Nickelodeon & Viacom Consumer Products and Dora the Explorer are feeling the canine love as a new and exclusive line of licensed merch is making its way to the Kmart toy aisle.

Following the storyline that Dora has adopted a new canine, Perrito, NVCP has launched Dora Loves Puppy at the retailer nationwide and at www.kmart.com.

Along with a personalized virtual adventure at www.dorapuppy.com, families can redeem codes on the merchandise for print, from adoption papers and posters, along with other digital downloads, themed games and screensavers.

The merch line itself includes kids’ apparel, bedding, toys, jewelry, sporting goods, hosiery, footwear and home entertainment. A complete list of products is available at www.kmart.com/dorapuppy.com.

Meanwhile, Kmart will offer deals and free offers at the line’s launch, including a free Dora Loves Puppy poster personalized with their child’s favorite picture, thanks to a partnership with Shutterfly.com (September 13-26). The Dora Loves Puppy DVD will also be available for US$4.99 with a US$20 Dora Loves Puppy purchase (September 27-October 10).

On the TV side, Nick Jr. will host a Puppy Playdate on September 25 with puppy-themed Dora episodes.