'Tis the season, dog lovers!
I have to say that the very best gift I ever had was a tiny weeny little cocker spaniel puppy called Bella – without whom Chow Bella wouldn’t exist, but she was actually a joint Christmas and Birthday gift so didn’t arrive until Valentine’s Day and I had to make do with a photo until then! Finding the perfect gift for your dog and dog-obsessed friends and family can be tricky. But it’s so worth it to see their huge smile when they unwrap that pawsome present!
If you’re on the hunt for dog-riffic gifts, look no further. You’re sure to find something outrageously fun, quirky, adorable or practical for the dog-loving people and dogs in your life below.
A personalized throw pillow
Who wouldn’t love a custom throw pillow of their beloved dog? I know a friend of mine who has to travel for work and misses her dog hugely when away, and would love one of these! They also make a great memorial for someone who has lost their dog recently. Scroll through your friend’s social media feed to find the perfect photo of their pet to use for the pillow design.
Mmmm, coffee…and dogs
I love a good, strong coffee first thing before heading into the studio. If you’re a spaniel person, how about one of these cocker spaniel mugs? Throw in one of these dog lover’s coffee canisters and you’ve got the perfect gift you’ll feel good to give (and get!).
A gift for the escape artist
Check out this clever little GPS Tracker. Bella was a terror for heading off after pheasants and when she became deaf in old age, she'd really have no idea I was calling her (unlike the selective hearing of her youth!). Having a tracker made it so much easier to know where she was and to be able to literally track her down. They are lightweight and waterproof, and clip onto your dog's collar or harness, and then work via an app on your phone. Or if your friend has an iPhone and uses AirTags, check out this collar AirTag holder. Keep in mind that some trackers require a monthly subscription.
A portrait like no other
Imagine if you received a custom portrait of your dear dog. Wilson & Wild take a photo of your pet and turn it into a gorgeous piece of wall art. Or if you're looking for something 3D, check out Christine Cummings and her stunning and comical dog sculptures! These are definitely on my Christmas list.
A gift that gives back
You can sponsor a gorgeous guide dog puppy from just £1 a week, and watch them grow from a six-week-old bundle of fur to a fully-qualified guide dog. It's a great way to support Guide Dogs, and every puppy's journey is unique! After 24 months of training, your puppy will give freedom and independence to someone with sight loss, giving you the chance to sponsor another new recruit!
A Goody Box
Wufwuf do amazing subscription boxes for dogs - you tell them a bit about your/your friend's dog and they will send you a box packed full of goodies!
When your dog tears the box open, you will find:
- At least 2 unique toys specially designed for a theme,
- Minimum 2 packs of delicious and all-natural treats made in the UK,
- 1 healthy and easily digestible, yummy chew.
A Personalised Dog Bowl
Of course if you're looking for the ultimate handmade gift for a dog lover, I have to mention Chow Bella bowls! Every bowl is handmade to order, painted in your choice of colours, and with your dog's name carefully stamped into the bowl everyone will know that it's his! Be warned that the bowls do have a 6 week lead time in the run up to Christmas so you'll need to order by the end of October.
DIY Heaven
There's no doubt that this year many of us are looking for ways to save money, but people also LOVE handmade gifts, so if you want to have a go, check out these fabric dog toys or a chemical free dog shampoo or even this homemade dog treats recipe from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. Handcrafted gifts make such lovely gifts, and not only are they easy on the pocket, but the recipient will love that you have put in so much effort for them!
A gift certificate always fits. Everyone loves pet-related gifts, but sometimes it’s hard to know exactly what a pet-parent wants or needs. A gift certificate to a local pet specialty store, a groomer or pet sitter, or a gift card to choose whatever they like online, is always a favourite. If you've missed the Chow Bella deadline for Christmas, then check out our gift certificates. Or if you know someone who has been talking about adding a pet to their family, a certificate to cover the adoption fee at your local shelter would be a fabulous choice!
Tree Gifts
If you're looking for a little keepsake gift, check out the Chow Bella Christmas Baubles! These will be on sale from the end of October.
What’s the best dog-inspired gift you’ve ever been given? Send me a pic at claire@chow-bella.co.uk!
