Christmas gifts for dogs (and a few for cats)
Every dog is on the Good Dog List. Here's what Santa packs for them.
Tap the jar. Every treat comes with an idea.
The Good Dog List
Official. Checked twice. Every dog is on it.
Good gifts for dogs are treats made for dogs, toys sized for your dog and cozy things for winter. For most dogs, an extra-long walk on Christmas morning beats them all. Tap a paw to mark what you've fetched.
In the stocking
Treats made for dogs, sized for your dog's mouth.
A stocking of dog treats
Made for dogs, and the right size for yours. Hang it high: noses work through fabric.
Homemade pumpkin biscuits
Use a recipe made for dogs. Check the peanut butter has no xylitol.
A long-lasting chew
Keeps them busy while the humans open presents. Stay nearby while they chew.
A lick mat
Spread with plain pumpkin and freeze it. A calm job for a loud day.
In the toy box
Match the toy to your dog's size and chewing style.
A snuffle mat
Hide kibble in the fleece and let their nose do the work.
A puzzle feeder
Dinner becomes a game. Start on the easy setting.
A squeaky holiday plush
Festive, loud and loved. Put it away once it starts to tear.
A rope tug toy
Tug with the whole family. The dog always thinks it won.
A flirt pole
A lure on a rope on a wand. A big workout in a small yard.
A ball launcher
Longer throws for dogs who could play fetch until spring.
A tough chew toy
Made for strong chewers, so it lasts past New Year's.
For the comfy corner
Things that make winter easier for dogs and their people.
A warm, washable bed
A soft place after a cold walk. A zip-off cover makes life easier.
A winter coat or sweater
Most helpful for small, older or short-haired dogs.
Paw balm
Soothes paws after salty, icy sidewalks.
A light-up collar or reflective leash
Winter walks happen in the dark. Let the cars see them coming.
A new ID tag
A good moment to check it has your current phone number.
A holiday bandana
For the family Christmas photo. Front row, obviously.
A treat pouch for walks
Handy for training and for rewarding good manners.
Free, and the favorites
Most dogs would trade every toy for these.
An extra-long walk on Christmas morning
Before the visitors arrive. The best gift on the list.
A sniff walk
Go slow and let them read every bush. Dogs find it relaxing.
A new trick, learned together
Five minutes a day and a pocket of treats. Show it off at dinner.
A playdate with a dog friend
Zoomies with a buddy, then a very long nap.
The Good Cat Addendum
So nobody in the house feels left out.
Catnip toys
Small, light and a favorite for many cats.
A window perch
A sunny seat to watch birds and snowfall.
A wand toy
Playtime together, with you on the other end.
A cardboard scratcher
Something to scratch that isn't the couch.
A covered cat bed
A hideaway for when the house is full of visitors.
The box the other gift came in
Honestly. Cut a door in it and stand back.
Questions from the dog park
What Christmas foods are unsafe for dogs?
Keep chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, cooked bones and anything sweetened with xylitol away from dogs. Rich, fatty leftovers can upset their stomachs too. If your dog eats something worrying, call your vet.
How do you wrap a Christmas gift for a dog?
Use a paper bag or a plain box without ribbon, string or tape they could swallow. Stay with them while they open it, and clear away the paper afterward.
Do dogs need Christmas presents?
Not at all, but it's a fun way to include them. Most dogs are happiest with a long walk, a game with their people and a new toy to carry around.
Is it safe to hang a dog's stocking with treats inside?
Yes, if it's out of reach. Dogs can smell treats through fabric, so hang it high or keep it in a closet until Christmas morning.
What holiday hazards should cat owners know about?
Tinsel, ribbon and string can be dangerous if swallowed, so keep them out of reach. Lilies are very toxic to cats, so leave them out of holiday flowers. Ask your vet if you're unsure about any plant.
Tell Santa about your dog
Big or small, chewer or napper. He'll suggest gifts that suit them.
A card for the dog lover in your life? Find the right words.