The holiday season is officially in full swing! It’s probably safe to say that many of you are still working on your holiday shopping! Don’t forget to pick up a few things for your dog. Fido deserves a little something extra for all the love, laughter, tail wags, and affection he offers. In this article from Armitage Animal Clinic, your Newmarket, ON animal clinic, a local vet gives suggestions on some things your pup might put on his holiday list.
Fido’s Christmas Wishes: What Does He Really Want?
We all know that Man’s Best Friend enjoys toys and treats. In fact, if Fido could write to Santa Paws, his Christmas list would probably look something like this:
- All The Bacon
- Toys
- Steak
- More Bacon
- More Toys
- Tennis Balls
- More Steak
- Squirrels
- More Bacon
- Car Rides
- Mud Puddles
- Bacon
- Chicken
- Chew Toys
- More Toys
Of course, there are plenty of other options. For instance, your pooch might also appreciate a doghouse. Subscription boxes—or pupscription boxes—are another great option. Fido will get his own box of goodies every month. We probably don’t have to tell you how cute it is seeing dogs get excited over their mail.
For anxious dogs, weighted shirts or calming products may be beneficial. Quite a few of our canine companions have gotten adept at using programmable paw pads, which allow them to ‘speak’ certain words with the press of a pad. While this may seem odd, some dogs have shown impressive skill in using these tools. (Then again, Fido’s always been good at letting on when he wants a walk or a treat. These just make it easier on him.)
When choosing gifts for your furry best friend, consider their size, age, and breed. Pick things that are the right size for your pup. A Golden Retriever would probably love a stocking full of tennis balls, but a Pomeranian may not be able to even play with them.
Keep in mind that your dog’s preferences will change over time. Puppies need lots of chew toys, as well as things that keep them active, while a senior dog may prefer softer playthings or puzzle toys for mental stimulation.
Your pet’s personality also factors in here. Some toys are fine for some pups, but unsafe for others. For example, stuffed animals are very popular among our four-legged friends. Many pooches can play with them with no problem. Then there are the pups that make it a point to remove (and try to eat) the squeaker, which is definitely not safe.
Rawhide should also be offered with caution. If your pup chews hard, he may break off pieces, or even swallow them. This is not only a serious choking risk, but it can also cause serious gastrointestinal injuries or blockages. Ask your Newmarket, ON vet for more information.
Gifts For All Dogs
If there is one gift that our canine buddies universally approve of, it would be a doggy bed. It’s very important for your pet to be able to sleep comfortably! A thin pad won’t protect Fido’s bones and joints from cold floors, and it also won’t provide much support.
Orthopedic beds are the standard these days, especially for larger pups and seniors. Dogs do, however, have their own preferences when it comes to beds.
Does your furry pal stamp down his bedding before he gets comfortable? He might like a beanbag bed, so he can arrange his sleeping spot exactly the way he likes it. If your pet tends to stretch out, he may want a plain bed, as raised edges may restrict his ability to sprawl. Small dogs and nervous pups often enjoy the additional feeling of security that beds with raised edges provide, whereas dogs with thin fur may prefer the extra warmth of a heated or thermal bed.
Gifts For Dog Lovers This Holiday Season
Why not offer Fido’s buddies a small gift? Homemade doggy treats are a great choice. You can find some great recipes online! You can also offer store-bought snacks, or perhaps just provide a gift card to a pet store.
Choosing Gifts For Active Dogs
Do you have a super energetic canine companion? Find toys and gifts that will keep Fido active and entertained. Automatic ball launchers are a great choice for dogs that love to chase tennis balls. Just take care to select something that is the right size for your dog. Large breeds can choke on balls made for smaller pups!
Does your pooch have a habit of running off? Whether Fido just can’t resist chasing squirrels or is just that dog who always wants to see what’s happening down the street, this can be challenging for owners. Training, fences, and leashes are all important here, but you can also get GPS-enabled tags to keep track of your furry pal.
Choosing Gifts For Active Dogs
While many pups still have a basic leash and collar, most dogs prefer harnesses, which provide greater comfort and don’t restrict breathing. For those who frequently walk their pets at night, a leash equipped with a flashlight is a good option. If you and your dog enjoy hiking together, consider getting Fido a harness that can hold some of his things. Another excellent present for active dogs is a water bottle with a built-in dispenser.
Doggy Stocking Stuffers
Chews and treats are always great stocking stuffers. Grooming supplies are another good bet. Fido may not be very enthusiastic about paw balm, but he’ll appreciate smoother, healthier paw pads. Dental products and brushes are also suitable choices. Ask yourNewmarket, ON veterinarian for recommendations!
What Are The Best Gifts For Puppies?
Our canine pals really are ridiculously cute as puppies. Little Fido is quite a chewer during that cute toddler stage, so you’ll want to look for toys that can withstand all that chewing. Kong toys are a good option, but they’re not the only choice. Ask your Newmarket, ON vet for specific advice.
How Can I Choose Safe Gifts For My Dog?
When purchasing items for your furry friend, safety should always come first. Be cautious of anything with small pieces or sharp edges, as these can pose choking dangers. Also, always check the label before purchasing. Try to opt for North American-made products, as those made overseas may not meet the same safety standards. Unfortunately, researchers have found harmful substances such as PVC, BPA, chromium, bromine, and phthalates in some imported pet products. Brightly-colored items may contain dyes, though many pet product companies use non-toxic options.
The Ultimate Dog Gift
If we could ask our canine pals what they really really want, we suspect that they really would just want to spend time with their humans. Man’s Best Friend can get distressed by the holidays, and all the commotion, decorations, events, travel, and schedule changes that come along at this time of year. Spend quality time with your dog on those chilly winter nights. Finally, make sure to take some cute pictures of him playing with his new toys!
All of us here at Armitage Animal Clinic, your Newmarket, ON animal clinic, wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday season. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need veterinary care for your pet.
