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G-Robots G-Dog (Gadget Head, Under $1,000)

For the robot enthusiast, the nonpareil G-Dog by G-Robots ($949.99) satisfies both the creative brain (you have to build it from the included parts) and gadget obsession. The fully-functional robot comes programmed with 17 actions -- like walk, kick, hand stand, and even "go potty" -- but the user can play with the G-Dog motion editor software to fine-tune those movements. A wireless remote controller, looking much like a PlayStation 3 controller, tops off the hardware. All in all, with an average two-hour build time, the G-Dog is easy to assemble and endless fun to use. And since G-Dog lacks the creepy verisimilitude of Ropid and other recent humanoid droids, it doesn't cause us any concern that it'll kill your loved ones in their sleep.