As we grow up holiday times can get more and more stressful: we are working a lot, trying to get gifts, and still make time for ourselves.
Gift giving can be stressful but it's also supposed to be fun and make you feel good! In case you are at a loss for what to get your friends this year, if they happen to be dog parents, I'm here to help you out.
1. A pooper scooper that actually scoops poop
I can't even count how many pooper scoopers I've gone through in the two and half years that I've had my dog. They brake, they get disgusting, and they are notcheap. A good scoop can run you up $30.00. When you grow up getting necessities can be just as exciting as getting toys used to be if it means you can spend that $30.00 on something else. And hey, at least it wasn't socks.
2. A "toy box" subscription
Another necessity that can get expensive: toys and treats. Getting my dogs new toys is more exciting than getting toys for myself. Whether you have a big chewer or a dainty player toys are not always built to last so getting more in monthly is great. Also, a lot of dogs have dietary needs that can make getting treats difficult but Bark Box commits to all natural treats that do not contain wheat or soy. Another option, Bullymake Box, makes toys specifically for power chewers.
3. Poop bags
Scented, colorful, BIG. Yet another item that every dog parent needs. Nothing is more embarrassing than getting caught walking your dog without poop bags when you companion decided to do their business. There are lots of variety in color and scents that are nice, and buying in bulk can make them even cheaper. These are a great stocking stuffer whether they are going in the human's stocking or the dog's!
4. Framed pics of your loved one's furbabies
Nothing is more precious than your loved one's dog in their eyes. Even if you personally don't have any pictures of their pet, you can always browse their Facebook or Instagram for inspiration! Pick out a cute frame at a convenience store or craft shop and take your flash drive or phone anywhere you can print pictures (Walmart, Walgreens, etc.) and there you have it. It's definitely going to be one of their favorite gifts of the year.
5. Literally anything with their dogs face on it
Coffee cups, blankets, t-shirts, magnets, you name it. I personally have all of those things, as well as a pillowcase. You can use sites like Shutterfly or Snapfish to make really great personalized gifts online!
6. DNA kits
If your dogs are shelter pups like mine there is no exact way to find out what breeds they are or may be mixed with when you adopt them. The staff where ever you adopted from do their best guesswork, but rarely are there any tests done. As dog parents, we love our babies no matter what. But it is still interesting to see the different mixes from each parent! And maybe you'll even be a bit surprised! My family and I have used Wisdom Panel several times and had a great experience!
7. Pooch selfie stick
Dog selfies are the best selfies, but our furbabies don't always want to sit still. Personally, I think my dogs can sense when I am trying to get a picture of them, even when I am at my stealthiest so I'm really hoping to get one of these for myself this Christmas!
8. Pet store gift cards
Maybe you can't commit to a whole subscription or you aren't sure which toy box to get the dog parent you love, so get them a gift card to their favorite pet store instead! Money is always the gift that keeps on giving, this way they will have a specific reason to spend.
9. Puzzle treat toys
These are great for busy dog parents. Leaving our pets at home is the hardest part of most days, but leaving them with something fun to do can make that a little easier. These toys work so that your dog has to work a little extra to get their treat out, giving them some entertainment while you're gone and giving them their favorite treats! Another win/win situation.
10.Grooming gear
Hair brushes, tooth brushes, nail clippers, dog shampoo, etc. Grooming is another necessity that doesn't come cheap so anything we can do on our own for our babies is a plus in our book and our wallets.