Christmas is a time of giving and remembering those you love. You give gifts to your human family members, so why not your dog? Isn't he/she a part of your family too? The truth is most Americans do give Christmas gifts to their dogs. The Associated Press reported that 52% of pet owners plan to buy their animals a holiday gift--up from 43% last year. When it comes to pet owners that own only dogs, the AP-Petside.com poll found that six in 10 planned on shopping for their dog for the holidays.
So what makes good gifts for dogs? Well, this obviously depends on your budget. If your budget is less than $20, I would suggest purchasing one nice durable toy and maybe something fun and destructable! We've yet to find a really durable toy for Diego. Most of the claims of durability, simply don't hold up. When you have a big dog, they usually tend to be a bit destructive. Stuffed animals are great short-term entertainment if you have a destructive dog. If your budget is a bit more, in addition to a few playful gifts, I'd consider what your dog needs. Yes, they have needs too!
Is it time for a new bed for Fido? If so, we love http://www.animalsmatter.com/. Great beds for both small and large dogs. I love the South Bay Snuggle Cube in particular by their sister company LA Dog Company. http://www.ladogcompany.com/LA_Dog_ProductPages/LA_Dog_Snuggle_Cube.html (click to view).
Does your big dog need a new big dog collar? In my opinion, a good collar is hard to come by. And frankly, one is never enough. You need a casual one that's comfortable for every day wear that you don't care if it gets wet at the beach or drooled on at doggie day care. And you need at least one snazzy one for special outings or parties at the house. For casual wear, I love Planet Dog. The Natural Hemp Adjustable Collar. It's a wonderfully simple, eco-friendly hemp collar that withstands the more rigorous salt-water swims, mud puddle baths, snowy romps and the occasional roll in the sand. Fits from a 9" all the way up to 28" neck (for our big guys!). http://www.planetdog.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=HEMP%20COLLARS . Great thing about these collars is the price! Only $16.95-$18.95.
For a fancier collar option, visit http://pacocollars.com/products/category/pets/ as well as http://www.dtdogcollars.com/ for BIG dog and small dog collar options. For those that know me, you know that I am not a fan of using leather or any other animal by-product, but I do know many of my customers want leather products for their big dogs and don't know where to find them. So there you are! Both of these companies do a fabulous job in their construction and with their hardware.
If it's apparel you need, then well, you know where to go! Now, through November 30th Idawg is featuring a 20% off promo on your entire purchase! http://www.idawgclothing.com/.Great holiday coat ideas are the Idawg Moss Sherpa that features a an ultra-suede exterior with an amazingly soft sherpa laminate lining protecting your dog from the cold. Available in moss green and camel brown.
Now on sale! Or the Silver Fader--this is one big dog coat that is sure to keep your big dog warm and dry.
http://www.idawgclothing.com/product_info.phpcPath=1&products_id=1&osCsid=kijpj55h0csdgmvlhi98b89b80
For toys under $20, we love the Orbee-Tuff Woof and Fetch balls. For 5 out of 5 Chompers. These Orbee-Tuff® Woof. and Fetch. balls are durable, bouncy, boyant, mint-scented and, of course, 100% guaranteed. Visit http://www.planetdog.com/category.aspx?categoryID=63 to purchase. Price - $11.95. 
Another favorite is the Orbee Tuff Snowball--so cute yet functional! It is non-toxic, recyclable and rinses clean!http://www.planetdog.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=10818000.
Price - $10.95.
If you are looking for a strong tug toy that will with stand even the toughest teeth, I have yet to find it (being honest). I do however, like Tuff Enuff's Tug Toy which is great for interactive play with one or multiple dogs. In their words "Tough construction for high energy dogs. Contains two squeakers providing hours of fun and enjoyoment." We were fortunate to meet the owners in Chicago at the Backer show and they gave us a few free samples for Diego. He had loads of fun! His main goal was to bust into it but nevertheles it entertained for a bit. To find a local retailer you have to email them (yeah, I know it's silly) at contact@tuffenuffpet.com. 
The holidays are also a good time to make sure your pup has up to date ID tags in case you've moved or gotten a new phone number http://www.dogids.com/ is a great place to get a custom made ID tag. For the dog-loving HUMAN in your life, we have just the perfect place! http://www.dogisgood.com/. They have tee shirts, hoodies, holiday cards, hats and more! BTW, yes, that is the Idawg crew modelling, lol.
Here's a few options to get you started, if you need more ideas, email us! comments@idawgclothing.com.
