Shopping for someone whose dog is part of the family? The best gifts for dog owners make everyday routines easier: walks, playtime, rest and cleanup. This guide groups useful gift ideas by what the dog (and owner) actually does all day, with tips on choosing the right size so your gift fits from the first day.
Before you buy: three quick questions
- How big is the dog? Harnesses, beds and playpens come in sizes. If you can, ask for the dog's weight and chest measurement, or choose a gift where size matters less.
- Indoor or outdoor life? A backyard dog and an apartment dog need different things.
- Puppy, adult or senior? Puppies need boundaries and chew-safe gear; older dogs appreciate comfort.
For daily walks
A sturdy harness with a handle
A vest-style harness spreads the pull across the chest instead of the neck, and a top handle gives extra control at crossings or in crowds. The Tactical Dog Harness we carry is made of 1000D nylon with metal buckles and comes in sizes S to XL and four colors. Sizing tip: check the size chart in the product photos, and if the dog is between sizes, choose the larger one. Our guide on how to measure a dog for a harness walks through it.
For playtime
An automatic ball launcher
For dogs who could play fetch all day, an automatic launcher lets them keep playing when the owner's arm is tired. The Automatic Dog Ball Launcher has three throwing distances, is rechargeable and comes with six tennis balls. It is designed for small and medium dogs. Read our ball launcher safety guide for tips on introducing it.
An outdoor water fountain
For backyard dogs, a step-on fountain that connects to a garden hose gives fresh water when the dog presses the paw pedal. Many dogs also treat it as a game. See the Outdoor Dog Water Fountain.
For rest and comfort
An orthopedic memory foam bed
A supportive bed is a gift a dog uses every day. Look for a washable cover, a waterproof liner and a non-slip base. Our Orthopedic Memory Foam Dog Bed comes in L and XL. Measure the dog lying stretched out and add a few inches; our dog bed size guide explains how.
For new puppies
A playpen with a door
A playpen gives a puppy a safe space while the family cooks, works or sleeps. The Dog Playpen we carry has 25-inch plastic panels, a door, and comes with 4 or 6 panels, for indoor or outdoor use. Setup tips are in our playpen setup guide.
For grooming days
A grooming vacuum kit
For owners of shedding breeds, a grooming kit that collects hair as it brushes and trims keeps the house cleaner. See the Pet Grooming Vacuum Kit and our guide to grooming a double-coated dog.
Gift ideas by budget
- Under $50: no-pull harness, outdoor water fountain. See all gifts under $50.
- $50 to $80: playpen, orthopedic dog bed, grooming vacuum kit, automatic ball launcher.
Gift-giving tips
- If you are unsure about size, ask the owner or choose a gift where size does not matter, such as a fountain.
- Order early in the season: delivery times are on our shipping policy page.
- Our 30-day return policy applies to gifts too; details are on the refund policy page.
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