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I love shopping for dog people. For one, they’re usually some of the best folks around. Plus, the pet world has exploded in recent years with loads of innovative toys, useful outdoor gear, and intriguing gadgets to make the lives of dog parents easier (and more fun!). This abundance of novelty means it’s possible to find that one perfect gift for the special dog parent in your life—a gift they actually want and will definitely use.
At the same time, the flooded pet market can trigger major decision fatigue, especially for shoppers who’ve never shared their home with a dog before.
At Rover, we spend a lot of time with dogs and their people, and we’ve become well-acquainted with the various products that dog parents are wild about. To make your gift shopping easier, we’ve broken down and categorized some of the most useful, meaningful, and well-loved items of dog parents and their pups.
You’ll find gifts for every type of dog parent on your list: new pet parents, adventure-seeking friends, game fanatics, kitchen masters, tech lovers, jokesters, or even dog parents who love nothing more than getting cozy by the fireside with their furry pal.
Our Top Ten Gifts for Dog Parents:
- Starmark Treat Dispensing Bob-a-Lot
- MalsiPree Portable Dog Water Bottle
- OurPets Waffle Treat-Dispensing Puzzle Toy
- Matching Pajamas in Buffalo Plaid
- Whistle Go Explore Dog GPS and Fitness Tracker
- Wickedbone Robotic Dog Toy
- Wisdom Panel Dog DNA Test
- “Sorry the Dog Farted” Candle
- DASH Dog Treat Maker
- Hugo “Roll Over Breakfast Blend” Coffee
Best Gifts for New Pet Parents
New dog parents will probably already be well-equipped with the basics, like a dog bed and a kennel. But we happen to know about some handy little gems that can make life with a new dog a whole lot easier. These gifts for new dog parents will be helpful whether they’ve adopted a senior rescue or a tiny puppy.
TreatPod Treat Holder
One thing new dog parents learn early on: treats are the ultimate motivator. For pups-in-training, it’s convenient to have snacks handy whenever you need them. This TreatPod holder clips right onto a dog’s leash—so it won’t be left behind during the excited frenzy that precedes their walk. It’s also designed to be airtight, so it shouldn’t dry out moist training treats.
Alternatively, the TreatPod holder can store a roll of poop bags—another item pet parents don’t want to be without during a walk.
Find on AmazonStarmark Treat Dispensing Bob-a-Lot (Verified Review)
Puzzle toys offer multiple benefits to new (and seasoned) pet parents and their dogs. Styles vary, but most puzzle toys are designed to prevent boredom (and the destructive habits that tend to follow). They also encourage exercise and can provide engaging mental stimulation.
This bobble-style toy releases treats as your dog nudges, taps, and chases it. Users can customize the difficulty level by adjusting the size of the treat openings. This fun challenge helps develop natural foraging skills and rewards dogs with a deserved treat. We’ve also found the Bob-a-Lot a handy tool for slowing down speed-eaters.
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Mighty Paw Dog Lick Pad
Lick mats are another useful enrichment tool for new dog parents—especially for those short on time. The concept is simple: you spread a dog-approved treat (dog-safe peanut butter is a favorite) across the textured surface, and let your dog at it. He’ll be busy licking away, freeing your pet parent for a solid 20 minutes or so. Lick mats are also useful for distracting nervous dogs during bathtime or a loud fireworks display.
There are all kinds of lick mat designs, but we like the Mighty Paw for its multi-use layout: each of the four quadrants features a unique texture geared towards different applications, such as slow-feeding, soothing nerves, or just as a fun treat. Complete the gift with a jar of Bark Bistro Buddy Budder, which a Rover reviewer found versatile and easy to spread.
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Soggy Doggy Microfiber Doormat (Verified Review)
Dealing with wet dog is an unavoidable part of dog parenthood—but a proper dog doormat can help. This Soggy Doggy mat is made with absorbent chenille “noodles,” giving paws a soft place to land after a walk while trapping dirt and moisture. There are seven colors available, and our test pups thought they made cozy spots to lay around too.
SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Toy (Verified Review)
Using a combination of warmth, softness, and a soothing rhythmic pulse, calming heartbeat toys are intended to ease anxiety and help dogs adjust to new environments. They’re a sweet and comforting gift for nervous rescues or puppies recently separated from their littermates.
SmartPetLove’s Snuggle Puppy is the original heartbeat toy. This cuddly companion calms nerves with a battery-operated heartbeat simulator and a disposable heating pad inside. A few Rover writers have tested the Snuggle Puppy and found it helped their dogs sleep through the night in their kennel.
