The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Pets and Their People
The holidays are upon us, and it’s time to spread joy—not just to the humans in our lives but to our four-legged family members too! Whether you’re shopping for a devoted pet parent or a pup who’s been extra nice this year, I’ve put together a guide full of thoughtful and fun ideas to make tails wag and hearts melt.
1. Custom Collars and Leashes
A stylish, custom collar or leash can add a little extra flair to every walk. I love a collar that can be customized. This option from Contigo Dogs is actually the collar that both of my dogs currently wear—I love the look of the buckle collar with the convenience of the quick release. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite colors!
2. Matching Outfits for Pets and Their Humans
What’s more festive than coordinating holiday pajamas or matching hoodies? This adorable idea is perfect for family photos or cozy nights by the fire. Spark Paws has so many cute matching outfits to choose from. Good luck trying not to buy them all!
3. Custom Pet Artwork
A framed portrait or custom canvas of a beloved pet is the ultimate gift for any animal lover. It’s personal, thoughtful, and something that will be treasured for years to come. With so many different artists and styles to choose from, there's truly something for everyone. Some of the best gifts I’ve ever received have been pet portraits, and yes, whoever you gift this to will cry. But in a good way!
(P.S. If you’ve had a session with me, let’s create a unique piece of artwork from one of your favorite photos!)
4. Personalized Pet Tags
Add a little sparkle (and safety!) to your pet’s look with a custom tag. Whether it’s sleek and modern or fun and playful, this small detail makes a big impact. I’ve been getting all my tags from The Copper Poppy for years. I love how they look, and they last forever!
5. Pawcasso Art Kit for Pets
Unleash your pet’s inner artist! This painting kit is designed for pets and their curious, treat-loving personalities. It’s a creative and interactive way to make memories—and artwork—in the process. You could gift this to your own pet or a pet lover in your life. It’s such a unique gift that any animal lover will enjoy!
6. A Cozy, Personalized Pet Bed
Upgrade their nap game with a soft, stylish pet bed personalized just for them. It’s a practical and pampering gift they’ll love to curl up in all winter long. Plus, how many of us have pet beds that have seen better days? A new cozy bed is an upgrade for your home, too—making this a gift for everyone!
7. Candles That Give Back
Candles make any home feel warm and cozy, and when they support animal causes, they’re even more meaningful. Riley’s Candles, based here in Traverse City, offers amazing options, with each purchase helping to support dogs in need of life-changing surgeries. Another favorite of mine is Dogkind Candle Co., based in the Upper Peninsula, where every candle sold helps fund animal welfare causes. These candles smell incredible, look beautiful, and make thoughtful gifts for the animal lovers on your list.
8. High-Quality Toys and Treats
You can’t go wrong with a fun toy or a bag of their favorite treats. Bonus points for holiday-themed treats or interactive puzzle toys that keep them entertained long after the holidays are over. This year, I’m going with the Woof Bite ‘n Brush for my dogs. I’m hopeful this will be a fun treat toy for both of us—they’ll love to play with it, and I won’t have to struggle to brush their teeth!
9. A Custom Photo Session Gift Certificate
Looking for a meaningful, one-of-a-kind gift? A pet photography session is a way to create timeless memories that pet parents will cherish forever.
(P.S. Make someone’s holiday extra special by gifting them one of my gift certificates! They can be emailed instantly, making them super convenient for last-minute shoppers!)
10. Subscription Boxes for Pets
A monthly box of surprises like toys, treats, and pet-friendly products is a gift that keeps on giving! Most of these boxes give you the choice of purchasing one box, or gifting a subscription if you’re feeling extra generous! My dogs love BarkBox, and for cat lovers, Meowbox is a great choice! I’m going with Meowbox this Christmas as a gift for my brother-in-law, which I know his cats are going to love! (John, if you’re reading this, Merry Christmas! Pretend you didn’t see this.)
Happy Holidays to You and Your Pets!
Whether you go all out or keep it simple, the best gifts are the ones that come from the heart. So give your pets some extra belly rubs, share a cozy moment, and celebrate the joy they bring into your life. Wishing you a holiday season full of wagging tails, happy purrs, and cherished memories.
See you in the New Year!