Reward every good boy (and owner) with the paw-fect present. We chatted with several pet owners to find the best gifts for dog lovers, including toys, accessories and subscription boxes.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
Learn more.
People who love their pets really love their pets. Whether it’s baking homemade pupcakes or buying new toys on the regular, nothing is too much for their furry family members. Because of this, we understand just how hard it is to find bone-afide gifts for dog lovers. The good news is you really can’t go wrong with extra dog toys, treats and wearables. The key here is looking for something a little out of the ordinary, like personalized plushies or merch that helps proud dog lovers flaunt their status.
We chatted with our team’s resident pet parents to unleash the best gifts for dog lovers. These presents are perfect for spoiling the pup—and pup owner—in your life. From a custom pet pillow to a snazzy dog treat maker, these pup presents will surely leave dog parents smiling and tails wagging. We even found a few gifts for the pooch-obsessed—even if they don’t have their own furry little one (yet). Know someone who has a cat, too? These gifts for cat lovers will keep them purring!
Trot Snack Tray
Any time is treat time for furry friends, but the Trot Snack Tray makes it even more fun for good boys and girls. The innovative design slows down their eating for better digestion, plus it occupies their attention until every last bit is licked up. Made from food-grade silicone that’s both dishwasher- and freezer-safe, the tray comes in more than 10 vibrant colors.
Good Dog Tarot Deck
Magical wisdom blends with a love of dogs in this beautifully illustrated tarot deck from Melonsquare Studios. The set of 78 cards comes with a guide and is perfect for the dog parent looking to tap into their intuitive gifts.
Personalized Christmas Memorial Ornament
If a favorite member of the family has crossed the rainbow bridge, this holiday ornament featuring a winged dog is a beautiful way to keep their memory alive. Customize the ornament with the dog’s breed, name and the year for a sentimental gift they’ll love.
Dog Show by Billy Collins
The literary dog lover in your life will love this new poetry collection by Billy Collins. The former U.S. Poet Laureate adds to his oeuvre with a hardcover collection honoring our canine companions. The poems are accented by beautiful watercolors by artist Pamela Sztybel.
Chuckit! Flying Squirrel Dog Toy
No need to restrain the pups from chasing squirrels with the Chuckit! This clever flying squirrel dog toy glides like a frisbee for dogs to chase after. The glowing feet allow for playtime after dark. The humans will have as much fun as their dogs!
Personalized Ceramic Dog Treat Jar
Dog treats deserve special storage, and this charming, hand-painted stoneware jar is the perfect choice. Select from seven different patterns, and don’t forget to add the pup’s name to the jar so there’s no confusion about who’s the good dog.
Matching Family Pajamas
Gift the whole family cozy matching pajamas from Hanna Andersson this winter. Choose from more than 55 patterns in various styles for the humans, while the doggies get to wear matching bandannas. Everyone will be comfy and cozy for long winter nights, plus they’ll look picture-perfect for the holiday photo.
ThunderShirt Calming Vest
For the sweet dog who gets a little—or a lot—nervous from time to time, this ThunderShirt can help immensely. This vest slips on easily to apply gentle pressure to calm anxious dogs during thunderstorms, fireworks, long car rides, visits to the vet and more. Choose from seven sizes based on the dog’s weight for a proper fit.
Personalized Frame
They might already have a ton of photos on their phone, or they might even have a dedicated social media page for their canine companions. But they’ll still love displaying a print of their pooch in this wooden frame that you can customize with their name.
Rescued Is My Favorite Breed Mug
In case there’s any confusion, this mug will clear it up: rescued is their favorite breed. And now we know which one is their favorite mug, too.
Coconut Fiber Dog Planter
We have a feeling the plant- and dog-obsessed loved one is going to absolutely swoon over this dog planter. Combine their two loves into one thoughtful gift they can display for years to come. And if pug isn’t their doggo of choice, it’s available as a dachshund, poodle, French bulldog and pretty much any popular breed, too.