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Paw Lifestyles Dog Treat Training Pouch
When training a new dog, it’s helpful to have treats easily accessible, which is why we like dog treat pouches so much. Think of them like fanny packs for dog parents: they hold all the doggo essentials at a convenient waist level.
This Paw Lifestyles pouch has ample room for treats, as well as a built-in poop bag dispenser and space to stash keys, cash, or a phone. Users can wear it on their waist, shoulder, or clipped to their belt. Your friend will appreciate the convenience of storing all of their dog’s walking gear in one grab-and-go bag.
Find on AmazonA Subscription to Pawp (Verified Review)
Most of us are familiar with human telehealth services. Pawp offers virtual support to pet parents with 24/7 access to licensed veterinary professionals. While it’s no substitute for their regular vet (Pawp experts can’t prescribe meds, for one thing), it does offer new pet parents sound, professional advice when they need it most.
Vets can answer questions about medical issues like vomiting or watery eyes. Or subscribers can get advice on behavioral problems, such as nonstop barking or chewing. Ultimately, Pawp offers pet parents peace of mind, which is something any new dog owner will value.
Find on PawpGifts for Outdoorsy Pet Parents
For pet parents always on the lookout for the next adventure with their dog, here’s some nifty outdoor gear that can make the experience even better.
MalsiPree Portable Dog Water Bottle (Verified Review)
Have you ever tried giving a dog water from a human water bottle? It’s not a pretty sight. Dog-specific water bottles keep pets from slobbering on your own bottle while reducing water loss.
The MalsiPree’s sleek bag-friendly design and water-dispensing button make it perfect for lapping on the go. Unused water can be restored to the container. It’s a useful gift for road trips, hiking, or beach days.
Find on AmazonKurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack (Verified Review)
- Oscar the Rover Test Pup goes hiking.
However spirited they might be, not all dogs can manage super-long walks or arduous hikes across uneven terrain. A dog backpack makes a practical gift for the outdoor explorer whose canine sidekick could use a lift. This might include folks with smaller senior dogs, dogs with limited mobility, or easily tired dogs. The Kurgo features waterproof fabric with mesh ventilation. There’s also a top window for dogs to take in the view.
A Rover editor and her senior Dachshund found the Kurgo’s design takes into consideration both human and canine comfort. There are padded, adjustable straps—and lots of ‘em. These help secure the bag comfortably around the torso for maximum support. Fiberglass rods lend the pack structure so doggy passengers aren’t squished inside, and the ventilated mesh allows airflow. This backpack is also useful for urban exploring if your dog person is more into city life.
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Chuckit! Travel Dog Bed
For pet parents who love to camp, a dog sleeping bag will be a welcome addition to their outdoor gear. This model is popular for its lightweight, portable design and water-resistant ripstop material. It’s suitable for dogs up to 25 pounds.
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Dog Doo Tube Portable Trash Can
Being stranded mid-walk with a smelly poop bag is never fun. Less so when you’re in a remote forested area with no garbage cans in sight.
Problem solved with this portable trash can that clips onto a leash or backpack. The Dog Doo Tube seals in germs and odors until you’re able to dispose of its contents properly. A handy accessory any dog parent could use, but especially an outdoorsy one who likes to hit the trails.
Frisco Shark Life Jacket
Is your dog person also a water baby? If they’d like to share their enjoyment of swimming, boating, or even paddle boarding with their pet, a dog life jacket is a solid gift idea. This Frisco shark jacket is not only practical but also ridiculously cute. The fin is ornamental, but the handle, D-ring, and secure buckles make it a sturdy and functional life preserver. Choose from small, medium, and large.
Find on ChewyBarksBar Waterproof Car Seat Cover (Verified Review)
For the friend who loves their dog and their car, a dog car seat cover is a must (after all, old bed sheets and towels can only do so much). These practical covers protect vehicle upholstery from dirt and hair, and they’re especially useful for outings during the rainy, muddy season.
The BarksBar can be configured to cover the back bench of a car, or it can be used as a hammock-style sling. It’s made with heavy-duty waterproof polyester and works with most car types.
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For Pet Parents Who Love To Play
All dogs (and their parents) can benefit from play. No matter what style they prefer (fetch, hide-and-seek, nose work, or memory-building), we have options to suit all types of fun.
Outward Hound Indoor Agility Kit (Verified Review)
Agility training is a great activity for energetic breeds and natural athletes. It’s a fun way to exercise dogs and get them mentally engaged. This basic indoor set from Outward Hound is great for beginners looking to dip their toes into the world of dog agility. It also makes a fine rainy day activity, as our Rover reviewer and her eager-to-learn Cattle Dog mix discovered.
