Dog Owner Diaries: Christmas Gifts for the Dog Lover

With Christmas around the corner, you might be wondering what to get the dog lover on your shopping list. Sometimes the best gifts you can give aren’t for the person, but for their dog.

The key is to think outside the box. Don’t just go to the corner store and pick up a bag of “mutt treats,” get something that the owner will love as much as the pup.

Bedding

This could be a tricky gift. I would check with the owner first. While doing so might ruin the surprise, getting it right the first time is always the best choice.

Some things to consider would be whether or not a new bed is needed, allergies to fabrics, whether the recipient chews or destroys certain types of beds, if a special type of bed makes more sense because of health problems, and the dog’s preferences (while mine sleep on everything, apparently some dogs can be picky about beds).

A nice big bed would be a great present for most dog owners. If we are being honest, I’ve gotten some nice blankets as gifts and Thor just steals them for his own use anyway. Just cut out the middleman and get a bed.

Spa Day

Let’s face it, the life of a dog is rough (it was really hard to resist a “ruff” pun there). A spa day would be a fantastic gift to give a dog and her owner. It’ll leave the dog smelling fresh, which the owner will thank you for; it’ll have the dog feeling refreshed and could relieve some joint pain; and it’s not something most dog owners will usually consider purchasing.

You’ll have to do some sleuthing to find the right place. I’ve heard of some pretty crazy places that even give the dogs hot stone massages, but most places will give them a full-body massage and a nice bath. If you’re feeling extra generous, get the owner a spa day, too. If you’re feeling even more giving, get me a spa day as well.

Fashionable Clothes

The concerns are mostly the same as the bedding. You should also find out if the dog is willing to wear clothing. This gift is best suited for people who live in colder climates and dogs that need a little extra to stay warm. Dog sweaters and rain jackets would be great for walks in the cold/rain. As an added bonus, the dog could be the coolest cat on the block in those new threads.

Unfortunately, this gift isn’t really applicable to some regions where the temperature never dips below freezing. But, you never know, because it did snow down here in Louisiana just a few weeks ago.

Box Subscription

This one might be a little pricey, but if you are in a giving mood, a canine-centric subscription box might be a good idea. Some boxes come with toys, treats, clothes, and leashes/collars, and a subscription could be a great gift that keeps on giving year-round. Dog owners are constantly replacing toys, and this thoughtful gift would help make sure your friend’s pup has a steady supply of things to destroy—I mean play with.

These gifts are sure to be loved by dogs and their owners, and I hope these ideas will help you with some last-minute shopping for those that seem to have it all. Merry Christmas!