can see and change. Give the dogs a destination, then invent an adventure along the way.
The historical record
Original Toysit coverage
The original product paragraph, R/C-pet discussion and seven-item list follow. They capture the earlier coverage’s feature descriptions and enthusiasm for robotic companions.
Robotic dog and puppy friend.
Meet Big Scratch, the only robotic dog that comes with its very own puppy friend, Lil' Scratch, for hours of delightful family enjoyment. These power pooches have the distinction of being the only toy pets to come with their very own dancing cyber fleas. Tons of outstanding features enhance Big Scratch's playability: he comes with an infrared key-chain remote controller that programs his seven multiplay and trick modes. Modes are sit, shake, lay down, play, walk right, walk left, and scratch-a-flea. He has multiple play behaviors, depending on his mood, and, of course, his own interaction with you, his master. Lil' Scratch follows Big Scratch around wherever he goes, using infrared tracking. He walks left or right, looks around with his cute, loveable eyes, nods his head, flaps his ears, and wags his tail. He also moves his mouth while he happily barks, pants, or is heard whimpering or whining, depending on his mood.
The Fun of an R/C Pet Dog
Remote-controlled (R/C) pet dogs offer a delightful blend of technology and imaginative play, allowing children (and even adults) to experience a simulation of pet ownership without the real-world responsibilities. The fun elements of an R/C pet dog are numerous:
- Interactive Play: Most R/C pet dogs come with a variety of built-in features such as barking, tail wagging, and even tricks like rolling over or fetching. This interaction brings the toy to life, making playtime more engaging.
- Tactile Experience: Some of these robotic dogs have soft fur or rubberized coatings, giving them a more realistic feel, further enhancing the pretend play experience.
- Training Element: Like real pets, some R/C dogs can be "trained" to respond to voice commands or specific controller actions. This adds a level of challenge and accomplishment to the play, as kids get to see the results of their "training" efforts.
- Companionship: While they can't replace the emotional bond with a living pet, R/C dogs can provide a sense of companionship. They can be a buddy that kids can talk to, play with, and take care of.
- Responsibility Simulation: R/C pet dogs can simulate the experience of taking care of a real pet, teaching children about responsibility. This includes "feeding," cleaning, or even "walking" their robotic friend.
- Safe Exploration: For families who may have members allergic to pets or lack the space and resources for a real dog, an R/C pet dog offers a fun and safe alternative to introduce children to the idea of pet ownership.
- Tech Curiosity: For tech-savvy kids, an R/C pet dog can be an entry point into the world of robotics, programming, and mechanics. Some might be curious about how the dog moves, how sensors work, or even want to customize their pet.
R/C pet dogs combine the magic of play with the wonders of technology. They provide entertainment, learning, and a unique interactive experience that can be treasured by kids and adults alike.
Sources and editorial notes
The photographed Trendmasters package back and C-Pet play sheet support this overview. They list six controller functions, with walking forward; the preserved archive lists seven, including separate right and left walking commands. Following depends on the positioning and line of sight described in the play sheet. The photographs establish the documented play system; hardware, tracking range and accessory compatibility were not tested. Broad benefit claims in the archive remain historical commentary. The paper route game is original editorial material.
- Trendmasters: photographed package back — Six controller functions, component labels and Cyber Flea description.
- Trendmasters: photographed C-Pet play sheet — Printed directions distinguish remote commands, head-touch responses and puppy-following conditions.
Images and descriptions are retained as historical material. How Toysit covers toys.
Created for Toysit by Tabbloza — the artwork in our header.