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Does your dog get their own stocking this year? Most dogs love opening up presents and being included in family traditions. But, it can be difficult to decide what to put in your dog’s Christmas stocking.
This article is sure to help you find some stocking stuffers for your fur baby, even if it seems like they already have everything! Keep reading for 18 festive ideas.
1. Training Treats
A small bag of training treats will fit perfectly in your dog’s stocking. You can feed them a few after they open their presents and keep the rest for future training sessions.
2. Squeaky Toys
Most dogs get a kick out of squeaky toys, and there are so many cute plush toys out there. You can even buy some that make other sounds, like rustling or honking.
3. A Christmas-Themed Dog Collar
A shiny new dog collar is a present that your dog can use year-round. Buy a Christmas-themed collar or purchase a bow or other collar accessory to add some holiday cheer. You can even make your own DIY Christmas dog collar. This is an especially fun activity to do with kids!
4. A Homemade Dog Cookie
Dog or Christmas-themed cookie cutters are perfect for preparing a batch of homemade dog treats. A treat is a great way to entice your dog to dig through their stocking, though they may toss less smelly presents to the side while looking for their snack.
5. Tennis Balls
Tennis balls are cheap, traditional, and fun! They often come in three packs, which is perfect for dogs who love to chew through toys or play fetch outside on muddy days.
6. A Lick Mat
Lick mats are mats that can be covered with dog-safe peanut butter, canned dog food, or other tasty treats. Most of them are designed to lie flat on the floor, but some are made to stick to shower walls or the side of a dog crate.
They’re usually made of silicone and have grooves that make your dog work for their food, rather than eating off of a flat surface. They’re made to keep your dog occupied for extended periods, and you can even freeze them to make them last longer.
Licking is a soothing behavior for dogs that calms them down. It’s a great behavior to encourage, especially if your dog tends to be anxious or hyperactive.
There are many shapes and styles of lick mat, so feel free to pick up a couple and roll them up to fit in the stocking.
7. Dental Treats
Dental treats can help keep your dog’s teeth clean, especially if they don’t let you brush them regularly. This has a huge impact on their overall health, with poor dental care contributing to kidney disease, heart problems, and more.
Look for treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) as these are the products proven to work. They even have water additives, toothpastes, and more on their list, so you’re sure to find something that works for you.
8. A Rope Toy
If your pup loves tug-of-war, consider buying them a new rope toy. You can go for the traditional type with ties on either end, or choose something different to add variety to their play. We love this monkey rope toy from Frisco.
9. Booties
Dog booties aren’t only useful for keeping your dog’s feet warm and out of the snow. They also help to protect them from the rock salt used to melt ice on roads and sidewalks. This salt can irritate or injure your dog’s bare paws.
10. A Christmas Sweater
If your dog likes wearing clothes, consider buying them a new Christmas sweater or coat. Your family will get a kick out of their holiday get-up, and your dog will be warm and cozy.
11. Accessories
Consider adding in a holiday-themed accessory or photo prop to your dog’s stocking this year. It could be a headband with reindeer antlers, a Santa hat, or a Christmas bandana.
12. A Soft New Blanket
Is the blanket on the couch or in your dog’s crate getting a bit worn? Or maybe you want to change them out for the season? Most pups won’t say no to a brand new blanket, especially in the cold months.
13. A Travel Bowl or Doggy Water Bottle
If you and your dog are always on the go, consider buying a collapsible travel bowl. These are typically made of silicone and can fit inside of your treat pouch or even hang from your keyring.
Another option is a doggy water bottle, which typically features a bowl on top that you can squeeze or pour a small amount of water into for them to drink.
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14. Poop Bags
Your dog won’t be thrilled by a set of poop bags in their stocking, but they’re definitely useful! Take the opportunity to stock up on some red or green poop bags and bring the holiday spirit with you on your next walk.
15. Food Toppers
Dog food toppers are surging in popularity. Consider trying one this Christmas and preparing a luxurious dinner for your pup! Just make sure not to overdo it–your dog’s treats should never make up more than 10% of their daily calorie intake, and this includes food toppers.
16. A Custom Tree Ornament
Plenty of small businesses sell custom Christmas tree ornaments around the holidays. You can add your dog’s name, picture, birthday, or anything else that reminds you of them. This is a special gift for your pup’s first Christmas and can also be used to celebrate another year with your fur baby.
If you’re feeling crafty, you can even make your own DIY Christmas tree ornaments for your pets or the whole family.
17. A Monthly Subscription Box
While a subscription box may not fit in a stocking, it’s a great present to go under the Christmas tree. Most brands will allow you to purchase a one-time box for the holiday or a longer subscription so that your dog has something to open regularly throughout the year.
18. A Doggy Advent Calendar
Lastly, consider a doggy advent calendar so that your dog can have a treat every morning. They’re sure to enjoy their December, though they might miss the daily treats once Christmas is over!
Things to Avoid
Unfortunately, there are some dog products out there that are unsafe. Here are a few things to avoid this holiday:
- Rawhide bones
- Raw or undercooked dog treats
- Toys with small pieces, especially those that can be chewed off easily
Final Thoughts
We hope you’ve found some dog stocking stuffer inspiration in this article and that you and your dog have a very merry Christmas! Remember not to stress too much this holiday season and to enjoy your time with your pampered pup.
