If you’re anything like us, then you definitely include your pup in the holiday celebrations. Dogs, after all, are members of the family and you wouldn’t want them to miss out on opening their own gifts from under the tree. We also understand, however, that store bought toys can be expensive and that the holidays are a busy and stressful time of year for some. So, perhaps now you find yourself on Christmas Eve wondering what to get your furry friend that’s quick, easy and won’t break the bank. Well, worry no more because we’ve got you covered!
1. Homemade Christmas Cookies
It’s no secret that humans aren’t the only ones who appreciate some homemade goodies during the holidays. Dogs go nuts for seasonal flavors like peanut butter, cinnamon, apples, cranberries, and pumpkin, and we bet they would love some homemade cookies of their own! Making dog biscuits at home is quite quick and simple and usually only requires 3-4 ingredients at most. Look up a recipe that works for your dog’s diet and whip up a batch for the best last-minute gift for your pup. We like this recipe! We know he will appreciate the gesture and be able to taste the love that went into them!
2. Toy Box Subscription
You might not have time to run out and pick up a toy or treat for your pup in time for Christmas, but the promise of toys to come is just as good! There are many fun and festive boxes that you can subscribe to that are designed for your furry friend full of treats, toys, food and other goodies. You can subscribe right online from the comfort of your home and slip the receipt under the tree for your happy pup. Sure, they won’t get their box right away, but think of the excitement when their first toy box arrives and you open it up to reveal all the fun goodies inside. It will be like Christmas morning all over again! (Plus, this is a great way to get your dog to finally love the mailman!)
Need help finding the perfect toy box subscription for your dog? Check out this comprehensive article!
3. Homemade Tug-Toy
Perhaps your pup really wants the excitement of opening a gift from under the tree and can’t wait for a subscription. If buying a toy is still not an option, making a homemade one will surely be just as good! Classic tug-toys are actually quite simple to make at home and only require two old t-shirts an a pair of scissors. Start by cutting slits at the bottom of each shirt and tearing all the way up to make strips of fabric. Tie off each end of your shirts with a rubber band and then divide the strips into thirds. Braid your separated strips together and when you’ve reached the end, tie it off once more to complete your tug-toy. Your finished project will be thick and sturdy and the perfect homemade gift to put under the tree for your pup!
For more detailed instructions, check out the original project by Bark Post.
4. Scavenger Hunt
Dogs are wonderful because giving the gift of an experience won’t go unappreciated by them. Most pups are just happy to be a part of the excitement and to join their family in whatever traditions make the holidays fun. Because of this, giving your dog a holiday themed scavenger hunt for Christmas is a super fun and super easy gift idea! Simply hide some of their favorite treats or toys in gift bags under the tree and then it’s time to open presents! You and your family will have a blast watching your pup hunt for gifts as well as opening their cookies on Christmas morning. You can also hide the presents around the house for more tasty fun and make the gift an experience for the whole family. Dogs love to work their nose and their minds and so this present is the perfect last minute gift for your pup!
5. A Donation in Their Name
Christmas is a season all about the joys of giving and caring for others. During this time, many animal shelters and rescues around the country are asking for extra donations and items to help keep their ever-growing populations happy and healthy during the holidays. What better way to give back to the community while also honoring your own pet than to make a donation in their name? Many shelters also offer special donation packages and experiences such as tribute giving or personalized tributes where they will lay down a paver or place a plaque with your pet’s name on it somewhere in the shelter. Whatever type of donation you choose to give, however, you and your pup will feel good knowing that you helped animals in need this Christmas. What better gift is there than that?
Whether it’s a homemade toy or a handmade cookie or a generous donation in their name, we know that at the end of the day, your dog will simply be happy to be by your side this Christmas and to share in all the love and light this holiday has to offer. Gifts are great, but the bond you and your dog share is something that they will cherish forever.
Happy Holidays to you and yours from all of us here at Roscoe’s!