Christmas is around the corner, and for dog parents that means one thing - another opportunity to spoil our canine companions rotten.
To pull together the ultimate Christmas gift guide for dogs this year, we surveyed 500 dog parents to ask what presents they are giving their doggos this year - and discover the top 10 most in-demand gifts for dogs in 2023.
We then spoke with gifting expert, Nico Williams from Not On The High Street to get her take. It’s her job to stay on top of gifting trends for the online retailer, so there’s no one better placed to give us the inside scoop on the best products per category to treat your pup to.
So, what trends can we expect to see for pet gifting this year? Nico had a lot to say. “Pet wellness is definitely becoming more prevalent and we're seeing new innovation within pet supplements and natural remedies to support pet-wellbeing,” she reports.
“Another key area we anticipate more growth within pet gifting is more sustainable toys for pets - deriving from more conscious recycled or deadstock materials.”
The question is - what is the number one most in-demand Christmas gift for dogs this year? Well… you’ll have to read on to find out.
#10 - Food & Water Bowls
15% of dog parents said they were treating their pooch to a brand new bowl for their din-dins.
Personalised Stripe Pet Bowl, by We Love To Create
Starting from £20
“This fully customisable dog bowl allows you to choose the stripe colour, font, frame style and personalise with a name so you can rest assured it will look exactly as you’d like,” said gift expert Nico.
This is a practical, chunky bowl that can also double up as a gift for a cat in a pinch!
#9 - Fancy Dress Outfit
17% of British dog owners said they were treating their pup to a fancy dress outfit this year.
Personalised Petite Pet Christmas Cowboy Hat, by Sequin Souls
Starting from £19
This fluffy cowboy hat is an adorable option for dressing up at Christmas — or any day really.
“Handmade by our partner Sequin Souls, this is the perfect gift for the Instadogs of the world,” said Nico.
If you truly want to be your pup’s cowboy partner, there’s also a matching human version available.
#8 - Outdoor Coat
Yes, the weather outside really is frightful. That might be why 18% of those surveyed said they were shopping around for an outdoor coat for their dog.
Gatsby 90s Dog Fleece, by The Distinguished Dog Company
Starting from £50
“This colourful, cosy seasonal fleece is handmade by our Partner ‘The Distinguished Dog Company’ and one for the hipster dogs out there,” said Nico.
There are two styles to choose from - one with sleeves, and one vest style that’s perfect for pups with shorter legs.
#7 - Bed
Christmas is a time for rest and relaxation - even for dogs. That could be why 22% of dog parents are saying they’re planning to buy a bed for their pet this year.
Rattan Dog Bed, by The Forest & Co.
£299
This elevated bed - made from natural rattan material - is ready for your pup’s favourite blankets. “This stylish Rattan bed is sure to become their new favourite place to be,” added Nico.
#6 - Collar
Collars are in demand at Christmas time, with another 22% of dog owners seeking out the chicest collars to give their pooch.
Sea Foam Dog Collar And Matching ID Tag, by Hoobynoo
Starting from £25
This collar is made out of biothane — making it waterproof and mud proof. “The seafoam colour will also liven up the cold winter months — plus, you can choose your dog’s breed and personalise with their name,” added Nico.
#5 - Doggy Hamper
Stuck for an exact idea of what to get your dog at Christmas? 22% of British dog parents have solved the problem by fetching a doggy hamper for their pup this year.
Petite Pooch Gift Box, by The Handmade Christmas Co.
£40
This handy hamper comes stocked with an excellent range of treats and toys to keep your pup happy come Christmas morning. “What better way to show your dog you love them than with the gift of treats and toys!” said Nico.
Dog Spa Gift Box, by Snooboos
£60
“We love this spa kit for doggies, because they love being pampered just as much as we do,” said Nico.
This range of natural, chemical-free pet spa products is perfect for a pooch who loves to be pampered. Plus, they’re scented with therapeutic essential oils.
#4 - Treat Jar
25% of you said that you were treating your pet to a new treat jar this year.
Personalised Pet Treat Jar, by Mirrorin
Starting at £22
“Don’t take the risk of mixing up your custard creams with the dogs biscuits with this personalised treat jar,” joked Nico.
This sleek, personalised jar comes in two different sizes, and could double up as a gift for cats in a pinch.
#3 - Blanket
27% of British dog owners said they were giving their dog a brand new blanket to help them feel festive and cosy.
Ulti Mutt Repeat Personalised Pet Blanket, by Syd&Co
Starting at £44
These fleece blankets come in eight interior-friendly colours and four different sizes - so you can get the best fit for your pooch and your home.
“A bespoke blanket with your dog breed and colour of choice, woof woof!” added Nico.
#2 - Food or Treats
A whopping 65% of Brits were giving their dog a food based treat - perhaps out of guilt for not including them in the big Christmas Day meal.
They might not be able have the Christmas Day feast, but it doesn’t mean they can’t join in! A whopping 65% of Brits are planning to give their dog a food-based treat to mark the big day.
Three Christmas Dog Treat Bags, by Hugo & Co Treats
£14
You can get treats in all your favourite Christmassy flavours - including Three Bird Roast, Turkey & Cranberry, and Duck & Orange.
“These festive flavour treats are sure to have your dog wagging its tail,” commented Nico.
#1 - Toys
The most in-demand Christmas gift for dogs this year? It’s quite obvious really - toys!
Vodka, Bourbon And Tequila Bottle Soft Dog Toy, by Dolly’s
£12
“These fun, festive tipples for cats and dogs come without the hangover,” said Nico.
Give them the gift of dog insurance this Christmas
Nothing says “I love you” more than protecting your furry friend from unexpected accidents and illnesses.
Dog insurance can help you cover the costs of veterinary bills, medications and more. That means you can have peace of mind knowing that your dog is well taken care of, no matter what happens.