Unlike other family members, dogs can’t make their holiday lists or even drop hints throughout the year. So how do you know what to get that special him or her?

 

By Melanie Cane

 

Unlike other family members, dogs can’t make their holiday lists or even drop hints throughout the year. So how do you know what to get that special him or her?

 

One option is to Google “top gift ideas for dogs”. Prepare to be overwhelmed. There are as many ideas for the pet owner as there are for the pet. Furminators, Pawdicure nail polish pens, and $350 crystal-encrusted poop bag holders, to name a few I crossed off my list.

 

The best way to navigate through a Web search is by choosing a category: food, clothing, shelter, or play.

 

Organic bully sticks and biscuits are always appreciated. If your dog has a favorite treat, like Stella and Chewy’s Carnivore products, it is okay to indulge him over the holidays.

 

Next is exercise, which dogs need as much as dog owners. If you’re crazy busy over the holidays and don’t have enough hours in the day to take him to the park or on a long walk, give your dog the gift of a dog walker.

 

Just because your dog doesn’t read and write doesn’t mean she doesn’t need mental stimulation. If your pet has a pet toy, buy her more than one so she’ll always have one close by. You’ll want to have backup when that toy inevitably loses its cover or insides.

 

My dog happens to love a certain squeaky ball, but the squeaker stops making a noise once she paws it around or puts it in her mouth. Yes, it’s a cheap toy, but it’s her favorite and all the more expensive balls I’ve bought her have been ignored. So, I buy ten at a time to keep her happy and squeaky.

 

In my quest for the best gifts, I came across many toys that are dog-tested, and owner- and vet-recommended. Among them is: the Invincible Gecko, Babble Ball, Busy Buddy Kibble Nibble Dog Toy, Industrial ball, interactive toys like Hide a Squirrel, and dog puzzles.

 

The final category is comfort. ’Tis the season to replace a worn and torn dog bed with an upgraded version. Or how about buying her a nice coat and booties (or mushers’ paw salve) to keep her body warm and paws safe on those cold days of winter.

 

Lists aside, here’s my best advice as a longtime dog owner and pet sitter.

 

>Make sure the gift is safe for both pets and children.

>Choose eco-friendly products that are made in the USA to lower your dog’s carbon paw print.
>Buy from an online site or catalog with free shipping.
>Give your pet something you already know she loves.
>Don’t be insulted if your pooch enjoys playing with the wrapping paper more than the gift. This is especially true for puppies.
>If you’re buying a “stuffed” animal, choose one without stuffing. You will have enough to clean up after your holiday dinner.
>Only give your pet food and treats you know she can digest. You don’t want her to leave you an unwanted present.