15 Dog Gifts Dog Owners Don't Already Have
"Dog mom" mugs are, at best, another knick-knack to shove in the kitchen cupboard. At worst, they're tacky. Dog gifts get so much better than that.
These unique gift ideas are uncommon enough that the dog person in your life is unlikely to already have them. Plus, most of them solve pet problems that plague every dog owner.
A Coffee Blend That Benefits Shelter Dogs
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: A hot cup of joe on long, chilly walks with man's best friend is practically required. Hugo Coffee Roasters gives part of the proceeds from each coffee purchase to help feed shelter dogs.
It also contributes to rescue efforts and adoption events, and the coffee is just as fantastic as the mission. There are several blends to choose from, but the breakfast blend is a smooth staple with amazing reviews.
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A Dog DNA Test
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: When you rescue a dog from a shelter, oftentimes, you have no clue what mix your dog is. In the case of puppies, even their adult size is a gamble. A dog DNA test can give accurate predictions of their future size by breaking down their breed makeup.
Finding out your dog's breed is also fun, and even some owners of purebreds like to check if their pup's genetics are precisely what the breeder claimed they were.
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A GPS Tracker Loaded With Features
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: If you know someone with a dog that runs like Forrest Gump, they need this. The Whistle GPS tracker has a 20-day battery and can track your pet's location, even if they're miles away. Users can set up notifications to indicate if their dog has left the house or yard, plus monitor their dog's health, fitness, sleep and other behaviors that may indicate a vet visit is in order.
Users have to sign up for a monthly subscription, but it's less than $10 and includes 24-hour access to a vet chat or call hotline.
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A Compact Dog Supply Travel Set
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: Traveling with pets is a hassle, whether it's on a road trip or by plane. Typically, food, dishes, a leash and other essentials get crammed into a carry-on bag. Finding them once you arrive isn't as easy.
This storage tote keeps everything a dog could dream of within reach — perfect for offering them a bite to eat during a pit stop or grabbing some wipes to clean their paws before hopping back in the car.
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A Backpack to Help Them Out on Long Hikes
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: For the most part, dogs are amazing hiking buddies. Hiking comes with risks, however. If you have a large dog, a minor injury on the trail can be a big problem. Try carrying a 70-pound lab on a 6-mile trek back to the car. It's not easy.
This carrier comes in multiple sizes, and it serves multiple purposes. Bring small, less athletic pups along on hikes, give them a hand when they get tired, or support a dog who's suffered an injury but still wants to be right by your side.
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A Cover to Protect Car Seats From Muddy Paws
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: What do walks in the rain and trips to the beach have in common? They're messy.
That's why this handy dog car seat cover will be your best friend's best friend. It's waterproof, scratchproof and nonslip, and it keeps pets from sneaking into the front seat, too.
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And a Solution for Muddy Paws on the Way Home
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: Speaking of mud, the mess can be further reduced by using this ingenious paw cleaner. It has small, rubbery bristles inside that gently remove mud from wet paws.
It comes in three sizes to fit every breed, and get this: It has more than 50,000 stellar reviews. Take it from CiCi, who says, "This is probably the best, most effective pet item I have bought. It does what it says."
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Don’t Forget a Nail Care Set for a Puppy Pedicure
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: After cleaning those muddy paws, some TLC is in order. This set includes traditional nail clippers and an easy-to-use nail grinder that files nails down painlessly.
Some dogs aren't sure about it at first, but after a few tries, it's easier and safer to use than clippers. And no stressing about cutting nails too short!
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There's Also a Nail Care Set for a Puppy Pedicure
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: Nail polish for dogs is silly, but it makes for a fun stocking stuffer. These pens are non-toxic and easy to use, and the polish dries in only 30 seconds.
Add them on to a grooming or nail care set for a complete package.
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To Top Off a Spa Day, Both Parties Deserve a Treat
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: Silicone molds serve so many purposes. They're oven safe, so they can be used for baking tiny, paw-shaped muffins or dog biscuits, or used as a mold for chocolates, candies, soaps or ordinary ice cubes.
The included bone-shaped cookie cutters add even more options to your puppy treat-baking operation.
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This Bone-Shaped Basket Makes Toy Storage Way Cuter
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: What dog owner doesn't have a Petsmart addiction? Surprising them with a new toy is always fun, but the toys aren't as fun when you slip on them in the hallway.
Keep them organized with this cute, bone-shaped storage basket.
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During Long Days at Work, This Treat-Dispensing Camera Keeps Your Dog Close
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: The Furbo 360 dog camera is a dream come true for pet owners who work long hours. Instead of missing your pet, keep an eye on them whenever you want. The rotating camera can cover an entire room, and the camera works well even in low light.
You can also talk to your dog, reward them with treats and get alerts when they're barking.
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And This Dog Window Lets Them Say Hi to Passersby While They Wait for Their Human’s Return
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: Have dogs? Have kids? Cats? They'll all love this. To use it, cut a hole in a fence facing the sidewalk, install the window, and give them a nice view of the outside world.
If you have a barker on your hands, skip this one. If you have a friendly floof who loves nothing more than saying hi to passersby, they'll love this.
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After They Do Get Home, Snuggles Are Mandatory
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: When you finally do get home from work or school, snuggling your dog is the first order of business. If you have chores to do around the house, there's no reason the snuggles can't continue.
Just throw on this soft, fleece-lined sweatshirt and bring them along for the ride. It's a better fit for small dogs, puppies or cats than larger breeds, so keep that in mind before purchasing.
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Plus, a Heartwarming Read by the Fire
Why it’s a next-level dog gift: At the end of a long day, nothing hits the spot like a good book. Put your feet up and read true stories of shelter dogs — how they ended up in the shelter and how they found their forever homes. The stunning photography makes it even better.
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