Are you looking for special gift ideas for dogs? The possibilities are endless, but here are a few options to consider!
Your puppy is likely already being showered with love and attention. But maybe they don’t yet have all the essentials, or perhaps you’re looking for new enrichment to add to your young dog’s routine. Check out these suggestions!
1. Feeding station
You’ve likely already got food and water bowls for your dog, but a new, spiffy feeding station can be a quick and easy gift for your pet.
A cute placemat can help contain the mess of sloppy eaters and drinkers while making the feeding station more visually appealing. Perhaps you want to upgrade your dog’s water bowl to a water fountain. You could also pick out nicer bowls, like switching from plastic to ceramic.
2. Snuggle toys
As long as your young dog isn’t going to chew and swallow pieces, a snuggle toy might make your puppy’s naps more relaxing. Some of these toys even have fake heartbeats that are meant to mimic the sensation of snuggling with a mama dog. Not to mention, your pup will look adorable with their stuffie!
3. Socialization classes
Whether you have a young puppy or a young adult, socialization classes are a great way for your bestie to meet other dogs. For puppies, these socialization classes can help reduce fear responses later in life. For both puppies and young adult dogs, playing with other dogs is also great exercise. You might even meet some new friends among the pet owners in the class.
Older dogs can enjoy new toys and collars like any other pup, but you might consider a gift that’s geared more toward their aging mind and body. For senior dogs, we like gifts that challenge their mind or provide comfort!
1. Interactive feeders
Interactive feeders stimulate your pet’s brain while allowing them to have fun eating their meals or getting treats. Some interactive feeders have different “levels” that let you change the challenge of the game. There are many designs on the market, including snack balls, stacking food dispensers and slow feeders. These feeders can help lessen boredom, slow down pets that gulp their meals and can turn mealtimes into a stimulating activity. For senior dogs, mental stimulation and exercising their brain can help combat the symptoms of cognitive dysfunction (dementia).
2. Orthopedic and/or heated dog bed
Your senior dog deserves a super comfortable bed to rest on. There are a lot of good options out there, from orthopedic beds that are designed to take pressure off your dog’s joints to self-heating beds. Even if your dog has a nice bed in their usual resting place, you may consider adding new beds to the second floor of your home if you have one so that your older dog doesn’t need to go up and down stairs to rest.
Be cautious with heated dog beds that need to be plugged in, as electric cords are a hazard if chewed or wettened. Heated beds can also burn dogs if not used properly.
3. Massage therapy session
Yeah, you read that right. What sounds better for an old dog than a nice massage session? Consider finding a canine massage therapist in your area to spoil your senior dog.
Your little dog is small but mighty. Check out these gift ideas for small dogs.
1. At-home obstacle course
When you think of a dog running through an agility or obstacle course, you may envision a larger dog zipping in and out of the weave poles. But little dogs can be good at obstacle courses, too! Consider purchasing some obstacles designed for little dogs and building an obstacle course in your own yard or home. This will provide good mental enrichment and physical activity for your small dog.
2. Pet steps for furniture
Jumping on and off furniture can cause injury in small dogs like Dachshunds, Chihuahuas or Italian greyhounds. A small set of pet steps can help your dog get on the couch or the bed to snuggle with you more easily.
3. Pet bandanas and outfits
We can’t pass up the opportunity to recommend a small bandana or outfit for your little dog. Is there anything cuter than a little jacket on a tiny dog?
Your large dog deserves some holiday cheer. Check out these gift ideas for your pup.
1. Customized collar
It’s time for your dog to get more stylish! You can choose a design and get your contact information and dog’s name put on a custom collar. Not only will your dog be a fashion icon, but including your contact information on the collar can help them find their way home should they decide to go on an adventure.
2. Ball-throwing toy
For your active large dog, consider a toy that launches tennis balls. Ball-throwing toys can really enhance a game of fetch. Not only will this save your arm from the repetitive motion of throwing, but it will provide endless entertainment for your dog.
3. Elevated dog bed for outdoors
If you have a dog who enjoys sunning themselves outside, consider getting them a large, elevated bed for their favorite outdoor resting spot. The elevated bed will allow air to flow under your pup and keep them up out of the grass and dirt.
Whether you’re looking for Christmas gift ideas for dogs or celebrating another winter holiday, your dog deserves to be a little spoiled this season. Happy Holidays!
