When making your list and checking it twice, don’t leave out the family’s four-legged companion! After all, coming up with gift ideas for your dog (or any dog you love to spoil with treats and toys) is probably the most fun part of holiday shopping.
From big and burly to small and yippy, every pup deserves some holiday cheer. Gifts aside, they’re just excited to be included in the celebrations.
But if you need some inspiration this season, we’ve got some suggestions to get you started!
15 Fun (and Useful!) Gift Ideas for Your Dog
Looking for the perfect toy to add to your dog’s overflowing collection? Or a treat that will satisfy their need to chew on, well, everything?
No matter the size, breed, or personality, these holiday gift ideas for your dog are sure to win some puppy kisses:
1. Pet Qwerks Talking Babble Ball
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As anyone in a colder climate knows, keeping your dog entertained is hard when you can’t play outside. Whether you’re battling frigid temperatures or the limitations of city life, the [amazon link=”B000SQTFBQ” title=”Pet Qwerks”] Talking Babble Ball is a great stocking stuffer for Fido.
This is a tough, battery-operated toy that makes noise when touched. Your dog will be kept busy while you get work done, tidy the house, or just enjoy some peace and quiet in another room. It also shuts off automatically when not in use.
You can buy the Pet Qwerks Talking Babble Ball in three sizes. But even the largest size may not stand up to big breeds or heavy chewers.
2. Furbo Dog Camera
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We’re not getting out like we used to, but there are still times when our dogs must stay home alone. If you’ve ever wanted to check in on your pup while out of the house, the [amazon link=”B01FXC7JWQ” title=”Furbo”] Dog Camera is one of the top gift ideas for your dog this year.
How is this a gift for your dog and not just for you? Because you can dispense treats from the camera using the smartphone app. We don’t know many dogs who would have a problem with that!
The Furbo Dog Camera has a ton of tech-savvy features, too. It includes a microphone and speaker, so you can talk to your dog from the app. And it even has a barking sensor to alert you when something’s up at home.
3. YETI Boomer Dog Bowl
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We know from personal experience that some dogs like to dig, carry, and throw their bowls. The [amazon link=”B07J2TRX9D” title=”YETI”] Boomer Dog Bowl is durable enough to stand up to your dog’s antics or take on your next camping trip.
This dog dish is made from the same stainless steel used in YETI tumblers and mugs. You can choose from a plain steel finish or several different colors to match your pup’s personality.
The YETI Boomer Dog Bowl holds 64 ounces and weighs just under 2 pounds. Of course, you can use it for food, water, or both.
4. EcoKind Gold Yak Dog Chews
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Yak cheese — yes, you read that right — is an incredibly underrated dog treat. If your dog has never tried it before, surprise them with a whole pack of [amazon link=”B071NSY33S” title=”EcoKind”] Gold Yak Dog Chews.
These chews are safer than rawhides but last just as long. While yak cheese is completely hard to the touch, it softens over time as your dog chews. This means it’s easy-to-digest and won’t disappear overnight.
Yak cheese can flake and be a little messy (but nothing compared to other dog chews). Some large-breed dogs may try to bite off chunks of the treat. We recommend always supervising your dog with these or any other chews.
5. Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel
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The best toys don’t just engage your dog’s body. They also engage your dog’s brain. The [amazon link=”B005VS9WO6″ title=”Outward Hound”] Hide-A-Squirrel is a soft, interactive toy that requires a bit of thinking to enjoy.
This toy includes a plush tree trunk with a hollow cavity inside and several holes. It also comes with plush squirrel toys that hide inside. Your dog will love pulling the squirrels out of hiding and throwing them around.
We love how accommodating this toy is to both dogs and owners. The Outward Hound Hide-A-Squirrel comes in four sizes, and you can also order extra Squirrels for when the originals inevitably meet their doom.
6. Nerf Dog Large Tennis Ball Blaster
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It’s true not all dogs love to fetch. But the ones that do can never get enough. If that sounds like your four-legged friend, check out the [amazon link=”B082DYKDLT” title=”Nerf Dog”] Large Tennis Ball Blaster.
This blaster works like any Nerf toy. Place the ball in the barrel, pull back on the plunger, and pull the trigger. In perfect conditions, it can launch balls up to 35 feet.
You can purchase the launcher packaged with either one or three balls — standard tennis balls also fit! This is a great gift idea for any dog owner with limited mobility or self-proclaimed weak throwing arm.
7. Best Friends by Sheri Donut Shag Bed
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By this point, we’ve all seen those ultra-comfy shag pet beds on social media. There are plenty of copycats, but the [amazon link=”B01MV0IX66″ title=”Best Friends”] by Sheri Donut Shag Bed is the original.
This bed comes in four sizes, ranging from 23 inches to 45 inches across. You can also pick between two colorways: Taupe or Frost.
As any owner of a large or destructive dog knows, there’s no way this bed will stand up to heavy shredding or chewing. Use your best judgment when gifting this shag bed to your or someone else’s dog.
8. Mighty Paw 30 ft. Check Cord
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Your wireless fence might keep your dog close by at home. Loose, in-public training is still essential to a well-rounded pup, though. For hikes, fetch at the park, or obedience training, the [amazon link=”B082C3MQHR” title=”Mighty Paw”] 30 ft. Check Cord is a must for your leash collection.
Using a long lead lets you give your dog more freedom while still maintaining full control over them. In other words, it replicates the off-leash experience without any of the potential risks.
The orange cord with reflective stitching offers great visibility at night. This leash also floats, making it the perfect safety tool when swimming at the lake.
