Dog lovers are a special breed. You know the type: They're forever finding a way to show you videos of their dog's adorable antics, they plan their days and vacations around their pet's playdates, and they're constantly buying new accessories for their pup.
But all with good reason: Dog owners know that showering their pets with amazingness is only fair. After all, there's nothing quite like a dog's comfort, company and unconditional love.
Finding gifts for dog owners can be especially difficult, but we're here to help. Whether their canine companion is a frosty-faced senior or a brand-new puppy, we curated a group of functional, unique dog gifts that celebrate all pups — and their compassionate, loving owners.
Best dog toys
Pet Zone IQ Treat Dispensing Ball
Ideal for high-energy dogs or those who get bored easily, this food-dispensing toy engages pets physically and mentally: They learn how to roll the ball to get treats out, and pet parents can change the difficulty level as Fido starts to catch on. Plus, it comes in two sizes.
Dr. Catch Dog Puzzle Toy
Not only does this slow feeder encourage dogs not to snarf down their kibble, but it also provides mental stimulation and fights boredom. It has eight moving parts to keep even the most genius of pups busy.
Squeaky Toys Set
“My dog usually never plays with toys at the dog park — he’s too distracted with other dogs — but we once came across this toy in a park, he would not let go of it so I knew it was one I needed to track down for the home,” says commerce editor Vivien Moon. “Thankfully, I was able to find them and it’s still his favorite toy to play with on a regular basis. Because of the odd shape, it doesn’t bounce the same as a regular ball making fetch even more fun and unpredictable for him. I will say that these are best for smaller dogs because they are on the smaller size and may be a choking hazard for bigger dogs.”
Hear Doggy Ultrasonic Squeaker Toys
For the dog that loves squeaky toys but whose human works from home and finds the squeaky distracting, look no further than Hear Doggy’s ultrasonic squeaky toys. The toys, available in several cute animal shapes (we’re partial to the purple elephant), makes a squeaky noise that dogs can hear but is virtually silent to the human ear. Happy squeaking.
Haute Diggity Dog Chewy Vuitton Bone Toy
Associate editor Allie Wise recently gifted this bone toy to her sister's new teacup yorkie. "He absolutely loves it and plays with it any chance he gets. It is affordable, stylish and super soft."
Outward Hound Hide-a-Squirrel
You can’t put a price on happiness for man’s best friend, and this toy provides endless hours of fun. Just keep stuffing the squirrels back inside; it’ll never get old.
IHOP x P.L.A.Y. Breakfast Sampler Collab
Keep them entertained for hours with this breakfast bundle of plush toys. Associate editor Kamari Stewart recently gifted a friend this set and notes that the giftee is "is particularly obsessed with the pancake stack." If you're only interested in one of the items, they're also sold individually, too.
Best dog treats
Andy’s Dandys Honey Oat Trio Classic Decorated Bones
If you’re shopping for gifts for dog birthdays, end your search at Andy’s Dandys, a Vermont-based dog treat company on a mission to develop human-grade dog treats in an environment that’s inclusive. This sweet treat trio is topped with a delicious pup-friendly yogurt.
Yummers Freeze-Dried Cheddar Cheese Gourmet Meal Mix-In
Created by Antoni Poworski and Jonathan Van Ness, these tasty cheese food mix-ins instantly punch up any bowl of kibble. Former Shop TODAY writer Hannah Baker says her “dog goes crazy for this whenever we add it to her food.”
Nulo Premium Jery Strips Dog Treats
Shop TODAY commerce editor and producer, Julie Ricevuto, says her golden retriever loves these jerky strips. Made with good-for-them ingredients, this pack comes in a variety of flavors and is made with probiotics to help support immunity, per the brand.
Kismet Slow Cooked Beef Squares
Ricevuto notes that this is another favorite for her pup, Chloe. “My dog goes crazy for these whenever I take them out for her,” she says. “Plus, I love how the brand uses high-quality ingredients without any artificial flavors or preservatives.