Note that this set is a little delicate for large breeds—but for young dogs and small breeds looking to test the waters, it’s a fun place to start.
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Awoof Foraging Snuffle Mat (Verified Review)
Smell is the number one sense through which dogs interpret their world. This makes toys that encourage nosework ideal as enrichment tools. Snuffle mats have various nooks and crannies for hiding treats, and they put your dog’s tracking and foraging instincts to good use.
This Awoof snuffle mat features a few different puzzles with varying difficulty levels. It’s a great way to keep active dogs entertained for a while. It’s machine-washable, and it packs up for easy portability.
Find on AmazonOurPets Waffle Treat-Dispensing Puzzle Toy (Verified Review)
As puzzle toys go, this waffle toy is fairly simple to figure out—which makes it a good choice for beginners. It’s also great for getting dogs comfortable with using their nose to nudge items. And it’s been known to entertain more than a few cats, too, for the multi-pet household.
Find on ChewyArf Pets Memory-Training Feeder (Verified Review)
For more advanced puzzle solvers, the Arf Pets might be a better fit. It focuses less on nosework and more on memory strengthening and problem solving. The goal is to train dogs to press a button in order to receive a treat. Our Rover reviewer found this does require some pet parent involvement upfront—the upside of which is extra bonding time between dogs and their human. It just might make the most sense for the pet parent with more than a few minutes to spare.
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A Giant Tennis Ball
Here’s a playful gift for the dog parent always losing tennis balls in the yard. At 9.5” across, this giant dog ball is slightly easier to keep tabs on. It will need to be inflated when it arrives (pump not included).
Find on AmazonFrisco Volcano Hide & Seek Plush Toy (Verified Review)
Yet another type of dog puzzle, hide-and-seek toys are a nice option for prey-driven dogs who can’t resist a squeaker. This set of plush squeaky dinos offers a fun alternative for pets who aren’t very food-motivated (or those who are counting calories). Just hide the dinos inside the plush volcano, and enjoy watching your dog gleefully dig them out.
Find on ChewyA RescueBox Subscription
Monthly dog subscription boxes come in many forms: some are treat-based, others focus on training supplies, and some are chock-a-block with all kinds of cool toys (or a mix of all of the above).
RescueBox, in particular, caught our eye. Each delivery includes a themed assortment of hand-picked toys, treats, and chews (five products in total, with a value of over $40). As a bonus, proceeds from every box will fill the food bowls of 142 shelter animals. A gift that’s fun, useful, and helps pets in need? We’re sold.
Find on The Animal Rescue SiteFrisco Dog Swimming Pool (Verified Review)
Dog swimming pools are awesome for cooling dogs down in the summer months. Plus, they encourage exercise and keep lazier pups active and entertained.
This upbeat Hawaiian Frisco Dog Pool is stylish and stable. In our testing, we found it kept its shape well, even when not filled with water. It also holds up well to canine claws. And for times when a pup isn’t in the swimming mood, this pool doubles as a magical ball pit.
Find on ChewyFor Pet Parents Who Love To Lounge
These gifts are for the pet parent who’s all about cozy vibes, bottomless cups of hot cocoa, and any activities that involve snuggling.
Matching Family Pajamas in Buffalo Plaid
Not all dogs will tolerate clothing—but for the pup who happily wears cardigans (or who might be open to the idea), it doesn’t get cozier than matching pajamas for the entire family. Sizes are sold individually, so you can suit up your crew based on what their family unit looks like.
Find on AmazonMatching Scarves
If matching jammies are a bit much, maybe the dog lover in your life would prefer coordinating scarves. Available in red or green plaid, this set includes a dog bandana, a blanket scarf, and a hair scrunchie to sweeten the deal.
Find on AmazonI Heart My Dog/Human Hoodie Set
While dog hoodies are super cute, they can also take the edge off a chilly day (provided the dog is on board with outerwear). This matching hoodie set says it all with coordinating graphics for dogs and their favorite human. Choose from seven color schemes.
Find on AmazonK&H Lectro-Soft Heated Dog Bed
The dog parent in your life may already have a decent dog bed: but do they have a heated dog bed? An electric heated dog bed warms dogs up to their natural body temperature of 102°F. K&H’s heated beds are considered some of the safest and most efficient in the industry. The Lectro-Soft, in particular, is a winner for its indoor/outdoor dual use. A soft faux fleece cover and cushioned bolsters make it extra comfy.