Yeti Dog Bowl
Sturdy, stainless and dishwasher-safe, Yeti’s dog bowl arrives built to last year after year. It’s a solid investment for doggie dining at home. Or, adventurous owners can take it to the trail while camping or fishing.
“If you’re looking to splurge a little on your beloved fur baby with a long-lasting, high-quality product, I absolutely recommend the Yeti Boomer Dog Bowl,” says Shopping Editor Mary Henn. “It combines functionality with a visually appealing design and you can even personalize it with your dog’s name or image. Best of all, my pup Henry loves his Yeti bowls—and what’s better than making your pets happy?”
EMILY WAY FOR TASTE OF HOME
Petcube 360 Camera
Whether I’m gone for a day or a few hours, I finally feel secure leaving my fur babies behind, thanks to this palm-sized device. You, too, can give the gift of peace of mind when they’re away from their furry loved one with the Petcube camera. The camera offers two-way audio to communicate with their pet along with live HD video, so pet parents can feel good about leaving for the day or a night out. It’s one of those gifts for dog lovers they may not treat themself to, making it a thoughtful find.
MADI KOETTING FOR TASTE OF HOME
Puffin Game
Shopping Editor Madi Koetting is always on the lookout for ways to add some mental enrichment to her pup’s feeding times.
“She scarfs down her food, and a game-like feeding toy is a fabulous way to prolong your dog’s feeding by incorporating some mental exercise,” she says. “This feeding toy from Fable has been the answer to all my problems (dog mom problems, that is). Simply add their kibble inside and prepare to be entertained as you watch your dog wobble it all over the ground to get their food out. The toy boasts a range of easy to hard modes so pups don’t get bored. It takes my dog CeCe around 30 minutes to dispense all her food—talk about a smart way to incorporate play time into her feeding!”
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Grooming Vacuum
Particularly hairy breeds often require routine maintenance at the groomer—and those costs add up over time. This grooming vacuum makes short work of long hair without making a massive mess. Included is a grooming and deshedding brush, electric clippers, a nozzle head and cleaning brush that catches pet hair before it hits the floor. Say “goodbye” to stressful grooming visits and “hello” to this at-home dog salon!
“Overall, this dog grooming vacuum was a hit with our long-haired papillon,” says former Pet Editor Nancy Snyder in her review of the unit. “Not only were the tools effective at detangling, smoothing, deshedding, trimming and trapping Charlie’s fur, but she wasn’t afraid of the vacuum.”
NICOLE DOSTER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Wool Lookalike
When it comes to gifts for dog lovers, it pays to go custom. Know a pet parent who can’t stop staring at their furry BFF? Snag your dog-obsessed pal a detailed wool mini-me lookalike that’s almost as darling as the real deal.
“Kateryna is so talented,” raves Nicole. “I worked with this Etsy shop owner to gift a handmade needle-felted replica of our dog to my partner one Christmas. After sending a few photos of our pup at different angles, she nailed his coloring and body type—down to the little details on his speckled belly! I thought it would just be used as an ornament, but it soon turned into one of our most treasured items that is on display all year long.”
MEGAN WOOD FOR TASTE OF HOME
Calming Donut Bed
Did you know that dogs curl up into a donut shape naturally to retain warmth? The Best Friends by Sheri calming donut bed takes this a step further by adding butter-soft fur, a raised edge and a delightfully dense memory foam core. Bonus? The cover comes off for easy cleanup.
“The shag itself is soft, and I mean soft,” says former Deputy Affiliate Editor Megan Wood. “The raised border provides a sense of security and a place for my pup, Louie, to rest his head. He can also burrow down into the bed and hide his toys. (So that’s where he’s been hiding his rawhide!)”
Adjustable Harness
While it’s pretty no frills, an adjustable harness meant to fit a range of sizes is such a thoughtful gift for dog lovers. No matter how big their pooch gets, the Blue-9 harness’s six adjustment points ensure a snug fit without any pinching.