Greenies Original Regular Natural Dental Dog Treats
If your furry friend is anything like those of our staffers, they likely sniff out any gift in anticipation of there being a treat for them as well. Spoil them with a good-for-them snack that the brand says helps keep their teeth healthy. If you’re feeling festive, they also come in a gingerbread flavor.
Woof Pupsicle Treat Mix Pack
If the pet parent in your life wants an additional way to enrich their pup, they'll love this find. Pick a size and mix flavor (there are three of each available) and they'll be able to make up to 20 pops for their pup to keep them busy and satisfied. This pack also comes with Love Nuggets to give them some extra treats while they wait for the pupsicles to form.
Best beds for dogs
Thermo Snuggly Sleeper Heated Pet Bed
Everyone knows someone who has a hard time keeping their dog out of their human bed. But this electric heated dog bed may be just what it takes. It’s got a 6-watt thermostatically controlled heater that can keep pets warm all year round, or it can be removed so the bed can be used in all seasons. It’s ideal for elderly dogs or those who have trouble staying warm in winter. (And yes, it’s OK to want one for yourself.)
Casper Dog Bed
From the people who created the cult fave “mattress in a box,” this dog bed is thoughtfully engineered to meet a dog’s needs: It has pressure-relieving memory foam and strong support, along with a tough microfiber cover that’s removable for easy washing. Available in four colors: Blue, Eucalyptus, Gray and Sand.
Big Barker Orthopedic Sofa Bed
Moon says that, while this bed is an investment, it's definitely worthwhile. "This dog bed is more than just a regular fluffy bed, it’s an orthopedic option that has a 10-year warranty making it a one-and-done option. My pet loves this bed because it is both comfortable and has enough room for him and I can feel good about giving him an option that is good for his joints as he grows. I also have the cooling treatment so that it can be even more comfortable for him during the hot summer months."
Diggs Evolv Dog Crate
Moon says this crate was not only easy to put together, but has noteworthy features. "It has two doors that open instead of just one meaning I can put it in a different location if I move. It’s a lot cuter than a regular crate and has a lock that my dog cannot get out of which is also super helpful if your pet is a magician!"
Best dog leashes, collars, clothes and accessories
Scout's Honour Postman Patrol Iron-On Patch for Pets
Give the good boy or girl a merit badge that reflects their personality. Each badge comes in a fun colorful shape and has various monikers and sayings. From Postman Patrol to Bed Hog and Belly Rub Club, there's a merit badge for any type of pup.
Draper James Henley Striped Dog Sweater
This versatile striped sweater comes in sizes small to XL and can spruce up their look during parties or keep them warm on their evening walk.
Maxbone Smellin' Good Coat Spray
Smelly dog, where? Not here with this Smellin' Good Coat Spray! Infused with vanilla and sweet pea scents, this spray neutralizes their body odor to make them smell like they just left the groomers, says the brand.
WagWell Paw Protector
Keep their paws protected in the elements with this vet-approved product, according to the brand. The balm is not only safe for their little toe beans, but it can also be used on their ears, elbows and noses.
Orvis LED Rechargeable Safety Collar
Late-night walks can be a bit more fun (and safe) thanks to this LED collar. According to the brand, it's rechargeable and can light up in different colors to keep your pup in clear view of cars and other pedestrians.
Aloh Hypoallergenic Multi-Purpose Pet Wipes
If the pup in your life loves going on long walks and spending time outdoors, their paws are likely in need of a deep clean before entering the home. These hypoallergenic wipes can offer you the peace of mind that there will be less dirty paw prints all over that new carpet.
Approved by Fritz The Fritz Bowl Mat
Messy eaters have a tendency to get food everywhere so keep their space clean with this BPA-free silicone mat. Senior SEO editor Jess Bender notes that her furry niece enjoys this mat that is available in two sizes and is dishwasher-safe.
Soggy Doggy Super Shammy Dog Towel
Perfect for post-bath or an impromptu dip in the pool, this super absorbent microfiber shammy holds up to seven times its weight in water. It’s even got easy-on hand pockets to help dry soaked pups. The wet dog smell, though? You can’t have everything.