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Best Friends by Sheri Deep Dish Sherpa Cuddler
Calming dog beds are popular with owners of high-strung pups or dogs with separation anxiety. They’re also great for cozy casual lounging. Styles vary, but most calming dog beds will have plush exteriors, a circular shape for curling up, and raised sides for a sense of security.
The extra-high walls of the Deep Dish Cuddler create a cozy, nest-like haven. Soft sherpa and self-warming faux fur adds to the comfort. This bed is recommended for dogs up to about 25 pounds. For larger dogs, you may want to check out The Original Calming Donut Bed by the same brand.
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Hugo “Roll Over Breakfast Blend” Coffee
For coffee drinkers and dog lovers alike, this Hugo breakfast blend offers a smooth and easy-drinking roast that’s perfect for leisurely mornings. As a bonus, proceeds from each purchase help feed dogs in shelters, making it both a delicious and thoughtful gift for your favorite bean hound.
Find on AmazoniFetch Mini Automatic Ball Launcher
Some high-energy dogs could play fetch for hours on end. Unfortunately, most human arms don’t share that kind of stamina. To fill in the gaps (and give aching arms a break), automatic ball launchers are a clever solution for many dog parents.
Designed with small- to medium-sized dogs in mind, the iFetch Mini launches smaller tennis balls your choice of 10, 20, or 30 feet. After a while, dogs can learn to drop the retrieved balls back into the device, working on their problem-solving skills.
If you’re shopping for a larger breed, you may want to check out our in-depth review of the iFetch Too, which uses standard-sized tennis balls and is made for bigger dogs.
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For Tech-Loving Dog Parents
For the tech-savvy dog parent who’s always down to try a new pet-related gadget, these gifts are exciting and innovative—not to mention they come with some promising benefits.
Furbo 360° Pet Camera (Verified Review)
Not unlike a human baby monitor, pet cameras give dog parents a portal into their pup’s day-to-day. They’ll appeal in particular to new pet parents, those with puppies, or caretakers to dogs with health conditions or separation anxiety that require regular check-ins.
The latest model from Furbo features auto dog-tracking, which rotates the device to follow pets as they move about the room. It also has two-way audio, so pet parents can offer words of encouragement throughout the day. The user-friendly app lets you toss treats from anywhere, and users can receive alerts about their dog’s habits (like excessive barking).
We’ve tried it in the Rover office, and it’s a lot of fun for you AND your dog. Here are some convincing words from a Rover dog parent who hailed the Furbo as the ultimate “didn’t know I needed it until I got it” piece of pet tech:
Verified Review: “I love it because (1) I now have confirmation that my dog seems pretty content when I’m not around. (2) It sends me a push notification whenever he’s barking so I can turn on the camera and see what’s up. (Spoiler alert: It’s always the mailman.) And (3) I can remind him anytime, from anywhere, that I love him. That’s definitely the best part.”
Wickedbone Interactive Smart Bone (Verified Review)
High-energy dogs need multiple outlets for blowing off steam. The robotic Wickedbone offers a new way to play. It can be set to either interactive play, where you manually control the device from your phone, or autoplay (great for freeing up your friend’s time). Our test pups had a great time with the Wickedbone, though we have some questions about how it would hold up to the most powerful of super chewers.
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Wisdom Panel Dog DNA Test (Verified Review)
If the dog parent in your life adopted a rescue, they may have wondered about their breed ancestry or genetics (especially if it can help explain their pup’s penchant for ankle-nipping and herding). Newly available dog DNA kits, like the Wisdom Panel Kit, give dog parents the opportunity to uncover what makes their unique dog tick. They can also identify breed-prone ailments to watch for.
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Whistle Go Explore Dog GPS Tracker (Verified Review)
A fitness tracker and dog GPS device rolled into one, the Whistle Go Explore is a hit with fitness-minded dog parents curious about their pet’s health stats. It’s also a tracking device that alerts pet owners when their dog wanders outside their designated safe space. Our reviewer had a blast—and it came in handy more than once, first when her escape-artist pup made a run for it and again when it detected an ear infection before anyone in the house was the wiser.
Note that the Whistle Go requires a subscription plan.
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Drinkwell Seascape Ceramic Pet Water Fountain
In terms of freshness, a dog water fountain is a convenient alternative to traditional water dishes. They’re useful for hydrating reluctant drinkers, and built-in filters constantly refresh water to remove icky hair and debris.