“My favorite thing about the Balance Harness is that it adjusts at every point, so it expands as your dog grows,” notes Mary. “My dog has worn the same harness since he was 4 to 6 months old, and now, a year later, he is fully grown, and the harness still fits! I think that also speaks to the quality of the harness. After all this time (and a quick cycle in the washing machine), the harness looks as good as new.”
Earth Rated Dog Poop Bags
This one may sound strange, but friends don’t let friends use bad poop bags. Stock up a friend’s pet supplies with poop bags that are better for the environment.
“After I saw a fellow pet owner struggling with defective bags, I gifted her a bulk supply of these Earth Rated dog bags,” says Nicole. “They make the least luxurious chore of owning a pet more stress-free as the bags are sturdy. After using them for years, I’ve never had any accidental rips or tears. Plus, they’re made of recycled material which is a bonus in my book.”
FurZapper Laundry Pet Hair Remover
Give the gift of less fuzz around the house with a FurZapper, the laundry tool that eliminates unwanted pet hair from clothes.
“Two years ago, I started testing the FurZapper—and today, because fall shedding season increases the amount of pet hair I find all over me, I still use this laundry tool to fight the furry blizzard,” says certified animal behavior consultant Amy Shojai, CABC in our review of the FurZapper. “The FurZapper loosens and removes pet hair from fabric in the laundry’s wash and dry cycle. It rinses away hair or collects the fur on the dryer filter. With heavily shedding pets, you’ll notice the most improvement during the spring and fall shed season.”
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Aquapaw Pro
If bath time is a never-ending battle, gift them a tool that makes it easier. Featured on ABC’s Shark Tank, the Aquapaw Pro pet is a bathing tool that combines a sprayer and scrubber, helping you do more with fewer hands.
“The Aquapaw Pro was a win in both my and Ernie’s book,” says Nancy in her review of the tool. “Not only did it cut down on water waste and hassle, it actually seemed to provide a relaxing experience that my dog enjoyed. And now that I’ve used the bathing tool’s shampoo massaging brush and pressurized rinse a handful of times, I’ve realized that all of Ernie’s previous baths were subpar.”
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
BarkBox Super Chewer
Big breeds require big, tough toys. Designed with heavy chewers in mind, the monthly BarkBox Super Chewer features two tough toys, two chews and two bags of treats. If you’d like to further spoil their pup and receive free shipping, you can select a toy add-on or bundle (extra toy and goodies) for an additional cost.
“While I still have yet to confirm what bonus toy lies underneath the cow, I can confidently say that the BarkBox Super Chewer receives two thumbs up from me and multiple tail wags (and many more to come) from Ernie,” says Nancy.
MARY HENN FOR TASTE OF HOME
Saatva Dog Bed
Everyone knows a dog that prefers to lie next to the space heater rather than run outside. A Saatva dog bed, made with premium materials and an ergonomic design, is the ideal tool to keep a lazy pup cozy.
“If you have a dog who is particular when it comes to beds or a dog that suffers from mobility or joint issues, then I recommend giving the Saatva dog bed a try,” says Mary, who reviewed the bed with her German shepherd, Henry. “Even if you just want to encourage healthy spinal alignment for your young pup, the Saatva dog bed delivers the thick cushion and support to do the job.”
MudBuster Dog Paw Cleaner
The MudBuster is our favorite travel tool for folks who enjoy the outdoors (but not their dog’s dirty paws). It comes in nine bright colors and three sizes that fit small, medium and large dog paws.
“The MudBuster offers a clever way to prevent indoor tracking,” says Amy, who tested the tool. “It also works effectively for quick clean-ups while hiking or camping to keep muddy paws from staining car seats.”