Kurgo Quantum Hands-Free 6-in-1 Dog Leash
This multifunction leash converts to six different styles, including hands-free around the waist, over the shoulder in a courier style and even as a double dog leash. It’s made of strong nylon, it’s got a padded handle, and it’s reflective.
Ouai Pet Shampoo
For the very good dog that deserves a spa day is Ouai's pet shampoo. With notes of floral and citrus, this vegan formulated pet shampoo leaves pups with soft, amazingly smelling fur that will have everyone wanting to snuggle up with them.
Approved by Fritz The Fritz Leash
Moon also loves this leash for longer walks as it allows for more space for her dog to wander while still staying safe. The leash is also made from a PVC coated nylon making it waterproof and easy to clean. The best part? It comes in nine fun colorways.
Ororo Koldpwoof Heated Dog Vest
Some dogs have a harder time staying warm in the colder months and thankfully, there's a solution for that with Ororo's heated dog vest. It comes with rechargeable heating panels that have sensors to keep the dog from overheating and start to work in five seconds, a pocket for a pet tracker and reflective accents to keep them safe.
Maxbone Go! With Ease Leash Bundle
When hunting for an alternative to a traditional leash, Moon opted for this style that allows her to remain hands-free. "I also love that it has a little treat pouch so I am always ready to have a little training session no matter where we are. I will note, this is best for smaller dogs because even when mine pulls — and he’s under 20 pounds — it still can be forceful so if your dog pulls and is bigger, this might not work for you."
Cleverpup Ultimate Dog Travel Bundle
Available in four colorways, this seven-piece set comes with a portable tray to fit a two bowls, food and treat carriers and an insulated little lunchbag that all fit in the backpack so you're ready for any adventure.
Whistle Go Explore 2.0 Smart Tracker
You can’t put a price on peace of mind: This lightweight smart device — which affixes to a pet’s collar — monitors a pet’s health, sets fitness goals and acts as a GPS so you can track a dog’s location and receive alerts when they leave a designated safe place. The charge lasts a couple of weeks when linked to Wi-Fi.
Best gifts for dog owners
Cavertin Novelty Socks
These socks are the perfect gift for dog lovers who enjoy lounging around with their pup. They are designed with cute pics of dogs and the bottoms feature a cute message that reads “I can’t get up right now” one sock while the other follows up “the dog is on my lap.”
“Dog’s Best Friend: The Story of an Unbreakable Bond,” by Simon Garfield
This heartwarming, witty book investigates our relationship with man’s best friend, calling upon history, art, science and personal experience.
American Pet Supplies Travel Pet First-Aid Kit
Most pet owners don’t have one of these, which makes it the perfect gift. The kit includes sterile gauze pads, scissors, adhesive bandages, one roll of medical tape, hand cleansing wipes, disposable gloves, a bottle of saline solution, sting relief pads and other supplies. Plus, a carabiner clip provides a convenient attachment for hikes or trips to the dog park.
Ototo Best Buddies Dog Kitchen Spoon Holder
While their little bestie likely already keeps them company at the stove, your dog-loving friend can add more dogs to the party with this kitchen spoon holder duo. To use, place the little dog on the side of the pot. The spoon will fit right in the dog’s mouth when not in use.
Cloud Haven Paw Necklace
Ricevuto also suggests this as a gift to a pet parent who wants a subtle nod to their furry child. The dainty paw print comes in black or write and can be layered with any jewelry set.
Embark Dog DNA Test
If your friend has a dog that’s a mystery breed, there’s nothing more fun than trying to uncover the DNA secrets behind a pet’s scruffy fluff or stand-up ears. They’ll love that this kit looks at more than 350 breeds and 210 genetic health risks. Chihuahua on the outside, Great Dane on the inside? You never know until you check.
Bonus: The online platform allows pet owners to see other dogs that are related to theirs.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY team works hard to find the best products and coolest gifts out there. We use our own personal experiences with brands and shopping to find the most unique gifts on the market that are sure to be a hit with the pups in your life.
Don’t forget to check out Shop TODAY’s other gift guides to find the perfect present everyone on your list including cozy gifts, gifts under $50, gifts for husbands, cool gifts and gift baskets.
