We’ve put together a few ideas to treat your best friend. Here are our top picks in cleaning, outerwear, accessories, beds, crates and interactive toys.
1. Upgrade bath time with this suction cup treat dispenser
Bathtime is never fun, but it’s a little easier to wrangle your dog if they’re distracted by treats. This suction cup easily attaches to a shower or bathtub wall, and the tiny nub design slows down eating so they can’t gobble down everything in a few seconds.
2. Dry off faster with this microfiber quick-dry towel
There’s nothing quite like wet dog smell. Nip it in the bud with this microfiber shammy-style towel that holds seven times its weight in water. The towel design includes pockets for your hands to make drying your dog’s legs and stomach easier.
3. Wipe off muddy paws with a portable paw cleaner cup
OK — this one is more for you than your dog, but this paw cleaner cup is perfect if you’re tired of cleaning muddy paw prints off your floors or furniture. You can also turn the cup inside out and use it as a brush.
4. Celebrate the most important day of the year in style with this birthday boy (or girl) bandana
Whether it’s your dog’s first or 10th birthday, it’s a great time to show them a little extra love. This bandana lets everyone know it’s your dog’s big day — it might even earn them a free treat or two.
5. For the dapper dog, a bowtie collar is sure to make them the talk of the dog park
This sophisticated look takes your dog’s style to the next level. Plus, it’s just cute. These bowties come with a matching collar, but the bowtie itself can be removed and attached to any collar you like.
6. Chill out even the wildest pups with this calming dog bed
Can a bed keep a dog calm? This 4.5 stars-rated product is promising. Thousands of reviews praise the bed’s looks and comfort level, and many people say their dog fell asleep immediately in it.
7. For seniors, an orthopedic dog bed might be the best choice
This orthopedic dog bed is made of memory foam and promotes healthy posture for dogs with joint pain or arthritis. It’s perfect for older dogs that need a little extra support.
8. For true luxury, consider upgrading to a pet couch
If you have a hard time keeping your dog off the couch, why not get them their own? This faux leather design comes with a comfortable, pillow-style bed.
9. For those dogs that still prefer your couch, a waterproof dog blanket saves your furniture
Sometimes it’s hard to tell your best friend no, even when they’re on your favorite couch or chair. This waterproof blanket is soft and protects your furniture.
10. Upgrade the classic wire kennel for this wooden end-table kennel that doubles as furniture
OK, this one is just cute. If you want to be a little extra with your dog (and, be honest, who doesn’t?), consider upgrading their classic dog house to this castle-like home with a built-in balcony.
12. See and talk to your dog when you’re away from home with the Furbo dog treat camera
This camera is a gift for you and your pet. It lets you check on your pets with your mobile device while you’re away from home, includes 2-way audio so they can hear your voice and doubles as a treat-launcher so you can reward good behavior even when you’re miles away. The bark-alert feature sends you a notification when your dog is barking so you can check to see if everything is OK — a pet owner’s dream.
13. Have an escape artist? Ensure your dog’s safe return with a location tracker collar
Nothing is more devastating than when your beloved friend breaks free of their leash or sneaks out an open gate. This device attaches to your dog’s collar and sends you alerts when your dog leaves a designated safe area. It also has health monitoring features, including a weekly wellness report that tracks licking, scratching and sleeping patterns.
14. Help your short-legged friend out with a set of dog stairs
For small breeds and short-legged pups, getting on and off of furniture can be difficult and hard on their joints. These sturdy pet stairs fold up for easy storage.
15. Invest in high-quality dog food
At ConsumerAffairs, we have an entire guide dedicated to helping you find the best dog food, full of customer reviews and expert advice from a respected veterinary professional. Your dog’s health and happiness start at meal time.
If your dog is ready to upgrade from pool time to the lake lifestyle, make sure they stay safe with this life jacket designed for dogs of all sizes — from Yorkies to Labs and even bigger dog breeds. The jacket comes with easy grab handles.
18. For the toy destroyer, consider buying dog ropes in bulk
Even good boys and girls go bad sometimes. If you have a toy shredder in your home, investing in a pack of toys makes your life a little easier. This pack includes 11 rope toys in different shapes, sizes and designs. The purchases support a dog rescue organization.
19. For mornings when you can’t swing by Starbucks for a pup cup, this coffee cup dog toy is the next best thing
They say dogs and their owners start to look alike after a while. With this coffee cup-themed squeak toy, you’ll be well on your way to twinning with your pup — or you'll at least have an excuse for the perfect photo op.
For dogs that get bored quickly, interactive toys provide a little more mental stimulation. This plush-style toy includes several hidey holes for your dog to discover new, plush friends and stay entertained.
21. If they’re not into plush toys, try the Wobble Wag Giggle Ball
The Wobble Wag Giggle Ball — if it’s even half as fun to play with as it is to say, your pup will have a great time with this interactive ball. A simple nudge from your dog activates it, and the ball moves (wobbles) and makes noises (giggles) to keep your dog engaged.
22. Keep your friend protected with pet health insurance
Your pet is your family. Most of us would love to spare no expense on your animal’s health, but it’s not always financially possible. Pet insurance helps you afford care costs if your dog needs a major procedure or racks up a hefty veterinarian bill.