Deleting Nintendogs Data with a Broken L Button (DSi)

There is no software workaround. The "Delete Save Data" confirmation screen in Nintendogs requires pressing L + R + A + B + X + Y + Start + Select simultaneously (or a subset including L) on the title screen. The L button is physically wired into the input matrix; the game code checks for its specific register flag.

Solutions

1. Repair the L Button (Best):
   • Compressed Air: Blow out dust/debris under the shoulder button.
   • Isopropyl Alcohol (99%): Apply a drop to the button seam, work the button rapidly. Evaporates fast.
   • Replacement Switch: $2–$5 part; requires tri-wing screwdriver and soldering (or conductive epoxy for non-solder).
2. Start a New Game (Soft Reset):
   • From the title screen, select "New Game." This creates a new save slot (Slot 2/3) without deleting Slot 1.
   • You can have up to 3 save files. Just ignore the corrupted one.
3. Full Save Wipe (Nuclear Option):
   • System Settings → Data Management → Nintendo DSi → Software → Nintendogs → Delete. Requires L button to confirm "Yes" on the final prompt.

Recommendation: Try the alcohol clean first (5-min fix). If the switch is physically snapped, the console recognizes it as permanently "unpressed," blocking the combo. Repair or use a new save slot.