MARY HENN FOR TASTE OF HOME
Hands-Free Dog Leash
The SparklyPets hands-free dog leash absorbs shock and allows you to walk or run without breaking stride. It also frees up your hands so you can get to your phone, keys, water bottle or stroller with ease.
“From the trails to the sidewalks, Henry and I have been taking the SparklyPets Leash with us wherever we go. I can’t imagine ever wanting to walk long distances with a standard handheld leash again,” says Mary in her review of the leash.
Pet Hair Remover
The Analan mini pet hair remover is an excellent (and adorable) pet hair remover for small spaces, making it a great addition to any dog owner’s glove box. Pointed edges dig deep into corners, and the teeth on the outer edges provide enough grip to get any errant fur off of seats.
“The triangular handheld device has rubber “teeth” on each side, from coarse to fine,” says Amy in her review of this pet hair remover. “The points rooted out fur caught in the corners, too.”
Custom Pet Embroidered Sweatshirt
If you’re in search of the perfect dog gift for the dog lover in your life, look no further than this personalized sweatshirt. Available in unisex sizes and a rainbow of colors, the pullover can be embroidered with up to two canine portraits and their names.
Custom Pet Pillow
“I have too many pictures of my dog,” said no canine owner ever. Put your favorite photo on oversized display with this custom pet pillow. It comes in sizes ranging from 6 to 24 inches (either one-sided or double-sided) and, according to Etsy shoppers, looks just like your pup in real life.
Human Dog Bed
Have you ever looked at your dog nestled in their bed and wished you could be as cozy as they are? Bless your favorite fur parent with a dog bed of their very own. The Plufl human dog bed uses orthopedic memory foam and a washable cover to simulate the experience of napping like a pooch. Snuggle up and watch a flick or bunker down with your dog for the most comfortable zzz’s you’ll ever catch!
Bully Stick Holder
Dogs adore rawhide chew toys, but recent discourse suggests that they’re not always the safest treats. That’s where the Bow Wow Buddy comes in. Available in sizes XS through XL, the vet-approved bully stick holder securely stashes stick treats, prevents choking hazards and the potential for internal obstruction. It’s ideal for any dog parent, but especially ones with an aggressive chewer.
Dog DNA Test
Give the gift of knowledge with a dog DNA test. This option from Embark features a full breed panel, a canine relative finder and fast results that arrive in two to four weeks. Health readings—including a check for up to 250 genetic health conditions—offers valuable insight into a pet’s history. It’s an invaluable tool for those who want their pets healthy for years to come.
Pupsicle
Keep Fido’s temperature in check easily during summer months with the ultra-cool Pupsicle. In addition to a generous lifetime warranty, this toy offers hours of entertainment. Simply insert the chilly treat and let pups lick it clean. Once finished, give it a rinse and it’s ready for another use. Snag the Starter Pack or Alpha Pack for extras like a DIY treat tray, refill pops and doggy broth.
Matching Hoodies
Slipping into a cozy hoodie is such a nice way to start the weekend. Why deprive dogs of that same experience? The matching dog and human hoodies from Good Thomas are soft, mid-weight cotton fleece that come in both people and pet sizes. Choose from four eye-catching colors, or opt for one of their other matching sets. Even better, each purchase donates to homeless pup rescues.
Dog Massage Therapy Class
Experiences make memorable gifts for dog lovers, and learning how to give pups a massage is an incredible bonding experience for both owners and fur babies. Certified canine massage therapist Ian Byrne teaches how in his virtual Paws and Breathe: Dog Massage Therapy Class. Each 75-minute class covers a range of techniques, from prep to practice. He also offers ways to read a dog’s reactions to each massage in order to tailor to their specific needs, likes and dislikes.
Sweatshirt and Jogger Set
Proud pet owners will go barking mad for this comfy and cuddle-worthy sweatshirt and jogger set. A repeating pattern featuring sweater-clad pups is enough to melt almost any dog lover’s heart. Ultra-cozy fleece and elastic on the ankle cuffs keeps the chill out all winter long.
