Sophia's White Plush Kitty Cat and Accessories Set with Leash, Food Bowl, Comb, Toy Ball, Toy Mouse, Bed, Blanket, and Carrier for 18" Dolls

Q: Is this a decent size to get a 2 1/2 year old to play with? She doesn't have American Girl dolls or anything like that, but absolutely loves dogs.

Yes, I think it is. The dog is approximately the size of the American Girl pets (you can see their website for dimensions) but unlike their pets, this is very soft and can be a good cuddly/bedtime toy. A few of the accessories might need to be put away until she's older (the bone, for example) if having little toys is an issue. Honestly, my kids play more with this as a toy than as a companion for the 18" dolls. It's a beautiful little set and unlike the FurReal animals it's super-cuddly :)