It’s December, and you’re almost done with your shopping. You’ve shopped for almost everyone on your list.  Grandma and the kids were easy, but what about the dog? What about the other dog lovers in your life? What should you give them? Well, not to worry – here are a couple ideas to help you begin your search for the perfect holiday gift. Rest assured: there will be something for everyone, even the most picky puppy or person on your list.

For The Dog-Lover:

For the dog lover in your life, finding a gift that he or she will enjoy should be easy. Virtually anything with their favorite four-legged friend will suffice. But here are some specific ideas – some of them unique – to help you wade through the cornucopia of products. Something edible may be a good place to start. For instance, something like a “dog-lovers gift box,” which has an assortment of cookies and treats, in the shape of dog footprints. This gift also comes with a treat for the dog, so Spot isn’t left out.

If treats aren’t enough, here are some other gift ideas that are sure to surprise your dog enthusiast. These are certainly not your average dog date books and planners. For the more artistic you may consider a hand-drawn portrait of his/her pet.  The artwork is of high quality, and captures their dog’s heart and soul, so that he can cheer up whatever room you place him in. Your satisfaction is guaranteed with this item.  If you’re unhappy with the drawing, you can have revisions done for free. The sketch will be perfect before placing it under the tree.

Holidays are usually a time of joy, but there may be a person on your list who has recently lost a beloved pet. There is a gift for this person too, one that preserves the memories of love and companionship for years to come.  It is called a “Pets In Heaven Framed Poem.”  Custom-made, it will be able to capture the unique spirit and personality of your dearly departed. You will also be able to have a photo of your pet framed alongside.

Paintings and poetry might not be enough for the sophisticated palate of the dog fanatic, so here’s one final gift idea unlike any other. Like something out of an Archie McPhee catalog, the “Fun-with-your-dog Science Kit,” allows you and Fido to come together over scientific discovery. With this science kit, test your dog’s hearing and sense of smell; with special eyeglasses, see what your dog sees, and be ready for a whole new world.   If the dog lover on your list enjoys the unique, and always is looking for a new way to bond with their dog, this is the perfect gift.  This is also good for those rainy days, when long walks are out of the question.

For The Dog:

Picking and choosing a gift for the dog in your life can sometimes be difficult. After all, there are so many chew toys and tasty treats to choose from. But here are a few unique gifts and gadgets to entertain and please your pup. There are even a few to keep him comfortable and stylish in the cold.

Few people, including dogs, enjoy getting clothes for Christmas, but these items may just change his mind.  Your dog will be strutting around town in style, with a warm, colorful scarf—a nice addition to any morning walk. But if you’d like to help keep your dog comfy in bed, then consider a pair of dog pajamas. The “dream pet,” brand provided by Target is one option.

But if the way to your dog’s good graces is through his stomach, rather than a pair of pajamas, consider these next items. For decorative value as well as utility for you and your dog, consider the “Yuppy Puppy Food And Treat Machine.” Now your furry friend can get to his kibble, even without opposable thumbs (also from Target.com). Candy and cookies are a must-have for any holiday. Why should your dog be left out?  Let him enjoy his sweets as much of the next person by giving him a box of “Doggie Brownie Treats.”  These brownies look good enough for a human to eat, but are made with all dog-friendly ingredients. Now he can join in the feast, without getting sick. However, if your dog would rather chew than stuff his face, a braided rawhide bone will do the trick. These bones are particularly festive, being shaped like candy canes. They come in a variety of sizes, and will keep your pooch out of the wrapping paper, no matter what.

Christmas time is stressful, whether you’re on four legs, or on two. So give your companion the gift of relaxation and comfort this holiday, with a few very cozy ideas. Like all of us, your dog is more relaxed when he has a comfortable place to sleep. If a plushy, to-die-for bed is on your list, consider a heated dog bed. This bed is also good for an older family dog, whose joints and bones have trouble in the cold. Some of his discomfort will be eased in a nice warm bed.

For some dogs, however, warm beds, chew toys, and brownies, aren’t enough to make up for all the activity. We’ve all heard that music tames the heart of the beast; it tames the heart of your dog, too. Introducing the “Doggone Songs: Music to Soothe the Animal Spirit,” audio CD, provided by Target.com. With this CD, your dog will be taken worlds away, to a place where he can catch a few zzz’s.

Whether you go with clothing, food, or a more unique Christmas gift, the dog and dog-lovers on your list, can look forward to a very special present this holiday season.

By: Kirsten Laulainen

Where To Dig These Up:

For the doggie brownie treats and other gifts please visit: http://www.someonespoilme.com/gifts/dogs-and-owners-gifts/

For the hand drawn sketch, pets in heaven framed poem, and science kit, please visit: http://www.findgift.com/Categories/Animals/Dogs/  (you will be taken to a list of products. Clicking on the item of interest will take you to the appropriate vendor).

For the candy cane rawhide bones and a wide array of edible, chewable, and wearable products, please visit: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/general.cfm?gid=607

For the heated dog bed please visit: http://www.hammacher.com/publish/74659.asp?source=CJ&cm_mmc=CJ-_-1719115-_-1913830-_-Hammacher+Product+Catalog (for other products listed with this one, please visit: http://www.freshtrend.com/category/recipient/dogs-cats, to browse more items).