Waterproof Waffle Blanket
There are so many things to love about gifting this waterproof waffle blanket. These warm and cozy gifts for dog lovers come in a variety of sizes, from medium to XL. A waterproof lining on the interior prevents accidents, spills and fur from touching couches or backseats. Any pet parent will thank you for eliminating errant hair and drool from their favorite seat! It’s one of the best blanket picks!
Dog Mom Box
Another clever monthly gift option is the well-loved Dog Mom Box. Like Bark Box, the Dog Mom Box comes with an assortment of treats, toys and supplies. It also offers a few fun picks for dog moms, such as shirts, mugs and other dog-themed gifts.
Soul Pup Coffee
Grounds & Hounds Coffee Co. has some of the best brews and coffee gifts around. Each cup of Soul Pup coffee offers a medium dark roast inspired by the special bond between a person and their soul dog. Depending on preference, you can choose between whole beans or ground coffee. Recipients will love the notes of chocolate-covered strawberries, walnuts and vanilla, and you’ll love that each purchase supports rescue initiatives.
Custom Pet Portrait
Transform their favorite photo of their best boy or girl into a beautiful watercolor portrait they can proudly display forever. Plus, you can customize it with their pup’s name for an extra sweet touch. Each portrait prints on high quality canvas paper, but you can also select digital download and print it yourself.
Star Pups Dog Toy
Did someone say, “pup-kin” spice latte? Doggos deserve to be in on the coffee run fun, and now they can thanks to this adorable “star pups” dog toy. The 6.5-inch plush toy is fun for pups of all sizes while the squeaker offers endless engagement.
If My Pet Could Talk Book
For the dog parents with children, this personalized If My Pet Could Talk book is just the gift. Customized with their dog’s name, we can’t think of a cuter way for their little one to bond with Fido at bedtime as they imagine what it would be like if their furry friend could engage in silly conversations. It’s a total keepsake the whole family will enjoy for years to come.
Dog Breeds Tea Towel
Pet parent or not, any doggo-obsessed loved one will appreciate this dog breeds tea towel. From the Australian shepherd to the zuchon, it artfully depicts various breeds and is totally display-worthy.
Automatic Treat Dispenser
If there’s one thing dog parents can never have too much of, it’s enrichment toys—aka toys that promote mental enrichment via brain games. And if they work from home or have a hyper-active pup, this automatic treat dispenser is a total win-win for everyone. Fill the dispenser with food or training treats and place the button in a separate room. When the button is pushed, a treat is dispensed. Not only does it keep dogs entertained by having to run back and forth from the button to the treat dispenser, it doubles as exercise during their meals. The pet parent in your life will thank you later for this entertaining gift.
Dog Mom Hat
Shopping for the proud dog mom? Help them flaunt their dog mom status in style with this embroidered hat. Available in several fun colorways, it’s their new go-to for outdoor adventures and hanging around the house.
Dog S-Wag Treat Box
Our favorite personalized care package, Sugarwish, also offers treats for doggos! Offering over 40 all-natural Sugarwish dog treats, giftees get to choose exactly what they want—no second guessing what Fido can or can’t eat. Plus, they can pick from wearable goodies like bandanas and bow ties. Their box arrives in gift-worthy packaging with plenty of treats to last for days.
MasterClass Dog Training
For the ambitious dog lover who’s always teaching their pup new tricks, this MasterClass on dog training with animal expert, Brandon McMillan, is an entertaining gift for them and their furry friend. In this collection of training sessions, they’ll build valuable trust and control with their pup. Dog training classes tend to be expensive and not interactive between parent and pup, making this gift a thoughtful alternative for the hands-on dog lover.
A quick note of advice, make sure you know the giftee pretty well, otherwise they could take this gift the wrong way.
