11 Brilliant Gifts for the Dog Lover in Your Life
Even if you're not a dog lover yourself, you probably know a few people who would appreciate some canine-inspired gifts this holiday season. Here are 11 creative gift ideas any dog enthusiast would go barking mad for.
1. DOG BLUEPRINT PILLOWS; $95
We all know at least one person whose bumper stickers, t-shirts, and even salt and pepper shakers all announce their favorite breed of dog to the world. Add to their collection with these hand-screen-printed pillows that feature one of 52 breeds and include insightful details about each variety’s history and physical characteristics.
Find it: Uncommon Goods
2. FITBARK DOG ACTIVITY MONITOR: $94
We use devices to measure our activity levels throughout the day, so why shouldn't dogs do the same? The FitBark attaches to a dog’s collar and monitors their daily behavior and sleeping patterns, allowing owners to track how active their pup is, notice any concerning patterns, set health goals, and even share memorable moments with family and friends.
Find it: Amazon
3. THE DOGIST: PHOTOGRAPHIC ENCOUNTERS WITH 1000 DOGS; $16
If you aren't able to meet 1000 dogs in person, browsing through a photo compilation of four-legged friends of all shapes and sizes is probably the next best thing. The New York Times bestseller from photojournalist Elias Weiss Friedman (and of the famous Instagram thedogist) features special categories like Beards, Working Dogs, Dogs in Fancy Outfits, and Cones of Shame.
Find it: Amazon
Any human-canine duo who uses this hands-free tool to up their fetch game will be the envy of the dog park. With just the flick of a wrist, the user can toss a ball up to three times as far as they normally would without the hassle-free toy. Cue a happy, healthy dog and a grateful owner who no longer has to touch those slobbery balls.
Find it: Amazon
5. DOG BOWTIE; $36 for 3
Unlike most canine fashion accessories, these doggie bowties are as stylish as they are dignified. The handmade bows loop comfortably around the dog’s collar for a look that’s dapper beyond compare. Choose from six collections: The New Orleans, The Georgian, The New Yorker, The Floridian, The Cali, and The Minnesotan.
Find it: Etsy
6. BAKE-A-BONE: THE ORIGINAL DOG TREAT MAKER; $29
For dog owners who keep their pets on a gluten, preservative-free, or GMO-free diet, the Bake-A-Bone offers ultimate control over what’s going into their canine's treats. Users can follow the recipes that are included in the kit or they can channel their inner dog-food pastry chefs and get creative.
Find it: Amazon
7. DACHSHUND CUTTING BOARD; $26
Nothing pairs better with cheese than some wiener (dog). This handmade cutting board is made from real timber and is treated with food safe oil to ensure a long lifespan. At 25 inches from front to end—or nose to tail, rather—this board makes the perfect vehicle for even the most ambitious cheese platter.
Find it: Etsy
8. GOURMET DOG TREATS: CHRISTMAS ASSORTMENT; $25
Dogs appreciate seasonal snacks around the holidays just as much as anyone else. These grain-free peanut butter treats are handmade from garbanzo flour and yogurt frosting. And they’ll keep dogs distracted from any other cookies that may be lying around the house. Each order contains 12 treats, and with a shelf life of up to four weeks they'll last dog owners through the new year.
Find it: Etsy
9. THE PUPCUP KIT; $17
The PupCup Kit ensures that your loved one's four-legged hiking companion will never have to drink from their owner's cap again. When it's not being used, the PupCup fits snugly onto the bottom of a 32-ounce Nalgene water bottle, which comes included with the purchase. The cup is available in Ruh Roh Red, Hello Yellow, Growler Green, and Big Toe Blue.
Find it: The Original PupCup
10. BAD DOG WISDOM DINER MUGS; $35 for 4
Every dog lover knows that dogs are endless wells of wisdom. This set of ceramic, kitschy mugs offers important life advice inspired by our canine counterparts.
Find it: Uncommon Goods
11. BARK & CO'S WINTRY MIX BOX; $35
If you’re having trouble deciding on just one dog-inspired gift, this package from BarkShop includes an assortment of five toys and treats, which could include "droolers" dog snacks and seasonal plush animals. There’s no better way for a dog to spend the holidays than by ripping into a penguin chew toy.
Find it: BarkShop
BONUS: MAKE A DONATION TO THE ASPCA
Not every dog is fortunate enough to have a family to show them love around the holidays. According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.9 million dogs enter American shelters each year. For people who truly love dogs, no gift will do more to warm their hearts than a donation made in their name.
Find it: ASPCA