This attractive ceramic Seascape features a pleasing design that echoes a zen tabletop fountain. It holds 10 cups of water, so it’s ideal for small- to medium-sized dogs (and cats, for the cat lover in your life). The Drinkwell is relatively quiet, so it won’t disturb anxious pups. Finally, this model is dishwasher safe.
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For Pet Parents With a Sense of Humor
For the pet parent who doesn’t take themselves too seriously, these gifts should get a good chuckle.
Dog Fart Candle
Let’s be real: we’ve all blamed a toot or two (or all of them) on the dog. For the dog parent who shamelessly pins gas on the family pooch, this is the gift. Reviews say the scent is, thankfully, quite pleasant and very un-fart-like.
Find on Amazon“The Dog is on My Lap” Novelty Socks
Socks are an old standby gift. Who couldn’t use more pairs in the colder months? These silly socks send a message that parents of lap dogs (big and small) will understand. And we totally get it. When you’re all cozy next to the fire with a Bichon on your lap—there’s nothing worth disturbing that kind of bliss.
Find on AmazonCute Corgi Butt Pillow
Of all the bottoms in the canine world, Corgis have the cutest by far. For the friend who can’t help but squeal every time they spot one of these heart-shaped rumps, a plush Corgi-butt pillow could make the perfect gift. Or two or three or four, you know, to round out the entire sofa.
Find on AmazonPetPeek Fence Window
An astronaut-bubble fence window is definitely a quirky, unconventional gift—but it also serves a practical purpose for dog parents. Windows give curious dogs a safe lookout and can prevent constant barking at a fence. This model comes with instructions and all the hardware necessary to install it.
Find on AmazonThe Original Dog Tarot
Have a dog parent who dabbles in tarot? This tongue-in-cheek tarot deck helps dog people “divine their canine’s mind.” Each of the 30 cards features advice for both dogs and their humans—a fun stocking stuffer, even for friends unfamiliar with traditional tarot.
Find on AmazonWarren London Pawdicure Nail Polish Pen (Verified Review)
If your friend always has perfect nails, they might get a kick out of giving their pooch a matching mani-pedi. But since human nail polish can be toxic to dogs, they’ll need specially formulated dog nail polish.
Rover test pup Olive and her pet parent had fun trying out the Warren London pawdicure pen for dogs. They reported it works more like a sharpie, so it’s less messy than a liquid polish. It dries in 40 seconds and comes in nine colors.
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For Pet Parents Who Love To Bake & Cook
For pet parent who knows their way around the kitchen, these food-related gifts celebrate their culinary skills and their love for dogs.
DASH Dog Treat Maker (Verified Review)
Whether it’s for health reasons, allergies, or just for fun, a lot of pet parents are interested in making their own homemade dog treats. Resembling a regular waffle iron, the DASH treat maker is an excellent entry point to DIY dog treats. It’s simple to use: just plug it in to preheat, add your batter, and cook! Users can customize their recipes according to their pup’s tastes and any health considerations (like a limited-ingredient diet). There’s also a recipe book included.
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Nesco Snackmaster Dog Treat Dehydrator (Verified Review)
Along with baking their own doggy treats, many pet parents are trying their hand at dehydrating their own treats and chews. Food dehydrators range in price, size, and features. We think this Nesco Snackmaster is a good beginner model for first-time users. It may not have all the bells and whistles of splashier models—but it’s easy to use, dishwasher-safe, and pretty affordable.
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The Ultimate Dog Treat Cookbook
Filled with 50 veterinarian-approved recipes, this dog cookbook focuses on easy-to-find ingredients and simple instructions. Perfect for any pet parent chef in the making.
Find on AmazonDog Breed Oven Mitts
No dog parent’s kitchen is complete without some dog-themed accessories. These mitts are for the foodies, the sometimes bakers, and the always dog enthusiasts.
Find on AmazonDog Print Apron
This apron pairs well with the above dog-themed mitts. It can also work as a dog-grooming apron for puppy bathtime. (For cat lovers, there’s a cat-themed apron as well.)
Find on AmazonFrisco Personalized Dog Treat Jar
Give your baking buddy a special place to stash their homemade goodies. This white ceramic Frisco dog treat jar will look nice on any countertop. It has a 13-cup capacity and an airtight lid to lock in freshness. Plus, the personalization adds a thoughtful touch that makes this a truly standout gift.
Find on ChewyHow We Chose
The gifts featured here were selected based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, a deep dive into customer reviews across several retail platforms, and input from veterinary experts. We prioritized products that are useful, unique, and meaningful to pet parents. We’re also guided by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated dogs, who are never stingy with their feedback.