Dog Puzzle
A puzzle and art piece they can cherish forever? That’s exactly what they get with this dog jigsaw puzzle. The 750-piece puzzle offers mental enrichment for dog lovers with the prize at the end being a cheeky print to frame and enjoy for years to come.
Pooch Selfie Stick
Getting your puppy to sit still long enough for a picture seems impossible. Until now, that is. The Pooch Selfie—as seen on ABC’s Shark Tank—clips onto your phone and holds a tennis ball on top to keep Fido focused while you capture the perfect photo.
Doggy Parton Bandana
You’re familiar with Dolly Parton, but what about Doggy Parton? The country singer has her own line of pet products, and it’s just as sassy and spunky as she is. One of our favorite gifts for dog lovers from the collection is this gingham and denim bandana, which comes in two sizes and will give your pooch a little Southern flair.
Treat Maker
Making homemade dog treats has never been easier thanks to this convenient gadget. Follow one of the included recipes and they’ll have eight bone-shaped delights for their pup in just minutes.
Wobble Wag Giggle Ball
With more than 96,000 rave reviews on Amazon, the Wobble Wag Giggle Ball should be at the top of every pooch’s wish list. As the name suggests, it makes funny noises as it wiggles around, capturing your pet’s attention. The best part? It doesn’t require batteries.
Reversible Dog Coat
Easily one of the most popular pet products on Amazon with over 54,000 positive reviews, this reversible dog coat is equal parts stylish and cozy. It comes in sizes ranging from XS to XXL. One side is both wind- and waterproof while the other is made with super soft fleece in an array of classy plaid prints.
Custom Paw Print Necklace
Bring your four-legged best friend everywhere with this pretty personalized necklace. It features your dog’s actual paw print and name engraved on a rose gold, gold or silver disc. Have more dogs? Add more discs!
Nerf Dog Tennis Ball Blaster
Nerf guns, but for dogs—that’s what you get with this tennis ball blaster, which shoots balls for your furry friend to retrieve. The gun launches balls up to 50 feet with just the pull of the trigger, saving your arm and making playtime more fun for everyone involved.
Personalized Dog Bowl
Step one: Make your own dog food. Step two: Put it in this custom dog bowl with your pup’s name emblazoned on the side. It comes in both small and large sizes for any breed of canine, and it’s made of long-lasting ceramic to hold up for many years to come.
The Foggy Dog Collar
Velvet, gingham, florals—you’ll find all different styles of designer dog collars at The Foggy Dog. They’re as practical as they are pretty, with an engravable buckle and durable reinforced stitches. Bonus: With every purchase, The Foggy Dog donates half a pound of food to an animal shelter in the U.S.
Paw Print Keepsake Kit
Personalized presents make the best gifts for dog lovers. Take this ornament kit, for instance, recommended by over 5,000 Amazon reviewers. It includes everything needed to make two keepsake clay ornaments featuring your dog’s paw prints in just 72 hours.
FAQ
Do dogs appreciate gifts?
Yes, dogs appreciate gifts just as much as any human, especially if they are treats, toys or dog beds. While these items may seem simple, they are every dog owner’s go-to for distracting, entertaining and training their pets.
What is the best reward for a dog?
The best rewards for a dog are treats and toys. If your dog behaves well, give them their favorite snack or toy to let them know they are behaving correctly. Not only will this strengthen the bond between you and your dog, but it is also a healthy learning tool so your dog learns how to behave as you wish.
What should you buy if you have a dog?
The most basic things every pet owner needs are:
- A water bowl and food bowl
- A dog bed
- A dog blanket
- A few dog toys
- A dog hair brush
You should also buy your dog all of its required vaccinations including those for kennel cough, rabies and hepatitis. If you’re adopting a dog from a shelter, these vaccinations might be discounted or free.
What do dog owners need the most?
This depends on the person and their pet, but certain essentials are always in demand, like treats, chews, poop bags or lint rollers. These items might not be the most exciting, but they’re practical. If unsure, asking is always a safe option.
