Downloadable Content allows the player to add various new items or Miis to the game. This feature was only available in North America and Japan.
In Nintendogs[]
Tricks and Treats (America)[]
See Promotion.
In October 2005, there was a Nintendogs Tricks and Treats promo event inside GameStops. If players used Bark Mode while inside the store, they could meet a Cavalier K.C. Spaniel named Bentley, who would bring them a Pair of Star Sunglasses. They would also get a message saying "Hi, I'm Haylie Duff. My Nintendog Bentley has a special gift for you. Have fun playing Nintendogs!". This event lasted until mid-2007.
Shin-chan is in Nintendogs! (Japan)[]
Between April 28, 2005 and May 29, 2005, players were able to use Bark Mode at participating retailers throughout Japan to meet up with a Shiba Inu named Shin-chan. Shin-chan would give the player a Nintendogs Record and a voice message from singer Utada Hikaru.
In Nintendogs + Cats[]
In Nintendogs + Cats, Downloadable Content is supported on the internet via the SpotPass feature rather than via real-life distributions. This feature is similar to WiiConnect24 on the Wii. One needs to be connected to the internet for SpotPass DLC neighbors and also for Nintendogs + Cats items from the DLC neighbor's pet.
When the 3DS is connected to the internet, it will automatically check Nintendo's servers for DLC for all games and DLC-receiving applications that the player has. It will often notify them by placing a blue spot on the picture of your inserted Nintendogs + Cats game and you must check your journal in-game and tap the yellow present box sticker for a SpotPass DLC neighbor. In case your game is not inserted, the 3DS also places a blue spot on the Notifications button on the system's start-up menu.
Sometimes, if you talk to a DLC neighbor while on a walk, he might give you a present. It is also possible for their dog breed to be added to the list of available dogs in the kennel if the DLC neighbor is the very first neighbor met and spoken to with this ability during a walk. If multiple dogs have been SpotPassed and can be added to your kennel, your DLC neighbor can still be available to meet another day during a walk as long as their entry is still listed in your journal (2 weeks). The player must not have the breed unlocked at that time in order for a breed to be unlocked via SpotPass.