The best gifts for dog lovers

Gifts that support everyday health

The right gifts can support your dog’s health and make daily care more effective. From genetic insights to grooming and nutrition, consider options tailored to your dog’s individual needs.

• Get to know your dog with a DNA test: A Wisdom Panel Premium test reveals your dog’s breed ancestry, screens for 270+ genetic health risks, and provides insights into physical traits and 25+ behavioural predispositions. The results can help you better understand your dog and make more informed decisions about their care.
• Upgrade their grooming routine: Genetics influence characteristics such as coat length, texture, and shedding. Brushes, combs, deshedding tools, and other supplies suited to your dog’s coat type can help make regular grooming a breeze.
• Stock up on food and treats that fit their needs: Breed ancestry can provide useful context about characteristics such as expected adult size and energy, which can help inform nutrition choices. Look for food and treats appropriate for your dog’s size, life stage, activity level, and individual needs.

Practical gifts every dog parent will appreciate

Sometimes the best gifts are the things dog parents reach for every day. Upgrade one of their essentials or choose a gadget that makes life with a dog a little easier.

Everyday essentials

Consider practical upgrades such as:

• Collars and ID tags: Look for durable materials and sturdy hardware, and make sure tags include up-to-date contact information.
• Leashes: Features such as padded handles or reflective stitching can make everyday walks more comfortable and safe.
• Harnesses: Choose the correct size and style for the individual dog. For example, if a pup is boisterous, pick a harness that helps pet parents stay in control.
• Travel gear: Collapsible water bowls, car seat covers, portable beds, and travel kits are useful for dogs on the go.

Smart gear and subscriptions

For something a little more high-tech, consider:

• Activity trackers and smart collars that monitor exercise, location, or other daily habits
• Treat-dispensing cameras that let pet parents check in on their dog while they’re away
• Automatic feeders and water fountains that simplify daily routines
• Subscription boxes customized to a dog’s size, play style, or dietary needs

Gifts based on individual behaviours

Wisdom Panel behaviour insights can help pet parents better understand their dog’s personality and find ways to nurture their natural behaviours.

For active dogs

Keep energetic dogs moving with gifts such as:

• Hands-free leashes for walks, hikes, or runs
• Backyard agility equipment, including tunnels, weave poles, and jumps
• Gift certificates to private dog parks where dogs can run safely off leash

For dogs that like to chase

Give dogs with high prey drive an appropriate outlet with:

• Flirt poles
• Lure coursing kits
• Erratically bouncing balls or toys

For dogs that like to play with toys

For dogs always have a toy in their mouth, try:

• Squeaky toys
• Crinkly toys
• Durable rubber toys
• Tug toys

For dogs that like to retrieve

Make fetch even more fun with:

• Flying discs
• Ball launchers
• Floating fetch toys for water-loving dogs

For dogs that are good at focusing on tasks

Put their concentration and problem-solving skills to work with:

• Food puzzles and treat-dispensing toys
• Scent work kits
• A training, agility, or other activity class

For dogs that like to nest

Help nesting dogs create their ideal sleeping spot with:

• Soft blankets they can bunch and rearrange
• Cave-style beds that let them burrow

Gifts for dog lovers: Keepsakes and experiences

Some of the best dog gifts are really for the humans who love them. Personalised items and shared experiences can celebrate the relationship between a dog and their person.

Personalised keepsakes

• Custom pet portraits or professional photographs
• Personalised bowls or blankets
• Engraved collars and ID tags
• Clothing, socks, or tote bags featuring the dog’s face
• Breed-themed mugs, prints, or other accessories
• Holiday ornaments featuring a photo or paw print
• Custom items celebrating a mixed-breed dog’s unique breed ancestry

Experiences for dogs and their people

• A professional pet photo session
• Training or agility classes
• A pet-friendly weekend getaway
• A hiking or outdoor adventure
• Tickets to a dog-friendly event
• A dog spa or grooming session

Gifts that give back

For the dog lover who already has everything, make a donation in their name to an animal shelter or rescue organization. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate their love of dogs while helping pets still waiting for families of their own.

Final thoughts

Ultimately, the best gifts for dogs and their people recognise how deeply pet parents care for their pets. Whether it’s something practical, personal, or purely fun, every thoughtful present celebrates the joy that comes from sharing life with a dog.