9. StarMark Treat-Dispensing Bob-A-Lot
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Working for treats is much more rewarding for your dog. Training exercises are one way to accomplish this, but interactive toys are another. The [amazon link=”B003YHB8EI” title=”StarMark”] Treat-Dispensing Bob-A-Lot toy is an excellent example.
The name pretty much says it all. This toy features a weighted bottom and an inner-compartment that holds treats or kibble. In fact, the StarMark Treat-Dispensing Bob-A-Lot compartment is big enough to hold an entire meal of dry food.
You can also adjust the openings for an easier or more challenging experience. The small size is appropriate for dogs under 20 pounds, while the large version is for any dog over that weight.
10. Tumbo Tugger Interactive Bungee Toy
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Your dog might have the freedom of a big, wireless-fenced yard. But there are always new ways to up the entertainment factor. The [amazon link=”B00COTT7JA” title=”Tumbo Tugger”] Interactive Bungee Toy is a must for any energetic dog.
For this toy, you will need a strong tree. But the bungee is easy to install, even by yourself. As for the business end, you can replace the attached tug rope as needed.
You can adjust the bungee’s height to fit most trees and dogs. Just make sure your chosen branch is sturdy enough to support your dog’s weight and then some!
11. Malier 2-Pack Christmas Plaid Dog Bandanas
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This list wouldn’t be complete without some stylish holiday accessories. While not every dog enjoys (or even tolerates) wearing bandanas, the [amazon link=”B07L31PJQ3″ title=”Malier”] 2-Pack Christmas Plaid Dog Bandanas will be a big hit with those who do.
These holiday bandanas feature double-layered fabric for extra durability. The pattern is visible on both sides, so there is no “right” or “wrong” way to face the bandanas during wear.
Each set comes with one red and one green bandana or one white and one red bandana. Two sizes are available, fitting neck circumferences from 9.8 inches to 18.9 inches around.
12. Aquapaw Pro Pet Grooming Tool
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Have a dog who hates bathtime? We can’t eliminate the need for baths entirely, but we do have a gift idea that will make bathtime less stressful for you both.
There are plenty of pet grooming bath attachments on the market, but one of our favorites is the [amazon link=”B08B5LRXGR” title=”Aquapaw”] Pro Pet Grooming Tool. This handheld attachment includes an 8-foot hose and fits most showers. It also comes with an adapter for use with an outdoor garden hose.
The gentle brush shape removes dirt and loose fur better than bare hands. You can use the on-off switch to ease nervous dogs into bathtime.
13. Diggs Groov
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If you’ve fallen off of the crate training bandwagon this past year, you’re certainly not alone. But there’s no better time than now to get back on. The [amazon link=”B08CG47QT8″ title=”Diggs Groov”] is a great addition to your dog’s crate, whether they’re a pro at chilling by themselves or are still learning.
This rubber treat holder securely fastens to the side of your dog’s crate, providing access to peanut butter or another favorite spreadable treat. It also comes with a cover so you can freeze the whole thing without making a mess.
While designed for the Diggs Revol Collapsible Dog Crate, this treat holder will fit most wire dog crates. Before purchasing, take a peek at the Diggs Groov product specifications — they’ve provided a helpful fit guide.
14. Scuddles Dog Water Fountain
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Winter might be right around the corner, but the dog days of summer will be back before we know it. And for those of us living in hot climates, the heat never really goes away. The [amazon link=”B07FN5X9MG” title=”Scuddles“] Dog Water Fountain will be a favorite of any water-loving canine.
This fountain attaches to a garden hose just like any sprinkler. The difference, though, is that this fountain can be operated by your dog. When they step on the platform, water comes spraying out.
You can use this fountain as a toy, drinking water source, or both. It includes a sediment filter, and the water pressure is adjustable.
15. K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot
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Traditional beds work great for many dogs. For pups with ailing joints or who love to destroy anything filled with stuffing, regular dog beds just don’t cut it. The [amazon link=”B07QD2R2G9″ title=”K&H Pet Products“] Original Pet Cot could be the solution.
Since the pet cot is made of durable mesh and anti-rust supports, you can use it outside without worry. This also makes it incredibly easy to clean. You can remove the mesh cover to wash separately if needed.
The K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot comes in several sizes, supporting dogs up to 200 pounds. The breathable material will keep your dog cool, even in summer.
What About Shopping for Someone Else’s Dog?
Wanting to include your friend or family member’s pet in the holiday spirit shows that you’re a thoughtful, animal-loving person! But there are few differences compared to gift ideas for your dog.
First, avoid treats unless you are 100-percent sure the dog doesn’t have allergies or a sensitive stomach. Trust us; their owner will thank you!
Second, know how big the dog is (at least approximately). Many toys and accessories come in different sizes. In some cases, buying the wrong size could be dangerous.
Last but certainly not least, don’t buy noise-making or squeaking toys unless you want to annoy the dog’s owner. (Okay, we’re mostly kidding! But only somewhat.)
So Many Great Gift Ideas for Your Dog
Whether shopping for your own or another adorable pooch in your life, gift ideas for your dog don’t need to be complicated or expensive. While you could give them a high-tech, treat-dispensing camera, any dog would be just as happy with a simple tennis ball or chew toy.
Of course, toys and treats are going to get the biggest reaction from the dog in question. But items that make the owner’s life a little bit easier make great gifts, as well.
What’s on your canine’s wishlist this year? Share your must-have toys, gadgets, and more in the comments below!